₦airaland Forum

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has read the Riot Act to foreign missions based in Nigeria, banning them from transacting in foreign currencies, and mandating the use of Naira in their financial businesses.

The EFCC has also mandated Nigerian foreign missions domiciled abroad to accept Naira in their financial businesses.

The move, the EFCC noted, is to tackle the dollarisation of the Nigerian economy and the degradation of the naira

The anti-graft commission, in an advisory to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, titled: “EFCC Advisory to Foreign Missions against Invoicing in US Dollar,” expressed reservations and displeasure “regarding the unhealthy practice by some foreign missions to invoice consular services to Nigerians and other foreign nationals in the country in United States dollar(s).”

In a letter dated April 5, 2024, which was addressed to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede expressed dismay over the invoicing of consular services in Nigeria by foreign missions in dollars.

The EFCC cited Section 20(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, which makes currencies issued by the apex bank the only legal tender in Nigeria.

The letter read, “I present to you the compliments of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and wish to notify you about the commission’s observation, with dismay, regarding the unhealthy practice by some foreign missions to invoice consular services to Nigerians and other foreign nationals in the country in United States dollar ($).

“This practice is an aberration and unlawful as it conflicts with extant laws and financial regulations in Nigeria. Section 20(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 makes currencies issued by the apex bank the only legal tender in Nigeria.

“It states that ‘the currency notes issued by the Bank shall be the legal tender in Nigeria on their face value for the payment of any amount’.

“This presupposes that any transaction in currencies other than the naira anywhere in Nigeria contravenes the law and is, therefore, illegal.”

The commission added that the refusal by some missions to accept the naira for consular service in Nigeria and also comply with the foreign exchange regulatory regime in fixing the exchange of the cost of their services is not only illegal but represents an affront to the country’s sovereignty symbolised by the national currency.

Such a situation, EFCC added, undermines Nigeria’s monetary policy and aspiration for sustainable economic development.

The letter continued, “This trend can no longer be tolerated, especially in a volatile economic environment where the country’s macroeconomic policies are constantly under attack by all manner of state and non-state actors.

“In light of the above, you may wish to convey the commission’s displeasure to all missions in Nigeria and restate Nigeria’s desire for their operations not to conflict with extant laws and regulations in the country.”

When contacted for comments, the spokesperson for the EFCC, Dele Oyewale declined comments.

Meanwhile, the EFCC had resumed raiding in a bid to stabilise the naira.

Operatives of the EFCC had on Tuesday arrested some Bureau De Change operators at the popular Wuse Zone 4 market in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

However, traders also said some BDC operators resisted the arrest during a sting operation.

The operatives had embarked on routine raids to sanitise the market of street traders and eliminate arbitrary trading.

But this move was resisted on Tuesday, leading to gunshots and damage to the operatives’ vehicles.

Penultimate week, the commission arrested over 35 suspected currency speculators for alleged foreign exchange fraud.

Last week, it also paraded over 20 BDC operators arrested in the capital city.

The International Monetary Fund has advised the Nigerian government to ask global crypto trading platforms to register or obtain licences before operating in the country.

This recommendation was made in the IMF’s latest staff report, released on Thursday following the conclusion of its 2024 Article IV consultation with Nigeria.

According to the report, compelling global crypto trading platforms to register will subject them to regulatory requirements.

The IMF emphasised the need for Nigeria to establish a robust regulatory framework to oversee the growing cryptocurrency market, ensuring financial stability and protecting investors.

It added that the move aligns with global efforts to standardise cryptocurrency regulations and prevent illicit activities.


“Global crypto trading platforms should be registered or licensed in Nigeria and subject to the same regulatory requirements applicable to financial intermediaries following the principle of the same activity, same risk, and same regulation,” the report highlighted.

The IMF also noted that Nigerian authorities took significant steps early in the year to address issues surrounding cryptocurrency trading platforms.

The report read, “The authorities agreed with the importance of maintaining external stability and emphasized that the reforms that they have implemented as well as efforts to bring in FX liquidity, including the requirement for international oil companies to hold 50 per cent of repatriated oil receipts in Nigeria for 90 days, are geared towards that end.

“They see pressure on the exchange rate now coming from illicit flows, including through crypto-asset platforms, and not being driven by fundamentals, noting that some ceilings on FX access are intended to curb abuse.”

In February, the Central Bank of Nigeria expressed concerns about the large volume of transactions passing through crypto exchange platforms from unidentified sources, stating that it is working with other government agencies to address these illicit financial activities. The bank claimed that in the last year, $26bn passed through Binance Nigeria from unidentified sources.

As a result, in the last three months, cryptocurrency trading platforms have come under scrutiny on the suspicion that they were manipulating the local currency’s value in the foreign exchange market.

On Monday, the Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Emomotimi Agama, said delisting the naira from P2P platforms was necessary to avoid the level of manipulation currently happening.

Given the above, the Central Bank of Nigeria had directed fintech companies operating in the country to block the accounts of customers engaging in cryptocurrency transactions and to report those transactions to law enforcement agencies.

Further, the IMF also warned that the rapid growth of foreign exchange trading platforms in Nigeria poses new challenges to the country’s financial stability.

A member of the House of Representatives, Abdusamad Dasuki, has said the current presidential democracy being practised in Nigeria is not working, and should be abandoned for a return to the parliamentary system of government operational in the country during the First Republic.

The federal lawmaker representing Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency in Sokoto State, stated this on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, a socio-political programme aired on Channels Television on Friday.

According to him, Nigeria is in a “state of quagmire” and “like a house with a faulty foundation”, as the current system has not been able to deliver representative democracy where members of the executive arm of government, beginning with the President, are fully accountable to the people of Nigerians.

Dasuki said, “Things are not working in Nigeria, we can’t deny that fact. This (the move for parliamentary system) is not something that started with this Assembly, some of us that were in the 8th Assembly believed that there was something that was fundamentally wrong with the system.

“The system is faulty. Some will say it is the Nigerian factor, the Nigerian people and all that, but the system itself gives you so much power and power corrupts absolutely.

“Our founding fathers had the foresight to believe that Nigeria is a plural state, and everything must be pluralistic. Let’s have a situation where even if it is the elite coming together to come up with what works for us.”

Mid-February, talks of parliamentary democracy resurrected in Nigeria when a group of 60 lawmakers in the House of Representatives sought amendments to the 1999 Constitution to transition from the current presidential system to the parliamentary system of government.

The lawmakers said the transition has become necessary to reduce the cost of government in the face of dwindling revenue.

Titled, ‘The Bills Proposing Constitutional Alterations For a Transition To Parliamentary System of Government,’ the bill was sponsored by the House Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, and 59 others. The bill was read on the floor of the House during plenary in Abuja but has not progressed since the first reading about four months ago.

Many prominent Nigerians have since joined the call for a transition to the parliamentary system of government.

Dasuki, one of the lawmakers supporting the bill in the green chamber, said, “In our draft proposal, which is not cast in stone, we want a homegrown parliamentary system, not one copied from somewhere else.”

“For me and my colleagues, what we are proposing is that among the elected representatives (in the parliament), we have the Prime Minister and the ministers.”

He imagined a parliament where President Bola Tinubu is the Prime Minister, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is the head of the opposition, and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP) is a member of the parliament as well.

Dasuki said such a parliament won’t breed unaccountable, inefficient and corrupt cabinet members as they could be recalled by elected representatives in the parliament anytime the people feel they aren’t giving their best.

Dasuki said, “We want a leader where every single day, you are on top of the situation; you are able to relate with citizens. A leader should be able to communicate and say what’s going on.”

The lawmaker said he and his colleagues in the lower chamber are proposing that the parliamentary system start with the local government election in Nigeria in 2027. He opined that the local government polls should be regularised with the general elections.

He said, “The ward councillors should elect their local government chairmen among themselves. If a chairman is not leading right, he is taken back and the councillors elect another chairman. That is the proposal. There shouldn’t be an election for local government chairmen in 2027, the same as for governors and the President. The elected representatives should elect from among themselves.”

Dasuki said after the initial reading of the bill in the green chamber, the proponents of parliamentary democracy decided to be strategic about the second reading. He said lawmakers have been visiting those who witnessed the First Republic to seek their support and advice. He said elder statesmen like Ango Abdullahi, Edwin Clark, Segun Osoba, Bisi Akande, and others have been consulted and they approved of parliamentary democracy

Nigerians on social media were in awe on Friday as Deeper Life High School announced that no fewer than 174 students across its campuses nationwide scored 300 and above in the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

The school in a post via its official handle on Facebook @Deeper Life High School posted the 174 students.

“Despite JAMB’s announcement that only around 0.5% of candidates nationwide scored 300 and above in the 2024 UTME, an astounding one hundred and seventy-four (174) students of DLHS exceeded expectations with flying colours by scoring 300 and above,” the school said in the post.



According to the information obtained from the school’s Facebook page, the highest scorer this year Ayeyemi Godsgift Ibukunoluwa scored a total of 362 points out of the total 400 obtainable points.

Recall that the school produced the highest scorer for the 2023 UTME. Umeh Kamsiyochukwu emerged as the highest scorer for 2023 UTME with a total of 360 points.

According to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, 1,402,490 candidates out of 1,842,464 failed to score 200 out of 400 marks.

The examination body, through its registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, had stated that, among other reasons, the board considers the UTME as “only a ranking examination,” hence, its decision not to disclose the names of the highest-scoring candidates in the just-concluded UTME.

Also, the board urged Nigerians to be wary of any candidate parading printed result slips as currently, the result is not in any paper format.

Meanwhile, Nigerians on Facebook have hailed the top-performing students.

A Facebook user who posted via Thomas Ewa said, “Congratulations all, it takes Godliness, discipline and commitment to achieve such great results.”

Another Facebook user, Olumu Peace while congratulating the school’s top scorer said, “Congratulations Ayeyemi🎉🎉🎉 Delta Campus is proud of you.”

Ajayi Oluwafemi James who posted in the comment section of the post made by the school said, “This is quite incredible, congratulations to DLHS family. Leadership with Distinction!.”

The Kaduna State government has disclosed plans to merge a total of 359 schools over incessant activities of bandits which had resulted in cases of abduction and kidnapping in the state.

Speaking at a stakeholders forum and the training of the Schools’ Protection Squad on Wednesday, Governor Uba Sani represented by his Chief of Staff, Sani Kila, said the schools in vulnerable communities would be merged with those in safe locations, as part of measures to safeguard the schools and children from being attacked by bandits.

According to him, the launched school protection squad under the Federal Government’s Safe School Initiative is aimed at securing schools, children, and teachers from all forms of attacks by bandits and terrorists.

While noting that Kaduna is one of the states that has been waging a sustained battle against banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality, Kila lamented that the activities of non-state actors, have disrupted socio-economic activities in the affected communities, and are threatening the educational revitalisation programme of the state.

“Kaduna state’s educational system is facing a crisis of declining enrolment, with over 200,000 fewer primary school pupils recorded in the 2022/2023 academic session compared to the previous year. This dramatic drop (from 2,111,969 in 2021/2022 to 1,734,704 in 2022/2023) is largely attributed,” he said.

“In several local government areas (lgas) particularly chikun, birnin gwari, Kajuru, Giwa, and Igabi insecurity has forced school consolidation, further pushing up the number of out-of-school children. Incidents like the kidnapping of 135 students from the Lea Primary and Junior Secondary School, Kuriga, Chikun local government, tragically illustrate the devastating impact of insecurity on education access and safety.”

For more than a decade, Kaduna like other states in the North West zone, has faced severe security challenges orchestrated by bandits and terrorists, including attacks on educational institutions.

However, Kila said he believed that no nation could achieve its human capital development goals, and continue its path towards sustainable development when its schools are threatened by insecurity.

“The theme of this capacity building programme ‘Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of host Communities in the Protection of Education’ is apt. No nation can achieve its human capital development goals, and in fact make giant developmental strides if it fails to guarantee the safety and security of schools.

“For you to effectively guarantee the safety and security of schools, you must build the capacity of security forces and communities to anticipate, prepare for, reduce the impact of, cope with, and recover from the effects of shocks and stresses. It follows therefore that security forces must integrate host communities in their security plans and execute effective psychological operations to win the hearts and minds of the people”.

“I commend the Federal Government for launching the N144.8 billion safe schools financing plan in 2022. The plan was developed through rigorous consultative strategic engagements with all relevant stakeholders in the education and security sectors, at national and sub-national levels.

“It is gratifying to note that in furtherance of this plan, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olukayode Egbetokun has established the Schools Protection Squad (SPS), a proactive initiative aimed at enhancing security and safety in educational institutions across Nigeria.’

“To ensure that the education of our children in conflicts-prone and terrorist-infested areas is not interrupted, we have commenced the merging of 359 schools with those in safe locations. We are also implementing our safe school program to strengthen the security in our primary and secondary schools. We are collaborating with the Nigeria police force which is currently training a school’s protection squad (SPS). We have made adequate budgetary provisions for effective implementation of our safe school programme.”

He listed measures being implemented as, fencing of schools, the establishment of security and safety response committees with membership drawn from schools and communities, deployment of Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVS) to schools, provision of emergency lines to schools, security awareness training for school managers, teaching and non-teaching staff and school-based management committee members, construction of muster points in schools, training on identification of early warning signs, and construction of watch tower in schools.

“I hope that this capacity building programme will not only equip the participants with the skills and techniques of coping in challenging security situations but will develop a framework for psychological operations and strategic communication to win the hearts and minds of citizens in conflict-challenged communities,” he said.

“Security forces must hold regular meetings with elders, religious leaders, representatives of youth and women groups”.

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has criticised the Federal Government over the introduction of the 0.5 per cent cyber security levy.

Obi’s reaction comes after the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), described the planned cyber security levy introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on all electronic transactions as another burden on Nigerians.

According to a circular issued to various financial institutions, including commercial, merchant, non-interest, and payment service banks, the apex bank indicated that the levy would come into effect in two weeks from May 6.

The levy’s introduction has since sparked widespread criticism among Nigerians and civil society organizations, with the NLC calling for its reversal.

Rejecting the policy, the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, had said such deductions directly affect the disposable income of workers, and further diminish the purchasing power of the common citizens.

In a post on his X account on Wednesday, Obi described the levy as yet another form of tax on the suffering masses.

He wrote, “The introduction of yet another tax, in the form of Cybersecurity Levy, on Nigerians who are already suffering severe economic distress is further proof that the government is more interested in milking a dying economy instead of nurturing it to recovery and growth.

“The imposition of a Cybersecurity Levy on bank transactions is particularly sad given that the tax is on the trading capital of businesses and not on their profit hence will further erode whatever is left of their remaining capital, after the impact of the Naira devaluation and high inflation rate.

“It is inconceivable to expect the suffering citizens of Nigeria to separately fund all activities of the government. Policies such as this not only impoverish the citizens but make the country’s economic environment less competitive.

Obi concluded that the levy came at a time when the government should be reducing taxes to curb inflation.

“The government is instead introducing new taxes. And when did the office of the NSA become a revenue collecting centre?” he added.

The Central Bank of Nigeria has ordered banks operating in the country to start charging a cybersecurity levy on transactions.

A circular from the apex bank on Monday disclosed that the levy implementation would start two weeks from today.

The circular was directed to all commercial, merchant, non-interest, and payment service banks, among others.

The circular revealed that it was a follow-up on an earlier letter dated June 25, 2018 (Ref: BPS/DIR/GEN/CIR/05/008) and October 5, 2018 (Ref: BSD/DIR/GEN/LAB/11/023), respectively, on compliance with the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act 2015.

However, the apex bank exempted loan disbursements and repayments, salary payments, intra-account transfers within the same bank or between different banks for the same customer, and intra-bank transfers between customers of the same bank from the levy.

Also exempted from the levy were inter-branch transfers within a bank, cheque clearing and settlements, ⁠Letters of Credits, ⁠and Banks’ recapitalisation-related funding only bulk funds movement from collection accounts, savings, and deposits including transactions involving long-term investments, among others.

Nigerians on social media are lamenting the new levy, which they complain has added to the multiple levies paid for electronic transactions. In this report, PUNCH Online highlights the five other transaction levies paid and the amount deducted on transactions between N1,000 and N1,000,000.


1. Cybersecurity levy

N5 is charged on the transaction of N1,000

N50 is charged on the transaction of N10,000

N500 is charged on the transaction of N100,000

N5,000 is charged on the transaction of N1,000,000

N50,000 is charged on the transaction of N10,000,000

2. Transfer fee

N10 is being charged on the transaction below N5,000

N25 is being charged on the transaction between 5,001 and N50,000

N50 is being charged on transactions above N50,000

3. Stamp duties

N50 is being charged on transactions between N10,000 and N10,000,000

4. Short Messaging Service (SMS)

N4 is being charged on each electronic transfer notification

NB: This is only applicable to customers on eligible electronic transactions. Those who opt for e-mailing services are not charged the same.

5. Value Added Tax

N0.75 is being charged on N10 transfer fee

N1.875 is being charged on the N25 transfer fee

N3.75 is being charged on N50 transfer fee.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested six senior officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps over alleged N6bn fraud.

The senior officers are currently being grilled by EFCC interrogators at the commission’s headquarters, Jabi, Abuja, The PUNCH can confirm.

Though details of the probe are still sketchy, our correspondent gathered that the NSCDC officers were handed over to the EFCC on Monday on the order of the NSCDC Commandant General, Ahmed Audi.

Impeccable sources privy to the development but who were not authorised to speak to the press revealed that the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, had earlier written a letter to the NSCDC CG, demanding the officers’ release for interrogation.

A source revealed, “Six senior NSCDC officers are currently in our custody. They’re being grilled by our investigators over alleged fraudulent activities running into over N6bn.”

Confirming the development, another source said, “The EFCC did not arrest the NSCDC CG, neither is he being probed. We only have six senior NSCDC officers in our custody, and they’re being probed over alleged N6bn fraud.

“The EFCC Chairman had earlier written to the NSCSC CG to provide the officers, and the CG did. Now they’re in our custody and are being grilled by EFCC interrogators.”

The spokesperson for the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, could not be reached for comments on Monday as phone calls and text messages to his phone lines were not responded to nor returned.

Meanwhile, when contacted for comments, the spokesperson for the NSCDC, Babawale Afolabi, said he was not aware of the development.

“I’m not aware of this,” Afolabi said in a terse WhatsApp message sent to our correspondent on Monday.

The father of the late student of Dowen College, Lagos, Sylvester Oromoni jnr. has again alleged a cover up in the coroner’s findings regarding the cause of his son’s death.

In a five-page statement personally signed by him and made available to Channels Television, Sylvester Oromoni Snr said that the Coroner, Magistrate Mikhail Kadiri, who inquired into the cause of his son’s death deliberately delayed his findings so as to cover up the cause of the tragic death.

He said, “The coroner, Magistrate Mikhail Kadiri commenced hearing on 21st day of January 2022 and concluded on the 9th day of October, 2023 after calling 32 witnesses. The coroner delivered his verdict on the 15th day of April, 2024, after two years.

“During the reading of the verdict of 325 pages, the Coroner shed crocodile tears not less than seven times in open court. In fact, he had to rise twice and retired into his chambers to cry more than the bereaved. The coroner claimed that my son died of natural cause. The Coroner deliberately delayed the case in order to cover up the cause of the tragic death of my son as I will explain below”.

Mr Oromoni said this “dubious verdict” will not discourage him from pursuing justice especially to ensure that all other students in Dowen College and other schools do not suffer the same fate his late son did.

While narrating what happened at the inquest, Mr Oromoni disclosed that despite the request of his legal team led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr. Femi Falana, for a visit to Dowen College to enable the Coroner to ascertain the state of the school before the death of his son, it took the Coroner about 17 months to finally carry out the visit, ostensibly to give the management enough time to fix up the physical deficiencies in the school.

“In his desperate bid to exonerate Dowen College of any liability, the Coroner turned round in his verdict to applaud the authorities of the school for upgrading the facilities during the proceedings,” Oromoni Senior stated.

He also accused the Coroner of suppressing material facts of the bullying of his son by a clique of students, in order to further exonerate the management of Dowen College of any liability.

Mr Oromoni noted that though the coroner proceeded to blame the cause of death on “parental negligence”, it is on record that no witness indicted him as he took all steps recommended by the family doctor to save the life of his son.

In rejecting what he called “the wicked and heartless conclusion of the Coroner”, Mr Oromoni detailed areas in the Coroner’s findings where he alleged vital evidences were suppressed as well as the alleged negligence of Dowen College which led to his son’s death.

He also narrated how his son was allegedly killed as well as the role of the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecution which gave two contradictory legal opinions, one recommending the prosecution of Dowen College and another exonerating the school and its management even in the absence of fresh proof to back same.

In his conclusion, Mr Oromoni Snr recommended further investigation of the matter in the interest of justice.

While thanking the good people of Nigeria who stood by the family, Oromoni Senior also called on the Lagos State Government to investigate several cases of bullying in Dowen College.

He said, “Since the coroner decided to cover up the killers of my son, we shall take appropriate actions to unravel the mystery surrounding his death. Finally, I am compelled to call on the Lagos State Government to take urgent steps to investigate the several cases of bullying of students in Dowen College. The students and management staff involved in inflicting torture on helpless students in the school should be brought to book without any delay”.

In pursuit of securing a new $750m loan from the World Bank, the Federal Government may reintroduce previously suspended telecom tax and other fiscal measures.

This is according to the Stakeholder Engagement Plan for Nigeria – Accelerating Resource Mobilisation Reforms programme between Nigeria and the World Bank.

A copy of the plan’s document posted on the World Bank website indicated that the government might reintroduce the excises on telecom services, and EMT levy on electronic money transfers through the Nigerian Banking System among other taxes.

President Bola Tinubu in July 2023 ordered the suspension of the five per cent excise duty on telecommunications and the Import Tax Adjustment levy on certain vehicles.

However, it appears that this suspension may be lifted to meet the programme targets for a new, yet-to-be-approved World Bank loan with negotiations ongoing between the government and the World Bank.

Checks by our correspondent showed that the government had initially requested to obtain the loan in 2021 but was halted without clear reasons.

The programme’s development objective is to strengthen the government’s financial position by enhancing its capacity to manage and mobilise domestic resources effectively, which includes improving tax and customs compliance and protecting oil revenues.

The planned tax reforms under the ARMOR programme are expected to have significant implications across various economic sectors.

The PforR Programme is part of a larger governmental initiative running from 2024 to 2028, aimed at reforming tax and excise regimes, enhancing the administrative capabilities of tax and customs, and ensuring transparency in oil and gas revenue management.

The World Bank’s contribution of $750m constitutes a significant portion of the programme’s budget and the government is expected to contribute $1.17bn through annual budgetary.

According to the plan, affected stakeholders will include manufacturers of goods such as alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, sugar-sweetened beverages, telecom and banking service providers, as well as the general tax-paying public, importers and international traders.

Key industry groups such as the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria are engaged regarding the excise duties on telecom services.

The draft document stated, “Domestic Revenue Mobilisation drive in the government ARMOR program seeks to increase revenue on some targeted industries and sectors of the economy. Specific groups and agencies within affected sectors include the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria: The introduction of excises on telecom services requires that all telcos are mobilised to fully participate in the collection of such revenue.

“Committee of Bankers: Introduction of EMT levy on electronic money transfers through the Nigerian Banking System would need the buy-in of all banking institutions

“Manufacturer’s Association of Nigeria: Manufacturers of tobacco products, sugar-sweetened beverages and alcoholic beverages who would be required to collect excises on their products are critical stakeholders for the introduction of the new excise regime. They are currently organised into various sectoral groups under the Manufacturer’s Association of Nigeria. Producers of alcoholic beverages organised under the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria also need to key into the reforms.

“Also, strategic partners involved in the importation of different items into the country will be mobilised to participate in the ARMOR programme. A key stakeholder group is the Association of Nigeria Customs Agents.

“Vehicle Importers and Manufacturers: Stakeholders in the automobile trade industry must be engaged in reforms involving the introduction of green taxes on high GHG emission vehicles. Local manufacturing and assembly of vehicles is growing through a phase of growth in Nigeria. The demand for vehicles is mostly met through importation by vehicle importers under the aegis of the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria.”

The document also emphasised the importance of engaging vulnerable groups to ensure they are not disproportionately affected by these changes.

It also said, “Services that will be subjected to the newly introduced excises are regulated by key public sector agencies. The introduction of the new revenue measures will require the application of existing regulatory mechanisms available within these institutions. The concerned institutions include the Nigerian Communication Commission, the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“There are also agencies with the mandate for making policies on some of the issues covered in the ARMOR program concerning policy framework on matters of public interest in Health and Environmental Protection. The government institutions relevant to ARMOR in this regard are the Federal Ministry of Environment, the National Environmental Standards Regulatory and Enforcement Agency, and the Federal Ministry of Health.”

Additionally, the programme outlines specific allocations for technical assistance, with $5m each going to the Federal Inland Revenue Service and the Nigeria Customs Service to support their capacity to implement these new measures effectively.

This includes the development of systems for better data sharing, risk-based audits, and compliance processes, as well as substantial investments in program management and capacity building.

“The government program is funded from annual budget allocations of $1.17 billion to FMF, FIRS and NCS. The PforR with results-based financing of $730m, and $20m investment financing, is 62 per cent of the program budget”

“There will also be $10m for project management, tax policy capacity-building and other expenses. In total, the amount makes the $20m investment financing before the release of $730m in line with the fiscal targets met.”

An international drug syndicate with networks in parts of Nigeria, South Africa and Thailand have been smashed by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Also, no fewer than five members of the cartel were arrested in a two-week intelligence led operation in Lagos, Abia and Anambra states following the seizure of their illicit drug consignments at the NAHCO import shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja Lagos.

This was disclosed in a Sunday statement by NDLEA spokesman, Femi Babafemi, saying the unravelling of the drug cartel started on Sunday 20th April when their cargo of four big suitcases arrived at the NAHCO shed on an Air Peace airline flight from Johannesburg, South Africa.

He said that the first suspect, Umeh Chisom Peter was arrested on Wednesday 24th April after he showed up to pick up two of the suitcases containing Loud, a synthetic strain of cannabis owned by a Thailand-based member of the syndicate, Obum Michael.

According to Babafemi, the consignment of four parcels was concealed in false bottoms of the two suitcases, while the four suitcases contain a total of 17.6 kilograms Loud and drug candies.

He said another member of the syndicate, Mrs. Chiwendu Uche Ugbe whose South Africa based husband, Aloytus Uche Ugbe sent some of the consignments, was traced to Anambra state where NDLEA officers arrested her on Saturday 27th April while attempting to collect the drug parcels sent to her by her husband.

Two other suspects: Onyejakor Francis Chimezie and Naaji Valentine Chukwukere, with links to the cartel, were also arrested in parts of Lagos on Monday 29th April.

He stated that their arrest led to another operation in Abia state where Mrs. Chinazo Osigwe was arrested when she was to pick up some of the parcels containing Loud and drug candies sent by her husband, Osigwe Chidiebere Anthony who is equally operating from South Africa.

The United Kingdom edition of Reader’s Digest is shutting down after 86 years of operation.

The magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, Eva Mackevic, announced this development on LinkedIn on Monday.

Mackevic explained that the magazine, founded in 1922 by DeWitt Wallace and Lila Wallace in the US, has been struggling financially

Mackevic wrote, “After 86 wonderful years, I am very sad to share that Reader’s Digest UK has come to an end. It has been my privilege and joy to contribute to this iconic publication for nearly eight years, leading its talented team for the last six.

“Unfortunately, the company just couldn’t withstand the financial pressures of today’s unforgiving magazine publishing landscape and has ceased to trade. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the
incredible colleagues, writers, PRs, and brands. I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with you over the years.

“Your passion and expertise have made this journey unforgettable, and I’ve been fortunate enough to make some amazing friends along the way. To any writers awaiting payment for their work, I’ve been assured that the insolvency practitioners are working to communicate with everyone about the next steps. I sincerely hope this process goes smoothly and swiftly for you.”

Over its remarkable history, Reader’s Digest gained recognition through impactful campaigns.

One such campaign in 1924 raised awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use.

Reader’s Digest also had a notable association with the British monarchy.

It received recognition from Queen Elizabeth II, including a commissioned portrait for her 60th birthday

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has submitted additional proof of evidence against the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele.

During the court hearing on Friday, Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo requested an adjournment to review the new evidence before continuing the cross-examination of John Ikechukwu Ayoh, the second prosecution witness.

Ojo accused the EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, of engaging in “trial by ambush” and not being diligent in their prosecution.

He told the court that he just received the additional proof of evidence from the EFCC.

He said the new proof of evidence was filed on Thursday, saying he needed to study the additional proof of evidence to cross-examine the prosecution witness.

He told the court, “My lord, there is a need to adjourn this case. We were just served these huge documents by the EFCC in court.

“The prosecution keeps dumping documents on us at every sitting. This is trial by ambush.”

Sharing the same sentiment, the counsel to the second defendant, Adeyinka Kotoye, also said he was served the additional proof of evidence five minutes after arriving in court.

In his defence, Oyedepo argued that they provided documents from a former aide to Emefiele in preparation for his testimony, saying it did not affect the ongoing cross-examination.

He added that it was unfair to describe the service of processes by the prosecution as “ambush by trial”.

Oyedepo emphasised that the additional evidence submitted were documents obtained from the phone of a former aide to Emefiele, John Adetona, who is set to testify as a witness.


He also clarified that these documents were provided in advance for Adetona’s future testimony and that he was not scheduled to appear in court on the present or upcoming hearing on May 9.

“The witness (Adetona) whose device the documents were printed from has not given evidence before the court,” Oyedepo said.

“In preparation for his testimony which is not coming up today or May 9, the prosecution rather waiting for the defence to formally demand the hard copies the prosecution team printed the documents out.

“How does that amount to prosecutorial unfairness?”

Oyedepo, however, requested that the court instruct the defence counsels to conclude their cross-examination of the second prosecution witness.

He clarified that the introduction of new documents does not hinder or impact the ongoing cross-examination of this witness.

However, Emefiele’s lawyer disagreed, stating that he needed time to review the new documents as they may contain valuable information for use during cross-examination.

In his ruling, the presiding judge, Rahman Oshodi, agreed with the defendant’s counsel.

Oshodi then adjourned the matter to May 9.

Emefiele and his co-defendant, Henry Omoile, are currently being tried in a Lagos high court on a 26-count charge.

Both the former CBN governor and Omoile pleaded not guilty to all the charges against them.

A graduate of Chemistry from the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Anambra State, Juliet Chidiebube Uka, has scored 324 in the just concluded 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

Uka was the best-graduating student in the Department of Chemistry at UNIZIK in 2021, graduating with a first class.

She said she sat for the 2024 UTME to study Medicine as she wants to fulfill her dreams of becoming a medical doctor.

Her result made public, showed that she scored an aggregate of 324 in UTME as she seeks to re-enter the university.

Her elder brother, Obiora Uka, said his sister made up her mind to study medicine and surgery at all costs.

“She has demonstrated resilience through outstanding performance. She has maintained that her ambition is to become a doctor. This led her to write Jamb again this year 2024 and scored an aggregate of 324,” he added.

Obiora said the family hopes she can actualize her lifelong dream of becoming a medical doctor.

Meanwhile, users of social media have continued to the inflow of candidates’ results from the concluded 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, in its statement, disclosed that 1,402,490 candidates out of 1,842,464 failed to score 200 out of 400 marks.

Netizens have continued to display the results of some UTME candidates nationwide who had scored 300 and above.

One such is the daughter of a lecturer at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in Kaduna State; Toro Shehu, who scored 348 out of a total 400.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has said the government discovered 86 apartments under the Dolphin Estate Bridge, Ikoyi, where tenants pay N250,000 annual rent.

Posting videos on his X account on Wednesday, Wahab said the 86 partitioned rooms, sized “10×10 and 12×10”.

He added that the enforcement team of Lagos State’s Ministry of Environment and Water Resources had successfully removed all structures, including a container utilised for various illegal activities, from beneath the Dolphin Estate Bridge.

Sharing videos, the commissioner wrote, “18 individuals squatting illegally under the bridge leading from Dolphin Estate were arrested yesterday 30th of April, 2024 by the officials from the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps”

“A total number of 86 rooms, partitioned into 10×10 and 12×10, and a container used for different illegal activities were discovered under the Dolphin Estate Bridge.

“They have all been removed by the enforcement team of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.”

A Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Kunle Rotimi-Akodu, further confirmed the eviction of illegal settlers from beneath the bridge towards Dolphin Estate in Ikoyi.

Rotimi-Akodu said 23 individuals were arrested during the eviction, which was carried out by officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, popularly known as KAI on Tuesday.

He wrote, “Squatters dwelling under the bridge leading from inward Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi were evicted today Tuesday, 30th of April, 2024 by officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps LAGESC (aka KAI).

“These people created their illegal settlement under the bridge, thereby exposing the critical infrastructure to impending destruction. 23 persons have so far been arrested and MoE/KAI will continue to monitor the place. The law will take its course.”

He also confirmed that the bridge has hitherto housed 86 rooms, partitioned into 10×10 and 12×10 with squatters paying an average rent of N250,000 per annum.

“Continuation of the removal of abode under Dolphin bridge. 11 more persons were arrested. It is important to note that wood materials were used to construct the shelters, some occupants used gas cylinders, and some had stored fuel for their generators, these are recipes for disaster,” he added.

He wrote, “Squatters dwelling under the bridge leading from inward Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi were evicted today Tuesday, 30th of April, 2024 by officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps LAGESC (aka KAI).’’

“These people created their illegal settlement under the bridge, thereby exposing the critical infrastructure to impending destruction. Twenty-three persons have so far been arrested and MoE/KAI will continue to monitor the place. The law will take its course.”

The Anambra State Government has arrested one Uzochukwu Okoli for giving out his underage daughter’s hand in marriage.

Okoli was apprehended after his daughter reported to the state Ministry of Women and Social Welfare about the ill-treatment being meted out to her by her father and the man he forced her to marry.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by Chidimma Ikeanyionwu, the Media Aide to the state Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, on Thursday.

Ikeanyionwu said the girl, identified as Chioma, who is currently 16 years old, told the ministry that after the death of their mother, their father brought her back from Edo State, where they were going to school to take a husband.

The statement read, “She alleged that she was first forced to live with a 70-year-old man at the age of 14, but after some time, she ran back to her father’s house before he finally gave her out to a 34-year-old Chinedu N. as husband.

“Chioma, who also came with her elder sister, explained that life with the said husband has been a ‘living hell’ because he beats her and sometimes, after beating her, pees in her mouth and that made her run away with her nine-month-old baby.

“Her father, Uzochukwu Okoli, on the other hand, claimed his daughter is 18 years old and, at some point, said 20 years.

“Okoli, when he was handcuffed, threatened to deal with the daughters if he made it out of prison. He also urged them to pray he dies in prison because he will make life more miserable for them.”

Reacting to the development, Obinabo, instructed that the case be charged to court so that the children can get justice.

She used the medium to urge parents to be mindful of their children and direct them properly instead of pushing them to early marriages, which will destroy their lives.

Both Okoli and Chinedu N were arrested and will be arraigned in court.

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday pledged better living and working conditions for all Nigerians of working age, saying the “custodians of the nation’s machinery deserve a fair wage and enhanced welfare.”

Tinubu made this pledge in his maiden May Day message dedicated to workers nationwide.

The President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Ajuri Ngelale, conveyed the President’s remarks in a statement he signed Wednesday titled ‘President Tinubu salutes Nigerian workers on May Day.’

According to Ngelale, the President affirmed that his administration remains committed to improving the welfare of all workers, noting the various relief programmes, including the wage award and the imminent minimum wage review.

“President Tinubu strongly believes that the custodians of the nation’s machinery deserve a fair wage and enhanced welfare and that a labourer is deserving of not just any reward but fair and commensurate wages.

“The President assures Nigerian workers of his dedication to not only improving their welfare but also enhancing their working conditions and providing the necessary tools for them to succeed,” the statement read.

His remarks come amid a cost of living crisis believed to be the aftermath of hardline economic reforms pursued by his administration.

When he assumed office on May 29, 2023, Tinubu implemented the discontinuance of subsidies on petrol as approved by the immediate past administration of Muhammadu Buhari.

The move, he posited, would save the government money for massive infrastructural expansion.

Tinubu also unified the foreign exchange rates to, among other things, curb currency arbitrage and other forms of forex malpractices.

However, these steps sparked collateral instability in the value of the Naira and heaped hardship on Nigerians as food prices soared.

While speaking at a high-level panel session at the World Economic Forum Special Meeting in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, April 28, Tinubu defended the removal of the petrol subsidy as a “necessary action for my country not to go bankrupt” and to “reset the economy towards growth.”

On May Day, President Tinubu saluted Nigerian workers for their “fidelity to the peace, progress, and development of the nation evident in their tireless efforts and patriotic zeal to keep the national engine running.”

He commended the workers across all spheres, from the clerical officer who ensures the proper documentation and distribution of correspondence; the security officer who remains ever dutiful through all seasons; and the teacher who secures the future of our nation by imparting knowledge to the next generation; the doctor who works relentlessly to save precious lives; and all Nigerian workers who keep the candle aflame.

“The President wishes Nigerian workers Happy May Day celebrations,” the statement concluded.

Workers’ Day celebration in Nigeria owes its origins to the People’s Redemption Party government in Kaduna and Kano, which in 1980 adopted May 1 as a public holiday for the commemoration of International Workers Day.

In 1981, the Federal Government under Shehu Shagari, declared May 1 as a national holiday to celebrate International Workers’ Day.

President Bola Tinubu has secured a $600m investment from Danish shipping and logistics firm A.P Moller-Maersk, the presidency said on Sunday.

The deal is to help in expanding port infrastructure to accommodate more container shipping services in Nigerian ports.

Chairman of A.P Moller-Maersk, Mr. Robert Maersk Uggla, disclosed the decision during a meeting with President Tinubu on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Special Meeting on Global Collaboration, Growth and Energy for Development in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale said in a statement.

”We have seen a significant opportunity for Nigeria to cater for larger container ships. Historically, most of the West African coasts are already served by smaller ships. Currently, we see an opportunity to deploy larger ships to Nigeria. To achieve this, we need to expand the port infrastructure, especially in Lagos, where we need a bigger hub for logistics services. The growth potential is hard to quantify,” Ngelale quoted Uggla as saying.

”We believe in Nigeria, and we will invest $600 million in existing facilities and make the ports accommodating for bigger ships.”

On his part, Tinubu appreciated the firm for its contributions to the Nigerian economy.

“We appreciate your business and the contribution you have made and continue to make to our country’s economy over time. We do not take our partners for granted. A bet on Nigeria is a winning bet. It is also a bet that rewards beyond what is obtainable elsewhere,” Tinubu said.

“More investment opportunities are available, and my government has worked on various reforms to encourage investments. We need to encourage more opportunities for revenue expansion and minimize trans-shipments from larger ships to smaller ships.”

The Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom in Ondo State, Oba Victor Kiladejo has ordered the prohibition of the idea of traders being forced to join associations in the kingdom

Oba Kiladejo gave the order, through the Osemawe-in-Council, as part of the efforts to reduce the prices of food and commodities and services.

The order was part of the resolutions adopted by Osemawe in Council at the stakeholders and youth meeting held at Palace Hall, Ondo town, Ondo State on Wednesday.

The resolutions were contained in a statement from the Ondo Ekinmogun Youth Congress on Saturday, issued by Kayode Igbekoyi on behalf of the President of the group, Comrade Kayode Folajogun.

According to the statement, the resolutions read that “imposition of association membership of any kind on traders is prohibited in Ondo kingdom. Ondo markets are declared free and open for every legal trader and traders in legal items or wares from other communities, towns or states can trade freely in Ondo kingdom.

“All moribund and abandoned community markets e.g Odosida, Okelisa, Ayeyemi, Akinjagunla, Igba, Oka, and Odojomu including neighbourhood markets should be revamped, steps being taken to create more alternative markets like Shasha, Kara ( in Ondo) should be expedited ”

In the resolutions, the council asked any seller or trader who felt threatened while selling her goods in Ondo to call the concerned constituted authorities, Iyaloja or youth president and also that Iyaloja should make necessary publicity concerning the resolutions of market women on Osemawe’s directive.

The Osemawe-in-Council also warned that any fuel station selling above the approved pump price or exorbitant cost would be sealed off and that collection of extra charges on transactions done on any company’s POS machine, especially fuel stations is cancelled forthwith.

It said, “Strict measures would be taken against any fuel station especially independent marketers who hoard fuel and dupe buyers and Ondo residents by selling inaccurate meter measures, hat steps being taken by Ondo kingdom through the Osemawe in council to upgrade Agbogboke Injector transformer would be accelerated and that “Ondo youths should be empowered to engage in agriculture and trading that could lead to the amelioration of current economic hardships being witnessed in Ondo kingdom and Nigeria at large ”

The council frowned at the alleged bad conduct of some local government officials extorting goods motor drivers coming into Ondo markets and market women by extension and ordered for its stoppage forthwith.

The statement added that the intelligence and community task force team would be out to see to the implementation of the resolutions.

Due to the removal of fuel subsidies and the depreciation of the naira, there has been a consistent increase in food prices nationwide in recent times.

The Federal Government has not yet released the database containing the details and photographs of the 105 inmates who escaped from the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre, Niger State, despite the 72-hour timeframe since the prison break.

A downpour on Wednesday night wreaked havoc on the custodial centre resulting in extensive damage to the facility and facilitating the escape of 119 inmates.

The downpour caused severe damage to the custodial centre’s infrastructure, including a breach in the perimeter fence, allowing inmates to flee.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, after inspecting the damage highlighted the need for reforms in over 240 custodial centres nationwide.

Tunji-Ojo pledged the Federal Government’s dedication to bringing the remaining fleeing inmates back into custody.

Ten fleeing inmates were earlier recaptured on Thursday morning and by evening, four additional fleeing inmates were arrested.

The spokesperson for the NCoS in charge of the Kuje and Suleja medium security custodial centres in Abuja, and Niger State, Adamu Duza, told our correspondent on Thursday that the service would soon display the names and pictures of the fleeing inmates.

However, a source close to the Minister of Interior, who spoke to our correspondent on Saturday, claimed the NCoS was working on the database of the fleeing inmates for publication.

He said, “The NCoS is working on the database of the fleeing inmates. That is all I know about it. Once it is ready, I will let you know.”

Efforts to get the spokesperson for NCoS, Umar Abubakar, on the subject matter proved abortive as he ignored our correspondent’s call, and was yet to respond to his WhatsApp message after viewing it.

As of Sunday morning, our correspondent observed that the names and pictures of the 105 fleeing inmates were still not published on the websites of the Nigerian Correctional Service and the Ministry of Interior.

Faulting the delay in the display of the database of the fleeing inmates from the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre, a security expert, Chidi Omeje, blamed the ineffective security system in the country, adding that, “What happened was not a jailbreak. Rain fell, and the wall collapsed. But the first thing they would have done within 24 hours after the incident was to post the pictures and the names of the fleeing inmates.

“The NCoS is the heart of the security infrastructure in Nigeria because every security agency has something to do with prisons. The delay showed that there is no proper record of inmates in Nigeria.”

Another security expert, Oladele Fajana, expressed concern that the pictures of the escapees have not been released so that the public can help the security agencies identify them for easy capture.

Fajana noted, “I am really concerned. I think the Ministry of Interior needs to rise up to the challenge and quickly publish their pictures through the NCoS so that the public can know and identify them for the security agencies to re-arrest them.

“By now, their pictures are supposed to be everywhere; if not, they would become a terror to the nation.”

The 20th child of the founder of Celestial Church of Christ, Worldwide, Olatosho Oshoffa, popularly known as Tosho is the shepherd of CCC International Headquarters, Ketu, Lagos. He speaks with IMOLEAYO OYEDEYI on some controversial issues surrounding the church and its founder, the late Bilewu Oshoffa

How related are you to the CCC founder, the late SBJ Oshoffa?

My name is Olatosho Mathew Oshoffa. By the grace of God, I am the 10th son and the 20th child of the late founder of CCC. So, I am a real and proud son of Oshoffa for that matter.

Over time, there has been controversy about the CCC founder, especially regarding the number of wives and children that he has (had). Can you shed more light on this?

⁠Well, this is no longer private. My father left this world on 10th September 1985. He left behind 13 wives and 53 children. Many people have said he has (had) 100 children and so on. But no. We (The children) (the children NOT The children) know ourselves and up till now, I can tell you that we know the number of wives that gave birth to this number of children for my father. So, we know ourselves and relate very well. There is one love in the family, no matter how many we are. The number of children is 53, but we are all in one love and one accord.

How possible is it for the entire 53 children of the CCC founder to be well connected and united as you said?

Let me tell you something, my dear brother. Our father, while on earth, used to gather us together and tell us, “Never say you are a son or daughter to any of my wives. But tell yourself, you are a son of Oshoffa.” This means he used that girdle of love to tie us together. So we don’t see ourselves as children of our various mothers but as children of Oshoffa. And that is the same way we related when he (Oshoffa) was still in this world and has been doing after his demise. Even as of today, the remaining Oshoffa wives that were younger to my mother, I still refer to them as my mother, because of the love that our father (Oshoffa) has used to bind us together. So, we all remain one as SBJ Oshoffa children.

But given the scriptural position that a Bishop must be a man of one wife; don’t you think those condemning polygamous men of God are right?

Can I tell you something, my brother? You see, in that scripture, Paul was only advising. Tell me in the Bible, which prophet of God had only one wife? Do your research and tell me. Secondly, if God were to judge by the number of wives, my father would have been the first to be disqualified as the founder of CCC, because he was already having three wives before God called him. Yet, he was given the vision and mission to found CCC Worldwide. This year, it will be 76 years since the church came into being and it will also be 39 years since the founder left the church. But the church has kept on waxing stronger and stronger every day. So, if it was not the will of God, then, Oshoffa wouldn’t have been the first to be contacted.

I am sure in 1947, if there was a better candidate to found CCC, Oshoffa wouldn’t have been chosen. But because there wasn’t a better candidate, he was the only one that God found worthy to found CCC, despite having three wives. So those condemning my father should know that he never had any concubine. He married them (his wives) and they were all under his roof. But today, the so-called men of God with only one wife will have concubines outside. Which one is better? So, I will tell you that if God were to judge by the number of wives before sending a bishop or pastor on a mission, my father would have been disqualified because he had three wives before God called him. And thank God, the church he founded is still alive today, despite all the attacks here and there. The church remains one and keeps waxing stronger every day.

Based on this, what is the position of CCC on polygamy?

Based on this, anyone who desires to marry only one wife is allowed to do so. The church allows it. In the same way, the church does not have a law that binds a clergy to have only one wife. So you have a freedom. Maybe in the future, there will be a law that will bind us to have only one wife, but as of today, there is no law that binds a shepherd or prophet in CCC to marry only one way.

Does this mean that polygamy is not forbidden among the shepherds in CCC?

As of today, to be frank, polygamy is not forbidden among the clergies, the shepherds, or pastors in CCC. Tomorrow, there may be a law if God says so. But as of today, no law forbids polygamy in CCC.

About six different pastors claim to be the authentic spiritual head of the Celestial church. What is your take on this?

Let me assure you that this church came to sanctify and save the world. It was for salvation. Now, when the founder of this church departed, the same way Jesus Christ departed there were troubles among the apostles about who will lead. The same way as well that according to history the Catholic Church at a time had multiple Popes. But today, they have only one Pope after so many centuries. This is the same situation with CCC. After the demise of its founder, there was so much trouble. The apostles also faced the same challenges on succession as those of the Catholic Church.

Today, it is our turn. I believe that despite all the problems that we are facing today, a time is coming when the church will have only one leader. But as of today, the most acclaimed and accepted leader in CCC all over the world is the first son of the founder, my eldest brother, Rev. Emmanuel Oshoffa, who is based in Imeko, Ketu, and Makoko, the headquarters of the church. A time is coming when the church will become one again. It is our prayer that when that time comes, it will be during our time so that it will not happen when we might have passed away.

Are you saying that the church can still be united under one leadership despite the depth of the division within the fold?

We can still be united, my dear brother.

How?

I believe in one thing, which is dialogue. In Isaiah 1:18, God called all the people and said, come let us reason together. A time is coming, and it is not far again when we shall all reason together and see where our faults are. And believe me, we shall become one again when we sit down and reason together. It is my prayer once again that when that time comes, we shall be tools that God will use to give a way for our church to have one leader that will be accepted all over the world. I believe it is possible and it is my prayer that it should not be far. And we are working towards it. And that is the vision and mission of the Pastor, Rev. Oshoffa. So whether we like it or not, the church will be one again, because, without the oneness of the church, it cannot fully accomplish its mission. We have to be one. And God must enter the hearts of everybody to make us one because it (The church’s mission) is a task that must be achieved.

Does it seem the Cherubim and Seraphim churches also have similar divisions to that of CCC or is the situation different?

No, no. Let me tell you why we are different. During the time of Moses Orimolade, the founder of C&S, he was frustrated. He was so frustrated that on the day he was dying, he picked a bunch of brooms and scattered them, saying, “You C&S people because you have made me suffer this much, you will not be one anymore. He gave a collective curse to the C&S. But during the time of my father, the founder of CCC, he laid down individual curses. What was the curse? He said anyone that will divide my church, his ways, blessings, family, and inheritance in heaven shall be divided. That is an individual curse. And believe me, none of those who have a hand in the problem of this church has had a good end. It is always evil. You can see the difference. There was a collective curse placed on the C&S but an individual curse placed on CCC. That is why we still have room for reconciliation and oneness according to Isaiah 1:18. There is a big difference between collective curse and individual curse.

What are the efforts that Pastor Emmanuel Oshoffa has taken towards reaching out to other factional pastors in a bid to unite the fold?

I believe he is making his best efforts. No one is perfect. Let us put it that way. But recently, during the burial of my late younger sister, Arewa Deborah Oshoffa, the Deputy Pastor of CCC in Benin Republic, Babanla Shimi, sent by the CCC leader in the French country, met with Pastor Emmanuel after the burial. And they both spoke about the oneness of the Celestial fold. So, I believe that Pastor Emmanuel is trying in that area. He took over the leadership of the church on December 25, 2002, but he was enthroned on 23rd February 2003. I was his Personal Assistant for 13 years, so I know much about him.

When he became the Pastor, there were only a few parishes loyal to the CCC headquarters in Ketu, Makoko, and Imeko. But today, he has spent 21 years on the throne and many parishes have returned to his stream. I am not condemning other spiritual heads that are not in Ketu. No. As a leader in my little way, I cannot condemn anybody. That’s why whenever any parish returns to Ketu, Pastor Emmanuel never criticizes them; he will simply say, “Welcome to our father’s house.” So, I am not condemning anybody in his favor. And since every Celestial parish still prays with the God of Oshoffa, I believe the church still has a chance to be united. Already, despite having different leaders, our ways of worship, praying, singing and tenets have not changed. This means every CCC member is Papa Oshoffa’s child. Even the founder said so while he was alive. So for me, he has laid down the foundation of unity for the church. Based on this, I believe a time will come when the entire CCC members who are all Oshoffa’s children will come together and chart a way for the church’s unity.

Regarding your younger sister’s recent death that just you mentioned, what type of person was she, and what was the cause of her death?

My younger sister unfortunately has passed away. May her soul rest in peace. She shared the same father and mother with me. My sister, during her lifetime, fought for the unity of CCC. She was almost everywhere. Yes, she died at a prime age, 51, because we still have much older people who are still alive. God knows best. But let me tell you, death will always come with something once the time comes. Ecclesiastes 8:8 says, “At the time of death, no one can change, and no one can be saved again.” That is, no one can be saved from the hands of death when your time comes. Her time came. Believe me, many people have said, how can an Oshoffa child die like that? If she had lived for 100 years, she may not have gotten such a befitting burial that would get wide acclamation from people. Believe me, she died at her appointed time to meet her creator. But the fact remains that death will always hold onto something. And yes, death held onto something in her case and we all knew it. Debby Oshoffa died and the page is closed. As a family and church, we are moving forward. But she will never be forgotten. As I said, death held onto something and she passed away. But let me leave it that way.

So you don’t want to share the ‘Something’ that her death held onto?

No, I cannot share it now, because it is still very fresh in the memory of the family. She was buried just two weeks ago. So, why should I be talking about her death now? She is my younger sister for that matter, not my older sister. So for now, I don’t want to say anything about Debby. She passed away at the time God wished, and the death took her because of something, which I don’t want to reveal now. But in the future, everybody will know it.

It has been widely reported that Pastor Emmanuel Oshoffa has been having a prolonged court case with the registered Board of Trustees of the church, who claimed that he does not have the legal right to dissolve them because they were appointed by his father, the CCC founder. How can this issue be resolved?

Yes, Pastor Mobiyina was appointed in 2002 and proclaimed as Pastor in 2003. But at times, some problems could have been avoided. But at the same time, these problems are here now and we are facing them. What can we do? I have said earlier that court case or not, a time is coming when we all will sit down in CCC and reason together. But believe me, these are problems that may have been avoided. I won’t say more than that. Whether on his side or not, these are problems that we shouldn’t have faced normally. But they are here already in our house. So, it is my prayer that we get a solution to it quickly.

I believe the solutions will come at the right time. It is my prayer once again that God will give us the wisdom to realise that we don’t need to fight each other. We are all children of Papa Oshoffa. We just need to come back home and reason together. And if we know that we are all true children of Oshoffa, please, let us come together and resolve the issue. I want to beg everybody, both the registered BOT and Pastor Emmanuel, that we should please come back home and reason together so that the church may become one.

Some people believe CCC is occultic and fetish. What is your reaction to this?

They said the same thing to Jesus and Papa Oshoffa. But the real Pentecostal church is CCC and I will tell you why. This is the only church where in every service, both during the week and on Sunday, we denounce occultism openly. We tell our members that we are not part of any occultic acts or sects, and none of them has the right to join any occultic sect. So, tell me, which other church in the world openly denounces occultic during its devotional services? It is only CCC. But because of the magnitude of the power of God in the fold, people tend to disbelieve it and claim it is not possible. This is the 76th year of the church on earth and testimonies have been recurring in the CCC parishes spread across the globe. But we are not a church that makes noise with its testimonies. So, we are not occultic. Let me give you an example.

Baba Ogunde, during his time, came to Papa Oshoffa early in the morning one day. Papa said, “Oh, I hope there is no problem.” Ogunde said, “Papa, I have said your name in every occultic group all over the world, but I thought you were using evil and that you belong to a secret cult with all these miracles you are doing. But I didn’t see your name on the list of occultic people. So, because of the power of God that you are using, I want to produce a film that will reveal the secret of the darkness.” And the film was called “Aye”. Ogunde now said, “Papa, I want to put my family and myself under the God that you are serving, so that no harm will befall us.

Meanwhile, if Pope John Paul II could leave Rome in 1982 to come and visit Papa Oshoffa because of what he had heard about him that should tell you we are not occultic. We are a church of God, the Holy Spirit, and the real Pentecostal church.

CCC is a church I am very proud of and till my last breath, I will remain a member of the church. This is because what is not possible in other places is possible in CCC as it was through the blood of the lamb (Jesus) that the church was founded.

But people say Celestial church shepherds do involve themselves in diabolical things….

Yes, I call them intruders. Any CCC prophet or shepherd who deals with an occultic group is an intruder. Sooner or later, God will flush them out. But don’t forget, the Bible says, “Let the chalk and the wheat gross together. They are there and they are individuals. But the church as a body is a church of God. We may have one or two occultic people, but they do not belong to us. They are intruders and soon, God will flush them out.

Is it true that every member of CCC joined as a result of one problem or the other?

No, some people were born in the church. I was born in the fold. I didn’t come with any problem. Meanwhile, for those who joined the church, it may not be because of problems. Some people joined the church because of the white garment we wear and its neatness. Some other people also joined because of our hymns, while some joined because a prophet gave them a message. Many people have reasons for joining the fold, so I may not agree that all joined because of one problem or the other.

But have you ever heard that other Christians see Celestial members as inferior because they believe they are involved in using charms?

Yes, they do say that. But they are telling lies. And it is because they believe the CCC founder is not well-schooled. He didn’t attend any university. He didn’t take a Ph.D, and he didn’t pass through a theology school and all. But God said he would take what does not exist to confound what truly exists so that what exists may not be arrogant. This is because everything is not about books. It is on record that despite the CCC founder not being educated, God still made use of him and today, CCC is still standing. How many churches can do that many years after their founders passed away? But as I have said, people may say anything they like. They cannot still understand CCC, because the church is not of this world. Have you heard of how some people went and fasted for many days all because of CCC? But in the end, angels appeared to them and told them CCC is a divine church and you cannot fight it. It has come to stay and except people go spiritual, they cannot comprehend it.

Some months back, a popular investigative journalist, published a story that raised public eyebrows on how fake prophecies affect peoples’ lives. The CCC International Headquarters was one of the churches indicted in the report. What is your take on his report and what has the church done to address some of the issues he raised?

No. No. No. I won’t agree with that. It was a wrong thing. Have you heard of him again since then? I don’t want to talk about him. It is almost two years now. I won’t say he indicted us, no. He assumed because there was no proof. As God would have it, a year after, Ebenizeri came out from my choir, the CCC Apex Choir. It was exactly a year later. That is to tell you that though the report said something wrong about the church, the angel of the Lord came a year after to make amendments and glorify the church (Through the song). Today, the CCC International Headquarters is standing strong and it has changed. The Spirit of the Lord lives there and every day, the prophets, like in every other CCC parishes, still performs miracles and the spirit of the Lord is working. So no one can destroy what the Lord has not destroyed.

How are CCC shepherds paid? Is the headquarters in charge of every branch of your church or people are allowed to open their churches and just make remittances to the headquarters?

Before the CCC founder left, Celestial church shepherds were not paid a fixed salary. We are paid stipends. What does that mean? Every income realised in the parish monthly is divided into three parts. One stays in the parish; one goes to the headquarters; and one is divided among the shepherd and those working with him. So that is how we are paid as clergies in CCC. For now, we don’t have a fixed salary. But a law may come tomorrow that will fix the salary.

English Premier League trio Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea are all looking likely to miss out on Napoli’s Victor Osimhen as French giants Paris Saint-Germain have decided to pay the €120m release clause in the Nigerian’s current contract, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

After a successful four-year spell at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, the Nigeria international is expected to leave Naples despite signing a contract extension in December.

Osimhen is one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe following a successful time in Italy.

The 25-year-old played a huge role as Napoli claimed the Serie A title last season – their first in over three decades.




The Nigerian striker scored 31 goals across 39 appearances with 26 of those goals in the league.

Osimhen has netted 74 times across 129 appearances for Napoli and it came as no surprise that he has been linked with some top clubs in Europe.

If the report by Il Mattino is anything to go by, the Nigerian could be heading to France after the Italian media outfit reported that the French giants were ready to pay his release clause.

“Victor Osmihen is close to signing for PSG this summer! The French club has decided to pay his release clause of €120m,” the publication wrote.

The news will come as a major blow to his suitors, especially Arsenal and Chelsea. The two teams have identified Osimhen as their primary target for their attacks ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, with the player also keen on the move.

The Premier League clubs desperately need a striker ahead of next season.

Chelsea have heavily depended on Nicolas Jackson to get their goals but the former Villarreal man has failed to deliver and his woeful performance in the past few days during clashes against Manchester City and Arsenal has shown why the Blues are in desperate need of a reliable striker.

While Arsenal have scored the highest number of goals in the Premier League this season, Mike Arteta still needs a goal poacher as Gabriel Jesus has failed to live up to expectation.

The Nigerian Ports Authority, Onne Port Complex, said it has received a big vessel, ‘Kota Cempaka’ with 566 containers.

Announcing the development in a statement on Saturday, the management of NPA, said the vessel sailing under the flag of Singapore, has a length overall of 300 meters.

It added that the successful berthing of the vessel demonstrated the agency’s capacity and readiness for large ship calls.

The statement read in part, “The vessel christened Kota Cempaka with International Maritime Organization number 9638965 sailing under the flag of Singapore shipped in 566 containers,”

The Managing Director of the NPA, Mohammed Bello-KoKo, said, “This is a confirmation of the capacity and readiness of eastern ports for vessel traffic

“This also shows that our investments in channel navigability and security are yielding results. We will sustain our advocacy for the patronage of the eastern ports,” Bello-Koko said.

According to Bello-Koko, Onne Port had earlier berthed, Maersk Stadelhorn and MV Lady Jane with 300m and 295m LOA respectively, “a development that shows that the port is poised to sustain its growing fortunes,”


Situated on the Bonny River Estuary along Ogu Creek in Rivers State, Onne Port Complex is the first port of its kind in Nigeria that operated the landlord port model devised to encourage private sector participation in the port industry.

Similarly, in August 2020, the Nigerian Ports Authority announced the berthing of the biggest container vessel to ever dock at a Nigerian port.

The General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications, Mr. Adams Jatto, announced in a statement in Lagos.

Jatto said the Maerskline Stardelhorn vessel, with a length overall of 300 metres, and a width of 48 metres was received at the Federal Ocean Terminal, Onne, Rivers State, at 16:20 hours on August 15.

The Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, has been released after meeting the bail conditions granted him by the Court.

Emefiele, who arrived at the Lagos High Court, Ikeja in custody of operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday, left for his home after the court proceedings.

Justice Rahman Oshodi, who ruled on his bail application, admitted him to bail in the sum of N50m with two sureties in like sum.

Shortly after the court granted him bail, trial started with the EFCC calling its first prosecution witness.

The witness, a staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Monday Osazuwa, told the court how the former CBN Governor on different occasions, directed him to collect the sum of $3 million cash in tranches.

Led-in-evidence by the prosecution counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Rotimi Oyedepo, the witness narrated to the court how he served as a dispatch rider in Zenith Bank, after which he joined the apex bank as well as the many errands he ran for the former CBN governor.

He said, “I joined the CBN in 2014 as a contract staff and became staff in 2015. I knew the first defendant when he was a Deputy Director of Zenith Bank, and he later became Director. I worked with him since then.

“I was still working in the governor’s office while I was appointed as a full staff, and we usually communicate through WhatsApp and Emails. I performed as a senior supervisor, recording and filing with other official roles.”

He also testified that sometime in 2020, the first defendant sent him on errand.

“When he called me, he directed that I should call a businessman who gave me $1 million dollars on his behalf. Some weeks later, the first defendant also called me that I should meet the man and he gave me $850,000, $750,000 and $400,000 cash in tranches.”

Osazuwa further confirmed to the court that he knew Dumies Oil and Gas Limited while he was in Zenith Bank PlC. He added that that former CBN governor, who was also the MD of the company, always sent him to collect cheques from one Mr Monday.

The witness told the court that he always logged the money into the account of Dumies on the order of Emefiele.

When he was asked where the second defendant resides, he responded that Henry Isioma Omoile lived in the residence of the former CBN governor.

His words, “Whenever I receive the money and take it to the residence of Mr Emefiele. He always tells me to give it to the second defendant whenever he was not at home.

“I did not keep record of transactions because the instruction he gave me was that, I should collect the money and bring the money to his house. The highest amount I collected is $1 million all in cash.

“He has never for one day said take this. I have never been rewarded, paid or given anything because I am doing it out of faithfulness and he knows I am faithful to him.”

The witness was cross-examined by the defendant’s counsel, Abdulakeem Labi-Lawal.

The witness confirmed to the court that he had been working with the defendant since 2002 but he could not say the precise number of years or months he had seen the second defendant.

Osazuwa said that he was sure that Omoile had been living in Emefiele’s house for some months.

He affirmed that Emefiele passed instructions to him through the second defendant and that he had been collecting cheques for Dumies Oil and Gas.

“I started collect collecting cheques for Dummies Oil and Gas when I was in Zenith Bank. I cannot calculate the exact year I have been collecting the cheques but it all started when the first defendant was the MD at Zenith Bank and I was working at Zenith Bank Plc.”

The witness told the court that when he was made to confront the second defendant during investigation, the second defendant did not admit that instructions were passed through him.

Before the witness testified, Justice Oshodi turned down a request for adjournment made by the defence counsel.

He ruled that the request for adjournment was unjustified.

The court has adjourned to April 29 for continuation of trial and for hearing of some applications requesting a closed session for some of the prosecution’s witnesses.

The Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, has been released after meeting the bail conditions granted him by the Court.

Emefiele, who arrived at the Lagos High Court, Ikeja in custody of operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday, left for his home after the court proceedings.

Justice Rahman Oshodi, who ruled on his bail application, admitted him to bail in the sum of N50m with two sureties in like sum.

Shortly after the court granted him bail, trial started with the EFCC calling its first prosecution witness.

The witness, a staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Monday Osazuwa, told the court how the former CBN Governor on different occasions, directed him to collect the sum of $3 million cash in tranches.

Led-in-evidence by the prosecution counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Rotimi Oyedepo, the witness narrated to the court how he served as a dispatch rider in Zenith Bank, after which he joined the apex bank as well as the many errands he ran for the former CBN governor.

He said, “I joined the CBN in 2014 as a contract staff and became staff in 2015. I knew the first defendant when he was a Deputy Director of Zenith Bank, and he later became Director. I worked with him since then.

“I was still working in the governor’s office while I was appointed as a full staff, and we usually communicate through WhatsApp and Emails. I performed as a senior supervisor, recording and filing with other official roles.”

He also testified that sometime in 2020, the first defendant sent him on errand.

“When he called me, he directed that I should call a businessman who gave me $1 million dollars on his behalf. Some weeks later, the first defendant also called me that I should meet the man and he gave me $850,000, $750,000 and $400,000 cash in tranches.”

Osazuwa further confirmed to the court that he knew Dumies Oil and Gas Limited while he was in Zenith Bank PlC. He added that that former CBN governor, who was also the MD of the company, always sent him to collect cheques from one Mr Monday.

The witness told the court that he always logged the money into the account of Dumies on the order of Emefiele.

When he was asked where the second defendant resides, he responded that Henry Isioma Omoile lived in the residence of the former CBN governor.

His words, “Whenever I receive the money and take it to the residence of Mr Emefiele. He always tells me to give it to the second defendant whenever he was not at home.

“I did not keep record of transactions because the instruction he gave me was that, I should collect the money and bring the money to his house. The highest amount I collected is $1 million all in cash.

“He has never for one day said take this. I have never been rewarded, paid or given anything because I am doing it out of faithfulness and he knows I am faithful to him.”

The witness was cross-examined by the defendant’s counsel, Abdulakeem Labi-Lawal.

The witness confirmed to the court that he had been working with the defendant since 2002 but he could not say the precise number of years or months he had seen the second defendant.

Osazuwa said that he was sure that Omoile had been living in Emefiele’s house for some months.

He affirmed that Emefiele passed instructions to him through the second defendant and that he had been collecting cheques for Dumies Oil and Gas.

“I started collect collecting cheques for Dummies Oil and Gas when I was in Zenith Bank. I cannot calculate the exact year I have been collecting the cheques but it all started when the first defendant was the MD at Zenith Bank and I was working at Zenith Bank Plc.”

The witness told the court that when he was made to confront the second defendant during investigation, the second defendant did not admit that instructions were passed through him.

Before the witness testified, Justice Oshodi turned down a request for adjournment made by the defence counsel.

He ruled that the request for adjournment was unjustified.

The court has adjourned to April 29 for continuation of trial and for hearing of some applications requesting a closed session for some of the prosecution’s witnesses.

Foreign airlines have further slashed airfares on the Lagos-London route to compete with Air Peace, which recently commenced flight operations on the route.

Air Peace started direct flights from Lagos to London on March 30, pegging its price for a round-trip economy ticket at N1.2m on a route that foreign airlines had charged as much as N3m to fly passengers on.

The move by the Nigerian airline had seen foreign airlines cut their airfares to an average of ₦1.4m for a round-trip economy ticket last week, an action experts and stakeholders had anticipated.

Checks on Wednesday show that some foreign airlines have further slashed their price to an average of ₦841,732.

At the Central Bank of Nigeria’s exchange rate of N1246/$1, checks on prices by most of the flights, as of Wednesday, show that Egyptair has dropped its Lagos-London economy ticket price further to ($470) ₦585,620. Air Peace London to Lagos now goes for ($655) ₦816, 130, British Airways goes for ($787.99) ₦981, 848, Virgin Atlantic ($927.99) ₦1.1m, and Royal Air Moroc ($456.99) ₦569,422.

Also, RwandAir has pegged airfare to ($545.35) ₦679,070, Ethiopian Air ($543.84) ₦677, 824, Turkish Airlines ($647.84) ₦807, 408, Air France London ($915.99) ₦1.1m, while KLM pegged its price to ($927.84) ₦1.1m

The development follows price cuts by the airlines from as much as N3.5m between January and February 2024, to an average price of N1.4m last week.

Wednesday’s ticket prices were significantly lower than in the second half of last year and early this year. As of July last year, a one-way economy ticket from Lagos to London cost ₦2.7m at a conversion rate of ₦907 per dollar at the time.

In the first week of April this year, a one-way ticket cost between ₦1.03m and ₦1.3m despite the exchange rates being higher at ₦1,250 per dollar.

‘Conspiracy’ Against Air Peace?

The ‘price war’ that followed the commencement of Air Peace operations had been anticipated by some experts who believed that the foreign airlines would not just sit back and allow Air Peace to dominate flights on the route.

A travel and tourism expert and former President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Bankole Bernard, who was a guest on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Tuesday, last week, had accused foreign airlines operating in the four major airports in Nigeria of making more than enough profit, unchallenged.

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The four major gateways are Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano.

“How come all of a sudden airfares have gone down? What could be responsible for that? Number one: there is a new entrant to a major route (Lagos-London),” Bernard said.

“There are two major destinations that Nigerians ply. Number one is Dubai and Dubai has been out of it for a while now (due to visa restrictions). So, we (Nigerians) have resorted to the London route. The UK route is where a lot (of foreign carriers) use to earmark their airfares.

“Now that Air Peace has come into that space with a direct flight that will not cause any layover in any other country, the price has dropped. Why? What happened? Is there a magic around that? We should be able to question what made the prices drop.

“The prices will drop as long as we have another form of supply that is different from the conventional ones. The supply that we now have — that is Air Peace, which is a direct flight — will put pressure on every other route. So, all the other airlines are forced to adjust quickly or they will be out of the market in no time.”

The Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, however, believes the foreign airlines are conspiring to force him out of international operations by crashing airfares on the route.






There is an “unspoken alliance” among foreign airlines to use lower pricing to eject Air Peace from the Nigeria-London route, alleged a visibly displeased Onyema on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday.

“If they take out Air Peace prematurely, this country will pay dearly for it, 10 times over; billions will be lost, (and) there will be another heavy strain on the naira,” he said.

The Air peace boss said foreign airlines operating the route “are fighting back”.

“We are being deliberately frustrated in all ways,” he said, citing ground handling and space allocation difficulties at Gatwick Airport in the last couple of days.

“It’s a very devilish conspiracy. All of a sudden, (foreign) airlines are under-pricing, below the cost, it’s not up to one month, an airline was advertising $100, another one $305, $350. Fill up the entire aircraft and carry people on the wings, it’s not even enough to buy your fuel. So, why are they doing that? Their governments are supporting them because Nigeria has been a cash cow for everybody.

“Their governments are supporting them to do this and take Air Peace out. The idea is to take Air Peace out and the moment they succeed in taking Air Peace out, Nigerians will pay 20 times over again.”

However, the President of the Association of Foreign Airlines and Representatives in Nigeria (AFARN), Kingsley Nwokoma, told Channels Television that foreign airlines were happy with Air Peace for venturing into the Lagos-London route. He believes that foreign airlines should also sell tickets at lower prices.

“AFARN congratulates Air Peace Airlines on its recent bold milestone for venturing into the Lagos- London route and wishes more Nigerian carriers can explore the same option for more international routes,” he said.

Nwokoma added that while foreign airlines seek collaboration, the association would continue to encourage foreign airlines to cut prices.

“We want to state that collaboration and alliances are key in world aviation. No one airline can do it alone. We will continue to seek this collaboration amongst operators. Similarly, AFARN also encourages foreign airlines to start selling low-inventory tickets to the flying public. This will not only boost the business in the industry but would increase the number of air passengers,” he said.

The current president of NANTA, Susan Akporiaye, said in a recent interview that further airfare reductions were anticipated in conjunction with a decline in the exchange rate. This, she expects, will significantly boost activities.

“The airfares are already coming down with the airline’s rate of exchange reducing to ₦1,300 as against ₦1,700 and ₦1,800. The fare that was over ₦2m is now around ₦1m. We know that the exchange rate is also a major part of it and, of course, Air Peace’s coming in,” she said.

Like Akporiaye, a travel expert and publisher of Travelogue, Ayo Omotosho, believes that the drop in flight fare cost is due to efforts by the CBN to stabilise the economy and the action of Air Peace boss, Allen Onyema.

He said, “Lagos to London takes nothing less than six hours which should ordinarily cost about N200,000, but today, the lowest price went for about N2m. So, that was what Dr Onyema saw and came to address. I don’t think the federal government is paying him any form of subsidy because this is a level-playing market.

“During the last administration, CBN did not allow foreign airlines to repatriate their funds, which I don’t think was fair. It is a free market, so, they decided to increase their fares. This was probably part of the reasons why Airlines like Emirates and Qatar barred Nigerians from coming to their countries.

“So, the administration of Tinubu saw this and decided to review it. Thes trick was just putting some policies in place to crash foreign exchange rates. It was even as bad as people going to the Bureau De Change to buy dollars at cheaper prices and resell them at higher prices. But now, policies are being put in place to correct all the anomalies,” he said.

Nigerians React
Nigerians on social media have continued to pledge support for Air Peace despite foreign airlines slashing airfares below that of the local airline operator.

On Facebook, Sarah Orwoufiniere Alfred said, “We will still choose Air Peace over them”.

Another user, Felagha Tari, wrote, “We die with Air Peace, God bless Dr. Onyeama, long live Air Peace”.

“Air peace remains,” said Ejiata Ejiata, in response to the price cut by foreign airlines.

For Alexander Gerard D’great Ogasele, “The day Naija wakes up, the Western world will learn to respect us”.

Boye Soyemi believes that Air Peace has brought in needed competition.

“A marketing without competitors is always neck-breaking & threatening; welcome once again Air Peace!” Soyemi wrote.

Ja’usman Faisal said, “If they like let them make it N20,000 to London, I will choose AIR PEACE of N2,000,000”, while DeBlessed Nnamdi: “Until their price drop to 100k I won’t leave Air Peace.”

Uproar As NSCDC Allegedly Shoots Woman At Eid Prayer Ground In Gasau


There was pandemonium in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, on Wednesday, as personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) allegedly shot and killed a woman while attempting to pursue hoodlums.

The tragic incident, which occurred while Muslim faithful gathered to observe Eid prayer, has sparked outrage and unrest among residents, leading to an escalation of tensions in the area.

An eyewitness narrated that the NSCDC personnel, in their pursuit of suspected hoodlums armed with dangerous weapons, opened fire indiscriminately, resulting in the tragic death of an innocent woman.

In response to the shooting, an angry mob gathered and vented their frustration by setting ablaze an NSCDC vehicle.



The police Hilux was set ablaze by angry mob
Confirming the incident to Channels Television via a telephone conversation, the police spokesperson in Zamfara State, ASP Yazid Abubakar, said two NSCDC personnel linked with the shooting are currently in the custody of the police.

He said the Zamfara State Police Command has started a probe into the cause of the incident.

“We have two of them in our custody as we speak now. The command is still investigating the incident.”

When contacted, the Spokesperson for the NSCDC in Zamfara State, Ikor Oche, denied the allegation that the men of the Civil Defence shot the victim.

He said the personnel of the Corps were at their post, observing the movement of the Muslim faithful who were out to observe the Eid prayer when they heard the gunshot.

According to him, they mobilised to the scene where they met a woman fatally injured.

“Because they were the ones close to the scene, a mob descended on them. They had to run for their safety and abandoned their Hilux vehicle. The vehicle was set ablaze by the mob and about seven of our men were injured. They did not shoot or kill anybody.”

Oche said the state command of NSCDC has also launched an investigation to unravel the cause of the incident.

Meanwhile, policemen dispersed the mob who vandalised and burnt the vehicle of the Civil Defence and normalcy was returned in the area.

Comedian Ayo Makun popularly known as AY and his wife, Mabel, have split after almost two decades of marriage.

Speculations of a rift in their marriage have recently made it to the public space.

He confirmed their separation in a post on his Instagram handle on Sunday.

The message read, ”Yes! Without compromising my family, I have found myself doing some things that I am not proud of today. It is one thing to watch my friendship/ marriage of 20 years slip off my hands, but it’s another thing for the parties involved to understand how to appropriate the blame in a space that is designed for most women to always play the victims and win.

”’Many people believe that staying silent simply means that one is incapable of dealing with issues. Projecting a negative narrative against someone who is not struggling to defend himself doesn’t mean he is weak. Some of us are just logical enough to understand the difference between opinions, values, beliefs, and facts.


”The personality and ability that I possess simply confirm that I have reached that stage in my life where I can not be entertaining the public with deep personal family issues. They just might be too much to handle concerning the individuals involved. Not even when I have a grown-up daughter who has access to social media. Her mental health needs to be protected from seeing things she can not be proud of online.”

”I can tell you for free that no one is completely INNOCENT enough to cast stones.”

”Presently, I am loving the way that lies about me in all these blogs are travelling faster than the truth. But my painful truth will eventually beat away all the lies.”

The pair got married in November 2008 and they have two children

Following a defamation and cyberstalking petition filed last week by gospel artiste, Nathaniel Bassey, against four Facebook users, one of them, Kingsley Ibe, has apologised to the singer and fellow counterpart, Mercy Chinwo.

Ibe also turned himself into police custody.

He and three others alleged that Bassey fathered the son of a fellow popular gospel singer, an allegation that went viral on X.

The three other social media users, identified in the petition are Okoronkwo Ejike, Terrence Ekot and Dj Spoiltkid.

A press statement released by Bassey’s legal representatives on Monday disclosed that ”The police have taken his statement together with other incontrovertible evidence ready for prosecution over criminal defamation and cyber-related offences.”

It also noted that the accused had shown remorse for his actions and was committed to redeeming himself

”Mr. Ibe has shown true repentance for his actions and made a commitment to turn a new leaf and become a more responsible member of society.”

”His aged mother and family members have also apologized on his behalf, and I have decided to extend a hand of fellowship and love towards him.”


I Take Full Responsibility For My Actions

In an apology video made by Ibe on Monday, he stated he regretted his ”reckless;” statement adding that he was not under duress to make the video

”To you pastor Nathaniel Bassey, I express my sincere apology to you for the comment I made on social media and to your family as well.”

”I know the damages it has caused and I take full responsibility and I am deeply sorry from the bottom of my heart,” he said

”To his fans and followers, to his ministry, the hallelujah challenge and the RCCG Oasis

”I am also a fan of pastor Nathaniel Bassey for the past years and I did not make those comments with the intent to cause harm or evil and I am deeply deeply sorry.”

He also apologised to gospel singer, Mercy Chinwo and her family adding that his utterances might have far-reaching implications but were not with any form of malice

”To minster Chinwo, I know I don’t deserve your mercy but I am deeply and I ask you to forgive me ”

”To the baby I know my message was harsh and might cause a negative impact”

Troops of the Nigerian Army, I Division, have rescued 16 abducted victims in Kajuru, Kaduna State.

They also averted a kidnap attempt by an extremist group.

“The Nigerian Army troops deployed in 1 Division area of responsibility in Kaduna State have successfully averted a kidnap attempt by a violent extremist and insurgent group and rescued the abductees in Tantatu Community of Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State,” the Director of Army Public Relations Major General Onyema Nwachukwu said in a late Monday statement.

According to him, the troops were responding to intelligence on Sunday night when they tracked the insurgents who had abducted some persons in the village.

“On arriving at the scene of the incident, the troops tenaciously pursued the insurgents, engaging them in a ferocious exchange of fire and consequently rescuing 16 kidnapped victims,” the statement read.

“The troops are still exploiting the bushes in continuation of the search and rescue operations to extricate other victims and balk the nefarious activities of the insurgents.”

Following the rescue, the Chief of Army Staff Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja lauded the troops for the successful outing and charged them to remain vigilant in the conduct of ongoing counter-insurgency operations to liberate all troubled areas in the country.

National President of the Nasrul-Lahi-il Fathi Society of Nigeria, Abdulwaheed Abdulrauf, talks to ABDULLATEEF FOWEWE on the significance of pre-dawn meal (suhoor) and the essence of Ramadan

 What are the basic guidelines to follow and avoid during Ramadan?

I am Abdulwaheed Abdulrauf, the worldwide/national president of the Nasrul-Lahi-il Fathi Society of Nigeria, which has branches worldwide. Ramadan is a sacred month in the Islamic calendar that Muslims eagerly anticipate. During this time, negative behaviour decreases, as God closes the gates of hell and multiplies the rewards for good deeds. The influence of the devil weakens, leading to fewer temptations and increased opportunities for virtuous actions. Unlike other months, Ramadan requires restraint in eating, drinking, speaking, and behaviour. It is a time when all of the mentioned activities are scheduled. During this time, you might find yourself more active and productive than before. It is essential to prioritise reading and learning from the Qur’an, as well as making time to listen to the words of God, whether online or physically.

All the hours of fasting should be dedicated to actions that are pleasing to God. Even while at work, providing service promptly can be considered a rewarding deed. Ramadan is a month for strengthening our faith, a month for praising Allah. If we can maintain our behaviour during Ramadan throughout the year, everything will be improved. This month requires dedication, time, talent, and energy from us. Be sure to share your blessings with others, as sharing and helping those in need will bring you beautiful rewards from God.

During Ramadan, it is beautiful to see non-Muslims joining us for iftar, as it is a month for doing good deeds. It is important for Muslims to avoid unnecessary arguments, not be angry, refrain from boasting about fasting, respect others’ rights, avoid taking what is not theirs, focus on rewarding deeds, be mindful of speech, lower gaze towards those who are not their spouses, and refrain from consuming alcohol or anything that may cause discomfort. When the call to prayer is made, it is important to stop whatever you are doing and pray.

Some people rush while reading the Qur’an. Is there any reward for them?

Rushing through Quranic reading may lead to mistakes, so it is important to take time and read properly to avoid errors. NASFAT cautions against such practices. We provide opportunities for many individuals to expand their knowledge due to the nature of our outreach efforts. Within our community, we emphasise proper Quranic recitation by offering physical and online educational resources. It is important to be cautious when pronouncing Quranic words as each word spoken correctly earns rewards, while mispronunciation can alter the meaning and lead to negative consequences. However, the variation in Quranic recitation across regions is influenced by dialects, making it essential to learn the standard Arabic pronunciation.

It is crucial to support and encourage individuals who may struggle with Quranic recitation rather than mock or discourage them. Instead, let’s focus on ways to improve their understanding, which is what NASFAT is currently working on. It is essential to have a solid grounding in Islam before considering oneself a true Muslim. Many individuals mistakenly believe that being born into Islam automatically grants them all the necessary knowledge, but in reality, learning is crucial. At NASFAT, we do not judge or criticise people; instead, we guide them through the proper learning process so that they can develop a thorough understanding of their religion over time.

Is it important to wake up for the suhoor (pre-dawn meal)?

It is crucial to wake up for suhoor, even if it is just to sip water before going back to sleep. Skipping suhoor will result in an incomplete fast, especially if it is done intentionally. Additionally, suhoor should be eaten close to the time of fajr (dawn) and not during the early hours of the morning between 2am and 3am. Suhoor holds great significance during Ramadan fasting, and it is not an ordinary meal. It is essential for Muslims to partake in suhoor, even if it means consuming a glass of water. The importance of suhoor can be understood from the guidance of the Prophet (peace be upon him) as mentioned in certain hadiths. According to these teachings, if one is still eating suhoor when the call for the Fajr prayer is made, they are allowed to complete their meal as long as the delay was not intentional.

What time does suhoor start?

The exact start time of the suhoor will vary depending on your geographical location. It is generally recommended to have suhoor close to the time of Fajr, but it is also beneficial for Muslims to wake up earlier, perhaps around 2am or 3am, to engage in voluntary prayers that can earn them additional rewards. It is worth noting that at this hour, it may not yet be time for suhoor, so utilising this time for prayer is a more rewarding alternative to sleeping, which does not earn any rewards. Moreover, suhoor is a crucial part of the Ramadan fasting routine, and it is recommended to observe it in accordance with the guidelines set by the Prophet (peace be upon him) and local Islamic practices.

In the United Kingdom, some individuals partake in the pre-dawn meal around 4am; however, this timing is not universal. For instance, in Nigeria, the schedule shifts. Personally, my day begins with prayers to the Almighty around 4am, and it is only after these prayers that I commence my suhoor. It’s a common misconception that suhoor involves consuming heavy meals. Contrary to this belief, suhoor is typically a modest and quickly consumed meal. Thus, it is advisable to consume suhoor closer to the time one prepares for the Fajr prayer. The appropriate timing for suhoor is largely influenced by local climatic conditions, geographical location, and the specific environment one resides.

Even within a city like Lagos, suhoor timing can vary, leading to differences in prayer times across the city. Consequently, it’s wise to consult with the Imam or religious leader within your community or mosque to ascertain the precise start and end times for suhoor. They hold the authority and knowledge to guide Muslims accurately regarding suhoor timing. Islam is a faith that strives to bring ease and comfort to the lives of people everywhere, accommodating the diverse circumstances and needs of its followers across the globe.

Nonetheless, in today’s digital age, there are numerous Islamic mobile applications that one can conveniently install on their devices. These applications are designed to provide accurate prayer times regardless of your geographical location and you can easily determine the suhoor time on the applications. The simplicity and ease of learning and practicing Islam have been significantly enhanced through such technological advancements.

You previously emphasised the critical importance of waking up for suhoor. Is there a specific consequence for individuals who deliberately choose not to partake in suhoor?

In instances where the omission is due to valid reasons such as illness, it is understandable, and such individuals are not only exempted from fasting during their period of illness but are also expected to make up for the missed fasts at a later time. However, in situations where the omission of suhoor is intentional, the determination of any repercussions is beyond human judgment and remains in the divine knowledge of Allah.

In the scenario where an individual partakes in suhoor in Nigeria and then travels to a location with a different time zone, is there an obligation to adhere to Nigerian time for breaking the fast?

The answer is no. Take the example of travelling from Nigeria to America, your fasting hours will naturally be adjusted according to the change in location. Islam allows for the breaking of the fast under the local time of the new location, irrespective of whether it results in a shorter or longer fasting period compared to the Nigerian time. This demonstrates the flexibility within Islam and emphasises the importance of proper orientation and understanding among Muslims. Organisations like NASFAT advocate a comprehensive understanding of Islam beyond just learning to read the Qur’an. This is to ensure that Muslims are well-equipped to discern and refute incorrect judgments or ideas that may arise.

Regarding dietary regulations during Ramadan, are there specific foods that Muslims are encouraged to consume?

Indeed, there are dietary restrictions that Muslims adhere to, not only during the month of Ramadan but also throughout the year; as a devout follower of Islam, it is imperative that you ensure all food consumed, particularly during the sacred month of Ramadan, adheres to the halal dietary laws. This means that Muslims must be vigilant about the origins and processing of their food, ensuring it complies with Islamic principles. Specifically, the consumption of pork or any derivatives thereof is strictly forbidden. Additionally, Muslims are required to abstain from eating animals that have not been slaughtered in the name of Allah, through the utterance of ‘bismillah’(in the name of God) before their killing. Furthermore, the consumption of substances that may impair one’s senses or cause discomfort, such as alcohol or hemp, is also prohibited.

You mentioned animals that are killed without saying ‘bismillah,’ what about frozen items?

For frozen items, such as chicken and others, the situation calls for a cautious approach. For those residing in areas where the Islamic method of slaughtering is not guaranteed, it is recommended to purchase live poultry, which can then be slaughtered personally or by a trusted individual, ensuring the recitation of ‘bismillah’ during the act. This practice, while potentially more challenging and costly, especially in foreign lands where halal options might be limited, ensures adherence to dietary laws. The purchase of frozen chicken, or any meat for that matter, is generally discouraged unless the packaging explicitly states that it is halal, indicating that the slaughtering process was conducted under Islamic law.

Is it permissible for a woman, who shares children with a man and cohabitates with him as if they were a couple without being formally married, to prepare suhoor for him?

Nope. Such a woman is not allowed to perform the act of cooking for the man in question unless they are lawfully married according to proper procedures. It is only within the confines of a legitimate marital relationship that a woman gains the right to cook for a man.

For individuals who are married, is it permissible for them to engage in sexual relations during the hours designated for fasting?

No, engaging in sexual relations is not permitted during the hours of fasting. It is only permissible for married couples to have sexual relations after they have broken their fast in the evening or before the time of suhoor. Following this, it is necessary for them to perform Ghusl Janabat.

What is the significance of Ghusl Janabat?

Ghusl Janabat refers to the full-body ritual purification that Muslims undertake after engaging in sexual intercourse. This act is performed in order to attain a state of spiritual purity, enabling them to partake in worship and prayers.

Is it appropriate to brush one’s teeth while observing a fast?

Yes, brushing one’s teeth during fasting is considered permissible. While opinions vary on the timing, some suggest brushing before suhoor or before the dawn prayer (fajr), and others believe it can be done at any time during the day; but references from hadiths indicate that maintaining oral hygiene is encouraged, especially after suhoor. The Prophet had been noted to advocate for hygiene, highlighting its importance. Therefore, it is advisable to brush the teeth both before and after suhoor to remove any food particles that may remain, thus promoting cleanliness.

Are menstruating women allowed to prepare suhoor for their husbands?

Indeed, menstruating women are fully capable and permitted to cook suhoor for their husbands. If they do not fulfil this role, then who will? It’s important to note that while they are exempt from fasting and advised not to physically handle the Quran due to their impure state, they can still engage with the Quran digitally, such as through apps on their phones. Furthermore, women who miss fasts due to menstruation are expected to make up for the missed days after Ramadan ends. Notably, if they complete these fasts during Shawwal, the month following Ramadan, they will be rewarded doubly for their efforts.

Is it permissible for men to enter into marriage during Ramadan?

Certainly, it is permissible for men to marry during Ramadan, and indeed, I have had the pleasure of attending numerous weddings during this holy month across various countries. It is also possible to conduct the Nikkah (Islamic marriage contract) after iftar (the meal to break the fast), depending on one’s geographical location. While this practice might not be widespread in Nigeria, I have witnessed several such ceremonies, including in Arab countries. Importantly, the formalisation of the marriage itself does not necessitate any form of celebration or refreshment, as these are optional. If one chooses to share something, it can be distributed in takeaway containers.

What is your advice for Muslims during this period?

My guidance for Muslims in this significant period emphasises the importance of extending a helping hand to those in need. If you are in a position to do so, I urge you to be a beacon of support and generosity. Ensure that no one in your vicinity suffers from hunger; prepare meals within your means and share them with others. Prioritise voluntary contributions (sadakaq) over obligatory charity (zakat), and let your acts of kindness not be limited to this holy month but continue them throughout the year to bring about positive change within your families and across the nation.

Furthermore, this Ramadan presents a transformative opportunity for many to embrace Islam; to those Muslims who will discover the faith for the first time, I encourage you to maintain this newly adopted way of life beyond Ramadan to contribute to a more harmonious and improved society and nation.

Additionally, it is crucial during this period not to neglect the power of prayer, especially for the betterment of our nation, which currently faces numerous challenges. Rather than harbouring negativity or cursing our leaders, which ultimately reflects on us, we should earnestly include them in our prayers. We do this not for their sake alone, but for the overarching welfare and progression of our country.

The National Association of Nigerian Students has said it is not realistic to expect beneficiaries of the Federal Government loan scheme to begin repayment two years after the completion of the National Youth Service Corps.

It argued that less than 10 per cent of graduates get absorbed into the labour market within two years post-NYSC.

It, therefore, proposed that the repayment should begin five years after NYSC.

President of NANS, Lucky Emonele, made the call in Abuja on Monday at a public hearing on the repeal and re-enactment of 2024 Students Loans Access to Higher Education Bill 2024.

The public hearing was organised by the Senate Committee on Education and TETFUND and the House of Representatives Committee on Student Loan, Scholarship and Higher Education Financing.

Emonele commended President Bola Tinubu for responding to the request of NANS, by including its leadership as representatives of the students on the loan board.

He added that the students also commended the decision to repeal the Act to address grey areas that could hinder the success of the student loan scheme.

He said the proposed repayment period of two years post-NYSC for the loan was not realistic, saying that less than 10 per cent of Nigerian graduates get absorbed into the labour force upon completion of their NYSC.

The NANS President, therefore proposed a minimum of five years repayment duration, given the challenges of unemployment after graduation.

The NANS president also called for the provision of study grants for Nigerian students in the Act seeking to establish the Nigeria Education Loan Fund.

He also appealed that the provision of a loan scheme should not be a further reason for an arbitrary increment of school fees by the management of tertiary institutions.

He urged the National Assembly to pass a resolution that prohibits public tertiary institutions from increasing school fees in the next 10 years.

This, he said, was the only way to sustain the act when enacted.

According to him, there is also a need to make provision for grants for students, to enable them to complete or further their studies.

This, he said, would encourage more students to enroll in school and alleviate the burden that may be placed on the loans.

“If the Federal Government, through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, could earmark N683bn for public tertiary institutions in 2024, without requesting for payback from beneficiary institutions, Nigerian students should not be treated any differently.”

The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, commended President Bola Tinubu for his passion and commitment to the education sector.

According to him, the President does not want any child of school age to be out of school, given his passion for education.

The minister said the public hearing would provide an opportunity to make further input to improve the bill for the good of Nigerian students.

The chairman of the committee, Senator Muntari Dandutse, said access to quality higher education was a pressing concern for many Nigerian students.

Dandutse said its successful implementation would unlock a brighter future for the youths and the entire nation.

“By removing financial barriers, these initiatives will enable more students to pursue higher studies, leading to a larger pool of skilled graduates who contribute to the country’s social and economic development. Increased literacy rates foster economic growth, social progress, and democratic participation.”

Earlier, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, said that the legislative agenda of the 10th National Assembly would bring about tremendous improvement in the standard of living of Nigerians.

Represented by the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, he commended President Tinubu for his foresight and uncommon passion for supporting the students of the country with the loan scheme.