Satisfied with the evidence of 19 witnesses they produced to testify before the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, yesterday, closed their case.

The petitioners are challenging the declaration of Governor Monday Okpebholo of All Progressives Congress, APC, as winner of the gubernatorial contest held September 21, 2024 in the state.

At the resumed proceeding in the matter, lead counsel for the petitioners, Mr. Robert Emukpoeruo, SAN, informed the Justice Wilfred Kpochi-led three-member panel tribunal that they have concluded their case.

The application came shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, produced five additional Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS, machines that were used for the election.

The electronic devices, which were tendered by a Senior Technical Officer in the ICT Department of INEC, Mr. Anthony Itodo, were admitted in evidence, though all the respondents in the matter objected, saying they would give their reasons in their final written addresses.

It will be recalled that the tribunal had earlier admitted in evidence, a total of 148 BVAS that were used in 133 polling units where results of the election were being disputed by the PDP.

Meanwhile, the tribunal has fixed tomorrow, for INEC to open its defence.

INEC had declared that Okpebholo of the APC secured 291,667 votes to defeat his closet rivalry, Ighodalo of the PDP, who got 247,655 votes.

Aggrieved by the outcome of the poll, the PDP and its candidate approached the tribunal, praying it to nullify INEC’s declaration of the APC and Okpebholo as winners of the contest.

The petitioners, among other things, contended that the governorship election was invalid by reason of alleged non-compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act.

They equally argued in the petition marked: EPT/ED/GOV/02/2024, that Okpebholo of the APC did not secure the highest number of lawful votes that were cast at the election.

It is a profound privilege to be engaged in this esteemed profession. It is essential to recognize that, as an educator, your role extends beyond mere instruction; you are instrumental in shaping the future of a nation through your teaching. Your lessons should transcend conventional experiences, ensuring that each session leaves a lasting impression on your students. In my view, cultivating a growth mindset among teachers should be approached with genuine commitment and instinctive understanding.

What constitutes a growth mindset? A fitting definition, as provided by IGl Global of Timely Knowledge, describes it as "the belief that a person's talent and abilities can be improved upon with consistent, sustained, and targeted effort."

How can we cultivate a growth mindset? There are numerous strategies for educators to enhance their mindset. Primarily, it involves establishing high expectations, fostering curiosity, selecting diverse tasks, and actively seeking feedback. Additionally, persistence and a strong desire for learning are essential. Dr. Carol S. Dweck's groundbreaking research on the growth mindset has significantly transformed the educational landscape. Her findings, published online on November 28, 2007, in "The Secret to Raising Smart Kids" by Scientific American, emphasize that teaching individuals to adopt a growth mindset—prioritizing effort over innate intelligence or talent—can lead to greater success both academically and in life.

Embrace a growth mindset that resonates with you. Foster a learning environment within your classroom. You hold the authority in your class; it is unnecessary to explicitly state this to your students. Your actions and responses will speak volumes. Nurture this role diligently. Engage your students positively, maintain an open mind, and involve them in decision-making processes. Acknowledge their humanity and allow them to make choices regarding their learning environment. However, it is crucial to address any instances of indiscipline promptly. I am confident that your influence will leave a lasting impression on their life journeys. Continuously enrich your knowledge and consistently adopt a growth mindset. Strive to be the best version of yourself. Your potential as an educator is recognized globally. Cultivate the ability to learn and relearn, enhancing your intellectual capacity while delivering your lessons.

President Bola Tinubu has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a suit that is seeking to compel the National Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings against him over alleged rights violations.

The plaintiff, in his suit that has the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, as the 2nd defendant, is seeking six principal reliefs from the court.

He urged the court to declare that alleged persistent suppression of peaceful protests organised by Nigerian citizens, by the President Tinubu-led administration, amounts to an impeachable offence.

For instance, the plaintiff alleged that the government had, between August 1 and 10, 2024, violently clamped down on peaceful protesters across the federation, an action he argued constituted misconduct and a ground for Tinubu’s impeachment from office.

The plaintiff maintained that section 143 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, empowered the NASS to set machinery in motion for President Tinubu’s impeachment.

However, in a joint preliminary objection they filed against the suit, both President Tinubu and the AGF queried the locus standi (legal right) of the plaintiff to institute the action.

Aside from praying the court to dismiss the suit for being incompetent, the defendants insisted that the action failed to disclose any reasonable cause of action to warrant an exercise of judicial discretion in his favour.

In the process, they filed through a team of lawyers led by Mr. Sanusi Musa, SAN; President Tinubu; and AGF further challenged the jurisdiction of the court to hear the matter.

More so, the defendants applied for “an order striking out this suit for being incompetent as this suit is not initiated by due process of law having been initiated under a wrong procedure.”

Adducin 18 reasons why the case should be terminated, President Tinubu and the AGF argued that the plaintiff filed the action on behalf of faceless citizens, noting that he did not disclose the persons whose rights were allegedly violated.

The defendants argued that by the provision of Section 46 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, only the person whose right was breached has the right to file an action before the court to seek redress.

According to the defendants, “Pursuant to the provision of Section 46 (3), the Chief Justice of Nigeria has {brought into being the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009, which makes ample provision of the procedure to follow in filing an action with respect to a breach of the Fundamental Rights of any Nigerian.”

They argued that the plaintiff’s questions two and three for determination were in respect of the alleged breach of the 1999 Constitution by the 1st defendant (President Tinubu) vis-a-vis Section 143 of the said constitution.

The defendants maintained that the plaintiff failed to disclose any of his rights that were breached.

Likewise, in a counter affidavit that was deposed to one Gbemga Oladimeji, a principal state counsel in the Federal Ministry of Justice, he averred that contrary to the plaintiff’s claim, the President Tinubu-led government has been a promoter of democratic tenets.

He averred that the president had always allowed people to air their grievances and conduct peaceful protests.

“I know for a fact that the protest conducted between 1st August 2024 and 10th August 2024 was peaceful, as there was a court order limiting the protesters to demonstrate within a confined location,” he added.

The deponent added that during the protest, security agents under the control of the president were present to protect the protesters and ensure that their civil action was not hijacked by hoodlums.

“I know as a fact that the 1st defendant has always ensured that law and order are adhered to strictly by the security agencies and institutions of the arm of government.

“Contrary to the deposition in paragraph 26 of the Affidavit in support of the Originating Summons, I know as a fact that the 1st defendant has not violated any provision of his oath of office and allegiance.

“There has been no breach on his part that would warrant his impeachment from office as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he further averred.

Meanwhile, Justice James Omotosho, on Monday, adjourned the case till March 4 to enable the counsel representing the plaintiff, Mr. Stanley Okonmah, to respond to the preliminary objection by President Tinubu and the AGF.

Four persons were reported killed on Sunday night in Rimin Auzinawa, Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State, following a clash between residents of the area and security operatives during a demolition.

Our correspondent learnt that the victims were allegedly shot dead when security personnel opened fire after residents resisted the destruction of their buildings.

The team,  according to a witness, promptly began demolishing properties, which was met with stiff resistance from residents of the community.

“In the ensuing chaos, security operatives allegedly opened fire, killing two people on the spot, while two others were rushed to the hospital, where they were subsequently pronounced dead,” he said.

Another eyewitness told PUNCH Metro operatives of the Kano Urban Planning and Development Authority had previously marked the affected buildings, mostly residential buildings under construction, for demolition.

The affected buildings were said to be about 40, while the disputed land belongs to the Bayero University, Kano.

A resident affected by the demolition who spoke on condition of anonymity, told our correspondent in a telephone interview on Monday, that the KNUPDA had initially cleared the properties, confirming they were not within the university’s land.

“We resolved all issues with KNUPDA. They assured us that our properties were not within the BUK land. But on Sunday night, officials of KNUPDA and security operatives arrived and demolished the buildings.

“When people resisted, security forces opened fire, killing four individuals who have now been buried. It’s a tragic situation,” the source said.

Efforts to obtain an official response from KNUPDA were unsuccessful, as efforts to contact the agency’s Managing Director proved abortive as his mobile phone was not switched off.

Meanwhile, the KNUPDA office had been deserted while most of the officials were alleged to have gone into hiding for fear of being attacked by the aggrieved residents of the area.

When contacted the Public Relations Officer of Kano State Police Command, SP Abdullahi Haruna, confirmed the incident.

He, however, directed our correspondent to contact the PRO of the state command of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps “as they have the casualty on their side.”

When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, Kano Command, Ibrahim Abdullahi, confirmed the incident, adding that security personnel, including their officials, were deployed to the area to protect government property but were confronted with hostility.

“We went there to provide security and safeguard government properties. However, the residents attacked our personnel, injured one of our officers, and damaged our vehicles,” Abdullahi said.

When contacted, the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning confirmed that the said lands in dispute belonged to the Bayero University but declined further comments.

Sources at the ministry revealed that the government would soon make its position known on the matter.

The loading cost of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) at private depots dropped to N925 per litre on Monday.

The amount was a difference of N27 from N952 offered by the highest-selling depot last Friday.

Marketers said this reduction was influenced by the decision by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery to reduce its ex-depot price of PMS, from N950 to N890 per litre, effective from Saturday.

This development came at a huge cost to many petroleum marketers who bought products at higher costs.

It was learned that some marketers who bought the product a few hours before the announcement would be forced to sell below the cost, incurring debts running into millions of naira.

Meanwhile, data obtained by our correspondent analysing petrol price movements at loading depots showed that there was a significant price drop across all depots although this is yet to impact the retail cost of petrol.

Nipco Depot reduced its selling price to N935 from N952 per litre last Friday. Chipet reduced its loading price to N935 per litre from N945 last Friday. Also, Aiteo slashed its costs to N925 from N942.

Wosbab Depot reduced its price to N930 from N947, while Rain Oil Depot made a similar change to N935 from the N947 that it sold a litre of petrol last Friday.

In Warri, Matrix reduced its price to N960 from N970 per litre. AYM Shafa sold at N960 from N970.

Zone 4 depot in Calabar reduced its price by N8 to N950 from N958 per litre. Alkanes sold at N949 and Northwest sold at N950.

Reacting, an oil and gas expert, Olatide Jeremiah said the price drop was expected.

He said, “Dangote refinery’s reduction of petrol to 890 has influenced private depots and importers to immediately review their fuel price downwards. His capacity in Refining and gantry loading has earned him the market leader in the downstream sector. The era of hoarding and price manipulation is gone. The market share war has forced all players to sit up, thus, it should start reflecting through reduction of fuel at the pump.”

He further called on the regulatory authority to completely regulate filling stations, so the constant price reduction at the depot would reflect at the pump immediately.

Police grill monarch

The Ogun State Government on Monday placed the Olorile of Orile-Ifo, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, on a six-month suspension for his uncivil conduct not befitting the status of an Oba.

The decision, according to a statement from the Special Adviser to Gov Dapo Abiodun on Communication and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, on Monday, was reached after Oba Ogunjobi and his victim, 73-year-old Areola Abraham, were invited by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, for interrogation.

Akinmade said, “This became imperative as a result of the reckless utterances and public misconduct of the Kabiyesi as it was evident in the social media and being bandied in the larger public space.

“After the investigation conducted on the matter, the Kabiyesi has been suspended and stripped of the paraphernalia of the stool of Olorile-Ifo pending the determination of his culpability or otherwise on the allegation.

“The foregoing decision was reached by the ministry in conjunction with the Egba Traditional Council in accordance with Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State 2021”.

Meanwhile, the Committee for Defence of Human Rights, on Monday petitioned the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, demanding the arrest and prosecution of Oba Ogunjobi for assaulting Abraham in a viral video.

The National Vice President of CDHR, Mr Yinka Folarin, disclosed this while addressing journalists in Abeokuta on Monday.

Folarin said that Oba Ogunjobi is said to be found of allegedly going about with thugs to intimidate and harass members of the public while using his influence as a former police officer to perpetrate all forms of nefarious activities.

He explained that “The atrocities of Oba Ogunjobi as captured in a viral video include the recent assault on Elder Areola Abraham Love JP, a 73-year-old resident of Ifo, on January 21, 2025.

“Elder Areola Abraham Love JP was beaten by Oba Semiu Adewale Ogunjobi and members of his suspected killer squad.

“The victim, an elderly man with an ailment, narrated his ordeal, stating that he was going to get food when the Olorile of Ifo saw and called him.

“He respectfully crossed to honour the call, only to be attacked by the Oba, who slapped him severally and ordered his squad to descend on him; all pleas by the old man meant nothing to the Oba, who is notorious for his thuggery and public assaults”.

Folarin said that the viral video and the testimonies of the victim revealed that Ogunjobi assaulted Areola, slapped him severally, kicked and forced him to kneel down and prostrate, an act that was carried out by himself and his men.

The CDHR has therefore urged the IG to ensure the arrest and prosecution of Oba Ogunjobi to establish that no one is indeed above the law, no matter the status in the society.

The association also urged the state governor to within 72 hours commence the process to remove Oba Ogunjobi from office for descrating the traditional stools and for not behaving in way that hold the traditional stools in high esteem and greater respect.

Speaking during the press briefing, Areola said he had done nothing to warrant such a humiliating attack from the royal father.

The community leader said that the attack has left him traumatised and he is now very afraid of his life.

He said, “I asked him what I did, but he never wanted to listen to me; he only wanted to molest me; that is what he does. When he gets to his hotel, he will now be showing them the video; he will say look at how he was begging me; I molested him and made him beg.

“He said he is in control of the police, that he will kill me and nothing will happen, I however want Nigeria government to save me from him, he said he would kill me and nothing will happen. I am now very afraid of my life.”

Ogunjobi had sparked outrage after a viral video surfaced showing him verbally and physically assaulting Areola.

In the footage, some men with Ogunjobi were seen slapping the elderly man and forcing him to kneel and prostrate.

The incident led to widespread condemnation.

Police grill monarch

The Ogun State Police Command on Monday invited and interrogated the Olorile of Orile-Ifo, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, for assaulting a 73-year-old chief, Areola Abraham.

Giving an update on the incident via a post on his X handle on Monday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuiywa Adejobi, disclosed that the monarch had been invited and interrogated over the matter.

The FPRO noted that the Police Force could not be controlled by any individual, stating that justice would be served in the matter.

Adejobi said, “The Oba has been invited and interrogated today by the command. The matter is being looked into for justice to prevail. Nobody can claim to be controlling the NPF. Justice must be served by all means. Thanks.”

The federal executive council (FEC), presided over by President Bola Tinubu, has approved N885 billion for the execution of 10 road projects.

Speaking after the FEC meeting on Monday in Abuja, David Umahi, minister of works, said the projects are aimed at upgrading Nigeria’s road networks and bridges across various states.

He highlighted additional major projects approved, including the reconstruction of three sections of the Lokoja-Benin road, an important route for trade and transportation. 

“The project will be carried out in concrete and includes: Obajana to Benin (Section I): N64 billion, Auchi to Edo (Section II): N110 billion, Benin Airport to Edo (Section III): N131 billion. The total cost of this project alone is over N305 billion,” the minister said.

He added that FEC approved N252 billion for the Abuja-Kano highway, which has been restructured into two main sections.

According to Umahi, section one extends from the FCT boundary to Niger state, with an additional 5.71 kilometres, while section two covers areas in Kano state, with a 17-kilometre expansion.

He said most of the project will be constructed with concrete, incorporating solar lighting along its 118-kilometre stretch.

“The council also gave the green light for the reconstruction of the Second Niger Bridge access roads in Delta and Anambra states,” he said.

“The Delta section is set to be constructed using concrete for a contract sum of ₦470.9 billion, while the Anambra section will cost N148 billion.

“Further approvals include: Onitsha-Owerri expressway: N22 billion, Musasa-Jos-Kaduna road: N18 billion, Abia and Enugu state road rehabilitation: N12.75 billion.”

FEC APPROVES N3BN FOR EVALUATION OF BRIDGES IN LAGOS 

For Lagos, he announced that FEC approved N3.571 billion for a thorough evaluation of the Third Mainland and Carter Bridges.

Umahi said the assessment will focus on examining the structural integrity of the underwater piles and identifying measures to prevent further deterioration.

Another key project is the continuation of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway (phase II, section I), approved with a budget of N195 billion.

Umahi noted that the federal government is focused on implementing cost-effective solutions, particularly by shifting major road projects to concrete construction, which is expected to offer greater durability and long-term cost savings.

He praised the ministry’s success in renegotiating project costs, stating that by using concrete for key sections, the ministry has achieved substantial savings compared to previous projections.

Addressing concerns about delays and structural issues on some roads, including sections of the Abuja-Lokoja road, the minister assured that contractors have been assigned to fix the issues.

“We are not accepting excuses such as high temperatures for road failures. The affected sections are being redone with proper oversight,” he said.

FEC APPROVES N159BN FOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IN ABUJA

Also speaking, Mariya Bunkure, minister of state for the FCT, announced that the FEC also approved an investment of N159.5 billion for five major infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the road networks and transportation systems within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

Bunkure said one of the key projects approved is the construction of a bus terminal in Mabushi, awarded to Setraco Nigeria Limited for N30.97 billion.

The minister said the project is expected to be completed within 18 months and is part of a larger initiative to enhance urban mobility in Abuja.

“Another critical project is the Arterial Road N1, which will connect Wuye District to Ring Road II. Valued at N62.5 billion, this contract has been awarded to Arab Contractors Nigeria Limited and is projected to take 20 months to complete,” the minister said.

“Additionally, the government has sanctioned the Kuje-Gwagwalada dual carriageway project, aimed at enhancing connectivity between key satellite towns.

“This project, costing ₦7.5 billion, has been awarded to Gilmo Engineering Nigeria Limited.

“The rehabilitation of Old Keffi Road, a vital 15-kilometer stretch linking Kado Village to Dei-Dei, is also on the agenda with a budget of ₦26.87 billion, awarded to Lubric Construction Company Limited, set for completion in 18 months.

“Finally, an access road to the Renewed Hope Cities and Estate Project in Kasana West District has been approved for ₦31.66 billion, also awarded to Lubric Construction Company Limited with an expected completion timeline of 18 months.”

Bunkure said the infrastructure projects are aimed at improving mobility while also boosting socio-economic activities and increasing access to both residential and commercial developments across the FCT.

She assured that the contracts would be closely monitored to ensure timely delivery and adherence to quality standards.

The minister said the infrastructure plan supports Tinubu’s broader vision for urban development and connectivity in Nigeria’s capital, demonstrating a commitment to tackle long-standing infrastructure gaps and foster economic growth in both urban and satellite regions.

The Kaduna state council of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) began an indefinite strike on Monday.

According to NAN, the strike was in protest of the alleged termination of 900 staff from Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KAEDCO).

The workers, carrying placards, blocked the entrance to the company’s corporate headquarters. 

They prevented both employees and customers from entering the premises.

The workers also accused the management of failing to pay death and retirement benefits, contrary to the conditions of service.

Speaking on the matter, Pukat Ayuba, zonal organising secretary for NUEE northwest zone, said the strike would continue until the company rescinds the termination letters and pays the benefits owed.

“A year ago, we shut down Kaduna Electric’s premises over staff issues, including pension and welfare. One year later, nothing has been resolved,” Ayuba said.

“The termination of 900 staff, disregarding the conditions of service, is unacceptable. It worsens Nigeria’s growing problems.”

The publication said in a letter signed by Abubakar Mohammed, deputy managing director of KAEDCO, dated January 31, that the company directed affected workers to return the company’s property.

The letter also said the severance packages were being arranged and that the workers’ services were no longer required effective January 31.

In March 2024, workers under the NUEE embarked on an indefinite strike over alleged poor treatment by the management of the KAEDCO.

The action exposed electricity consumers in its franchise — Kaduna, Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi — to total blackout

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has reached an agreement with the federal government to temporarily suspend its planned nationwide protest against the 50 percent increase in telecommunications tariffs.

Following a meeting on Monday with government representatives, NLC leadership, led Joe Ajaero, president of the congress, agreed to delay the protest for two weeks.

As part of the agreement, a 10-member committee, consisting of five members from each side, has been established to review the tariff hike report and propose solutions that address the concerns of both telecom operators and consumers.

The committee is expected to submit its findings within two weeks.

NLC had announced plans to go on nationwide protests on February 4 after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50 percent increase in telecom tariffs, citing rising operational costs and inflation.

Speaking with journalists after the meeting, the NLC president lamented that the labour was not consulted before the tariff hike was agreed upon by the NCC.

“We emphasised to them that the NLC is the largest organisation in the whole of Africa, and there is no consultation of stakeholders that does not include us that will stand,” Ajaero said.

“It was on that premise that they agreed to have a larger committee to look at the entire tariff structure and model to come up with a realistic and all-inclusive agreement.

“So, the committee will be made up of five, five from both sides, and expected to come up with a result after two weeks that will determine the next line of action and the process of engagement.

“The symbolic action of submitting the letters tomorrow will be put on hold until the outcome of such a committee.

“The outcome of such committee is what will determine our next line of action in terms of protest, in terms of boycott, in terms of even withdrawal of services, which are the three issues put online.

“But I want to use this particular meeting to put in our displeasure on the electricity tariff and the tax that is killing the workers now the tax regime, which is unbearable.

“So those are actions that are still on course, you know, until they are addressed. So that’s the summary of the meeting.”

Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, said there would be no protest on February 4.

“Well, as you can see, we have been engaging with members of Nigeria Labour Congress, the leadership, the president, secretary, and other members of the executive council of the NLC,” the minister said.

“We have met here under the chairmanship of the secretary government of the federation. We have the minister of finance and the coordinating minister of the economy, the minister of budget, the minister of communication, minister of labour and myself, and, of course, the executive vice chairman of the NCC.

“We have deliberated at length. The crux of the matter is that there is already a study that was conducted by the NCC that led them to arrive at this 50 percent increase.

“Now, we are discussing this with labour and labour has agreed that they will look at that study, and then a small committee has been set up to look at that study once again and come up with a final resolution for the consideration of government and labour in about two weeks’ time.

“So, the summary of it is that labour and the Nigerians Labour Congress specifically, and the delegation of the federal government, have set up a committee of five each.

“We’re going to meet here continuously for the next two weeks, and at the end of the second week, we will now come up with a recommendation that will give to government and the organised labour for final consideration.

“Now, I think what has happened here has effectively taken out that position (protests). Both of us have agreed. And in fact, it is an attempt to put a stop to that (protests) that led us to make this meeting to happen today.

“So this meeting has happened both the organized labour, the NLC, particularly the government People have sat down here and have agreed on this position so there won’t be any protest tomorrow by Nigerian Labour Congress, and there will be some form of report that will come up in about two weeks from now to consider the study and other considerations by both parties

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Mustapha Mohammed, chief executive officer (CEO) of MB Lugga Global Travels and Tours Limited, before a federal high court in Gombe on charges of defrauding hajj pilgrims.

The EFCC accused Mohammed of fraudulently obtaining N144,162,500 from the pilgrims for services related to the 2024 Ramadan Lesser Hajj in Saudi Arabia, including flight tickets, visas, and accommodation.

The EFCC claimed that Mohammed, in collaboration with Nazifi Sale Idris, who is currently at large, defrauded a man named Hamza Ibrahim Maina of N97,080,000 via Mohammed’s personal Access Bank account.

Another charge involves a similar scam against Ibrahim Arabia, for which Mohammed allegedly obtained N29,082,500.

Count one of the charges reads: “That you, Mustapha Mohammed, male adult, while being the Chief Executive Officer of MB Lugga Global Travel and Tours Limited and Nazifi Sale Idris (now at large) sometimes in 2024 at Gombe, Gombe state within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did with intent to defraud falsely obtained through your personal Access Bank plc account number 0026323827, the total sum of N97,080,000.00(Ninety Seven Million, Eighty Thousand Naira) from one Hamza Ibrahim Maina for the purpose of procurement of flight tickets, visas and accommodation for 2024 Ramadan Lesser Hajj in Saudi Arabia which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other related offences Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act”.

Count two of the charge reads: “That you Mustapha Muhammed, male adult, while being the Chief Executive Officer of MB Lugga Global Travel and Tours Limited and Nazifi Sale Idris( now at large) sometime between December,2023 and February, 2024 at Gombe, Gombe State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did with intent to defraud falsely obtained through your personal Access Bank plc account number 0026323827, the total sum of N29,082,500.00(Twenty Nine million, Eighty Two Thousand, Five Hundred Naira) from one Ibrahim Arabia for the Ramadan Lesser Hajj in Saudi Arabia which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(2)(a) of the Advanced Fee Fraud and other fraud related offences Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act”.

Upon pleading guilty to the charges, Mohammed’s counsel, M.Z. Gambo, applied for bail. However, the prosecution, led by S.H. Saad, opposed the application, arguing that Mohammed poses a flight risk.

The EFCC highlighted that Mohammed faces additional fraud allegations amounting to N120,869,500 from various complainants.

“My lord, the defendant still has about eight (8) other pending petitions filed by different nominal complainants alleging that he defrauded them to the aggregate sum of N120,869,500 and if granted bail, he might flew the shores of Nigeria and may never be found again. Therefore, for the interest of justice, we urge my Lord not to grant the defendant bail.” he said

Tijjani Ringim, the presiding judge, adjourned the case for a ruling on the bail application and ordered that Mohammed be remanded in the Gombe State correctional facility