NewStats: 3,259,157 , 8,169,255 topics. Date: Saturday, 24 May 2025 at 03:31 AM 1v6n51

Kindergarten cops...

The Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja has granted Mr. Joseph Aloba, father of late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, aka Mohbad, the legal nod to challenge the advice issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions, which cleared singer Azeez Fashola, aka Naira Marley, and others of any wrongdoing in connection with his son’s death.

Justice Taiwo Olatokun, who presided over the matter on Friday, granted Aloba permission to initiate a judicial review and also ordered that the motion on notice be served on the Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, alongside the hearing notice and the order that was granted.

In an ex parte motion filed before the court and seen by PUNCH Online, Aloba, through his counsel, Wahab Shittu, SAN, asked the court to nullify the legal advice of the DPP, which led to the acquittal of Naira Marley, Samson Eletu aka Sam Larry, Owodunni Ibrahim aka Prime Boy, and Babatunde Pere, on the grounds that the advice was premature and unlawful.

He maintained that the legal advice and subsequent discharge of the suspects by the Yaba Magistrate Court pre-empted the outcome of the ongoing coroner’s inquest into his son’s controversial death.

Aloba argued that the coroner’s inquest, initiated on September 29, 2023, was yet to conclude its probe into Mohbad’s demise before the DPP’s actions were taken.

“Pursuant to the Applicant’s request to determine the circumstances leading to the death of his son, the inquest was referred to the Coroner’s Court with suit no. COR/IKD/10/2023 before Coroner Magistrate T. A. Shotobi and commenced sitting on September 29, 2023, and the proceeding is yet to be concluded.

“That while the proceeding is yet to be concluded by the Coroner’s Court, on the 26th February 2025, Magistrate Ejiro Kubenje sitting at Yaba Magistrate Court acting on the legal advice of the Respondents discharged and acquitted the four prime suspects, AbdulAzeea Fashola aka Naira Marley, Samason Balogun Eletu aka Sam Larry and Owoduni Ibrahim aka Prime Boy, and Opere Babatunde in the controversial death of late Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba AKA Mohbad,” the document partly read.

He further disclosed that key individuals who had been summoned by the Coroner’s Court and mentioned during the inquest were released prematurely and had yet to appear to clarify their roles in the case.

He added that the police and DPP allegedly acted without notifying the coroner, thereby obstructing the inquest’s statutory duties.

“That the police and the respondents, through their senior counsel participated in the coroner’s proceedings. The State CID, Panti, forwarded the case containing their investigation to the respondents without informing the Coroner’s Court, and while both offices, particularly the respondents, were aware of the coroner’s inquest proceeded to issue legal advice which prompted the magistrate court to discharge and acquit the prime suspects in the controversial death of late Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, also known as Mohbad,” the document added.

A hearing on the matter has been scheduled for June 17.

https://punchng.com/mohbads-father-gets-court-nod-to-challenge-naira-marleys-clearance/

Fresh storm hits Wike-Fubara peace talks


Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, may have worsened following a dramatic walkout by women believed to be Fubara’s ers at an event attended by the wife of the Sole , Theresa Ibas.

This came amid ongoing reconciliation efforts initiated by a national leader of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Segun Osoba, to restore peace between the two former political allies.

The PUNCH reports that Osoba, alongside Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, took Fubara to meet Wike at his residence.

It was gathered that Fubara also met President Bola Tinubu in London, United Kingdom, during his brief visit.


The suspended governor returned to the country on Friday after a vacation in .

However, the ongoing protests and the walkout on the representative of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at an event in Port Harcourt on Friday, may have put a cog in the wheel of the peace talks.

Wike, who is currently in China for official engagements, condemned the walkout in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, on Saturday. He described it as “very disturbing and embarrassing” to the people of the state.

Wike asked the suspended governor to demonstrate honesty by being bold enough to tell the President what he wanted, rather than pretending.

He said, “It is not enough to be visiting people to plead for peace; those who genuinely want peace work and act for it.

“These are the same people pleading for peace, but at the same time doing things that are contrary to what they are pleading for.

“How can you say you want peace and at the same time, you are sponsoring people to insult everyone, including the President and his wife?

“All those shenanigans won’t bring peace, and I am sure they know that because they are not sincere with their up-and-down pleadings for peace.”

Wike accused Fubara of sabotaging peace efforts, adding that Fubara had repeatedly acted in bad faith, despite interventions by the President to restore order in the state.

The crisis

The political crisis in Rivers State began soon after Fubara started asserting his independence, leading to a rift with Wike, who is widely believed to still wield significant influence over the state’s political machinery.

By late 2023, the feud became public, with the Rivers State House of Assembly — largely loyal to Wike— attempting to impeach Fubara.

This triggered a series of confrontations, including the demolition of the Assembly complex, defections, and parallel claims of legitimacy within state institutions.

Despite President Tinubu’s intervention and a peace deal signed in December 2023, the conflict persisted.

Tensions escalated after the February 28, 2025 judgment of the Supreme Court, which affirmed the legitimacy of the Martin Amaewhule-led faction of the Assembly.

The rising confrontation between the governor and the lawmakers ultimately led to the declaration of a state of emergency by the President on March 18, and the appointment of a Sole , Vice Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.).

Since the emergency rule was declared, various groups have taken to the streets in protest, including the state chapters of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, which boycotted the May Day rally at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt.

Disrespect to Tinubu’s wife

The protests against emergency rule continued on Friday, as many women in the state staged a walkout during an empowerment programme in Port Harcourt.

The women demanded to be addressed by either the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, or the wife of the suspended governor, Valerie Sim-Fubara.

The event, held at the EUI Event Centre in GRA, Port Harcourt, was part of the Renewed Hope Initiative empowerment programme organised by the office of the First Lady.

It was meant to benefit 500 women in the state with various empowerment items.

However, tension rose when the wife of the sole , who was representing Tinubu’s wife, was invited to address the crowd.

The women began chanting, “We want SIM!” and “We want Valerie Fubara!”.

They added, “We don’t know Ibas. Tinubu is our president and our governor is Sim Fubara.”

Wike begs Tinubu

The minister on Saturday apologised to the First Lady and the President on behalf of the people of the state.

“Insult on anyone representing the First Lady of Nigeria in an event is a direct insult on the office of the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and as a leader in Rivers State, I apologise,” he said.

“As for me and those who subscribe to my leadership, we condemn in totality yesterday’s show of shame and we apologise to our First Lady for the embarrassing conduct of those few women who do not represent the characters and ideals of the people of Rivers State,” Wike added.

The FCT minister cautioned ers of the suspended governor to desist from ridiculing the state.

Also, an associate of Wike and leader of the Ikwerre Local Government chapter of the New Associates, Samuel Nwanosike, criticised Fubara for allowing his ers to continue protests while calling for peace.


“You cannot claim to seek peace and at the same time allow your ers to abuse people on social media, stage protests with our mothers on the streets, and create unrest.

“He should first call his ers to order,” Nwanosike said.

The President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, and the media aide to Fubara on Electronic Media, Jerry Omatsogunwa, took a swipe at Wike for accusing the suspended governor of masterminding the walkout.

Reacting to Wike’s apology in a telephone interview with Sunday PUNCH, Okaba said the FCT minister’s statement was unnecessary.

While absolving Fubara of any blame, Okaba lampooned Wike for doing everything to truncate the peace restoration process.

He stated, “From your deepest sincerity, you know that Fubara would never do a thing like that. Yes, he will never do that.

“So, for me, it does all show that Wike is the one who is double-tonguing, looking for every excuse to truncate the restoration process.

“He (Wike) had earlier said that if things were done according to the way he said it, Fubara wouldn’t have been suspended but would have just been thrown out of the place.

“He is still not satisfied with the reconciliatory process that has been considered by many lovers of democracy across this country, and at the national level.”

He referred to a recent incident where some nursing students embarrassed the president’s wife in Delta State, and wondered who orchestrated the song-shaming.

The INC president said the women did not mince words by saying they wanted to see the wife of the president and not the wife of an “illegal” sole .

Okaba said it was important to differentiate the actions of the women and what led to them, rather than double-talking.

“The Rivers State women were very clear. They did not do anything to disrespect the First Lady or the President. On their vest, they said, Mrs Tinubu and Fubara. If they were showing any disrespect to the President’s wife, would they print that kind of vest?

“They said they were deceived into saying that the President’s wife was coming, only for this man’s wife (sole ) to come and talk to them. So, they were deceived, and they exercised themselves.

“So, it has nothing to do with Fubara in the first place. Then, secondly, there was no disrespect in any form by the women against the President’s wife.

“The women only expressed their disgust at the evil perpetrated by one sole . He is an illegality, and nobody is afraid of saying so.

“So, if they can say that anywhere, then the wife of the sole wants to come and address who? As what?”

He added, “As far as I’m concerned, they must isolate those issues. The same women who demonstrated against the sole , will you expect them to go and listen to the ‘rubbish’ that will come from his wife? I what the women did, and I don’t see any confrontation against the Federal Government.”

Omatsogunwa, while answering questions from our correspondent on Saturday, corroborated the views of the INC president.

He said, “Ordinarily, I think I wouldn’t have responded to this because it is like the comment of a man who is looking for favour at all costs, no matter how things are.


“You can recall that in the 2019 election, when women from Ogu and Okrika (both in Rivers State) came together and resisted the Army of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I don’t know if they also resisted the President at that time.

“Or he (Wike) is telling us that the women of Rivers State are not reasonable; they don’t know what they want?”

He, however, said his principal did not mastermind anything as alleged by the FCT minister.

“I want to say that the governor has not sent anybody to embarrass anybody.

“What happened was that they were expecting the wife of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and not the wife of Ibas (sole ),” he said.

Omatsogunwa also referred to the boycott of the May Day celebration in the state by the organised labour because they did not recognise the sole .

“Instead, they did it in a low key in their respective secretariats, because they don’t recognise Ibas. You don’t force yourself on people for crying out loud.


“So, I don’t think it is right now that we say we want peace that the governor will want to send people to truncate any peace.

“I think the FCT minister should get his facts right. That being said, the governor is a peaceful man and didn’t send anybody to do anything,” he added.

Osoba, PANDEF sue for peace

Osoba and the National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, Godknows Igali, called for calm and a renewed commitment to peaceful resolution.

Osoba affirmed that the peace-building effort between Fubara and Wike was progressing well, dismissing social media narratives suggesting otherwise.

He said, “The peace-building process between Fubara and Wike is ongoing and fruitful. So far, we have had useful and brotherly discussions.

“It is the people on social media creating confusion, blackmailing and cooking up all kinds of things that never happened.”


He denied reports claiming Fubara prostrated before Wike, saying, “It is not true that Fubara prostrated, it is the Yoruba that prostrate; it is not the tradition of people over there to prostrate, they are just saying what never happened. So, I beg these people to stop peddling lies.”

On his part, Igali urged all parties in the conflict to embrace peace for the greater good of the state and the region.

Igali said, “We will continue to advocate peace. When two people are fighting, you will try as much as possible to move for peace, so that everybody can be happy.

“We want them to follow the path of peace and put resources together for development. At every level, we engage youths, men, women and stakeholders all to ensure that they are at peace.”

https://punchng.com/fresh-storm-hits-wike-fubara-peace-talks/#google_vignette

Group carpets Okpebholo over demolition of NBM secretariat in Benin

A group, South-South Professionals & Transparency Initiative (SSPTI), has berated Governor Monday Okpebholo, of Edo state, over the demolition of the multi-purpose Secretariat complex built at an estimated N1.2B belonging to the (NBM) of Africa in Benin over alleged war against criminal elements in the state.

The body who took a swipe at the action of Governor Okpebholo, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Ugochukwu Alozie, described the decision as vindictive and outrageous, considering the fact that there was nothing incriminating or illegal that had been reported or said to have been associated with the very building.

SSPTI has therefore called on the of the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) of Africa, to explore all available legal means in seeking compensation from the Edo state government for the fragrant display of abusive power of authority by Governor Okpebholo, noting that through a court of competent jurisdiction the body can be sure of getting justice that would compel the government to pay for this senseless act.

It would be recalled that Governor Monday Okpebholo yesterday morning led his team to destroy some perceived hideout of criminals in the state, including a place the military had rescued some kidnaped victims who were held against their wish to learn internet frauds and other crimes.

It was in the process that the Governor led his team and security operatives to the NBM Multi purpose national Secretariat located at Oba Ewuare ll cultural center No 7 Arena way Amagba, in the heart of Benin city and ordered demolition of the structure based on an unfounded and imaginary explanation that it was being used as criminals hideout.

The NBM multi-purpose national Secretariat, estimated to have cost over N1.5B, made up of a state-of-heart 2,000 capacity hall used as an event center,a skill acquisition center to help train and prepare the youths to be self reliant and self employed, in addition to 20 tastefully furnished room accommodation for hospitality purpose, with a standard indoor swimming pool, a relaxation lounge, 250 KVA generator and other indoor appliances.

According to SSPTI statement; “We have taken out time to investigate the remote cause of the Governor’s action and we have come to the realization that Governor Okpebholo did what he did to settle score with prominent of the opposition People Democratic Party (PDP) who are perceived to be of the NBM of Africa”.

“Obviously, there is no smoke without fire in this singular action of the state Governor and it’s all about politics and the desire to weaken the opposition in Edo state ahead of his second term bidding”.

“Our grouse to the action of the Governor is that he failed to take the battle to the individual houses of these perceived political opponents but rather preferred to unleash the act of oppression against a collective body who have done him no harm or disturbed his government in any way”.

“We even have it on good authority that the of NBM of Africa, recently carried out some Corporate Social Responsibility (CRS) in 12 secondary and primary schools in Edo state, where they donated furnitures, writing materials, school desks and chairs to selected government schools to assist the poor pupils and students to settle into serious academic sessions, as part of an effort to giving back to the society”.

“This is the same set of people the Governor decided to demolish their buildings all because he wanted to get even with some perceived political opponents in the state”.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/05/group-carpets-okpebholo-over-demolition-of-nbm-secretariat-in-benin/#google_vignette

Court Dismisses Emefiele’s Bid To Reclaim Forfeited 753 Abuja Duplexes, Apartments

Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie ordered the final forfeiture of the estate located at Plot 109, Cadastral Zone CO9, Lokogoma District, Abuja, and measuring 150,462.84 square metres.


The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Apo, Abuja, on Monday dismissed an application filed by the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, seeking to reclaim a vast estate in the city comprising 753 duplexes and apartments which has already been forfeited to the government.

Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie ordered the final forfeiture of the estate located at Plot 109, Cadastral Zone CO9, Lokogoma District, Abuja, and measuring 150,462.84 square metres.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had previously secured an interim and subsequently a final forfeiture order of the property in favour of the Federal Government.

Although the estate was initially recovered from an unnamed former senior government official, many had linked it to Emefiele.


The forfeited property
Through his lawyer, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Adeyinka Kotoye, the former CBN governor subsequently filed a motion as an interested party in the estate.

He sought an extension of time to apply to set aside the interim and final forfeiture orders made by the court on December 2 and December 24, 2024, respectively.

Emefiele contended that the entire forfeiture process was conducted without his knowledge and alleged that the EFCC published the interim forfeiture notice in an obscure section of The Punch Newspaper, making it difficult for him to respond timely.

He argued that he had been standing trial in three separate criminal cases across different courts in Abuja and Lagos during the relevant period, making it practically impossible for him to discover the publication.

Emefiele also accused the EFCC of deliberately concealing the forfeiture proceedings despite their frequent interactions with him over other pending charges.

In his ruling, Justice Onwuegbuzie emphasized that while the principle of functus officio (a court becoming powerless after delivering judgment) was argued, the court retained the authority to review its decisions under appropriate circumstances.

The judge noted that Section 17(2) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006, governs notice requirements in forfeiture proceedings.

He rejected Emefiele’s argument that the publication was obscure, stating that the half-page notice in a national newspaper like Punch could not reasonably be described as hidden.

The court stressed that only individuals who can show a recognizable interest in the forfeited property are entitled to intervene, akin to the principles governing der in lawsuits.

In conclusion, Justice Onwuegbuzie held that Emefiele was given ample opportunity—over 14 days—to contest the forfeiture but failed to act. He therefore dismissed the motion, resolving the sole issue in favour of the EFCC.

https://www.channelstv.com/2025/04/28/court-dismisses-emefieles-bid-to-reclaim-forfeited-abuja-estate/

Pressure mounts on SSS to free notorious British arms smuggler linked to Olu of Warri

The SSS agents said the secret police had received several calls from Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s office, asking that Mr Polo be freed.


Major Micah Polo and Ogiame Atuwatse III
Ogiame Atuwatse III and Major Micah Polo
The State Security Service (SSS) has come under intense pressure to release Major Micah Polo, a British army officer recently arrested in connection with the arms stockpile uncovered in Delta State last week, Peoples Gazette can report.

The secret police on Friday announced that Mr Polo, who is increasingly tied to Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, was arrested in Lagos last Wednesday while he attempted to flee Nigeria.

His arrest came shortly after the SSS recovered 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns and over 3,000 rounds of ammunition during a covert operation in Asaba, Delta State, where Mr Polo’s associates were arrested. The security agency identified the Briton as the prime suspect, alongside several associates, in connection with the illegal arms supply.

Two sources in the SSS confirmed to The Gazette on Monday that since the report of the suspected smuggler’s arrest, the Delta State governor’s office and other allies of the Olu of Warri had intensified pressure on the security agency to have Mr Polo released.

The SSS agents said the secret police had received several calls from Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s office and Mr Atiwatse’s cronies, asking that Mr Polo be freed.

However, they noted the SSS would not sweep the case under the carpet, especially when insecurity ravaged the country. They vowed to ensure justice prevails.

The Olu of Warri did not return The Gazette’s request seeking comments on the matter. The SSS could not be reached for comments. However, Festus Ahon, the chief press secretary to the Delta State governor, did not respond to calls and messages.

Abalagha Adawari, who reacted to the development on behalf of the Niger Delta Environmental Justice Coalition (NDEJC), commended the SSS for the arrest, noting it marks a critical step in safeguarding the fragile peace in the Niger Delta region.

The coalition said Mr Polo’s arrest and his alleged ties with Mr Atuwatse cast a shadow over the traditional institution represented by the traditional ruler, warning the SSS against compromise.

“The relative peace the Niger Delta region has witnessed must not be compromised or undermined. We call on the DSS to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that all those responsible for this illegal arms procurement are held able. The perpetrators and their sponsors must face justice to prevent any resurgence of violence in our communities,” Mr Adawari stressed.

https://gazettengr.com/pressure-mounts-on-sss-to-free-notorious-british-arms-smuggler-linked-to-olu-of-warri/

A lady bring her self for public ridicule by saying she can’t settle for less

Who would have expected that the philosopher Socrates, known for his wisdom, intellect and powerful words, lived in an environment filled with shouting, ignorance and hostility from his wife?

This woman was known for being domineering, sharp-tongued, strong and forcing her husband to leave home at dawn and return only after sunset every day. Yet, Socrates once said about her:

“I am indebted to this woman. Without her, I would not have learned that wisdom lies in silence and happiness in sleep.”

He also said: “I have been afflicted with three calamities: language, poverty, and my wife. The first I overcame through diligence, the second through frugality, but the third – I could never overcome.”

One day, while Socrates was sitting with his students, his wife began shouting and insulting him, as was her habit. Socrates kept calm and didn't pay attention to her behaviour. But this time, to everyone’s surprise, she splashed jugfull of water on his head. Wiping his face in astonishment, Socrates calmly remarked: “We should have expected rain after all that thunder.”

It is said that Socrates’ calm demeanor & silence eventually led to his wife’s death from a heart attack.

📷 Socrates and Xanthippe.
Engraving by Anonymous Dutch artist, 17th century
Museum Boijmans-van Beuningen, Rotterdam

UK Deports 43 Nigerians Including Failed Asylum Seekers, Offenders In Fresh Immigration Crackdown

This is the second deportation flight to Nigeria and Ghana since the last general election, bringing the total number of deportees to 87.


The United Kingdom has deported 43 Nigerians as part of its latest effort to strengthen immigration controls.

According to a report published on gov.uk on Friday, the deportees included 15 failed asylum seekers and 11 foreign national offenders who had completed their prison sentences. Seven individuals also left the country voluntarily.

The deportation flight forms part of the government’s “Plan for Change,” which aims to restore discipline to the immigration system by ensuring that immigration laws are enforced and that those without the right to remain are removed swiftly.

This is the second deportation flight to Nigeria and Ghana since the last general election, bringing the total number of deportees to 87.

Officials highlighted the growing cooperation between the United Kingdom and Nigeria in managing migration.

Since the current government assumed office, more than 24,000 people have been deported — an 11% increase compared to the same period last year. Deportations of foreign national offenders have also risen by 16%, with 3,594 criminals removed from the country.

Authorities stressed that all deportations are handled “in a dignified and respectful manner.”

The Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Angela Eagle, said: “This flight demonstrates how international partnerships deliver on working people’s priorities for swift returns and secure borders.

Through the Plan for Change, we’re going further in restoring order to a broken system, accelerating returns of those with no right to be here and closing expensive asylum hotels.

“I thank the governments of Ghana and Nigeria for facilitating this operation, which reflects our t commitment to disrupt organised immigration crime and protect our borders.”

Baroness Chapman of Darlington, FCDO Minister responsible for Irregular Migration, added: “Working with other countries and partners around the world is critical to tackling irregular migration – by working internationally, we will meet this global challenge together.

“I welcome our strong cooperation with Ghana and Nigeria to return those with no right to be in the UK, secure our borders, and deliver on the Plan for Change.

“This operation follows the Organised Immigration Crime Summit, which saw the UK bring together over 40 countries, including Nigeria and Ghana, to drive forward the global fight against smuggling gangs and deliver on the government’s mission to secure our borders.”

https://saharareporters.com/2025/04/26/uk-deports-43-nigerians-including-failed-asylum-seekers-offenders-fresh-immigration#google_vignette

Two Nigerians, Texan jailed in $4.9m U.S. tax refund fraud scheme

Two Nigerian nationals and a Texan have been sentenced to federal prison for their involvement in a multi-million dollar tax refund fraud scheme that exploited stolen identities and laundered proceeds through both U.S. and foreign financial institutions.

Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr. announced the sentencing of Imafedia Adevokhai, 47, of Alpharetta, Georgia; Osazuwa Peter Okunoghae, 46, of Houston, Texas; and Michael Martin, 52, of Texarkana, Texas, following their guilty pleas in connection with the conspiracy.

Adevokhai, a Nigerian national, pleaded guilty to money laundering on February 15, 2023, and was sentenced on April 2, 2025, to 46 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Robert W. Schroeder, III. He was also ordered to pay $90,380.60 in restitution and $3,500 in forfeiture.

Okunoghae, another Nigerian national residing in Houston, received the harshest sentence of the trio — 78 months in federal prison — after pleading guilty to money laundering conspiracy in November 2019.

He was sentenced on January 13, 2022, and ordered to pay $451,117.63 in both restitution and forfeiture.

Martin, the only American among the convicted, pleaded guilty to conspiracy on February 14, 2023. He was sentenced to 18 months in prison on November 21, 2023, and ordered to pay $90,380.60 in restitution and $121,623.41 in forfeiture.

According to court records, the three men were involved in a sophisticated Stolen Identity Refund Fraud (SIRF) operation spanning multiple years. They used personal identifying information from dozens of victims to file fraudulent tax returns totaling nearly $5 million, causing a confirmed loss of over $390,000 to the U.S. Department of Treasury and Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

“The Eastern District of Texas is committed to prosecuting individuals who participate in schemes to steal personal information, prepare and file fraudulent tax returns, and launder the proceeds,” McGlothin said.

IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) agents uncovered the fraud after tracing a complex network of financial transactions involving multiple U.S. and foreign bank s.

Special Agent Christopher J. Altemus Jr., who leads the IRS-CI Dallas Field Office, praised the agency’s investigators, stating, “Their sentences should be a warning to anyone who would try to defraud the U.S. Government or prey on law-abiding taxpayers.”


The investigation revealed that Adevokhai primarily handled the preparation and submission of the fraudulent tax returns, while Okunoghae and Martin focused on laundering the proceeds — transferring funds through various s in a bid to obscure the source of the money.

Nigerian man extradited to U.S. over cyber intrusion, $1.3m tax fraud scheme
The case dates back to a broader 2019 indictment that included individuals from three U.S. states and others based in Nigeria, pointing to a transnational fraud network.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathaniel C. Kummerfeld and Sean Taylor.

Federal authorities reiterated that prosecuting SIRF crimes remains a top priority, as such schemes threaten the integrity of the U.S. tax system and drain billions from public coffers.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/04/two-nigerians-texan-jailed-in-4-9m-u-s-tax-refund-fraud-scheme/#google_vignette

No country has developed under democracy — Burkina Faso President


Captain Ibrahim Traoré, Burkina Faso’s interim leader, has dismissed the notion that democracy is a prerequisite to development.

Traoré said it is difficult to pinpoint a country whose development is attributable to democracy as a system of government.


According to him, it is false to believe any country has developed under a democratic system.

The military leader said this recently during a flag-raising ceremony at the Koulouba Palace.

He clarified that Burkina Faso practices what he called “a popular, progressive revolution,” adding that democracy has no place in his country.

“If we have to say it loud and clear here, we are not in a democracy, we are in a popular, progressive revolution.


“We must necessarily go through a revolution, and we are indeed in a revolution. So this question of democracy or libertinism of action or expression has no place. As much as you think you are free to speak and act, the other is also free to speak and act, and there we end up with a society of disorder.”

“It is impossible to name a country that has developed in democracy. Democracy is only the result,” Traoré said.

The 37-year-old military officer emerged as Burkina Faso’s interim leader following the September 2022 coup d’état that ousted interim president Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/04/no-country-has-developed-under-democracy-burkina-faso-president/#google_vignette

EXCLUSIVE: Tinubu extends withdrawal of security detail to Lagos monarchs Elegushi, Oniru for backing Sanwo-Olu to impeach Obasa, betray president

As constitutional guardrails foil the president’s move on the Lagos governor, a fallout over assembly crisis has escalated against other of the state’s political elite.

Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has indefinitely extended the withdrawal of security detail to Lagos traditional rulers Omogbolahan Oniru and Saheed Elegushi, Peoples Gazette can report.

Three sources who separately provided details of the matter to The Gazette over the weekend said President Bola Tinubu authorised Mr Egbetokun to keep withholding government-provided security to the monarchs after being told that Messrs Oniru and Elegushi backed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in the controversial impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa as the Speaker of Lagos House of Assembly in January.

The president, our sources said, was incensed that Mr Sanwo-Olu mismanaged the increasingly fragile Lagos politics when he failed to contain errant lawmakers before Mr Obasa’s January 13 removal, vowing to punish not just the governor but all those who coopted the scheme.

The Gazette observed over the weekend that police vans that once marked an intimidating fixture outside the palaces of Messrs Oniru and Elegushi were no longer there.


“Kabiyesi Oniru has already hired private security guards and shared brand new suits to them so they can look like SSS agents in their outfit,” a source close to Oniru Palace told The Gazette over the weekend. “He has to do this because he doesn’t know when his government security would be reinstated — the president is still very angry right now.”

While constitutional guardrails hampered Mr Tinubu’s ability to easily punish Mr Sanwo-Olu as an incumbent governor, the president has already moved to hold those who worked with the Lagos chief executive able for what he saw as their reckless behaviour, sources said.

“The president has authorised the police IG to continue suspension of security officers to both Oniru and Elegushi,” a source familiar with the matter told The Gazette over the weekend. “They both brought this unto themselves for allowing themselves to be used by Governor Sanwo-Olu.”

Mr Sanwo-Olu’s ally Aisha Achimugu has been the target of a corruption inquiry after the president learnt that funds from the Lagos governor had been traced to the political opposition, The Gazette reported recently.

Specifically, the president said Messrs Oniru and Elegushi should have known not to take Mr Sanwo-Olu’s words just for their sake. He believed both monarchs should have demurred when Mr Sanwo-Olu told them he had presidential approval to discard Mr Obasa, whose political organising prowess has earned him an outsize influence in Lagos politics.

“The president said Elegushi and Oniru should have ed his office to confirm whether or not he ed the impeachment,” a top aide said. “They should take responsibility for failing to do that minor due diligence.”

Mr Obasa was impeached on January 13 after The Gazette ran a story exposing the top lawmaker’s corruption and abuse of power. He denied the corruption allegations after his impeachment, which came as he was travelling in Atlanta. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda was immediately sworn in as a replacement, becoming the first female Speaker of the Lagos legislature.

After a messy back-and-forth that trailed his impeachment, Mr Obasa was eventually reinstated on March 3 on the president’s order. The Gazette reported the president’s directive to lawmakers for Mr Obasa’s return weeks earlier. For weeks, Lagos lawmakers disregarded the president’s directive to promptly return Mr Obasa to power, a defiance now widely believed to have been incentivised by Mr Sanwo-Olu, stoking the president’s sense of betrayal.

Although Mr Sanwo-Olu denied involvement in Mr Obasa’s ordeal and attributed his impeachment strictly to the decision of the House of Assembly, The Gazette was told the governor allegedly bribed lawmakers to execute the impeachment. The Gazette also reported how Mr Tinubu snubbed Mr Sanwo-Olu in the aftermath of the process and refused to attend to lawmakers and other parties who travelled to Abuja to have a meeting with him.

Mr Tinubu also avoided a trip to Lagos for an event Mr Sanwo-Olu had organised as part of the president’s 73rd birthday jamboree because he suspected the governor had teed up a contingent of traditional rulers across the South-West to mediate the escalating conflict.

“The president has been fully aware of the governor’s desperate efforts to settle the matter by bringing different Yoruba traditional rulers to Lagos to intercede on his behalf,” a top Lagos politician who helped play a role in coordinating the botched meetings told The Gazette on Sunday. The politician spoke anonymously to avoid being seen as disparaging the governor in the press, fearing it could damage their relationship.

Mr Tinubu’s anxiety over Mr Sanwo-Olu’s capricious conduct in recent months was fueled by his loss of Lagos to Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential elections. The president said even though he ultimately prevailed in the exercise, he might not be so lucky in 2027 should he lose his home state again.

As a longstanding grassroots organiser, Mr Obasa has been widely seen as critical to Mr Tinubu’s plan to win Lagos in 2027 and maintain his decades-long grip on the state perpetually.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu knows how important Agege is to Asiwaju before lying to the lawmakers and bribing them to remove a man the president likes as the leader of the parliament,” the official added under anonymity to discuss internal issues between the president and his political allies.

The president also decided to punish Messrs Oniru and Elegushi because the traditional rulers, especially the duo with Oba of Lagos, have amassed influence as part of the contemporary ruling elite in Lagos.

Ordinarily, the stools Messrs Oniru and Elegushi hold little historical relevance to Lagosians of Yoruba origin, but they’ve gained prominence in recent years due to Mr Tinubu’s benevolence. Both monarchs are accorded deference over the pricey swathes of coastal assets east of Lagos, even though traditional rulers have no constitutional role in land istration, which is reserved for state governments only, with limited authority for the federal government.

A spokesman for Mr Oniru absolved the monarch of any wrongdoing in the political crisis still dogging Lagos weeks after Mr Obasa was reinstated, saying his only involvement came by way of his blood ties to Ms Meranda, who was the primary beneficiary in Mr Obasa’s short-lived ouster.

“His Royal Majesty is a traditional ruler and not a politician. He is not involved in any political machinations regarding the business of the Lagos House of Assembly,” Mr Oniru’s spokesman Hakeem Akintoye told The Gazette. “It is a mere providence and coincidence that one of the principal officers of the assembly is Kabiyesi’s blood sister.”

Mr Akintoye said Mr Oniru has been focused on improving the welfare of his people and all Nigerians while protecting and promoting the cultural heritage of Iru Kingdom.

Mr Elegushi falsely claimed there were no issues with his security, but The Gazette is privy to his desperate efforts to regain his detail.

A presidential spokesman said he was not aware of Mr Tinubu’s anger or retaliation towards the traditional rulers. A spokesman for Mr Sanwo-Olu did not return The Gazette’s request seeking comments. A spokesman for the Force Headquarters declined comments.

Messrs Oniru and Elegushi have enjoyed smooth relationships with Mr Tinubu, unarguably the political godfather in the country’s commercial hub. As part of their appreciation to the president for his generosity, both traditional leaders have reportedly been allocating choice lands to Gilbert Chagoury, Mr Tinubu’s business henchman and convicted money launderer, especially along the Lagos coast.

In March, The Gazette reported Mr Tinubu awarded a N1.1 trillion Lagos port project to Mr Chagoury’s Hi-Tech company, aside from the controversial $11 billion Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project awarded to the company in 2024, despite widespread opposition from Nigerians.

Mr Tinubu has established a firm grip on Lagos since Nigeria returned to civilian rule in 1999. He was Lagos governor from 1999 to 2007 and has single-handedly selected all his successors ever since. To maintain his hold, Mr Tinubu believed Mr Obasa, who was first elected into the Lagos House of Assembly in 2007, has been useful.

The president has told allies that losing Mr Obasa would frustrate his grip on Lagos, driving his resistance to replace the Agege politician even 10 years after he first emerged as Lagos Speaker.

“The president wants to maintain a permanent grip on Lagos politics, and he sees Mudashiru Obasa as almost indispensable in achieving that aim, especially in the critical Agege-Alimosho axis”, a senior presidential aide said.

https://gazettengr.com/exclusive-tinubu-extends-withdrawal-of-security-detail-to-lagos-monarchs-elegushi-oniru-for-backing-sanwo-olu-to-impeach-obasa-betray-president/https://gazettengr.com/exclusive-tinubu-extends-withdrawal-of-security-detail-to-lagos-monarchs-elegushi-oniru-for-backing-sanwo-olu-to-impeach-obasa-betray-president/quote

RepoMan007:
OP is a big fool.

Why are you panicked if you aren't in that category...silence would have been more beautiful than the words you used.

SadiqBabaSani:
Too much propaganda by TRAORE.

MILITARY REGIME IS ALL WORSE THAN RHAN DEMOCRACY

Do you live there?

Starzo:
That zelensky na stupid clown....I wouldn't agree to negotiations with him too

Go and negotiate with your bank first.....nairaland faceless forum don drain some of una brain finish.

That's good, just watch how Nigerians will crown fund him and make him a celebrity with two weeks......VDM will soon chase clout with him.....its all good since the man will be at the receiving end.

Greenback:

Two face idibia,where are you from?

Don't be surprised that he is from Benue State.

The god of GAC is Tinubu, and he approved of Obasa's removal.....QED

Meanwhile, Israel announced that it had recovered the body of Oron Shaul, a soldier who was killed in the 2014 Israel-Hamas war, in a special operation.

Israel is a strong country....

Top 10 African countries with the most trustworthy legal systems, based on the SDG16 index scores:

1. 🇨🇻 Cabo Verde - 79.3
2. 🇸🇹 São Tomé and Príncipe - 78.0
3. 🇷🇼 Rwanda - 68.0
4. 🇩🇿 Algeria - 65.3
5. 🇬🇭 Ghana - 65.0
6. 🇳🇦 Namibia - 64.4
7. 🇧🇼 Botswana - 62.4
8. 🇲🇦 Morocco - 62.3
9. 🇲🇺 Mauritius - 60.8
10. 🇹🇳 Tunisia - 60.6

https://x.com/LogicUniv/status/1880311108839547027?t=JRPB-aNvJK0VacHe1DoELQ&s=08

I don’t want Britain to be like ‘poor’ Nigeria where ‘terrible government destroys lives’: Kemi Badenoch

This comes as another episode of Ms Badenock criticising her home country Nigeria, exposing how prolonged misgovernment is ruining the country.


UK Conservative party leader Kemi Badenoch says she does not want Britain to be like Nigeria, a poor country where terrible government destroy lives.

In her first speech of the year on Thursday, Ms Badenoch explained her push for “real conservatism” that guarantees a “better, richer and safer” tomorrow for the younger generation of Brits.

“Why this matters so much to me is because I know what it is like to have something and lose it. I don’t want Britain to lose what it has,” said Ms Badenoch.

“I grew up in a poor country, and I watched my relatively wealthy family become poorer and poorer and poorer despite working harder as their money disappeared with inflation,” Ms Badenoch said.

The Tory leader narrated how she migrated to the UK at age 16 with her father’s last £100 and would never want the UK to become a country like Nigeria where terrible governments destroy lives.

“I came back to the UK at 16 with my father’s last £100 and a hope of a better life. So, I’ve lived with the consequences of a terrible government that destroys lives, and I never ever want that to happen here,” Ms Badenoch said.

This comes as another episode of Ms Badenoch criticising her home country Nigeria, exposing how prolonged misgovernment is ruining the country.

Before now, she had berated Nigerian police as “armed robbers” who intimidate the citizens they are employed to protect with their guns.

Angered by Ms Badenoch’s intermittent criticisms of Nigeria at every opportunity, Vice President Kashim Shettima responded, telling her to change her name if she does not want any association with the “greatest black nation on earth, Nigeria.”

https://gazettengr.com/i-dont-want-britain-to-be-like-poor-nigeria-where-terrible-government-destroys-lives-kemi-badenoch/

Niger's military rulers suspend BBC broadcasts


Niger's military government has suspended the BBC for three months, accusing it of spreading fake news that could destabilise social peace and demoralise troops fighting jihadists.

Niger's Minister of Communication Raliou Sidi Mohamed announced that the decision would take effect immediately.

BBC programmes, including in Hausa, the most spoken language in Niger, and French, are broadcast in the country through local radio partners, reaching 2.4 million people in the country this year - about 17% of the adult population.

Although BBC radio programmes have been suspended, the website is not blocked and the radio can still be accessed on shortwave.

Niger's government did not cite a specific broadcast for the suspension but it follows BBC reports about jihadist attacks in the Tillaberi region on Tuesday, which are said to have killed 91 soldiers and nearly 50 civilians.

The junta called these reports "baseless assertions" and a "campaign of intoxication orchestrated by adversaries of the Nigerien people aimed at undermining the morale of our troops and sowing division".

The attacks were reported by multiple sources, including security blogs, which said the gunmen, believed to be allied to the Islamic State group, launched two simultaneous attacks in Chatoumane village.

In one of the attacks, the attackers are reported to have disguised themselves as civilians and opened fire at soldiers on patrol in the weekly market. The soldiers could not return fire directly because of the risk of collateral damage.

A BBC spokesperson said: "We stand by our journalism and we will continue to report on the region without fear or favour."

French outlets, 24 and Radio Internationale (RFI), have also been suspended in Niger since the military seized power in a coup in July 2023.

The junta is under pressure for failing to curb militant attacks, one of its justifications for deposing democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023.

Niger's government also announced plans to "file a complaint" against RFI for "incitement to genocide".

It claimed that RFI was a propaganda mouthpiece for former colonial power .

RFI described the complaint as "extravagant and defamatory" and said it wasn't based on any evidence.

Niger did not say where it planned to lodge the complaint against RFI.

West African neighbours Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali have all experienced coups in recent years. All of these military-led governments have suspended foreign media at some point since taking power.

The BBC was also suspended by Burkina Faso over its coverage of a report accusing its army of mass killings.

They are facing an insurgency made up of different jihadist groups which operate across the Sahel region of West Africa. Tillaberi is a particularly volatile area, near the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso.

The Sahel region is considered the new global epicentre of the Islamic State group, while groups linked to al-Qaeda also operate in the region.

The three countries have formed an alliance to fight the jihadists and expelled French troops, turning to Russia and Turkey instead for their security needs.

But the violence has continued.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg6p2d55zko

FBI nabs most-wanted fraudster Abiola Kayode who fled Nigeria to Ghana after $6 million business email racket

Abiola Kayode, 37, of Nigeria, was extradited to Nebraska on a conspiracy to commit wire fraud indictment.


United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced the extradition of Abiola Kayode, 37, of Nigeria, to the District of Nebraska on a Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud Indictment, filed in August 2019 in Omaha, Nebraska.

In April 2023, law enforcement authorities in the Republic of Ghana arrested Kayode pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition. Ghanaian authorities ultimately granted this request and surrendered Kayode to FBI special agents who brought him to the District of Nebraska. Kayode had an initial appearance on the Indictment on December 11, 2024. United States Magistrate Judge Michael D. Nelson ordered Kayode remain detained pending trial.

Kayode, who was on the FBI’s Most Wanted Cyber Criminal List, is alleged to have participated in a business email compromise (BEC) scheme from January 2015 to September 2016. The BEC scheme defrauded businesses in the District of Nebraska and elsewhere of more than $6 million.

According to the indictment, Kayode’s co-conspirators posed as the chief executive officer, president, owner, or other executive of the targeted company. Using e-mail s spoofed to make it appear as though they were from the company’s true business executive, Kayode’s co-conspirators directed business employees or recipients of the e-mail to complete wire transfers. The business employees, believing the requests were legitimate, complied with the wire transfer requests and wired the money as instructed by Kayode’s co-conspirators.

It is alleged Kayode provided bank information to the co-conspirators who sent the fraudulent e-mails, and which directed business employees to wire money to s controlled by Kayode and others. These bank s largely belonged to victims of internet romance scams, who were instructed by co-conspirators to transfer the funds to other bank s.

Some of Kayode’s co-conspirators have already been convicted and sentenced. Adewale Aniyeloye, one of the fraudsters sending the spoofed e-mails to the target business, was sentenced in February 2019 to 96 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $1,570,938.05 in restitution. Pelumi Fawehinimi, a bank facilitator, was sentenced in March 2019 to 72 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $1,014,159.60 in restitution.

Onome Ijomone, a romance scammer, was sentenced in January 2020 to 60 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $508,934.40 in restitution after his successful extradition from Poland. Other co-conspirators remain at large. Alex Ogunshakin, a co-conspirator who provided bank s for the scheme, was sentenced to 45 months’ imprisonment in October 2024 after his successful extradition from Nigeria.

“Four years ago, we identified six Nigerian nationals suspected of defrauding individual victims and businesses in Nebraska and other states of millions of dollars,” said FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. “Today, Abiola Kayode is the second of those co-conspirators to be extradited to stand trial in Nebraska. Our message to the remaining four co-conspirators; we are coming for you. Dismantling cyber-criminal groups that victimize U.S. citizens is a priority for the FBI, DOJ, and our international law enforcement partners. The FBI, working together with our partners in Ghana, particularly the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice, the Ghana Police Service – INTERPOL, and the Ghana Immigration Service, will continue to pursue and bring to justice criminals who engage in Business Email Compromise and other fraud schemes.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing Kayode’s extradition.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

https://gazettengr.com/fbi-nabs-most-wanted-fraudster-abiola-kayode-who-fled-nigeria-to-ghana-after-6-million-business-email-racket/

Coming from a failed gutter affairs coordinator.

BREAKING: Another Leader In Delta Community, Okuama, Pa Okugbaye Dies In Nigerian Army Detention

Pastor Akpos Okugbaye confirmed the news of his father's demise to SaharaReporters, saying his father ed on, Tuesday.

Barely a week after the death of Okuama community President General, Delta State, Pa James Oghoroko, in the Nigerian military detention, an 81 years old Dennis Okugbaye, Okuama community treasurer has reportedly died in the same circumstances, SaharaReporters reliably learnt.

SaharaReporters gathered that the news of the death of Pa Okugbaye which broke Tuesday has added to the severe tension in Okuama community.


The late Okugbaye was arrested along late Oghoroko, Prof Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Mrs. Mabel Owhemu and Mr. Dennis Malaka; all leaders in Okuama community were picked up on August 18 and 20, 2024 and have remained in military detention without trial.

Pastor Akpos Okugbaye confirmed the news of his father's demise to SaharaReporters, saying his father ed on, Tuesday.

It was gathered that Okugbaye family had within Monday and Tuesday sent close to over N401,000 for Okugbaye's medical treatment.

Recall that shortly after the demise of Pa Oghoroko, the people had raised serious concerns over the failing health condition of Pa Dennis Okugbaye, and demanded for his immediate release before he gave up the ghost on Tuesday.

A military medical report of the Late Okugbaye dated 6th December, 2024 sighted by SaharaReporters however shows that Pa Okugbaye was recommended for release due to his deteriorating health and age, but the authorities refused to release him.

SaharaReporters had on Monday reported that hundreds of residents of Okuama community in the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State comprising women and youths staged a peaceful protest against the torturng to death of their President-General, Pa James Oghoroko, by the Nigerian Army.

The protest, Saharareporters gathered, took place on Sunday.

The aggrieved protesters had given the Nigerian government and the military authorities seven-day ultimatum to release five community leaders still being held captive in military detention, and the body of the late Pa Oghoroko.

The protesters warned that failure by the Nigerian government and the Nigerian Army to effect release of the detained community leaders after the seven-day ultimatum will lead to their resorting to self-help.

The deceased President-General, Pa Oghoroko, was arrested alongside Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Dennis Okugbaye, Dennis Malaka, Madam Mabel and one other, between August 18 and 20, 2024, and had remained in unknown military detention facilities since then.

https://saharareporters.com/2024/12/10/breaking-another-leader-delta-community-okuama-pa-okugbaye-dies-nigerian-army-detention#google_vignette

These governors......the last one was petty,while this one is currently doing eye service.

Rhodes-Vivour: I’ll run for governor of Lagos again

Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in Lagos during the 2023 election, spoke during an interview on Gold Room anchored by Iyabo Ojo, a Nollywood actress.

The former LP governorship candidate said he would fix the trend of opposition parties fading into silence post-election.

“By God’s grace (I will run for governorship again in 2027). We are working. We gained a lot of traction, saw our mistakes. We saw the loopholes we made, and we’re working on that,” he said.

“I think the biggest mistake that has happened in Lagos politics is after elections, the opposition goes quiet. That is not happening this time.

“We’re in people’s faces. We’re doing our best in of health outreaches. We have a micro health insurance plan that we’re taking all across the state where people can get treatment of up to N6,000 for free.

“And just being up-to-date to current affairs and holding the government able, calling out when the government is spending our monies in extravagant ways, regardless of the suffering that Nigerians are dealing with.”

Rhodes-Vivour also asked for ability from Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos.

“So, with the level of suffering that Nigerians are dealing with, Lagosians are dealing with, we need to have ability and transparency, and our government must be using our money in the most efficient way possible,” he added.

“And that is the work of opposition. So when opposition does that, then the people benefit.”

https://www.thecable.ng/rhodes-vivour-ill-contest-for-2027-lagos-guber-poll-im-working-on-past-mistakes/

Nigeria’s tax reforms set to phase out collections by ‘agberos

Growing opposition threatens Tinubu’s tax reforms


The Nigerian tax reform bill aimed at consolidating existing tax laws and enhancing tax istration frameworks will reduce multiple taxation and collection from louts popularly known as ‘agberos’, analysts believe.

President Bola Tinubu embarked on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reforms to streamline tax istration in Nigeria and make the operating environment conducive for businesses.

“Most of these things have been applauded in the past that there should not be an arbitrary collection of tax by non-state actors such as agberos in the motor park or market as these things are illegal but there is no one to enforce,” Muda Yusuf, chief executive officer of PE.

“The problem is not in the reform but in the enforcement. There should be law enforcement agencies such as the military, police, civil defence, and customs to enforce it. It is necessary to have a framework for effective enforcement,” he stated.

Olaolu Boboye, lead economist at CardinalStone Securities Limited, said “taxes collected from agberos are informal and sometimes tracking them can be difficult. It will be more difficult for the government to regulate or manage.

“Once the bill is approved, the government can ask agberos to stop collecting from people,” he stated. The government can also try to make the collection more structured, depending on the approach they will take. The government is trying to make sure that they get enough taxes, especially from those evading or avoiding taxes.”

Boboye said the aim was to simplify the tax system in Nigeria because of the multiple taxation.

“The government also wants to ensure that the cost of collection is not exorbitant. All parties also have to be managed appropriately to ensure the agberos have what to do such as empowerment programs. It should be carefully crafted before any policy is enacted,” he said.

The bills are the t Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 -SB.583; the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024- SB.584; the Nigeria Tax istration Bill, 2024-SB.585; and the Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 – SB.586.

Some Nigerians have, however, criticised the tax reform bills, claiming they favour some parts of the country over others. However, proponents have said that many of those criticising the bills have not read their provisions and are only amplifying falsehoods.

However, the Senate has said they should stop deliberation for more consultation. The bills have elicited mixed reactions, with some stakeholders from the north diametrically opposed to their age.

These reform bills have also been faced with controversy by lawmakers, state governments.

Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Tinubu’s spokesperson, also said in a statement that the bills would not disproportionately favour any part of the country, contrary to claims of critics and skeptics.

“One reason President Bola Tinubu embarked on the Tax and Fiscal Policy Reforms is the need to streamline tax istration in Nigeria and make the operating environment conducive for businesses.

“For decades, businesses, investors, and private sector players in Nigeria have complained of being overburdened by a myriad of taxes and levies, including those earmarked to fund various government agencies and initiatives,” he stated.

He said the multiple taxes complicate the economic environment, making Nigeria uncompetitive for investment and preventing many businesses from growing or continuing their operations.

“Some companies have had to make the rational decision to relocate to other countries. We cannot continue on this path or wait for 20 years if this country is to deliver the prosperity we need for our people,” Onanuga said.

Taiwo Oyedele, the chairman of the Presidential Committee on Tax Policy and Fiscal Reforms, said on his LinkedIn page that “over 50 nuisance taxes are to be repealed, with remaining levies harmonised into a few number of taxes. Corporate income tax rates will reduce from 30 percent to 25 percent over the next two years, and earmarked taxes on companies will be replaced with a streamlined single levy.

“VAT revenue will be distributed among states based on an equitable model to reward economic contributions, rather than the current model which is skewed in favour of states with head office locations where VAT remittances are usually made,” he said.

In an interview on Channels Television, Oyedele pointed out that small businesses were dealing with over 60 official levies and taxes, as well as more than 200 unofficial ones, while many people are struggling to feed themselves due to escalating food inflation.

President Bola Tinubu asked the National Assembly to consider and four tax reform bills on October 3. The legislation consists of the Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax istration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the t Revenue Board Establishment Bill.

https://businessday.ng/news/article/nigerias-tax-reforms-set-to-phase-out-collections-by-agberos/#google_vignette

Nigeria’s justice system weak, sick, needs help – IGP

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on Thursday, said the criminal justice system in Nigeria is weak, sick and needs a complete overhaul.

The IGP explained that like a sick person who seeks medical help from a doctor, the nation’s criminal justice system also needs to be revived.

He however urged Nigerians to stop blaming the police.

Speaking at the 2024 Annual Lecture/Award Ceremony, organised by the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), Egbetokun said: “Police is not the only pillar or stakeholder in the criminal justice system in this country. We have challenges, we accept, but we will try our best to make sure we have a better system.

“All of us must come together to help perfect criminal justice or justice system istration in Nigeria. If this system is working well; it is going to affect you, it is going to us.”

The IGP was represented at the event by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), A, Muyiwa Adejobi.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (IC), Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, opined that corruption remains one of the most persistent challenges affecting all sectors and institutions of the Nigerian society, undermining policy-decision making.

Aliyu said: “Corruption remains one of the most persistent challenges affecting all sectors and institutions of the Nigerian society, undermines policy-decision making, resource mobilisation and utilisation, policy execution and service delivery.

“Our experience at the IC in partnership with key stakeholders, has shown that tackling corruption effectively, across sectors and institutions, requires a proactive, multi-faceted approach. This approach should focus not only on enforcement but also on prevention, deterrence, and systems reform.”

According to Aliyu, the Justice System istration faces institutional, funding, infrastructural, human resources, and socio-cultural challenges.

He added: “The widespread corruption within the justice system, including bribery, influence peddling and attitudinal challenges are more fundamental and daunting. I dare say that the justice sector remains a focal point of concern, particularly regarding bribery involving stakeholders in the justice sector, and despite limited public , judicial officials exhibit relatively high bribery prevalence, hence the need for targeted anti-corruption measures in this sector.”

https://dailytrust.com/nigerias-justice-system-weak-sick-needs-help-igp/

EXCLUSIVE: King's College London In Panic Over Afe Babalola's scandal, s Amnesty International To Check What To Do

The London College is also monitoring the growing condemnation from Nigerians against Babalola, which bothers on the legal luminary's defamation suit against human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi.

The King's College London in the United Kingdom is presently worried over its Afe Babalola Centre for Transnational Education, named after legal luminary, Afe Babalola, as Nigerians are mounting pressure on the institution and reporting Babalola for alleged abuse of powers.

The London College is also monitoring the growing condemnation from Nigerians against Babalola, which bothers on the legal luminary's defamation suit against human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi.

SaharaReporters learnt on Wednesday that there is pressure on the reputable UK College to drop the naming of the centre after Afe Babalola over his alleged use of the Nigerian police to harass Farotimi and to ensure he is currently in remand.

Established in 2023, the Afe Babalola Centre enables King's College London and its network of partners to provide young Africans with access to education and opportunities which they would otherwise not have.

The centre noted on its website that its vision is based on the power of education to empower and enable Africa’s talented young people to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world.

The centre said it is funded by Afe Babalola, and it is ing Africa’s best minds to become local, national and global leaders.

Top sources in the know of the matter told SaharaReporters that the King's College London has reached out to the Amnesty International, a global human rights organisation, for advisory on what to do.

"Afe Babalola gave them 10 million pounds to set up the center. So, the King's College was responding to public pressure from Nigerians all over the world to cancel the Afe Babalola’s Center for Transnational Education, following his role in arresting Dele Farotimi," one of the top sources revealed.

"So there is panic at the King's College London over Afe Babalola's scandal with Farotimi. The College has ed the Amnesty International to check for what to do," the source revealed further.

SaharaReporters had on Wednesday reported that the Amnesty International demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Farotimi, detained by the Nigeria Police Force in Ekiti State.

Amnesty International had said that in the Nigerian police custody, there is little hope of fair treatment and no transparency, adding that the police interrogation centers across the country are also notorious locations of possible violations.

The global human rights organisation had warned that the President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government must end the escalation of clampdown on dissenting voices in the country and allow everyone in the country to freely exercise their fundamental rights as guaranteed by Nigeria’s constitution and international law.

In a short statement issued on its social media , Amnesty International said, “Dele Farotimi must be immediately and unconditionally released. In custody of Nigeria Police, there is little hope of fair treatment and no transparency.

“Police Interrogation centers are also notorious locations of possible violations.

“President Bola Tinubu’s government must end this escalating clampdown on dissenting voices and allow everyone in the country to freely exercise their human rights as guaranteed by Nigeria’s constitution and international law.”

SaharaReporters also reported that the Ekiti State Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti denied bail to Farotimi, who is facing allegations of cybercrime.

Farotimi was arrested following a petition by a legal luminary, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN).

The charge suit no: MAD/1,476.C/2024, pits the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police as the complainant against Farotimi as the defendant.

Some of the charges had read, "That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System" which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you stated at page IX of the book: "That Aare Afe Babalola corrupted the Supreme Court to procure a fraudulent judgment in the service of his clients" which is likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or disturb the public peace knowing or having reason to believe that the Statements is false and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 59(1) of Criminal Code Act.

"That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System" which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you stated at page X: "That Aare Afe Babalola, Olu Daramola, Olu Faro and the law offices of Afe Babalola & Co, (Emmanuel Chambers) compromised the Supreme Court and the remaining semblance of integrity it might have had when they went back to the Supreme Court and got that Court to swim in the sewer of corruption and shameful self abnegation" which is likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or disturb the public peace knowing or having reason to believe that the Statements is false and thereby committed an offence.

"That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you alleged in page X, That Aare Afe Babalola, Olu Daramola, Olu Faro and the law offices of Afe Babalola & Co, (Emmanuel Chambers) compromised the Supreme Court and the remaining semblance of integrity it might have had when they went back to the Supreme Court and got that Court to swim in the sewer of corruption and shameful self- Abnegation which statement you knew were false and likely to injure the reputation of the said Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, FCIArb, LL.D.; Olu Daramola, SAN, FCIArb; Mr Ola Faro and the law firm of Afe Babalola & Co. by exposing them to hatred, contempt, ridicule and damage them in their profession and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 373 of the Criminal Code Act and punishable under Section 375 of Criminal Code Act.

"That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you criminally defamed the pe person of Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, FCIArb in page IX, of the said book.

It said, "That Aare Afe Babalola corrupted the Supreme Court to procure allegations and clients are a fraudulent ju knew were faise likely judgement in the to injure the of the said Aare Ale Babel conten, OFR, Colure the reputation by exposing him to thereby committe ridicule and Carb. LL.D in his profession and Chennal Coumitted an offend damage him in section 373 of the Codenal Code Act and punishablontrary Section 375 of Criminal Act.

"That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored published and circul karotimi book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice Systericulated your booked and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti hicthin the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you criminally dehimed the person of Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, FCIALdam page, of the said book where you stated: "That I sued Afe Babalola SAN for libel and that he leveraged his influence in the judiciary to deny me justice" which statement you knew were false allegations and likely to injure the reputation of the said Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, FCIArb, LL.D by exposing him to hatred, contempt, ridicule and damage him in his profession and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 373 of the Criminal Code Act and punishable under Section 375 of Criminal Code Act.

"That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you criminally defamed the person of Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, FCIArb in pages 10-11 of the said book."

The court also denied bail to Farotimi and adjourned till December 10, 2024.

https://saharareporters.com/2024/12/04/exclusive-kings-college-london-panic-over-afe-babalolas-scandal-s-amnesty#google_vignette

EXCLUSIVE: King's College London In Panic Over Afe Babalola's Scandal, s Amnesty International To Check What To Do

The London College is also monitoring the growing condemnation from Nigerians against Babalola, which bothers on the legal luminary's defamation suit against human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi.

The King's College London in the United Kingdom is presently worried over its Afe Babalola Centre for Transnational Education, named after legal luminary, Afe Babalola, as Nigerians are mounting pressure on the institution and reporting Babalola for alleged abuse of powers.

The London College is also monitoring the growing condemnation from Nigerians against Babalola, which bothers on the legal luminary's defamation suit against human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi.

SaharaReporters learnt on Wednesday that there is pressure on the reputable UK College to drop the naming of the centre after Afe Babalola over his alleged use of the Nigerian police to harass Farotimi and to ensure he is currently in remand.

Established in 2023, the Afe Babalola Centre enables King's College London and its network of partners to provide young Africans with access to education and opportunities which they would otherwise not have.

The centre noted on its website that its vision is based on the power of education to empower and enable Africa’s talented young people to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world.

The centre said it is funded by Afe Babalola, and it is ing Africa’s best minds to become local, national and global leaders.

Top sources in the know of the matter told SaharaReporters that the King's College London has reached out to the Amnesty International, a global human rights organisation, for advisory on what to do.

"Afe Babalola gave them 10 million pounds to set up the center. So, the King's College was responding to public pressure from Nigerians all over the world to cancel the Afe Babalola’s Center for Transnational Education, following his role in arresting Dele Farotimi," one of the top sources revealed.

"So there is panic at the King's College London over Afe Babalola's scandal with Farotimi. The College has ed the Amnesty International to check for what to do," the source revealed further.

SaharaReporters had on Wednesday reported that the Amnesty International demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Farotimi, detained by the Nigeria Police Force in Ekiti State.

Amnesty International had said that in the Nigerian police custody, there is little hope of fair treatment and no transparency, adding that the police interrogation centers across the country are also notorious locations of possible violations.

The global human rights organisation had warned that the President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government must end the escalation of clampdown on dissenting voices in the country and allow everyone in the country to freely exercise their fundamental rights as guaranteed by Nigeria’s constitution and international law.

In a short statement issued on its social media , Amnesty International said, “Dele Farotimi must be immediately and unconditionally released. In custody of Nigeria Police, there is little hope of fair treatment and no transparency.

“Police Interrogation centers are also notorious locations of possible violations.

“President Bola Tinubu’s government must end this escalating clampdown on dissenting voices and allow everyone in the country to freely exercise their human rights as guaranteed by Nigeria’s constitution and international law.”

SaharaReporters also reported that the Ekiti State Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti denied bail to Farotimi, who is facing allegations of cybercrime.

Farotimi was arrested following a petition by a legal luminary, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN).

The charge suit no: MAD/1,476.C/2024, pits the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police as the complainant against Farotimi as the defendant.

Some of the charges had read, "That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System" which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you stated at page IX of the book: "That Aare Afe Babalola corrupted the Supreme Court to procure a fraudulent judgment in the service of his clients" which is likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or disturb the public peace knowing or having reason to believe that the Statements is false and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 59(1) of Criminal Code Act.

"That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System" which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you stated at page X: "That Aare Afe Babalola, Olu Daramola, Olu Faro and the law offices of Afe Babalola & Co, (Emmanuel Chambers) compromised the Supreme Court and the remaining semblance of integrity it might have had when they went back to the Supreme Court and got that Court to swim in the sewer of corruption and shameful self abnegation" which is likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or disturb the public peace knowing or having reason to believe that the Statements is false and thereby committed an offence.

"That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you alleged in page X, That Aare Afe Babalola, Olu Daramola, Olu Faro and the law offices of Afe Babalola & Co, (Emmanuel Chambers) compromised the Supreme Court and the remaining semblance of integrity it might have had when they went back to the Supreme Court and got that Court to swim in the sewer of corruption and shameful self- Abnegation which statement you knew were false and likely to injure the reputation of the said Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, FCIArb, LL.D.; Olu Daramola, SAN, FCIArb; Mr Ola Faro and the law firm of Afe Babalola & Co. by exposing them to hatred, contempt, ridicule and damage them in their profession and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 373 of the Criminal Code Act and punishable under Section 375 of Criminal Code Act.

"That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you criminally defamed the pe person of Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, FCIArb in page IX, of the said book.

It said, "That Aare Afe Babalola corrupted the Supreme Court to procure allegations and clients are a fraudulent ju knew were faise likely judgement in the to injure the of the said Aare Ale Babel conten, OFR, Colure the reputation by exposing him to thereby committe ridicule and Carb. LL.D in his profession and Chennal Coumitted an offend damage him in section 373 of the Codenal Code Act and punishablontrary Section 375 of Criminal Act.

"That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored published and circul karotimi book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice Systericulated your booked and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti hicthin the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you criminally dehimed the person of Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, FCIALdam page, of the said book where you stated: "That I sued Afe Babalola SAN for libel and that he leveraged his influence in the judiciary to deny me justice" which statement you knew were false allegations and likely to injure the reputation of the said Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, FCIArb, LL.D by exposing him to hatred, contempt, ridicule and damage him in his profession and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 373 of the Criminal Code Act and punishable under Section 375 of Criminal Code Act.

"That you Dele Farotimi 'm' sometimes in 2024 authored, published and circulated your book titled: "Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System which was received and read all over the world including Ado-Ekiti within the Ado-Ekiti Magisterial District wherein you criminally defamed the person of Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, OFR, CON, FCIArb in pages 10-11 of the said book."

The court also denied bail to Farotimi and adjourned till December 10, 2024.

https://saharareporters.com/2024/12/04/exclusive-kings-college-london-panic-over-afe-babalolas-scandal-s-amnesty#google_vignette