FEATURES
Ali Ndume, senator representing Borno south, has threatened to dump the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the four tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu.
Ndume spoke on Thursday night when he appeared on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme – hours after the senate passed the bills for second reading.
In October, Tinubu asked the national assembly to consider and pass the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service, the Nigeria Tax Administration bill, and the Nigeria tax bill.
The Borno senator has been vocal against the bills. The governors in the northern part of the country are also against the legislations.
While appearing on the television programme, the lawmaker said he is “close” to Tinubu and does not want to see him fail.
“If not, look, I can leave the party,” Ndume said.
“When you say those earning N800,000 below do not pay VAT – on what? Do you exclude him from paying VAT from the goods that he will buy in the market? And then the corporate tax goes up.
“Now they transfer the cost or the taxes over to the consumer. So, are you helping him?
“Even today, the price of cement goes up and that means consumers will have to pay more. If you tax Dangote for his refined products, it means he will add that cost to the cost per litre.
“So, if you are saying if you’re earning below N800,000 you will not pay tax, what of those people that are below that level.”
The senate is expected to hold a public hearing on the bills in the coming weeks.
Pacts include diverse financial, technical assistance programmes worth over €300m
•President upbeat Nigeria’s economic reform’ll impact Africa positively
•Macron optimistic Tinubu will transform Nigeria’s economy like he did as Lagos Gov
President Bola Tinubu and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron have signed two agreements that will ensure a partnership on the development of critical infrastructure and the long-term sustenance of agriculture and food security.
The partnership agreements, according to a statement by the Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, were signed at an economic forum attended by businessmen, captains of industry, governors, and some top government officials of both countries at the Palais des Elysée in Paris, France, during President Tinubu’s state visit.
Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and Mr. Armand signed the Letter of Intent.
According to the document: “The two countries affirmed their commitment to work together on investment and development of critical infrastructure, healthcare transportation, agricultural value chain, renewable energy, and human capital development, through diverse financial and technical assistance programmes, of over Euros 300m spread across all geopolitical zones in the country.
“The two countries committed to forge a strategic relationship in project implementation and enhance mutual trade and cross border services by removing fiscal barriers while protecting labour rights.”
Minister of Finance, Edun, and Chief Executive Officer of the French Development Agency (AFD), Mr. Remi Rioux, signed another Letter of Intent to support the Renewed Hope Agenda reforms designed to stimulate and strengthen the economy.
“The Declaration”, the document stated, “ set out the enduring relationship between the AFD and the FRN, and the AFD’s continuing commitment to support the socio-economic growth of Nigeria through financing sustainable projects in urban infrastructure development, transportation network, housing infrastructure, human capital development through improved education specifically in STEM, agriculture, food security and healthcare.
“The AFD reaffirmed its commitment to long-term support of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President on energy access and transition, sustainable agriculture and food security by financing the improvement of agro-logistic hubs. Importantly, the AFD committed to supporting the real sector by providing capital from MSME in high-impact sectors.
“The Federal Republic of Nigeria also affirmed its support for the projects financed by the AFD and committed to ensure that the implementation of the projects are expedited efficiently.”
The two Presidents had earlier in Paris, the French capital witnessed the signing of the agreement by the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group Chairman Tony Elumelu and Mr. Antoine Armand, the French Minister of Economy, Finance and Industry for the bank to commence operations in Paris.
Zenith Bank also inaugurated its services in the country during the visit.
Meanwhile, Tinubu once more assured Nigerians that the ongoing reforms in Nigeria would improve Africa’s economic prospects.
Speaking Thursday night at the State Dinner organised by the French government for him at Palais des Elysée in Paris, the President said: “Regarding Nigeria’s economy, as you have said, we have embarked on a very strong reform, and there is no looking back. It is in the interest of the entire continent that we don’t continue in the past. We must brace up for the future with commitment and optimism. And with the courage of our founding fathers.
“President Macron, all your efforts about Africa, I promise you shall not be in vain,” he stated.
President Tinubu while noting that the future remained bright for better relations with France emphasised that he was glad to be leading Nigeria during the trying times of the nation.
His words: “It is a good time for all of us. I cannot be prouder than I am to be President of Nigeria at this challenging time. I have people who are very clearly inspired, who are determined to change the course of Africa by changing the rot of the past, blending a future that our children and grandchildren can hold, and be open, and be proud.”
The President also lauded the amicable relations with French President Emmanuel Macron, appreciating his interest in Africa.
He also expressed confidence that Macron’s goodwill would foster stronger bilateral ties, benefiting the entire continent.
The Nigerian leader encouraged both Nigerian and French citizens to uphold the cordial relationship shared by their nations.
First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu accompanied the President to the dinner, along with top Nigerian government officials, businessmen, and the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
“It is a great honour for me to be here. And it’s been a great day because you have arranged a great reception.
“Appreciating that you have a good knowledge of Nigeria is not enough. Your warmth, your commitment, and your foresight in Africa are remarkable.
“You stirred my excitement and caught my attention as a leader. Thank you.
“France went through a lot to put freedom, democracy and commitment together. Your effort is very inspiring for us to work together. We have no choice but to build a continent that connects, resonates for its people, and cares about the people and development,” President Tinubu said.
He thanked the French leader and his wife, Brigitte, for the State Visit and the three-day reception.
“In addition to the economic prospects and what you mean to Europe, to America and the African continent, there is a good prospect that you will not forget who we are. You open your doors for investment for our friends and brothers here. I could see Aliko Dangote, Aig Imoukhuede, and Tony Elumelu here. You have memories of your friends in Nigeria. You asked for Mike Adenuga earlier today. Thank you,” he added.
In his remarks, President Macron acknowledged Nigeria’s leadership in Africa, recognising its role as a ‘big brother’ to the continent.
He praised Nigerians for their resilience and intellect, mentioning Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka and musician Femi Kuti as global figures.
“Nigeria is a formidable country with talented young people. Many Nigerians are exceptional in their chosen careers.
“You conquered military rule and took your liberty. President Tinubu transformed the economy in Lagos, and now you are on a mission to transform the country,” he stressed.
Macron noted that French investors have long been active in Nigeria, particularly in oil, gas, construction, and food security.
[Thisday]
…96 suspects apprehended in operation targeting drug hub
The Lagos Task Force has announced the dismissal of two of its personnel who were found stealing during a raid at Gowon Estate, Egbeda in the Alimosho Local Government Area.
“Upon confirmation of their guilt, they were summarily dismissed from service and will face immediate prosecution for theft.” Read a press release by Abdularaheem Gbadeyan, the Agency’s Director of Press and Public Affairs.
According to the statement, the raid, which was conducted at a hotel in Gowon Estate known for harbouring drug users and traffickers, yielded a total of 96 drug peddlers and addicts and the demolition of shanties serving as hideouts for miscreants. Those arrested have been remanded in Badagry correctional facilities after their arrangement in court.
The statement read: “However, the integrity of the raid was compromised by the actions of two officials whose misconduct was captured on CCTV.
“The culprits, Fatai Yusuf (42) and Hammed Garuba (38) were found guilty of stealing mobile phones from the scene. Both individuals, serving as paramilitary officers within the agency, were subjected to a meticulous investigation by the agency’s Disciplinary Committee.
“Upon confirmation of their guilt, they were summarily dismissed from service and will face immediate prosecution for theft”. It read.
In his remarks, CSP Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Lagos State Task Force strongly denounced the unethical behaviour of the dismissed officers, reaffirming the agency’s unwavering commitment to integrity and accountability.
He then read the riot act to all personnel, emphasizing that any breach of ethical conduct would attract severe consequences.
“The Lagos State Task Force is guided by principles of discipline, equity, and justice. Any act that compromises the agency’s credibility or erodes public trust will be addressed decisively and without hesitation,” he declared.
The statement also revealed that the 96 suspects were arrested during separate raids in the area.
“The first group of 53 drug peddlers and users apprehended were remanded in Badagry Correctional Centre after being charged in court.
“This week, in a subsequent raid targeting drug hotspots and illicit structures within Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, the Taskforce arrested 43 additional suspects.
“The operation led to the demolition of identified drug hideouts and shanties to deter recurring criminal activities in the area. All apprehended individuals have been promptly arraigned, underscoring the agency’s relentless commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes and ensuring public safety.
“These actions highlight the Task Force’s uncompromising stance on unethical conduct and its dedication to maintaining law and order in alignment with the Lagos State THEMES PLUS agenda.” It ended.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has said it has not reviewed its prices.
It explained this in a statement issued by Chief Corporate Communications Officer NNPC Ltd, Olufemi Soneye, on Friday.
In a statement titled: “Announcement on Pricing of PHRC Products,” Soneye said: “The Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) has not yet commenced bulk sales or opened its purchase portal, as essential processes are still being finalized.
“Currently, the products we are selling originate from the Dangote Refinery and include applicable NMDPRA fees. Products from PHRC are exclusively for our retail stores at this stage. Our pricing is reviewed and adjusted periodically as necessary to reflect operational realities.
“We advise the public to disregard any misleading information regarding pricing. Official announcements will be made if and when price reviews occur. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”
The federal high court in Abuja has granted N1 billion bail to 109 foreign nationals arrested over alleged cybercrime and money laundering.
On Friday, trial judge Ekerete Akpan granted bail to the defendants with five sureties.
Akpan said the sureties must have landed property worth N200,000 million each.
The judge also ordered the sureties to deposit the original and verified documents of the landed property with the court’s deputy registrar.
The sureties are also expected to submit their international passports to the court.
He ordered that the defendants be remanded at the Keffi correctional centre, Nasarawa state, pending the perfection of their bail conditions.
The case was adjourned to February 27, 2025.
On November 22, the judge remanded the suspects at the Kuje and Suleja correctional centres.
The inspector-general of police had filed a six-count charge against the suspects for also “unlawfully residing in Nigeria”.
The arraignment of the suspects was repeatedly stalled due to the absence of interpreters and legal representation.
On November 3, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) said its operatives arrested 130 suspects for “high-level cybercrimes, hacking, and activities threatening national security”.
Muyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, said the suspects comprise 113 foreign nationals — 87 males and 26 females — and their 17 Nigerian collaborators — four males and 13 females.
Pro-Biafran agitator, Simon Ekpa, who was arrested in Finland for alleged terrorism-related activities, will spend Christmas in detention as the country’s legal system does not permit bail.
A Senior Detective Superintendent at Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation, Mikko Laaksonen, disclosed this to Saturday PUNCH via an email.
This was as Ekpa’s followers declared the United States of Biafra at a conference held in Finland on Friday.
The Finnish government had last week announced the arrest of Ekpa alongside four others on suspicion of terror-related activities, including incitement to violence and terrorism financing.
The Finnish police confirmed that Ekpa, described as the self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, allegedly used social media to promote violence in the South-East region, targeting civilians and authorities.
According to local publication Yle, Ekpa was remanded in custody by the Päijät-Häme District Court on charges of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent.
The publication reported that the Finnish Central Criminal Police confirmed the arrest in a statement last Thursday, noting that other suspects were apprehended for allegedly financing terrorist activities.
Also, Ekpa is scheduled to face charges in May 2025, according to Finnish authorities.
When asked if Ekpa’s charges were bailable or if the prosecution was disposed to releasing him on bail, Laaksonen said, “Finnish criminal procedure/coercive measures do not recognise bail procedure.
“Our procedure is based on, depending on the case, remand or travel ban as coercive measures for limiting freedom of movement for persons suspected of offences to which such measures are applicable.”
Supporters declare Biafra
In Finland, Ekpa’s supporters converged on Lahti in Finland on Friday to declare the United States of Biafra.
A few days before the conference, videos circulated on social media showing a significant influx of Nigerians into Finland for the event tagged, ‘Biafra Mass Exodus 2024’.
An X user, @DOlewunne, tweeted, “Huge in Finland Under His Excellency the Prime Minister of Biafra Simon Ekpa (sic). The re-declaration of the Independent State of Biafra/United States of Biafra is in full swing. This historic independent moment is championed by the People of Biafra. We are a Nation! (sic).”
The convener of the convention, who introduced herself as the Chief of Staff of the United States of Biafra and the organiser of the Biafra Declaration of the Restoration of the United States of Biafra Convention 2024 in Finland, is Dr Ngozi Orabueze.
According to several online sources, Orabueze is a family nurse practitioner in Atlanta, Georgia, with expertise in treating diabetes, bipolar disorder, and depression, among other conditions.
She was first appointed by Ekpa in March 2023 as Minister of Health, Oil and Gas, Biafra Republic Government in Exile.
Orabueze, who has over 17,500 followers on X and more than 12,000 on Facebook, wrote on November 27 that the convention was to take place in Lahti, noting that it would kick off with a live X Space event.
On 28 November, she wrote, “Biafrans are trooping into Finland in droves ahead of the re-declaration of the independent state of Biafra,” attaching a video of a large Igbo-speaking crowd awaiting clearance at the Finnish airport.
On Friday afternoon, Orabueze posted on her verified X handle, @ngoziora, that Biafrans had declared an independent state and would now use their own currency (Biafra coins) and time (Biafra time), notifying the Nigerian government and the international community.
The declaration of Biafra’s independence, initially slated by Ekpa for December 2, faced some setbacks following Ekpa’s arrest and prosecution by the Finnish government.
Orabueze wrote, “Breaking: It is done. Biafrans in Finland for the declaration of the independent United States of Biafra. Power belongs to the people.” She later added, “Biafra has been re-declared today, 29th of November 2024, by Ngozi Orabueze, the Chief of Staff, United States of Biafra. Congratulations to all Biafrans all over the world.”
Before the declaration, a video of Ekpa addressing the audience was played online.
Ekpa stated, “We were free before Lord Lugard came. If you want the oil, take it and leave us alone. We are tired of living as baboons and monkeys. We want to be given the opportunity to practise what we have studied.”
As the video ended, the audience began to chant, “USB, USB, USB,” meaning the United States of Biafra.
Afterwards, Orabueze, taking the oath of office, listed the states within the newly re-declared United States of Biafra.
These included Anambra State, Okigwe State, Nnewi State, Ogoni State, Opobo State, Ikwerre State, Etche State, Okrika State, Ngwa State, Orlu State, among others. The crowd cheered her on in both Igbo and English.
After the declaration, the crowd sang an Igbo song, “Biafra aga’m arapu gi,” translating to “Biafra, I will never let you go.”
Earlier in videos and photos shared on X, several members of the group claimed they were just landing at the Finnish airport in Helsinki.
A woman, @Charedims, who took a video while on a flight, said, “Biafrans all over the world from different continents everywhere are converging on Lahti for the convention.
“On December 2, when all votes are counted and collated, a mandate will be given to our prime minister, Simon Ekpa Njoku, who is currently answering some questions with the Finnish authorities; when the votes are counted, he will then declare the restore of the independent state of Biafra, which means he has the legal rights to get us Biafra. That is why you are seeing everybody jumping up and down.”
IPOB disowns group, MASSOB denies claim
Reacting to the development, IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, rejected the notion that the group was behind the event.
He stated, “IPOB has no involvement in any conference. Those people (Ekpa’s faction) are criminals supporting illegal activities to destroy our land. There is no such thing as a declaration of Biafra from our side.
“Any claim that IPOB is hosting a conference is false. When IPOB decides to make such an important announcement, the whole world will know. Those making such statements are fake.”
The spokesperson for the Movement for Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra, Sunday Edeson, stated that if IPOB succeeded in the realisation of Biafra through its declaration, MASSOB would accept and rejoice with them.
He added that the British government would never support the freedom of Biafra.
“Everyone has the right to declare. They declared their freedom in Finland, but we know that we’re still under Nigerian leadership. We support them.
“Declaring independence in Finland doesn’t mean we’re free from the Nigerian government. We still use Nigerian currency, and security agencies are still from Nigeria. So, we’re still under Nigeria’s control,” Edeson said.
Extradition
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, told Saturday PUNCH that Nigeria did not have an extradition agreement with Finland.
Also, Finland through the Finnish Embassy in Nigeria said it could not comment on the matter.
The Director of Defence Information, Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, had said Ekpa, a self-proclaimed disciple of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, should be extradited to Nigeria to face criminal charges.
Many Nigerians online also demanded his repatriation to Nigeria to face terrorism charges.
In response to the call for Ekpa’s extradition, a lawyer during ‘The Morning Show’ on AriseTV, Chukwuma Ezeala, said that Finnish-based Nigerian was charged with terrorism and countries involved must cooperate.
He stated that he could be tried in Nigeria or Finland.
“On the issue of extradition, for him to be extradited, there must be a bilateral agreement. From all indications, Nigeria doesn’t have a bilateral agreement with Finland.
“However, since it’s an international crime, he can still be extradited to Nigeria based on international conventions.
“The question will now be, can Nigeria satisfy conditions or requirements of extraditing a person to Nigeria without a bilateral relationship,” Ezeala queried.
The Federal High Court in Lagos has dismissed a fundamental rights suit filed by Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, popularly known as Bobrisky, against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Bobrisky had sought ₦200 million in damages, alleging a breach of his fundamental rights by the anti-graft agency.
Justice Owoeye stated that the applicant failed to provide credible evidence to support his allegations against the EFCC.
Delivering judgment on Thursday, November 28, 2024, Justice Alexander Owoeye ruled that Bobrisky’s claims of rights violation were unsubstantiated and lacked merit.
One of the reliefs sought was an “an order of perpetual injunction restraining the Respondents” from harassing, declaring him wanted, arresting or detaining him “whether by themselves, their officers, servants, agents…”.
In another relief, Bobrisky prayed the court to award the sum of N200million against the EFCC as damages he allegedly suffered from the activities of the Commission regarding his arrest and trial.
After evaluating all the reliefs he sought, Justice Owoeye ruled that “having evaluated the evidence placed before this Court by the Applicant, it is evident that the Applicant has failed to provide credible evidence to justify the award of the declaratory and injunctive reliefs sought by him.”
The judge further stated that, “in the final analysis, I hold the claims of violation of fundamental rights against the 1st and 2nd Respondents were not made out of the affidavit evidence placed before this Court. The claim of the Applicant against the 1st to the 2nd Respondents hereby lacks merit and is liable to be dismissed. It is accordingly dismissed.”
The judge also refused to award any damage against the EFCC.
Bobrisky had dragged both the EFCC and the National Assembly before the court and all the reliefs he sought were thrown out.
He was originally arrested by the EFCC on April 4, 2024 by the Commission for Naira abuse. His arrest eventually led to his six months conviction by Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos on April 12, 2024.
Port Harcourt Refinery Yet To Begin Sales To Marketers, We Are Selling Dangote Products For Now – NNPC Confirms
AFOLABI
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) confirmed on Friday that it has yet to begin the bulk sales of products to fuel marketers in the country.
The NNPC noted that for the time being, products from the refinery are only for its filling stations.
It also urged members of the public to disregard pricing information on products from the refinery, which is making rounds on social media, noting that such information is misleading.
The NNPC spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, who made the revelation in a statement, added that currently, the products being sold originate from the Dangote Refinery, and the prices include applicable fees from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
On the pricing of fuel from Port Harcourt Refiner, Soneye pointed out that it has not been fixed as pricing is reviewed and adjusted periodically based on operational relaities.
The statement titled ‘Announcement on Pricing of PHRC Products’ Soneye, said: “The Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) has not yet commenced bulk sales or opened its purchase portal, as essential processes are still being finalized.
“Currently, the products we are selling originate from the Dangote Refinery and include applicable NMDPRA fees. Products from PHRC are exclusively for our retail stores at this stage. Our pricing is reviewed and adjusted periodically as necessary to reflect operational realities.
“We advise the public to disregard any misleading pricing information. Official announcements will be made if and when price reviews occur. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”
The NNPC statement comes shortly after the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) announced that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reduced the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) for marketers from ₦1,045 to ₦1,030 per litre.
This development was revealed by PETROAN’s National President, Dr. Billy Harry, during a strategic meeting and award presentation held in Abuja.
The federal high court in Abuja has discharged and acquitted 50 persons alleged to be members of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) and charged with alleged terrorism.
On Friday, Nov. 29, trial judge James Omotosho ruled that the police failed to establish a prima facie case against the 50 defendants, including four women.
The trial judge upheld the no-case submission of the defendants.
Omotosho said the prosecution team failed to provide any credible evidence linking the defendants with the allegations.
The judge struck out the three-count charge filed against the defendants.
The inspector-general of police had sued the 50 defendants in a charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/8/2024. The police alleged that the defendants had a meeting in a truck in connection with an act of terrorism.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced notable reductions in new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths across Africa, marking a significant milestone in the continent's fight against the epidemic.
The WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti, shared this in her statement on Friday, November 29, to commemorate World AIDS Day under the theme, “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right.”
Dr. Moeti highlighted a critical shift in global HIV trends, noting that for the first time in 2023, the number of new HIV infections was higher outside sub-Saharan Africa. She pointed out that the African region is leading globally in progress towards achieving the 95-95-95 UNAIDS targets for HIV testing, treatment, and viral suppression, which aim to bridge gaps in treatment coverage and outcomes.
“Seven countries have already achieved the targets, with the overall rating for the region currently at 90-82-76. About 21.3 million people are now on antiretroviral treatment, raising their life expectancy. Botswana (silver tier status) and Namibia (bronze tier status) have both been recognized for notably curbing mother-to-child HIV transmission rates, achieving the required indicators for the ‘Path to the elimination of HIV’ criteria introduced in 2017,” Dr Moeti said.
The region has also made significant strides in implementing biomedical HIV prevention methods, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Countries are rapidly adopting oral and long-acting injectable PrEP and the dipivefrine vaginal ring to ensure broader accessibility to prevention options.
Despite these achievements, Dr. Moeti emphasized the need to address lingering challenges. She cautioned that the value of scientific advancements and tools depends on their universal accessibility, calling for increased investments and policy reforms.
“We have a collective obligation to protect human rights, specifically ensuring that health care is available to everyone, without any discrimination, regardless of their HIV status, background, gender or where they live. Stigma and discrimination cannot be allowed to undermine the gains and impede our progress,” she stated.
Dr. Moeti also stressed the importance of community involvement in shaping strategies and implementing interventions to overcome human rights-related barriers to care. “We must ensure their voices are heard,” she said.
However, the HIV response faces complications from the rising incidence of disease outbreaks in Africa, which strain already burdened health systems. Dr. Moeti underscored the urgency of accelerating the response to the epidemic, emphasizing the need for strong health systems and integrated, person-centred approaches to health care to meet the needs of vulnerable populations.
“Let’s take this opportunity today to acknowledge the progress, but to also renew our joint commitment to eliminating HIV. By protecting everyone’s right to health, and reducing new HIV infections, we can achieve an AIDS-free generation and ensure the sustainability of the HIV response,” she added.
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Police, Immigration officers sentenced to 21 years imprisonment for N1.6m employment fraud in Gombe
AFOLABI
Justice T.G. Ringin of the Federal High Court sitting in Gombe, Gombe State has convicted and sentenced two police officers: Yusuf AbdulKarim Bature and Musa Philip and an Immigration officer, Nasiru Mohammed to seven years imprisonment each for employment fraud to the tune of N1.640,000.
The trio were sentenced on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
Bature and Philip were arraigned on two count - charges of obtaining by false pretences and intent to defraud while Mohammed was arraigned on one- count charge of obtaining by false pretences by the Gombe Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Count one of the charges against Yusuf AbdulKarim Bature and Musa Philip reads : “That you Yusuf Abdul karim Bature and Musa Philip while being public officers with the Nigerian Police Force sometime in 2022 in Gombe within the Gombe Judicial division at the Federal High Court of Justice did with intent to defraud falsely obtained from one Asabe Hamed the total sum of Nine Hundred and Seventy Thousand Naira for the purpose of securing a job, a claim you knew to be false”.
The charge against Nasiru Mohammed reads: “that you Nasiru Mohammed sometime in 2022 in Gombe within the jurisdiction of this honourable court while being a staff of the Nigerian Immigration Service did falsely obtained the sum of Six Hundred and Seventy Thousand naira (N670,000) from Abdul Rahman Abubakar and Akwalo Adamu under the false pretence of securing them a job with the Nigerian Immigration Service which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act”
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges.
In view of their guilty pleas, prosecution counsel Tortema Joshua prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly but counsels to the defendants, Babangida Mohammed and K.K. Jomoh pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants were first -time offenders who are remorseful of their actions.
Justice Ringing thereafter convicted and sentenced Bature, Philip and Mohammed to seven years imprisonment each or a fine of N50,000 (Fifty Thousand Naira) each.
In addition, the judge ordered the convicts to pay restitution of N1,640,000 to the petitioners and sign an undertaking to be of good behaviour henceforth.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre began sometime in February 8, 2024 when some petitioners alleged that Bature and Philip collected N970,000 while Mohammed collected N670,000 as payment for employment slots.
The convicts neither offered the petitioners the jobs nor returned their money to them.
"Please, don't japa" - FG begs as MDCN inducts over 600 foreign trained medical, dental graduates
AFOLABI
The Federal Government has begged medical practitioners in the country against relocating to foreign countries, urging them to stay back and serve their fatherland.
The plea came Thursday, Nov. 28, as the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, MDCN, inducted over 600 foreign trained medical and dental graduates.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammad Pate, insisted that medical practitioners must remain in the country to “build a better image for the health sector and build our nation.
“I must say this, please don’t japa, let’s do this together and build a better image for the health sector and build our nation,” Prof. Pate,who was represented at the event by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ms. Kachollom Daju, said.
The minister added: “You have all journeyed from your various homes to pursue education abroad, overcoming not only academic challenges, but also cultural, emotional and logistical hurdles. Your experience both in the classroom and in the field have equipped you with unique skills and characteristics that will enhance your practice of medicine or dentistry.
“It is obvious that this is a special moment for you and your family, friends, mentors and those who have supported you along the way.
“Your achievements reflect their support, sacrifices and faith in your potential. I will also like to extend my appreciation to the universities, institutions and most especially the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria that provided the educational foundation for your growth and ensuring compliance to the prescribed guidelines.
“Today, dear doctors, as we take the Hippocratic oath, you are making a solemn commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards in your practice.
“The chairman has already ruled out some of the points for you that you need to work on as doctors. Commitment, humility, service to patients and what the empathy and compassion is, amongst other things.
“The political sector for the government and health is moving towards quality care, safe care, safety of people. Because through the years, the health sector in Nigeria has been inundated with a lot of citizens complaining about the state of our health care system. Now we have over 600 of you being doctors today and you are coming into this space that is very critical to our nature of journey.
“Therefore, you are pledging to serve humanity with compassion, integrity and a deep sense of responsibility. We now hope that your work will directly impact the lives and well-being of your people. Because the trust that society places on you is immense and you see the responsibility that you must challenge with the utmost seriousness and professionalism.
“Let us not forget that as health care professionals, you are constantly called upon to demonstrate empathy, resilience and adaptability.
“The world of medicine and dentistry is ever-evolving and so too must you evolve, whether it be through innovating new technologies, taking a breath in the latest new technology, or adapting to the needs of a diverse population. The future of our planet abroad will serve as a foundation for the lifelong commitment to many alike.
“As we embark on this new chapter, I urge you to approach your profession with the same passion and determination that brought you to this point. Furthermore, to advocate your patients, who are always seeking their health care, remember that every patient you see with a personal report is safe and is in good health. Approach each case with the same level of care and commitment, no matter where you are in the world, because we need you too.
“And I must say this, please don’t Japa, let’s do this together and build a better image for the health sector and build our nation.”
A former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has announced his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Chidoka, who was also the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), disclosed this during his appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday.
He said he is leaving politics to focus on his non-profitable organisation, Athena Centre to join hands with other Nigerians who are interested in reforming the political system in Nigeria.
“Earlier today, I sent a letter to my ward in Anambra State resigning officially from the PDP. I am leaving the PDP, I am leaving politic for some time, I am focusing on the Athena Centre,” Chidoka said on the programme.
“I will work in concert with other Nigerians who want us to reform the political system to bring evidence-based governance and to support it. So, effective today, I am no longer a member of the Peoples Democratic Party.”
‘Edo election compromised’
Athena Centre founded by Chidoka conducted a review of the recently concluded governorship election in Edo State where the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Monday Okpebholo, was declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), defeating closest challenger, Asue Ighodalo of the PDP.
The Athena Centre indicted INEC, stating that the election was compromised.
According to Chidoka, who presented the Centre’s findings on the Edo State election, there was substantial evidence of systemic rigging.
“The evidence of systemic rigging observed in this election is so substantial that we cannot call the results.
“The evidence of systemic rigging is so substantial that we think that this election should not be allowed to stand. If this stands, then there is no election in 2027.”
He said he is shocked that an institution like INEC will put its reputation at stake for the purpose of an election.
The former minister alleged that there was lack of transparency in the election and discrepancies in voter accreditation.
He also alleged incidences of overvoting, manipulation at ward collation centres and that the BVAS accreditation record was not transmitted to INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV).
He stated that 153 polling units were not accounted for which means there were no results from those polling units.
He concluded that the Edo State election cannot be deemed credible because it failed to meet basic integrity standard due to substantial interference in the electoral process by the umpire.
[Channels]
The appeal court sitting in Lagos has nullified the rape conviction against the Medical Director of Optimal Cancer Care Foundation, Dr Olufemi Olaleye.
Olaleye had filed an appeal challenging his conviction and sentence on a two count charge of defilement and sexual assault by penetration of a minor.
Recalls that in October 2023, Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court had sentenced Dr Olaleye to life imprisonment for defiling his wife’s 16-year-old niece.
In his judgment, Justice Oshodi held that the prosecution, the Lagos State Government, had proved the charge against the defendant and that the evidence against him was compelling.
According to the judge, Olaleye’s confessional statement before his former counsel, Mr Olalekan Buruji, and the Divisional Police Officer at the Anthony Police Station, Lagos State, proved that he committed the offences.
The judge held that Olaleye said in the statement that he regretted his act.
The judge also held that Olaleye’s denial of the statement during trial did not hold water.
However, the appellate court on Friday held that the lower court erred in its judgment.
The appeal court thereafter discharged and acquitted Olaleye.