₦airaland Forum

Leading contender for the governorship election in Anambra State, Paul Orajiaka has said that the ongoing All Progressives Congress, APC, membership registration and revalidation exercise across the country will help the party consolidate on it's vision of delivering the gains of democracy to the people.

Speaking after validating his membership of APC on Tuesday at his ward, Azia, Orajiaka expressed satisfaction with the progress of the exercise in the state and urged members to remain united to clinch the November Anambra governorship election.

He restated that the registration and revalidation exercise of the party would boost party membership and place it on the path of victory both at the state and federal level.

According to Orajiaka, APC's ongoing registration and revalidation exercise is the best thing that has happened to the party in recent time, adding that with new members coming into its fold, the party will further consolidate it's vision for the country.

He said: "From reports across the country, our party membership registration and revalidation is going on very well with a record number of new members joining the party. Contrary to the notion in some quarters, this exercise is the right thing for the party presently as it will rejuvenate the party and make us more focused on our vision to deliver the gains of democracy to the people.

" I am particularly excited that new members are joining us across the country. That is clearly a sign that people are having more confidence in the vision of our party to take the country to the next level of development.

While expressing satisfaction on the exercise in Anambra State, Orajiaka said: "The participation in my ward and other parts of Anambra is really amazing. In my ward alone, we have recorded a large number of turnout with new members joining the party."

He however harped on the need for party members to remain united ahead of the November governorship elections in the state and canvassed that the sole aim of every Governorship aspirant under our great party should not be about themselves but rather to work hard as great party members to see an APC government in Anambra.

"With what is happening in the party so far, we are clearly on the part of victory. But we need to remain together to make sure that we channel our efforts to win the governorship election this November.

" Here in Anambra State, APC is a force to reckon with. I can tell you authoritatively that APC remains united in the state and there is no rancour among us. We have had several stakeholders meetings and we are more than ever united to reclaim our mandate and give our people purposeful leadership."

By Admin:

Leading Food and Beverage Company and the pioneer of blackcurrant-based fruit drinks, Tasty Time Nigeria Ltd, has warned it's customers against dealing with it's Senior Sale Manager, Kayode Sanusi Samuel whom it claimed is wanted for alleged fraudulent activities in the company.

A statement by the media consultant to the company, Henries Media noted that Kayode Sanusi whose last known address is 18 Oyekan Street Ajasa Command, Ipaja, Lagos, is still posing as a staff of the company and reaching out to Tasty Time customers for business transactions.

The company cautioned all it's customers to cease dealing with the said Kayode Sanusi and that anyone that continues to transact business in the name of Tasty Time Nigeria Ltd with him is doing so at their own risk.

The statement reads: " The general public and specifically customers of Tasty Time Nigeria Ltd are hereby notified that Kayode Sanusi is no longer a Senior Sales Manager with Tasty Time Nigeria Ltd. He is currently wanted by the company over alleged fraudulent activities and we advice all customers of Tasty Time Nigeria Ltd to desist from dealing with him.

"Anyone that continues to conduct business transaction with him after this warning does so at their own risk and Tasty Time Nigeria Ltd, will not be liable for such transaction."

Frontline Governorship Aspirant under the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Anambra State, Mr Paul Orajiaka has congratulated Nigerians for witnessing the year 2021.

In his New Year message to the nation, Orajiaka urged all citizens to keep hope alive in spite of the plethora of problems facing the country and be positive in their outlook and approach.

He expressed strong optimism that with collective responsibility and compliance to safety protocols, the ravaging coronavirus pandemic will be defeated in a short while.

He said: “I congratulate my fellow Nigerians for witnessing the year 2021. Last year was indeed a difficult year with so many challenges including the coronavirus pandemic which brought sadness and mourning to many homes. Despite this and many other problems which threatened our faiths, we must face this New Year with hope and optimism.

“This brand new year offers us a unique opportunity to take stock and restart our personal, social, economic and political lives with renewed vigor and passion.

“This is yet another opportunity for us to set new goals and review past achievements with a view to taking vital lessons and reshuffling priorities.

“As a nation, we have a window to increase our love for others, strengthen the bonds of unity and generally kick start life again. With collective hard work, sincerity of purpose by the leaders and the led, and an enduring commitment to do the right thing always, our economic prospects will definitely improve again.”

Orajiaka also urged all Nigerians to join hands and support all efforts aimed at breathing life into the economy, rebuild institutions, create jobs, fight corruption and indiscipline and generally turn things around within a short time to enable the country to assume it’s true status as the giant of Africa.

N1.4bn BoI Loan Fraud: EFCC amend charge against suspects

...Mobitel boss, Salako now prosecution witness


The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has amended a N1.4billion fraud charge earlier brought against the Chief Executive Officer of  Mobitel Nigeria, Johnson Salako and two other persons, Enoche Ugbabe and Enebeli Theophilus.

The matter which was initial filed before Justice Oluwatoyin Ipaye in 2016 had remain unattended to untill earlier this year when the commission decision to amend and refile the charge

In the amended charge now before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of the Lagos High Court, Ikeja,  Salako is now listed as a prosecution witness in the trial while Enoche and Enebeli are now name as 1- 2 defendants.

During the court proceedings on Monday, the trial could not go on because Enoche was said to be Ill and unable to appear before the court.

EFCC lawyer,  Mr Ogaji also hinted the court that counsel in charge of the matter was also not available.

Counsel to Enebeli, Mr U.C Araroye then requested for an adjournment to allow his client get well and for the EFCC to properly assigned the matter to a counsel.

The matter was subsequently adjourned till February 1, 2021 for arraignment.

In the fresh charge, the EFCC alleged that the duo diverted the sum of N1.4bn which they collected from the Bank of Industry. The commission also alleged that the two men collected the money under the guise of investors.

They were charged with five counts bordering on felony, stealing and forgery, contrary to sections 467 and 516 of the Criminal Code Law of Lagos State.

The EFCC, said in one of the charges that the accused “forged a Certificate of Occupancy of Lands Registry in Lagos State, which you pledged as security to obtain the facility.”

EFCC also alleged that the accused forged two title deeds to obtain the loan from BOI under false pretence that they were investing it in a project.

An All Progressive Congress, APC, governorship aspirant in Anambra State, Paul Orajiaka has urged Nigerians youths to rise up to the challenge of taking over the leadership of the country.

In his goodwill message to youths as the world celebrate International Youths Day, the Harvard trained scholar and Chief Executive Officer of Auldon Group said Nigeria needs young, visionary and energetic youths to run the affairs of the country.

The theme of this year's International Youths Day, "Youth Engagement for Global Action" seeks to highlight the ways in which the engagement of young people at the local, national and global levels is enriching national and multilateral institutions and processes, as well as draw lessons on how their representation and engagement in formal institutional politics can be significantly enhanced.

In his remark, Orajiaka said, "As nations across the world, mark this year's International Youths Day, I celebrate the doggedness of our Nigerian youths and their achievements which has brought honour and respect to us as a nation.

"Despites the many challenges which have often threatened to imping on the abilities, our youths have shown resilience and doggedness in the face of those challenges. They have brought this country honour with their exceptional feats in different aspects of life.

" While I congratulate them for these feats, I wish to draw their attention on the need to take over the leadership of this country. Nigeria today requires young visionary minds and not tired politicians.

" Our individual successes cannot make much impart if we continue to wait for old politicians to transmit power to us. They will never do that. The time to take over governance is now."

"I challenge our youths to arise and act with great dynamism and optimism so we can transform our society, inspire that youthful purposeful leadership for the greater good of mankind; for the tide of great nations have always been shaped by the power of youthfulness."

While commending some of the measures taken so far by President Muhammadu Buhari to engage the youths, Orajiaka noted that the only way to secure the future of the country is by giving more prominent leadership roles to the youths.

As part of activities to celebrate his birthday today July 27, human rights lawyer and former 2nd Vice-President of Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Monday Ubani has empowered several youths in his village and ardent listeners of his commentaries on national issues on radio and other social media platforms.

To appreciate God faithfulness as he adds one more year to his age, Ubani over the weekend gave various cash gifts to several youths across the country to enable them cushion the effect of the coronavirus pandemic.

Also, as a way to show appreciation to followers of his radio commentaries, the former NBA Ikeja chairman and former 2nd VP of NBA further gave out cash and other gift items to his ardent followers and admirers.

Commenting on the gesture, Ubani said his decision to bless the youths of his village and his followers on radio and social media platforms was borne out of his gratitude to God and the goodwill of youth who are the fulcrum of his fan base.

He said, "God has been faithful to me. He has blessed me with good health and grace more than you can imagine. Aside from giving God thanks in my closet, this little gestures to the youths and my followers is also a way of appreciation to God."

Ubani is a courageous human rights activist and philanthropist. He is the Founder/President of Onyekachi Ubani Foundation.

He has been praised from many sectors for fighting for Nigerian people whose rights and voices are trampled into the dust. He has been in the fore front fighting for the right of ordinary citizens.

But his greatest accolade in humanitarianism came through his foundation; Onyekachi Ubani Foundation, OUF, through which he has rendered countless philanthropic services to humanity. He has also given out several millions of Naira to youths and women by way of empowerment.

Few years back, OUF was able to save the life of a baby (Somaya) who had a hole in her heart and thereafter attracted the sum of #10,000,000 (Ten Million Naira) from the MTN Foundation for the victim.

His foundation also donated cash materials and drugs to Ikorodu flood victims in Lagos worth up to #1,000,000 (One Million Naira) some years ago. He has rendered countless free legal services in aid of the poorest of the poor Nigerians who troop to his law firm daily.

Mr Ubani’s personal philosophy reflects; discipline; hard work; creative intelligence; goal setting and planning and talent recognition. He believes in human capacity development; boldness; commitment to democratic ethos and respect for ethics. His personal lifestyle reflects humility, integrity and modesty.

Ubani is a mentor to many young Nigerians; he has been involved in many youth development projects and mentorship programs. He was instrumental to the establishment of Abia Rejoice Movement for Youths (ARMY), a platform that is being led by Great Imo Jonathan, which help to discover develop and deploy young creative Abians for economic development of their communities, as it is targeted at finding solutions to problems of poverty, building human, social, financial and environmental assets that enables youths and communities to exert control over their lives and participate in building community prosperity in meaningful and effective ways.

The initiative is meant to harness local talents and be their source of support to enable them improve their lives, enhance excellence and reinforce their commitment to society.

The organization, pursuant to its objective has led many initiatives focused at rebuilding Abia state. One of such was the historic youth statewide conference in 2014, which aimed to birth a new consciousness in the minds of Abia youths. The theme of that conference was deliberate and the outcome indeed was richly rewarding. With that conference he persuaded Abia youths to take action that will help redefine their individual destinies and their immediate society, take responsibility for the future, borrowing from the experiential knowledge of role models who have succeeded against all odds.

Ubani believes that ‘’ a country, whose youths are visionless, propelled by blind ambition of self aggrandizement and delusion of grandeur, can only be a curse rather than a blessing’’ And that ‘’every society and community should cherish her youths, because, it is on their shoulders that the continued survival of the communities rest."

Ubani has recieved countless foreign and local recognition from various reputable organizations. He is happily married to Lady Faustina Onyinye Ubani and they are blessed with four (4) children one of whom is a qualified lawyer.

The Minister of State for Mines and Steel, Dr. Uche Ogah has said that the renewed calls for his probe over a business transaction which he has been investigated and cleared years ago by law enforcement agencies is an act of political malice.

Some group of lawyers under the aegies of Coalition of Public Interest Lawyers and Advocates had issued a statement published on some online platforms calling for Ogah's probe over the transaction he had with one Mrs Bridget Adeosun while running his private business before he joined politics.

Reacting to the publication, legal counsel to Ogah, Monday Ubani in statement said the renewed attempt to cast aspersion on his client's personality over a matter which the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Nigeria Police and the court have cleared him, is clearly the handiwork of blackmailers.

According to Ubani, "We consider this act of defamation as pure  blackmail which ordinarily should not have deserved the  attention  of our client but for  the informed  members of the public who may not be apprised of the facts of this case, we have set out patiently to put the records straight.

"We are not ignorant that these blackmailers are mere "dancers" whose drummers are in the thick bush and certainly they shall be unveiled very soon.

"Our client  is not ignorant of those behind this constant and fruitless  mudslinging,  and as usual, he promises  them fatal failure."

Stating the facts of the matter, Ubani said;
"Sometime ago, before  our client ever  thought of entering politics, one  Mrs Bridget Adeosun, a Director of Mut-Hass Petroleum Ltd was introduced to Masters Energy Oil & Gas Ltd, our client's company as a struggling lady who has interest in Oil and Gas Sector but does not possess the necessary capacities and  facilities to consummate a business transaction her company had  with Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency(PPPRA) that gives Permit to import fuel into the country.

"On the 2nd of February, 2011, the said Mrs Bridget Adeosun,  requested Masters Energy Ltd  through a letter from her Company that our client's company   should execute an Agreement known as  ThroughPut Agreement through which Masters Energy Ltd  will confirm that  they will be ready to offer a space in their Depot to store Mrs Adeosun's petroleum products if her  company is given allocation to import the  product.

"Masters  Energy Ltd replied to her letter  by acceding to her request that they shall offer the storage facility to the intended product whenever the permit is granted to her by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

"In addition, Masters Energy Ltd  executed the ThroughPut Agreement dated 10th of February, 2011.

"This said ThroughPut Agreement was submitted to DPR by Mrs Adeosun for issuance of the permit and thereafter on the 10th of May, 2011,  DPR wrote to Masters Energy Ltd  for confirmation of the  executed ThroughPut Agreement.


'On the 12th of April, 2011, Mrs Adeosun returned to Masters Energy Ltd  with a Permit to Import 10,000 metric tons of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) issued to Mut-Hass Petroleum by PPRA.

"Upon receipt of the Permit from PPRA, Mut-Hass Ltd through Mrs Adeosun complained of her inability to fund the transaction(importation) due to lack of funds and experience.

"She therefore offered to transfer to  Masters Energy Ltd the entire interest of her company in the Allocation for an agreed sum of N=26,820,000(Twenty-Six Million, Eight Hundred and Twenty Thousand Naira only) calculated at N=2.00 per litre, as full and final consideration for the transaction.

"Mrs Bridget Adeosun deposited these cheques in an account she opened at ECO bank, where she is a sole signatory.

"Further to this memorandum of understanding wherein all the interests in the allocation was passed to Masters Energy Ltd, requisite and ancillary documents such as Account Opening Forms, Company Resolution for Account Opening were duly executed by officers of Mut-Hass
Petroleum Ltd to the benefit of Masters Energy Ltd.

This procedure was necessitated by the fact that the transaction could only be executed through the bank account of Mut-Hass Ltd in whose name the permit was issued.

"On 4th August, 2011, Masters Energy Oil and Gas Ltd made payment for the said 10, 000 metric tons of PMS through Mut-Hass UBA Account opened for the purpose of the transaction via the establishment of a Letter of Credit(L/C).

"On the 6th of September, 2011 the imported product was delivered into Masters Energy storage tanks and was certified by relevant government agencies.

"The Sovereign Debt Note for payment of the cost under-recovery (otherwise called subsidy) was issued on 15th November, 2011 by the Federal Government to Masters Energy Ltd  in the name of Mut-Hass Petroleum Limited (being the name in which the import permit was issued).

"The value of the Sovereign Debt Note was supposed to be  utilized by Masters Energy Ltd to offset part of the cost of the importation.

"Due to the delay in the payment on the Sovereign Debt Note by Federal Government of Nigeria, the transaction incurred some foreign exchange differentials occasioned by Dollar rate fluctuation as at the time of importation valued at N51,884,159.95

"Masters Energy Ltd applied to the Government for the differentials in the foreign exchange transaction.

"Surprisingly, it was discovered that Mrs Adeosun through  Mut-Hass Ltd had written to Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency(PPPRA) requesting that the accrued interest and foreign currency differentials be paid to her company.

"Masters Energy initiated action immediately to stop the Federal Government from paying her company the said money,  as the said sum rightly belonged to Masters Energy Oil & Gas Ltd.

When Masters Energy succeeded in obtaining the court order against, heaven was let loose.

"Driven  by an unprecedented greed and avarice ever exhibited by any human being,  Adeosun literally got mad and wrote petitions upon petitions to all the security agencies including EFCC  alleging "forgery" of her signature and that of other directors in all the agreements she signed, including the Board Resolutions authorizing Masters Energy to run the UBA Account of Mut-Hass Ltd for the purpose of this particular transaction.

"All the security agencies investigated the said allegation and found no substance in it. However, Inspector General of Police initiated a criminal charge but When the Police saw the futility of the charge and knowing their inability to secure any conviction with the alleged  frivolous charge, they withdrew the charge  immediately."

Former Wife of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Mrs Taiwo Obasanjo has asked all the youths in Nigeria to join her effort to free the country from the rampaging Coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement she issued yesterday, Mrs Obasanjo noted that her voluntary organization,
*Youths for National & International Responsibility* wants all the youths in Nigeria to join her and be actively involved, be persistent in the process of finding lasting solution to the nation's current corona virus pandemic problem.

Part of the statement reads:
*Youths for National & International Responsibility*- A.K.A *We care,We love* is an amalgamation of all ethnic youths in Nigeria, bringing them together and uniting in love - with no ethnic barrier, no hatred, no superiority, no arrogancy - with commitment and genuine purpose,devoting to render humanitarian services to continuously look for lnternal and African home made,non toxic, cheap and affordable solutions to the rampaging pandemic problem.
We all go into every nook and corner of our nation to get hidden and unknown, yet very effective cure for the virus that is affordable to all which we will publicize and bring to the knowledge of all on Radio, TV, Newspapers, Social Media etc in English and in all our local languages. Any effective discovery for the cure will be given out to the poor at very cheap rate or free where necessary.

'This is a wake up call for all our youths in Nigeria and a challenge for them to be impactful and to take charge for God and the people and be a genuine problem solver not by insulting, abusing and judging any group or person or government.

"Our driven objective is.... What can we do as youths of Nigeria to play our part, to bring solutions that is permanent to the current corona virus plaque. Another very deadly plaque has been predicted will come after corona virus, l want the youths to join hands together with me and other Mothers in the land to combat the current corona virus. We should not leave the problem for the government alone to solve for us.
We invite youths from the North and South to volunteer their services.

Abia 2019: Why Chief Ikechi Emenike cannot be APC Governorship Candidate

By Monday Ubani

The APC as a party was recently jolted when a Federal Capital Territory High court made a pronouncement that Chief Ikechi Emenike is the gubernatorial candidate of APC in Abia State. This judgement came as a result of a legal suit initiated by Chief Emenike in Abuja High Court against APC after the Direct Primary election that was conducted by the National Working Committee in which Dr Uche Sampson Ogah emerged as the party’s governorship candidate for Abia State.

It is reported that Chief Emenike based his claims upon an interim order granted by Osisioma High Court in Abia State sometime early last year in which the then chairmanship candidate of APC for the State, Chief Fabian Okonkwo and others sued the then Donatus Nwankpa led Exco. Note that this Exco emerged under Dr John Oyegun's administration as the National Chairman of the party before His Excellency, Adams Oshiomhole took over as the new Chairman under a new Congress.

The implication of that order is that it is made against an Exco whose tenure has elapsed as a new Congress was held in which Donatus Nwankpa emerged as the new State Chairman with other members who are now in power. What makes that interim or interlocutory order of the Osisioma High Court very interesting is that it was made when no personal service was effected on the Defendants to the suit and the proof of service in the court's file was to the effect that a clerk in the APC Secretariat purportedly received the court process on their behalf.

That was a fundamental defect as several Supreme Court authorities have laid down the principle that service of court process on human beings must either be personal or by substituted means which was not the case in that service. There is an appeal against that purported order and a motion to set aside the order for several reasons including for lack of service which is very fundamental in every legal suit. Remember that I stated above that Mr Donatus Nwankpa led Exco emerged afresh under a new Congress that brought Adams Oshiomhole's administration as the new chairman of the party into existence. Presently, Mr Donatus Nwankpa is known and recognized as the state Chairman of the APC in Abia State as at today and no known court order has invalidated that position since the earlier interlocutory order was with respect to the old Exco whose tenure has expired.

Mr Donatus Nwankpa has a good case against that ruling for the following reasons:

(a) There was no proof of personal or substituted service on him and his Exco members before the court went ahead to hear the case.

(b) The Defendants were not allowed to file any counter affidavit since they were not served and so the interlocutory order was not made on its merit but as an exparte order sort of.


(c) He has filed a motion to set the ruling aside and also to set aside the service of the court process as improper as no service was effected on him known to law.

(d) He has appealed to the Court of Appeal against the interlocutory order for all the reasons stated above which are germane and genuine.

(e) He has almost one hundred percent chance of success with his appeal against that purported order for the reasons as stated above.

Assuming but not conceding that that purported order will have any effect on Mr. Donatus Nwankpa’s tenure as the rightful EXCO of Abia State, it does not improve one bit the chances of Chief Ikechi Emenike as the gubernatorial candidate of APC in Abia State for the following reasons:

1. The Primary Election of ABIA State was conducted as Direct Primary

2. The Direct Primary was issued as part of the Electoral guideline of APC to Abia State.

3. The Direct Primary was not conducted by the state Exco of ABIA State.

4. The Direct Primary was conducted by Electoral Committee led by David Iyoha(Former Edo State Speaker) put together by the National Working Committee led by His Excellency Adams Oshiomhole.

5. Chief Ikechi Emenike's election was allegedly conducted by Emmanuel Ndukwe's led Exco contrary to the Electoral Guidelines of the ruling party APC. One Professor Okezie Abarikwu not appointed by the National Working Committee but by the Ndukwe led Exco purportedly conducted and announced Chief Emenike as the winner of their own primaries.

6. Emmanuel Ndukwe is neither known nor recognized by the APC as the state Chairman of APC in Abia State as he never contested for that position under the new congress that brought in Nwankpa led state Exco.

7. Since Dr Uche Ogah's emergence as the gubernatorial candidate of APC in Abia State was through direct primaries organized by the National Working Committee of APC, his election will never and can never be affected by the legal squabble between Dr. Donatus Nwankpa and Chief Emmanuel Ndukwe whether now or in the future.


Concerning the judgement of Chief Emenike in the FCT High court, APC has filed an appeal against it on several tested grounds one of which is denial of fair hearing. They have filed a motion for stay against the judgement. Dr Uche Ogah has also filed an appeal against the said judgement as he was denied being joined as party to the suit. In addition to this, he Dr Uche Ogah OON has obtained an order of the Federal High Court restraining Chief Emenike from parading himself as the gubernatorial candidate of APC in Abia State. Whatever he does presently contrary to that order is in contempt of that order and there are consequences for that kind of behavior in law.

APC as a party has stated it for the umpteenth time for those who have ears that their candidate for the Gubernatorial election in 2019 in Abia State is Dr. Uche Ogah. Do not be deceived, do not be misled, do not be confused and do not be misguided. Chief Ikechi Emenike will never and can never whether now or in the future be the governorship candidate of APC in Abia State for the 2019 General Election.

For the doubting Thomases come January 11 2019, Dr Uche Ogah OON will be presented with the flag of APC by the leadership of the party at Umuahia, as their gubernatorial candidate for 2019 General Election in Abia State. Come 2019, Uchechukwu ga eme n'Abia state, in Jesus name, Amen.


Monday Ubani is a legal practitioner based in Lagos.

By Court News– Nigeria’s first generation bank, First Bank Plc is headed for trouble waters as five community chiefs have approached a Federal High Court with a request to wind up the bank following its failure to pay a N17billion judgment debt.

Read more: https://www.courtnewsng.com/first-bank-troubled/

Nigeria’s first generation bank, First Bank Plc is headed for trouble waters as five community chiefs have approached a Federal High Court with a request to wind up the bank following its failure to pay a N17billion judgment debt.

Get more details here: https://www.courtnewsng.com/first-bank-troubled/

( Photo) Lagos Judiciary Auction Seized Properties

By Court News-The Lagos State Judiciary this week started auction of several properties seized from litigants who could not pay their judgment debts.

The auction started on Monday and will end on Friday.

See link to pictures of some of the properties put up for auction today.

https://www.courtnewsng.com/judiciary-auction/

By Henry Ojelu

Few years before the Nigerian Biafran war, a child was delivered to the family of Mr. & Mrs Ubi Ubani
of Awomukwu Village in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State. Though born in Olodi Apapa, Lagos, the celebrations in Awomukwu was ecstatic as elders both in diaspora and at home knew that his birth will bring honour, glory and blessing to the Awomukwu Village and by extension Ikwuano Town. On this day, July 27, Monday Onyekachi Ubani was born.

Just after his birth, in the heat of the ensuing Nigeria-Biafra war, the Ubanis' ran to the East with their crawling son and his elder sister. Monday Ubani became the only child after his parents lost their eldest child, a daughter few years ago to the cold hands of death.

Ubani was brought up in a strict and disciplined environment. He had his primary school education in Awomukwu Primary School where he made credit in his Primary School Leaving Certificate examination.

Ubani later relocated to Lagos where he attended a Secondary Commercial College and obtained his General Certificate of Education commonly known as GCE with 8 credits.

In 1983, Ubani was admitted into the University of Nigeria, Nssuka to study Political Science. His motivating factor then, was the political flamboyancy of politicians like Late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Late Dr Nnamdi Azikwe. He was swayed by their oratory prowess because they spoke extempore and were politically very colourful. Ubani’s dream of becoming a Political Scientist cum politician however waned as a result of the political adventurism and incursion of the Nigerian Military into Politics in the period of years referred to as ‘’military era’’

He particularly saw the military push of the then General Mohammadu Buhari that led to the overthrow of the Constitutional Government of President Shehu Shagari as an aberration in the practice of politics. He felt he will not realize his political ambition, as a lot of politicians became jobless due to the incursion of the military into the Nigerian Political terrain.

This made him to have a rethink as he decided to study law in the University of Nigeria. He saw in his new found love (law) the opportunity to stand up in defense of the oppressed masses. He saw the activities of the likes of Late Gani Fawehinmi and Femi Falana as a credible example to emulate. He was emboldened because of these Human Right Lawyers and Activists who gave up a greater percentage of their lives for the defense of the oppressed masses of the society.
Ubani’s humble background which made him to see himself as part of the poor oppressed masses got his zeal fired up and was emotional connected to these activists.

After his graduation, from the University of Nigeria, Nssuka in 1989, the young and vibrant Ubani having been armed with LLB Degree with second class upper proceeded to the Nigerian Law School where he also came out with second class upper. He was called to bar in 1990. Mr Ubani is also a Masters Degree holder in Law (LLM) from the prestigeous University of Lagos.


Fondly referred to as MOU by friends and well wishers, Ubani has come a long way both in his chosen profession and in his role as an opinion moulder and a respected voice on national issues in the country.

Not only has he excelled in law practice, he has become a known philanthropist and and advocate of human and peoples' rights in Nigeria and beyond.

In 2012 he contested and won the chairmanship position in the ever vibrant Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch and took the branch to the level that no previous or those after him had reached.

His leadership quality and friendship revived the divided branch and made it a very united branch that its voice was feared and respected nationally during his tenure. It was therefore very easy for him when he aspired to the position of the vice presidency at the national level.

He was adopted by the Eastern Bar Forum of lawyers in which he is a member and returned unopposed at the national election of the association that took place in 2016 and became elected with the highest votes even more than that of the president of the Association, an indication of his popularity within the legal circle.

His act of philanthropy includes the saving of the life of Baby Somaya who had a successful heart surgery in India and came back to Nigeria to the waiting arm of MTN and Praise, a musician who collaborated with MTN to donate the sum of 10 million Naira to the baby. The baby is today a landlady and living a normal life.

He also brought to limelight a lady who worked at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos as a cleaner and returned the sum of 12 million lost money to the owner. That singular act of honesty attracted Mr Ubani popularly known as MOU and his Foundation,  Onyekachi Ubani Foundation and they swung into action and got the lady introduced to Nigeria as the face of a true and honest Nigerian through the mainstream and social media.

The reward to the lady came in torrents: awards, money gifts, employment opportunities and handshakes with the high and mighty in Nigeria. In fact that promotion of her virtue brought her a husband last year. She is happily married to her heartthrob.

Mr Ubani whose tenure as the  2nd Vice President of NBA will end this August will return to concentrate to his private practice where he hopes to attain the highest distinction in his chosen profession and possibly aspire for other national or professional office to exhibit higher leadership quality that he has learnt and imbibed over the eyes.

The plethora of awards that adorn the walls of Ubani's office and home are true attestation that the labour of this indefatigable humanitarian has not escape the watchful attention of many credible local and international organizations.

Ubani is married to Lady Faurstina of Okwelle IMO State and is blessed with four lovely children, one of whom is a law graduate waiting for his Law school education in Nigeria.

As this man who have become a voice for the voiceless and oppressed celebrate yet another milestone, I join millions of Nigerians to wish him a happy birthday.

Happy Birthday Mr. Ubani!

By S Long Williams Esq.

The recent scandal involving the ICT provider and one of the Presidential Candidates in the NBA 2018 election compelled Mr A.B. Mahmoud SAN, the President of NBA to summon a meeting  involving the National Officers, the Contestants and Major Stakeholders like the Past Presidents and Secretaries for consultation on the way out of the imbroglio.

In these meetings, majority of the participants saw everything wrong with the fact that one of the Presidential Candidates shares a relationship with the Chairman of the ICT Provider for the election. In a reply  sent to the Chairman of the Electoral Committee of NBA, CHAMS Plc, the ICT Partner admitted that their chairman sits on the same board with Mr. Paul Usoro SAN in Access Bank PLC. Not only are they co-directors in the said bank, they belong to several committees where relationship are deepened.

For the sake of perception which raised several dust within the legal constituency, many of the national officers, stakeholders and one of the Presidential Candidates in the person of Mr. Arthur Obi Okafor SAN expressed concern and objected vociferously that CHAMS PLC should not be allowed as the ICT Partner in the electoral process. It is noteworthy to state here that CHAMS in their reply owned up and advised that they are ready to step aside from the process if the perception of the likelihood of bias is strong in the minds of contestants and members of the Association.

It was also observed during demonstration of the technical aspect of the process by CHAMS that they committed several blunders which if allowed for the election to take place would have compromised the entire process. For instance, it was found out that there was; (1) No security in the verification aspect of the process, in other words, any other person using a different email and phone number can easily verify and steal the code of another person. Many eligible voters had their names verified by others who remained unknown till date. (2) The ICT Partner agreed during demonstration of the technical aspect that it is possible that those they claimed are verified(twelve thousand of them) could have those voters whose identity were stolen and verified by unknown persons. (3) The company during the said demonstration also showed over a thousand and eight hundred eligible voters who did not verify their names but which are to be added as part of the verified names who will participate in the election and, finally (4) The company had about a thousand and nine hundred names whose identity were regarded as suspicious and will be excluded in the election proper but on a closer look were names of eligible voters who apparently are being excluded by virtue of their perceived support to a particular candidate.


Luckily one of the eligible voters was present during the demonstration and discovered that her name and several others known to her were dubbed suspicious names and would have been excluded from participating from the election if the list was used for the election but for the impasse.

Having examined all these factors and many more, majority who participated in these meetings expressed fear and held the strong view that CHAMS Plc be excused to avoid credibility issue more so when it is revealed that CHAMS elections for ICAN is presently in court which is yet to be resolved on grounds of fraud, incompetence and compromise of the electoral system.

Despite all these revelations and objections by majority of the participants, Mr. A.B. Mahmoud for reasons yet unknown, overruled everyone and held the view that he does not see any reason to completely ease out CHAMS PLC as the ICT Partner in the 2018 NBA Elections. At every segment of the meeting, whether with the National Officers, the Contestants, and the Past Leaders, he was very vehement, strident on clearing himself of any complicity  and manipulation of the system that is allegedly tailored towards favoring a particular candidate. He was insistent on retaining CHAMS PLC in the electoral process as dropping them now will send a "wrong signal" to the international community. Strange, isn't it? One would have thought that going ahead with CHAMS Plc in the light of these startling revelations about their integrity and competence would have sent a wrong signal about the integrity and transparency of NBA as a professional body. Alas! Mr. A.B. Mahmoud SAN does not think that way, in fact information made available revealed he uttered that he cared less with whatever the legal community in Nigeria thinks about his idea of going ahead with this election for 2018 with CHAMS PLC. According to a reliable source he is more interested in satisfying his perceived international community audience who he feels will question his integrity if CHAMS PLC is dropped than the Nigerian legal constituency that elected him president in 2016. What an irony?

However when Mr. A.B. Mahmoud SAN discovered that he was alone on his insistence in retaining CHAMS PLC as the ICT provider, he soft-pedaled and agreed that the verification exercise of voters list be taken away from CHAMS PLC and given to a new ICT partner , while the election proper will be conducted by CHAMS PLC.

Secondly it was agreed that a proper pre election audit be done on the final voters list, while the ICT Experts of the various candidates be involved in auditing both the verification and Elections Platforms of both companies  to guarantee its fairness, transparency and integrity. In fact it was resolved that the ICT experts of the various candidates will be allowed to have access to the back-end of the platform of CHAMS in the electoral process.

This agreement calmed frayed nerves a little, even though there are doubts with the retention of CHAMS Plc as an umpire in one of the segments of the process in the light of them having eligible voters of about thirty two thousands in their custody. What if they decide to be mischievous? What and what? Fill in the gap.

What is very worrisome about the whole process is the news that the election will now be shifted from 27th and 28th to 30th and 31st of July, 2018 just seventy two hours postponement. One asks, what has changed? The following poser and views demand your  intense observation gentlemen.

(1) Why the rush to have the election when the vital issue of verification has not been sorted out properly taking into cognizance our peculiarities in times of size, geography, communication issues to branches and the attendant ICT and its related problems? We know how long it took to verify the last flawed process and the attendant problems.

(2) When will the experts and candidates audit the list before they are verified?

(3) The present list are they sacrosanct, integrity laden? Who vetted them and why were the verified list not segmented branch by branch to guarantee that those names are members of the branch from which they came?

(3) Has the new ICT partner for verification been employed? If yes, when? When was the bidding and contract signed and what are the contents of the agreement?

(4) Most importantly, has the new ICT company developed the platform already for the verification? When was this done and has it been tested to the extent that the verification is alleged to commence next Monday?

(5). Have we done enough publicity to sensitize the constituency about the new company, the new process and how it shall be done taking into account the level of our size as branches, geography, state of information technology and other related factors?

(6) When is there going to be time for complaints and petitions in case of technical hitches that is usually prevalent with online verifications judging by previous experiences if this time table is adhered to strictly without adjustments?

 (7) Why is Mr A.B. Mahmoud SAN hell bent on driving this process to a determined end, not caring about the negative consequences and attendant law suits that will further denigrate the Bar Association in Nigeria? 

(6) Where are the leaders of the Bar and why are they quiet about the looming danger that may likely consume the bar if this already determined end is callously and mischievously carried through by Mr. A.B. Mahmoud SAN  and some others in this conspiracy who are fixated on a determined outcome.

Several lawyers from all over the country are demanding the following to ensure free, fair and credible 2018 election to avoid unnecessary litigation over our electoral matters;


(1) A total disengagement with CHAMS PLC as an ICT partner in this electoral process on grounds of likelihood of bias, compromise and general perception of its lack of its neutrality in driving this process. Moreover, the  technical depth and competence of the company is also in doubt.

(2) Engagement of two new separate companies for compilation and verification and validation of voters list and the second company to carry through the voting proper.

(3) Pre election and post election Auditing of the voters list to ensure no fake names are added at any time in the process. 

(4) Unhindered access to the ICT experts of all candidates to audit the entire process technically within the limits allowed and permitted professionally to guarantee fairness, integrity and equity of the entire process.

(5) Enough sensitization and publicity to the constituency to ensure adequate participation by at least a reasonable percentage of Nigerian lawyers.

(6) Access  to the back-end to the candidates'  technical experts to guarantee integrity of the process. 

(7) Postponement of the process to at least two weeks to permit the implementations of the above demands as our constitution permits the election to be held either July or any other time (month) agreed and ratified by the National Executive Committee. The extension beyond July can be ratified at the Pre Conference NEC meeting coming up sometime later this year in August.

These minimum demands as requested if implemented will prevent chaos and crisis within the bar. It is a minimum requirement and should be attended to fast to avoid further denigration and polarization of the Bar.
Already the president has issued a statement today the 21st of July in which he used the word " may" to cover the aspect involving the employment of a new ICT partner to verify voters list. It is a dangerous signal as the failure to adhere to the process of employing a new ICT company to sanitize the voters list will portray the NBA president Mr AB Mahmoud SAN as a man who does not keep to his words and puts a more dangerous question mark to the entire electoral process of 2018.

We wait to see the reactions of the candidates to the press statement from Mr AB Mahmoud SAN as it appears that he will not abide with even his own summary of the agreements reached in those meetings held recently at the National Secretariat, Abuja wi
th the stakeholders.

S. Long Williams Esq,
former Secretary, NBA PH Branch writes from Port Harcourt.

The management of Easy Lander Children School in Lagos has reacted to the death of one of the children in its Creche section saying that media reports of circumstances that led to the child's death is untrue.

Some online publications had reported that the baby whose mother is a National Youth Service Corp, NYSC member died in the school after she was fed by a Nanny.

Reacting to what it called false online publications, the school in a statement dated November 7, 2017 stated that the baby died in the hospital and not within the school premises as widely reported.

Narrating the circumstance that led to the death of the baby, the school said: " The baby in question was brought to the Crèche section of our school by her mother on 26th October, 2017. She was received by the Nanny and assistant Nanny on duty with her food pack. Following set guidelines, the Nanny fed her at about 9am with the food packed by her mother.

"When the baby started playing with toys, the Nanny left her to attend to other babies. Shortly after, the assistant Nanny noticed some signs of discomfort with the baby and notified the Nanny. As the baby was jerking intermittently, the Nanny immediately contacted the baby’s mother who promptly instructed that her baby be taken to Faith City Hospital in Ajao Estate. The school Proprietress who was away for official purpose was also contacted.

"On getting to the hospital the nurses on duty requested to see the mother of the baby, since she was not accompanied by her mother. The Nanny had no option but to wait with the baby until her mother arrived. Upon taking the baby in after the arrival of her mother, she was later pronounced dead.

"Though shocked, the baby’s parents accepted their fate and decided to bury their daughter same day. They were accompanied to the burial ground by the school Proprietress and the school driver."

"The proprietress and her family and some staff also paid condolence visit to the bereaved family on Sunday 30thOctober, 2017.

"The school was also closed for 3 days, 1st – 3rd November, 2017 in honor of the late baby.

"Ordinarily, we would have insisted on an autopsy to ascertain the real cause of the baby’s death, but we choose to respect the wishes of her parents who have since buried her.

"Though the incident was formerly reported at Ajao Estate Police Station, some unidentified men and women later stormed the school premises, grabbed the Nanny and beat her thoroughly.

"The Police are currently investigating the matter and we believe that justice will be served.

"We are compelled to make these clarifications to set the record straight and stop widespread misinformation been spread by mischievous elements who we believe have ulterior motives.

"Our Crèche is duly registered with the Lagos State Government and we adhere to strict rules and guidelines stipulated by the government in the state.

"Our staff are carefully selected, well trained and motivated to get the best out of them.

"Since our establishment in 2013, our children and pupils population has steadily been on the increase. This is due to our adherence to quality standards. During this period, we have recorded no sad incident within the school. Our continuous engagements with parents have also helped us to improve our services.

"While we recognize the role of the media to inform the public about events and occurrences within and outside the country, we employ those saddled with this sacred role, to carry it out with the utmost sense of responsibility. In this time of grieve, our heartfelt condolence and prayers are with the family of the late baby. We will continue to pray for them and hope that God will bless them with another child."

Miss Nneoma Anosike, a Nigerian model has dragged Wema Bank plc before a Federal High Court in Lagos, over alleged infringement on intellectual property.

21 year old Nneoma who is a 2014 brand Ambassador of Pepsi Cola Nigeria, sued through her father, Mr Frank Anosike, as lawful Attorney, claiming the sum of N75 million against Wema, as general damages for passing off her services.

READ MORE: http://theheatnigeria.com/11781-2/

If you have any kind of skill and you are not signed up on Workclick, then you need to stop reading this article and do that right away. Oh, pardon me!Just finish reading this article and see why you need to join thousands of people making cool money working for one of the world’s biggest service ordering networking company.

What Workclick offers is a mobile platform for skilled and talented people who are willing to commercialize their skills, more good money and increase their professional relevance. The innovation enables these people to work and earn money by providing professional services to millions of customers across the cities where Workclick operates. Workclick’s services are currently present in the United States, Nigeria and Kenya.

Just any skill is okay on Workclick. Mechanic, hairdressing, plumbing, electrician, laundering, barbing, dentistry, make up and beauty, carpentry, gardening, photography, cobbling, tailoring, home appliances repairs, satellite TV installation, pedicure/manicure, the pull is endless.

So how does one get on this platform? Simple. Let’s assume you are a hairdresser. The first step to working for Workclick is to download the Workclickmobile app on your phone or mobile device. Once this is done, you are required to register on the platform.

Currently all Workclick workers are required to undergo at least one in-house training organized by Workclick’straining and development team. The training is absolutely free. Once the training is completed, the Hairdresser returns to her base to await her first job request.

On the other side of Workclick app is the customer end. Thousands of registered users sign up on the platform and make requests daily to get their domestic and professional jobs done. So let’s assume a lady somewhere in Ikeja, Lagos Nigeria needs a plumbing service. Using the Workclick app, she simply requests for plumber. The Workclick app immediately locates the nearest Workclickplumberto the selected location and assigns the job to him.

So as a hairdresser using Workclick, you are sure of regular jobs since the app takes care of marketing your services to wide range of people. You also don’t need to worry about price bargaining as the prices of all services offered by Workclick are fixed. This means that before someone requests for your services, he or she would have agreed on the price set by Workclick.

So here is the big question. How much can someone make working for Workclick? Depending on your skill, every Workclick worker is estimated to make about $900 a month. The earning could actually be more as recent data shows that more users with growing needs are daily signing up to get their jobs done.

The kick-back for Workclickon every completed job is 20 percent of the payment received. So for a completed $20 job, Workclick gets $4.
Becoming financially empowered using your skill(s) doesn’t get any better than this. Get on board and become a Workclick worker today.
App is available on Google Playstore and Appstore for Android and iOS enabled mobile devices respectively.

By Henry Ojelu

Back in the days, getting a taxi to your destination would mean a long wait at a bus-stop or a shot trip to the nearest taxi park. Either way, the stress could turn out to be a very frustrating experience. Back then also, getting a plumber to fix a broken pipe in your home could take days, and that’s if you ever get a good one.

All thanks to technology, innovative firms are making these challenges become history. They are constantly designing structures that help make life easier as people keep seeking for convenience and more convenience every day. With Uber, a taxi will come get you wherever you wish and take you to your destination only with a few taps. No more long wait at the bus stop or shot trip to the taxi park.

Workclick offers even much more. Whatever your domestic or professional needs are, Workclick is there to send a competent workman to fix it. Whether it is laundry, carpentry work, plumbing, hairdressing, gardening, photography, cobbling, tailoring, home appliance repairs, satellite TV installation, pedicure/manicure, Workclick’s got your back!

An in-depth look at how these two companies which are making life simpler for everyone, shows some similarities and overlaps in their functionalities.

Uber

The major operational base for Uber is its taxi hailing mobile app. In cities where Uber operates, you can use the rider app to request a ride. When a nearby Uber driver accepts your request, the app displays an estimated time of arrival for the driver heading to your pickup location. Your app notifies you when the Uber driveris about to arrive.

The app also provides info about the driver with whom you will ride, including first name, vehicle type, and license plate number. This info helps both rider and driver connect at your pickup location.
Use your app to enter your preferred destination any time before or during the ride. If you have a preferred route, it’s helpful to talk through the directions together with your Uber driver.

When you arrive at your destination and exit the vehicle, the trip ends. Your fare is automatically calculated and charged to the payment method you’ve selected for your trip. In some cities, Uber allows you to pay your fare in cash. This option must however be selected before you request a ride.

Immediately your trip ends, your app will request you to rate your driver from 1 to 5 Stars. Drivers are also required to rate riders accordingly. Uber’s feedback system is designed to foster a community of respect and accountability for everyone on every trip.

Workclick

Like Uber, Workclick operates through itsmobile application. The app comes in two forms, one for the customer and another for the worker. The first step in using Workclick is to download the app which is available on Google Playstore and Appstore for Android and iOS enabledmobile devices respectively.

With the app downloaded and installed on your device, the next step is to sign up after which you may begin ordering for different services on the platform.

One interesting thing about the Workclick App is that all the listed servicesare clearly priced per unit. The hassles of negotiations and counter negotiations are taken care of. So when you select the service you need and send a request, the nearest Workclick worker in that service category is assigned to you and proceeds to your location to do the job to your satisfaction.

Payment is very flexible with Workclick. After the job has been completed by the worker, payment can be made either by cash paid directly to the worker or through your registered debit/credit card to Workclick. The worker in this case gets his or her payment effortlessly from the company.

Workclick engages several approaches to get feedback from customers. After every completed job, the customer rates and reviews the worker and his service, and vice versa. Users may also submit complaints and concernsto the Workclick support team directly from the App.

Workclick is presently dominant in the US, Nigeria and Kenya.

The immediate past Solicitor General of Lagos State & Perm Sec Min of Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN) has described the recent order of the Federal High Court Abuja proscribing IPOB as a terrorist organisation as faulty in law.

Pedro in a statement said that the order or judgement is in breach of the fundamental right of the named Respondent (assuming it is a juristic person) to fair hearing.

Read his full statement here: http://theheatnigeria.com/ipob-proscription-court-faulty-law-lawal-pedro-san/

A newly uncovered cyberattack that targeted more than 4,000 organisations in the oil and gas, mining, construction, and transportation sectors has been found to have been carried out by a 20-year-old man in Nigeria.

The lone attacker successfully hacked into the networks of at least 14 organisations, including a marine and energy company in Croatia, a transportation company in Abu Dhaa construction company in Dubai, an oil and gas in Kuwait, and a construction organisation in Germany.

Read More here: http://theheatnigeria.com/20-year-old-nigerian-attacked-4000-organizations-worldwide/

Tanzanian conjoined twins Maria and Consolata Mwakikuti have begun special computer classes at the Ruaha Catholic University (Rucu) ahead of the start of term, TheHeat Nigeria reports.

The newspaper says that they have arrived earlier than other students in order to settle in and make sure that the facilities are adapted to their needs.

Read more on http://theheatnigeria.com/tanzania-conjoined-twins-start-university-classes/

A Lagos based female journalist, Princess Olubukola Fajuyi has declared her undying love for the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi.

Princess Bukola who is also a cultural ambassador declared on her facebook page on Wednesday that if accepted, she is hoping to fill the void left in the heart of the Ooni following the recent crash of his marriage.

Read full story on http://theheatnigeria.com/heart-beat-ooni-female-journalist/

The Oyetubo Joko-Tade Estate Resources Ltd,  has asked the Lagos State Government to refrain from granting any consent to prospective applicants who wish to trade on it's land without their authorization.

In a letter to the Lagos State Registrar of Titles, Lands Bureau date November 17, 2016, the holding company owned by the Oyemade Royal Family informed the state government that it has  disengaged the services of one Folashade Ogundare who was formerly invested with the power of attorney over the company land located in Sangotedo area of the state.

The letter was signed by a director of the company, Otunba Babatunde Rahman and five shareholders namely, Chief Muka Bajulaiye, Alhaja Ajimot Ashaku Adisa, Chief Adelaja Nureni, Mrs Racheal Tokede and Mr. Saliu Tajudeen.

The company through the letter stated that it has been having a running battle with its erstwhile Secretary / Attorney, Ms Ogudare over mismanagement of proceeds of sale of the company's land located at Sangotedo area of Lagos.

The letter further stated that the services of Ms Ogundare as attorney of the company has since been disengaged and that legal actions has also been taken to enforce same.
The letter reads in part: " We as director and shareholders ( being members of the three branches of the family that make up the three classes of the shareholders) of Oyetubo Joko Tade Estate Resources Ltd, write to inform the Bureau as follows; 

"That Oyetubo Joko-Tade Estate Resources Ltd is the bonafide and beneficial owner of the large expanse of land situated and being a Sangotedo Area of Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos State and covered by a certificate of occupancy registered as 75/75/1996AE.


"That Oyetubo Joko-Tade Estate Resources Ltd is a holding company of Ibeju/Oyemade Royal Family.

" That the company has since disengaged the services of Ms Ogundare as it Secretary and Attorney and has taken action in court to effectuate this position.

" That the Bureau should refrain from dealing with the said Ms Ogundare with respect to the company's land/property.

" That the company and the family has now nominated the under signed persons as it accredited representative with whom the Bureau should deal and relate with in respect to all transactions relating to any part of the company's 201 hectares of land"

http://www.theheatnigeria.com/stop-unauthorized-dealing-land-firm-tells-lasg/

This man olaoreawofele should be covering his head in shame by now considering the fact that Monan has been cleared by the court of any wrong doing in the purchase of the 10 hectares of land at sangotedo.

For the avoidance of doubt this is a link to the story in vanguard: Vanguard: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/10/court-quashes-n80m-theft-charge-efcc-business-woman/

You can also check other major newspapers for the story.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has released the President of Masters Energy Oil and Gas Limited, Mr. Uche Ogah who was invited today by EFCC at the Lagos Magistrate Court in Tinubu.

Ogah was invited by officials of the EFCC after the Nigeria Police withdrew the forgery allegation against him on the ground that the charge against him was preferred hastily without evidence.

Ogah's Lawyer, Mr. Monday Ubani in a statement said his client was released unconditionnally few hours after he made his statement to EFCC.

Ubani said that the commission was influenced into carrying out the embarrassing invitation of his client based on false information by the petitioner.

According to Ubani, the complainant in the forgery charge against his client, one Mrs. Bridget Adeosun had forwarded the same petition which she sent to the police to the EFCC and misinformed the commission on a lot of issues.

The statement by Ubani states: " The invitation of my client, Uche Ogah by officials of the EFCC this morning at the premises of Tinubu Magistrate, Lagos to say the least is the most shocking turn of event in an over five months trial over a trumped up charge.
"In vindication of my clients innocence, the police prosecution this morning informed the court of his intention to discontinue the forgery charge against my client. Accordingly, the presiding magistrate, Mrs Kikelomo Ayeye struct out the charges and discharged him.

"Just as my client was stepping outside the court, officials of the EFCC invited him and took him to their office.
"At the EFCC office, we were confronted with a petition written by same Mrs Adeosun who coincidentally is also the complainant in the forgery charge that was earlier struck out by the magistrate court.

" We presented the same submission we made before the police to the EFCC which is that the subject matter in the forgery allegation bothers on a pure business transaction which my client had with Mrs Adeosun. We showed the commission's officials documents about the business transaction and agreements reached by parties in the business. The Efcc were shocked that these documents were never given to them where she received her payments.

" After reviewing our presentation, EFCC officials asked my against my client to go home and come back another day to have interview with the petitioner. According to Mr. Ubani the allegation is baseless, fallacious and full of lies. My client was immediately cleared to go home.

" The fact remains that Uche Ogah has been cleared of any allegation of forgery. The police has seen the fact, the court delivered its verdict and the EFCC has also taken the appropriate action by releasing him after he was wrongfully invited.

" We are not unaware of the political maneuvering aimed at ensuring that my client's hard-earned reputation is dented by every means possible. However, our confidence in the judiciary and the ability of our law enforcement official remains unwavering knowing that they will do the right thing at all times." Politicians in Abia behind this has failed completely and shamelessly.

A Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja yesterday struck out an N80m land theft charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC against business woman Mrs Moji Yakubu and nine other persons.

Mrs Yakubu along with her company, Monan Trading Company Limited and eight others were charged by the commission for allegedly stealing 10 hectares of land at Sagotedo, Lekki which belongs to one Joko Trade Estate Resources Limited.

Those charged along with her includes; Chief Muka Bajulaiye, Alhaja Ajimot Adisa, Alani Shirawu, Bajulaiye Hakeem, Akeem Giwa, Rachael Tokede, Adelaja Raji and Nuniru Mushafau.

The EFCC in an 11 count charge had alleged that the defendants forged several documents to facilitate the alleged theft.

The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge annd were granted bail by the court.

Before the commencement of the trial, counsel to Mrs Yakubu, Yemi Adeshina filed an application before the court seeking an order to quash the charges against his client on the ground that they were incompetent.

In the application, Adeshina contended amongst other things that the charge against his client was an abuse of court process as his client has not committed any crime known to law.

The EFCC in a counter motion however insisted that there is sufficient evidence for the defendants to stand trial.
Ruling on the application, Justice Oluwatoyin Ipaye upheld the submissions of the defense and struck out the 11 count charges against all the defendants.

The judge ruled that from the prove of evidence before her, the EFCC failed to established a prima facie case against all the defendants.

Read more details about the ruling here:
http://www.theheatnigeria.com/n80m-land-theft-…nesswoman-others/

That fellow olaoreawofele should be wary because he may have fallen victim to real land scam. Am sure he is aware of the latest development on the matter where the judge again blasted EFCC for their desperation and for running to another court to obtain a forfeiture order in a matter that is before her. http://sunnewsonline.com/judge-blasts-efcc-lawyer-over-professional-misconduct/ . He should try and attend court on September 14 when the ruling will be delivered.

Posted By Henry Ojelu

The Second Vice President of Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Mr. Monday Onyekachi Ubani has appealed to wealthy Nigerians to support the less privileged in the society.

Ubani made the appeal on Saturday during the launch of his foundation, Onyekachi Ubani Foundation in Lagos.

Ubani said that the society will continue to breed miscreants if those who are wealthy do not come to the assistant to the poor and less privileged in the society

“The consequences of not being our Brother's Keeper is what bred Boko Haram; it is currently breeding other societal miscreants all over the place. God knows what else, what next, where else, when next the next terror will hit us. The danger is growing within; it is drawing nearer and nearer to our door step, just as the storm gathers.

”The Good news is that we can avert the next crisis, contain and correct the current crisis today. All we need to do is to extend a hand of help with a heart of love, however little, to that next door neighbor, or stranger seeking your assistance,” he said.

Ubani noted that he has been in the daily struggled to help the poor in the society but that there is a limit to how many people he can help with his limited resources.

“There is a limit to how many Nigerians a Good Samaritan with limited resources can help, but I am convinced that if I get your support in your capacity as an empowered Nigerian, together we can create a system that will lift majority of Nigerians, young and old, out of poverty and hunger. It takes just a little more creative thinking and brainstorming to build that enabling structure outside of the box.

“This is why I have come out to appeal for your support on the platform of the Onyekachi Ubani Foundation to help save millions of Nigerians out of the indignity of want, lack, hunger and deprivation,” he said.

Ubani stated that his foundation has laid out plans and projects contained in its founding document which includes; Youth Literacy Initiative, Youth Creativity and Media Forum, Men of Standard and Women of Substance.

In a keynote address, General Overseer of Latter Rain Assembly, Pastor Tunde Bakare, said that the Nigerian society promotes corruption through a warped expectation and demand culture.

The Pastor who was represented by Mr Segun Oloketuyi, the Managing Director of Wema Bank Plc said: “The society further corrupts the system through a warped expectation and demand culture.

“A constituency that expects monetary handouts as support during elections in place of laws that facilitate good governance, has already created an atmosphere for corruption and ineptitude where the power of recall for poor performance is never activated.

“The corruption problem in the Nigerian system is a people and expectation problem. It is created through the supply of people of questionable character to the political decision-making system from the citizenry.”

Bakare, in his address, blamed the corrupt expectation and demand culture as the main cause for the attitude of impunity of corrupt individuals.

Bakare, however, noted that Nigerians are not essentially corrupt by giving instances of the airport cleaner who found and returned N12million to its rightful owner and President Muhammadu Buhari's public declaration to be incorruptible which has been unchallenged.

He also cited examples of Nigerians who have rejected mouth-watering morally bankrupt pecuniary offers.

Earlier, during his address of welcome, President Muhammadu Buhari commended the vision of the foundation.

Speaking through his spokesperson, Mr Femi Adeshina, President Buhari said “It is significant that the foundation is dedicated to helping the poor and needy in the society and also to celebrate those who made our country proud with virtuous acts.”

Commending the keynote address of Bakare, the President said “I am very pleased that the foundation launch will be marked by a public lecture, which topic focuses on one of the things dearest to the heart of this administration which is the anti-corruption war. I look forward to details of the address.”

I don't usually make comment on public issues on social platform but am move to say a few things on this Monan issue due to the stack ignorance and propaganda I see here.

As a journalist covering the purported arraignment of Moji Yakubu before Justice Ipaye of the Lagos High Court, Ikeja I believe I am conversant with the facts of this matter.

Without prejudiced to the matter before the court, I believe the EFCC is acting out someone's script. When this matter first came up, I and my colleagues widely reported the arraignment. On the return date however we became curious when the trial judge asked for clarification on the charge and surprisingly the EFCC lawyer could not offer simply explanation.

One of the charges indicated that the 10hectare land was stolen. This is strange in law because land is immovable. One can only trespass on a piece of land. Even when it was obvious that the commission in a haste to rush to court had made mistakes, shockingly the EFCC lawyer insisted that the land was stolen. The judge subsequently asked to be addressed so moto on the issue. This was widely reported. The issue is awaiting the ruling of the court.

Another pointer that there is more to this mater than meets the eye, was when the EFCC suspiciously placed a ban on Monan bank account without even obtaining any court order to do so. They just wrote the bank and it was done. But the court again blasted the commission for that action and lifted the ban on all Monan account.

The much awaited ruling on this matter has since suffered several adjournments due to the court's tight schedules.

My guess is that the EFCC knew that the ruling will never favor them so instead of seeking this temporary furfieture order before the trial court, they ran to another court and obtained this order.

We await to see what will happen when this issue is brought before Justice Ipaye. Am sure she will trash the commission again.

My guess is that the person who posted this forfieture pictures is as mischievous as the EFCC on this matter. I wont rule out invested interest here.

While not holding brief for anyone here, I believe the EFCC is playing out a script and the end will surely make an interesting piece.