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NERC unveils Lagos areas to pay N170,000 Monthly for enjoying 20-24 hours power supply (Full List)
AFOLABIThe Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, on Wednesday, approved an increase in electricity tariff for customers under the Band A classification.
The Vice Chairman, NERC, Musliu Oseni, said the increase will see the customers paying N225 kilowatt per hour (KW/h) from the current N66.
PUNCH Online notes that customers under Band A are those who enjoy 20-24 hours of electricity supply daily while those in Band B are subscribers who enjoy 16 to 20 hours. Those in Band C enjoy 12 to 16 hours daily.
Also, Band D subscribers are beneficiaries of eight to 12 hours daily and Band E subscribers only enjoy four to eight hours of electricity consumption everyday.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Oseni said customers in Band A represent a 15 per cent of the 12 million electricity customers in the country which is about 1.8 million subscribers.
He added that the review will not affect customers on the other bands.
Citing sources, Bloomberg had on Tuesday reported that power companies will be allowed to raise electricity prices to N200 ($0.15) per KW/h from N68 for urban consumers.
It quoted people in the presidency with knowledge of the matter saying this was in a bid to attract new investment and slash about $2.3 billion spent to cap tariffs.
In this report, PUNCH Online highlights the Lagos State subscribers of the Band A tariff plan who benefit from the 20 to 24 hours of Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company daily consumption in a document prepared by NERC.
1. Ijaiye (33-Ota TCN-AMJE) in Abule-Egba Business Unit enjoys 998 KW/h
2. Ijaiye (33-Ota TCN-Abeokuta Expressway) in Abule-Egba Business Unit enjoys 930KW/h
3. Able-Taylor (11-EkoroINJ-T1-Ekoro) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 920KW/h
4. Egbeda (11-AlimoshoINJ-T8-Alimosho) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 889KW/h
5. Anifowoshe (11-New AlausaINJ-T4-Siyanbola) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 929KW/h
6. Anifowoshe (11-Adeniyi JonesINJ-T1-Ajao) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 941KW/h
7. Anifowoshe (11-New AlausaINJ-T6-Awolowo) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 889KW/h
8. Anifowoshe (11-Adeniyi JonesINJ-T1-Adeniyi Jones) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 982KW/h
9. Ogba (11-OgbaINJ-T3-Oba Akran) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 888KW/h
10. Ogba (11-Oke IraINJ-T2-Kayode) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 867KW/h
11. Ogba (11-Oke IraINJ-T2-Mangoro) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 943KW/h
12. Ojodu (11-OjoduINJ-T2-River Valley) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 910KW/h
13. Oregun (11-MarylandINJ-T2-Ojota) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 973KW/h
14. Oregun (11-OpebiINJ-T1-Olusosun) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 924KW/h
15. Oregun (11-New AlausaINJ-T5-Kudirat) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 977KW/h
16. Oregun (11-New AlausaINJ-T6-Ogundana) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 981KW/h
17. Oregun (11-New AlausaINJ-T4-Allen) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 989KW/h
18. Oregun (11-New AlausaINJ-T5-Alausa) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 945KW/h
19. Oregun (11-New AlausaINJ-T4-Oregun) in Akowonjo Business Unit enjoys 980KW/h
The crypto winter has officially come to an end, marking a significant turnaround for the cryptocurrency market. Bitcoin, the flagship cryptocurrency, has experienced an impressive surge, more than doubling in value over the past 12 months. In March, it reached an all-time high of $73,000 following the legalization of bitcoin-pegged exchange-traded funds in the U.S. According to data from CoinGecko, the total value of all outstanding cryptocurrencies has surged by 170%, adding approximately $1.6 trillion in market value during the same period.
This surge in value has resulted in the emergence of a new class of billionaires known as crypto billionaires. Forbes’ 2024 World’s Billionaires list reveals that at least 17 individuals have attained billionaire status through their investments and ventures in the cryptocurrency space. Together, these crypto billionaires boast a collective net worth of $93 billion, which includes their estimated crypto asset holdings, publicly disclosed stock holdings, and private assets. This represents a significant increase from the nine crypto billionaires recorded last year, with their collective wealth more than doubling from $37 billion.
For the third consecutive year, Changpeng Zhao, the founder and former CEO of Binance, retains the title of crypto’s wealthiest individual. Despite facing legal challenges, including pleading guilty to U.S. money laundering charges in November, Zhao’s net worth has skyrocketed to an estimated $33 billion, up from $10.5 billion the previous year. The bulk of his wealth stems from his majority stake in Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume.
Other notable gainers include Michael Saylor, CEO of MicroStrategy, and Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase. Saylor’s net worth has surged to an estimated $4.4 billion, compared to $760 million the previous year, thanks to MicroStrategy’s heavy investments in bitcoin. Similarly, Armstrong’s net worth has soared to an estimated $11.2 billion, up from $2.2 billion, buoyed by the impressive performance of Coinbase’s shares, which have more than quadrupled over the past 12 months.
Additionally, Forbes’ annual billionaires ranking welcomes newcomers such as Giancarlo Devasini, Paolo Ardoino, Jean-Louis van der Velde, and Stuart Hoegner, all prominent shareholders of Tether, a controversial yet highly profitable stablecoin issuer. The list also features familiar faces like the Winklevoss twins, renowned venture capitalist Tim Draper, and Ripple co-founder Jed McCaleb, highlighting the growing influence and wealth within the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Here are the top ten crypto billionaires in 2024
1. Changpeng Zhao
Net worth: $33 billion (vs. $10.5 billion) | Source of wealth: Binance
His wealth primarily stems from his involvement with Binance, the leading cryptocurrency exchange platform.
Despite facing legal challenges, including federal money laundering charges brought by the Department of Justice and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Zhao agreed to pay $200 million in fines last year as part of a settlement. Additionally, he agreed to step down as CEO of Binance and is prohibited from any involvement with the company for three years following his guilty plea. Despite these setbacks, his fortune remains largely intact.
Based on corporate documents and discussions with former employees, Zhao’s stake in Binance is estimated to be around 90%, valued at approximately $32.5 billion. Binance continues to dominate the crypto exchange market, boasting the highest trading volume globally. Forbes’ analysis suggests that Binance generated approximately $9 billion in revenue last year.
To estimate Binance’s market value, Forbes applied the price-to-sales multiple of Coinbase, a publicly traded peer, and further adjusted for factors such as Binance’s concentrated ownership, potential regulatory issues, and key-man risks associated with Zhao’s departure.
2. Brian Armstrong
Net worth: $11.2 billion (vs. $2.2 billion) | Source of wealth: Coinbase
Armstrong, who together with Fred Ehrsam co-founded Coinbase in 2013, holds the largest individual stake in the company, amounting to 18%. The cryptocurrency exchange’s stock has surged by 50% year-to-date and has increased more than threefold since the previous year, resulting in a market capitalization of nearly $60 billion. Starting from November, Armstrong has executed sales of Coinbase stock totaling over $170 million through an automated 10b5-1 trading plan.
3. Giancarlo Devasini
Net worth: $9.2 billion (vs. $4 billion in July) | Source of wealth: Tether
Devasini serves as the Chief Financial Officer and is likely the largest individual shareholder of Tether, the largest issuer of stablecoins in the cryptocurrency sphere. Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency that is pegged to the value of the U.S. dollar or other stable assets and are utilized as a medium of exchange. With over 100 billion Tether tokens in circulation, the company has garnered substantial profits, amounting to $6.2 billion last year, primarily driven by higher interest rates on customers’ collateral. Devasini’s ownership stake in Tether is estimated to be around 47%, with Forbes valuing it based on the average price-to-earnings multiples of a selection of publicly traded mid-tier banks and asset managers.
4. Michael Saylor
Net worth: $4.4 billion (vs. $760 million) | Source of wealth: MicroStrategy, Bitcoin
Saylor emerges as the top gainer among crypto billionaires in terms of percentage growth on this year’s roster. The shares of MicroStrategy, the software firm he founded in the 1990s and transformed into a Bitcoin investment platform in recent times, have surged by nearly 500% compared to last year. Currently, the company boasts ownership of approximately 193,000 bitcoins, solidifying its position as the largest corporate holder of bitcoin globally, as confirmed by its Chief Financial Officer.
Moreover, Saylor’s personal bitcoin holdings are noteworthy. He disclosed in 2021 that he possesses 17,732 bitcoins, acquired at an average price of $9,882 per coin. Additionally, he is presently in the process of divesting approximately $200 million worth of MicroStrategy stock, a decision he made public at the onset of the year.
5. Paolo Ardoino
Net worth: $3.9 billion (vs. $1.8 billion in July) | Source of wealth: Tether
Ardoino currently holds the position of CEO at Tether, acting as its public representative, and is believed to possess a 20% ownership stake in the company. He initially entered the Tether ecosystem by joining its affiliated entity, Bitfinex, in 2014, where he served as a senior software developer. Ardoino’s professional background includes prior engagements in startup environments, where he honed his skills as a computer programmer.
6. Jean-Louis van der Velde
Net worth: $3.9 billion (vs. $1.8 billion in July) | Source of wealth: Tether
Formerly occupying the role of CEO at Tether, van der Velde currently functions as a symbolic leader entrusted with overseeing Tether’s crucial relationships with banks and regulatory bodies. He is reported to possess an approximate 20% ownership stake in the company. Van der Velde’s journey began when he departed the Netherlands in 1985 to pursue higher education in Taiwan. Following his academic pursuits, he played a pivotal role in co-founding numerous IT and technology startups across Asia before eventually joining Tether. Presently, he resides in Hong Kong.
7. Chris Larsen
Net worth: $3.2 billion (vs. $2.2 billion) | Source of wealth: Ripple, XRP
In 2012, Larsen played a pivotal role in establishing Ripple with the aim of streamlining international payments through the utilization of the XRP cryptocurrency. While he relinquished the position of CEO at Ripple towards the end of 2016, Larsen continues to serve as the executive chairman of the company. As per recent data from secondary markets disclosed to Forbes, Larsen commands an 18% ownership stake in Ripple, valued at approximately $3.8 billion by investors. Additionally, he possesses a substantial reserve of XRP, amounting to over 2.8 billion tokens, and holds nearly $1 billion in cash and investments, primarily derived from previous XRP transactions, according to Forbes’ estimations.
8. Fred Ehrsam
Net worth: $3.2 billion (vs. $930 million) | Source of wealth: Coinbase, Paradigm
In 2012, Ehrsam partnered with Brian Armstrong to establish the cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase. Although he departed from the company’s operational role in 2017, Ehrsam retains a position on the board and maintains ownership of approximately 5% of its stock. Following his tenure at Coinbase, Ehrsam co-founded Paradigm in 2018, a cryptocurrency investment firm that presently oversees assets exceeding $8 billion.
9. Matthew Roszak
Net worth: $3.1 billion (vs. $1.1 billion) | Source of wealth: Bitcoin, Ethereum
Having ventured into Bitcoin investment as an early adopter in 2010, Roszak’s financial portfolio predominantly thrives on his initial forays into cryptocurrencies. His wealth stems from strategic investments in various digital assets, such as Ethereum and BNB, the native token of Binance. Additionally, Roszak actively oversees Bloq, a blockchain startup specializing in investing in other crypto initiatives and providing consultancy services for blockchain projects.
While Coinbase recorded a revenue of $2.9 billion in the previous year, marking a decline from $3.1 billion in 2022 and $7.8 billion in 2021—coinciding with the last significant surge in cryptocurrency prices—the company has managed to restore profitability. Despite reporting a net loss of $2.6 billion in 2022, Coinbase generated a net income of $100 million in the most recent fiscal year.
10. Jed McCaleb
Net worth: $2.9 billion (vs. $2.4 billion) | Source of wealth: XRP sales
A pioneer in the early days of cryptocurrency, McCaleb played a significant role in shaping the industry. He founded Mt. Gox, the pioneering bitcoin exchange, in 2010, marking a pivotal moment in crypto history. Although he sold the exchange just a year later, his contributions laid the groundwork for the evolution of digital currency trading.
Subsequently, McCaleb co-founded Ripple in 2012, although he departed from the company shortly afterward due to disagreements with his co-founders. His primary source of wealth stems from the sale of a substantial portion of the original 9 billion XRP tokens he acquired as a co-founder of Ripple. McCaleb concluded his XRP sales in 2022, marking the end of his involvement with the cryptocurrency.
Furthermore, McCaleb founded Stellar, a direct competitor to Ripple, in 2014, further solidifying his influence in the blockchain space. Presently, he dedicates his time and financial resources to Vast, a space exploration company that he actively supports and promotes.
The Kano State Government has banned all movies and cinematic productions promoting thuggery and cross-dressing in the state.
This was announced in a press statement issued by the media officer of the State’s Censorship Board, Abdullah Sani Sulaiman.
This directive was given in response to mounting complaints reportedly from residents regarding issues considered to contradict their cultural values.
“It is high time we put a stop to this sort of films that corrupt the morals of the Kano people,” the board stated.
The board noted that it was “high time to fish out any film that may demoralize our customs, norms and values in the name of reaching popularity, viewers or business making”.
The board also commended the people of the state for their vigilance in reporting any content perceived to be at odds with cultural and Islamic principles.
SaharaReporters earlier reported how the Nigerian Police Force said cross-dressing was not an offence under Nigerian law.
The Nigeria Police Force on Tuesday said it could not arrest popular cross-dresser, Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, better known as Bobrisky over calls to arrest the socialite.
There have been calls for Bobrisky’s arrest, especially after social media influencer and blogger, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan in recent videos condemned the award of Best Dressed Female to the cross-dresser at a Nollywood event.
However, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Ademola told Channels TV on Tuesday that cross-dressers could not be arrested because there was no law against cross-dressing in Nigeria.
He also said there is no evidence to support claims that cross-dressers also belong to the LGBTQ+ community.
He said, “There are some cases that are always very difficult to prove.
“I’m not ruling out that we have many of them. Let us be reasonable, you can’t have someone you want to prosecute without having credible evidence against them. I have not read anywhere where cross-dressing is an offence in Nigeria.
“Some of them that are into cross-dressing, the allegation is that they are into something else.
“That’s where the problem lies. We need to have enough proof, credible evidence to prove that they are actually into that. All those offences are natural offences in Nigeria and they are punishable under our laws.”
However, Nigeria has a law prohibiting same-sex relationships or marriage.
The Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Bill was signed into law in Nigeria on January 7, 2014, by then-President Goodluck Jonathan.
The law criminalises public displays of affection between same-sex couples.
The law imposes a 14-year prison sentence on anyone who “[enters] into a same-sex marriage contract or civil union”. It also imposes a 10-year sentence on individuals or groups, including religious leaders, who “witness, abet, and aid the solemnization of a same-sex marriage or union.”
It imposes a 10-year prison sentence on those who “directly or indirectly make [a] public show of [a] same-sex amorous relationship” and anyone who “registers, operates, or participates in gay clubs, societies, and organizations,” including supporters of those groups.
In a recent development, Ogunbayo, the sister of Wunmi, directed a scathing criticism at Mohbad’s father for his accusations regarding the late singer’s wife’s alleged infidelity before his demise.
Mrs. Ogunbayo adamantly refuted any insinuations of promiscuity on her sister’s part, firmly stating that Wunmi had suffered numerous infections contracted from Mohbad, unequivocally asserting that it was Mohbad who had taken her sister’s virginity.
Mrs. Ogunbayo also took aim at Yomi Fabiyi for his written assertions, disputing his claim that Wunmi was hesitant about a DNA test.
She stressed that while the family was open to the idea of conducting a DNA test on Liam, there had not been a compelling reason to do so thus far.
Expanding her discourse on DNA testing, Mrs. Ogunbayo further brought Mohbad’s parents into the conversation, suggesting that if such a test were to be pursued, it should be based on a mutual agreement regarding all parties involved.
Raging, she said:
“Jossy, you will see hell. Should we talk about the antibiotics and the infection Wunmi treated while in your son’s house. It will not be well with you; it’s you who brought us to this stage. You said Wunmi kept reporting to you but did she mention his cheating to you? Infections?”
Watch the video below:
Media
Follow-up Statement Regarding Recent Social Media Posts I Shared On My Page
Dear Followers,
I want to take a moment to address the recent discussions surrounding a retweet I made regarding Nathaniel Bassey and Minister Mercy Chinwo Blessed’s son.
Firstly, I want to express my sincere apologies for any distress or confusion my retweet may have caused. This is not truly my character and the retweet I made was just like every other news I source and share on my page.
I want to clarify that my intention in sharing the post was solely to disseminate information, not to endorse or validate the allegations therein.
As someone dedicated to sharing news from various sources, I aim to provide my audience with information how I receive them and I’m not in any way in support of what the originator said.
However, I understand now that the retweet was misunderstood even though I put the original post in quote with a screenshot reference. I did not in any way support the post with any intention to harm rather I also very much worried about it and as a human I am very much sorry to make such a mistake and never will I do it again.
I seek you join me and plead with @nathanielblow to find a place in his heart to forgive my wrong actions as I take full responsibility for having shared the post on my platform.
Moving forward, I will continue to prioritize accuracy and responsibility in my content.
Thank you for your attention and understanding.
Best regards,
DJ SpoiltKid
Husband of popular singer Mercy Chinwo, Pastor Blessed Uzochikwa, has filed a Direct Criminal Complaint against five persons for Criminal Defamation through his lawyers led by Pelumi Olajengbesi Esq.
Consequently, a Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has summoned five social media users for “criminal defamation” of the reputation of gospel singer, Mercy Chinwo; and her husband, Blessed Uzochikwa.
Mercy Chinwo’s husband said the alleged acts of Criminal Defamation was carried out through deliberate circulation of injurious falsehood, cyber bullying and cyberstalking.
The five defendants are Okoronkwo Ejike, Kingsley Ibeh, DJ Spoiltkid, Terrence Ekot, and Samuel Agozie and they are to appear on before the court on the April 23, 2024.
LEADERSHIP earlier reports that a leading gospel minister, Nathaniel Bassey, had petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to investigate and prosecute some individuals who falsely accused him of being the father of Mercy Chinwo’s child.
The lawyers of the ace trumpeter
submitted the petition on April 1, 2024, alleging criminal defamation and cyberstalking against Bassey by four social media users identified as Okoronkwo Ejike, Kingsley Ibeh, Terrence Ekot, and Dj Spoiltkid.
The four social media users had last week alleged on X platform (formerly Twitter) that the newly born son of another singer, Mercy Chinwo, has a resemblance with Bassey and thus concluded that he fathered the baby.
Bassey’s lawyers emphasised the gravity of the insinuation, stating that such false accusations not only harm his reputation but also have broader consequences on personal and professional fronts.
Nathaniel Bassey is a well celebrated music minister with a thriving ministry and he is married to Sarah, his wife whom he noted he encountered her at a ministry trip at Eket, Akwa Ibom State.
The petition from Nathaniel Bassey’s lawyers reads, “Our client is a gospel music minister whose songs and ministrations have impacted the lives of so many from different walks of life across the globe.
“On Friday, the 29th day of March 2024, Mercy Chinwo Blessed, another popular gospel music minister, and her husband posted pictures of their son and themselves on different social media platforms.
“However, our client was disheartened, saddened, and grossly disturbed to find that the above-mentioned suspects, as mischief makers with a criminal intent to destroy the image and character of our client, had made different social media posts of defamatory matter, calling our client ‘the father of minister Mercy Chinwo Blessed’s son,’ a woman who is married to another man.
“The post by Mr. Okoronkwo Ejike has since gone viral on the platform. In reaction to the post, Mr. Kingsley Ibeh commented on Mr. Okoronkwo’s post with a picture of our client with the caption ‘The real father of the baby.
“In a post on the platform “X” formerly known as Twitter, “Dj SpoiltKid” a verified X user, quoted the statement by Okoronkwo Ejike along with a screenshot of the post and added, ‘When are we doing a DNA test?’
“In another post, Mr. Terrence Ekot, on the platform “X” made a post thus: ‘Take a look at the stunning resemblance of mercy chinwo’s son and Nathaniel Bassey. Though the duo has been working together on several projects in the past..what do you have to say?”
The lawyers said the actions violated Sections 373 and 375 of the Criminal Code Act, along with Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act. They argued that the social media posts by the four individuals amounted to character assassination
The petition further said, “The consequences of making such statements on social media have been known to tarnish the reputations of individuals, render marriages unstable, and many never recover from them. International reputation is an asset—both for the individual and for the nation—and it takes time to acquire.
“Consequently, we urge you to use your good offices to, in the interest of justice, investigate this matter, arrest, and bring the suspect to justice, which will serve as a deterrent to others.”
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arrested controversial celebrity cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, over currency mutilation and abuse of the Naira.
Confirming the arrest, EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said Bobrisky was arrested at Pinnock Estate in Lagos State on Wednesday.
He also stated that Bobrisky would be charged in court soon.
Oyewale said: “Bobrisky is with us. He was arrested last night in Lagos, and he is at our Lagos command.
“We arrested him for alleged abuse of Naira notes, spraying of Naira notes, and currency mutilation, among others.
“We are very serious about restoring the dignity of the Naira. Though our investigation is still ongoing, but he will definitely be charged to court soon.”
Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has sued the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, for alleged defamation.
Igboho, in a suit filed by his team of lawyers led by J. A. Sanusi, dragged Adams before the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan.
The separatist leader prayed that the court should award a compensation of N500 million against Adams for the alleged defamatory statements against him.
Among others, Igboho prayed for an order of the court “for the payment of exemplary and aggravated damages in the sum of Five Hundred Million Naira (N500,000,000.00) in favour of the Claimant for defamation of the person of the Claimant by the Defendant. Cost of litigation put at the sum of Ten Million Naira (N10,000,000.00)”.
Igboho said Adams had accused him of being a serial killer and assassin for top politicians, including President Bola Tinubu in an audio conversation in 2021.
In the suit, the separatist leader denied the allegations and urged the court to declare the content of the audio clip as slanderous against his character.
Igboho said it is “unlawful, inappropriate and inexcusable for the Defendant to defame, disparage and put to disrepute the character and reputation of the Claimant in an audio clip published on all new media platforms, including YouTube, in a publication that took place between the Defendant and a third party, Nuru Banjo, sometime in November 2021 or thereabouts”.
He asked for an order “of this honourable court directing the Defendant to publicly retract the slanderous, libellous and defamatory content contained in the publication to Nuru Banjo which was further published on all new media platforms including YouTube where the Claimant was defamed, maligned and disparaged by the Defendant in the conversation published in November 2021 by the Defendant”.
Igboho also prayed for an order of the court “directing the Defendant to engage all new media platforms, including YouTube, to take down the slanderous, libellous and defamatory content against the Claimant as said by the Defendant to a third party, Nuru Banjo, from their various new media platforms”.
He asked the court to direct “the Defendant to tender an unreserved apology to the Claimant in five National Newspapers in Nigeria over defamatory content against the Claimant by the Defendant which has been published on all new media platforms, including YouTube”.
In addition, Igboho asked for an “order of perpetual injunction restraining the Defendant, his agent, privies or assigns from further scandalizing, assaulting, embarrassing, degrading or defaming the person of the Claimant”.
The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft discovered an illegal fuel depot at No 3 Silver Bird Road, Ilasun Lekki, on Tuesday, and arrested five suspects.
The leader of the syndicate, Mr Ahmed Ariyo alongside four other persons were arrested in a private apartment where they carry out their illegal activities.
According to a statement by the NNS Beecroft spokesperson, Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, the Commander NNS Beecroft, Commodore Rafiu Taye Oladejo, while briefing newsmen, disclosed that the discovery of the illegal fuel depot was sequel to credible intelligence they received on suspicious activities taking place at Elegushi beach.
He said that this necessitated the deployment of NNS Beecroft Quick Response Team to the location which resulted in the discovery and arrest of the suspects.
Commodore Oladejo added that the illegal fuel depot contains 8 storage tanks of 50,000 litres capacity each, laden with about 57,000 litres of AGO; a tanker laden with about 7,000 litres; a bus with 30 jerry cans laden with about 1,500 litres.
The total products discovered is about 65,000 litres of AGO which is estimated to be about 89 million Naira based on the current price of AGO (₦1,350).
While estimating the total capacity of the storage facility found in the apartment, the Commander said the 8 storage tanks if filled with AGO will be about 400,000 litres which is approximately 500 million Naira.
He further explained that preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects possibly got the products through pipeline vandalism, illegal vendors at sea as well as other illegal means along the coastline.
Commodore Oladejo reiterated that NNS Beecroft will not relent in its efforts to pursuing oil thieves and other criminal elements as directed by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu.
He assured law abiding citizens of NNS Beecroft’s commitment to stamping out Lagos maritime environment of all forms of maritime crimes for socioeconomic activities to thrive.
The Commander finally handed over the suspects, products and the facility to Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation and possible prosecution.
A Nigerian lady has educated women on the best approach to take when dating a married man.
The lady in the video advised her gender that understanding the fundamental guidelines for dating married men is crucial.
The most crucial rule, in her opinion, is to never call him as he will be the one to do so whenever he needs them. It is risky to call him because he might be at home with his wife, especially if they have warned not to text or call.
She noted that this is a very significant rule in dating a married man if ladies want their relationship with them to last.
See Video Below;
Media
“Most important rule of dating a married man, you don’t call him let him call you when he needs you”
— Dami’ Adenuga (@DAMIADENUGA) April 3, 2024
-TikTok user. pic.twitter.com/MJXUnfwYAA
More...
A South African woman, Funanani Mbedzi, has been allegedly shot dead by her husband inside the church during the Easter celebration.
According to South African police, the murder suspect entered the church in Makonde Shadani village, outside Thohoyandou, around 6 pm while the congregation was engaged in worship and shot at his wife multiple times.
Limpopo SAPS spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba while confirming the incident, said the husband fled the scene after killing the worship leader.
“While the motive behind this appalling incident remains unclear, domestic violence cannot be ruled out. The man handed himself over to the police yesterday after being on the run for two days.”
According to Ledwaba, the suspect’s licensed firearm, believed to have been used to commit the crime, was confiscated during the arrest.
A near-fatal incident was averted on Wednesday after the National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, and his family escaped being killed in a fire incident at his official residence in Abuja.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Obiora Ifoh, who insinuated that the incident was an assassination attempt.
Ifoh stated that though the LP National Chairman and his family did not sustain any serious injury, the victims were rushed to a private health facility for medical treatment.
The statement read, “The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Barrister Julius Abure, early this morning allegedly escaped an assassination attempt on him at his Abuja residence. His residence was also gutted by a mysterious fire which started a few minutes after 1 am while Abure and the members of his family were asleep.
“According to a member of the family, who narrated the incident, the family was woken up by neighbours and seurity men living in the compound who raised the alarm. The entire family was trapped as the inferno had reached the staircase, making it impossible for Abure and his family to escape.
“However, it took divine intervention for the national chairman and his family to escape after neighbours and security men gallantly pulled down one of the windows upstairs, making way for the family to escape.
“Men of the fire service arrived shortly after Abure and his family were evacuated.
“Abure and his family were rushed to a private hospital where they are presently receiving treatment. Their condition is however stable.”
The Abure and the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress have been embroiled in tussle for the control of Labour Party.
The NLC, under the leadership of Joe Ajaero, had recently picked LP state offices nationwide in an attempt to force Abure out.
Abure alleged that the NLC members vandalised and carted away party property during the protest.
Gospel artiste Nathaniel Bassey has petitioned Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to investigate and prosecute four individuals who falsely accused him of being the father of Mercy Chinwo’s child.
Bassey’s legal representatives submitted the petition on April 1, 2024, alleging criminal defamation and cyberstalking against the individuals identified as Okoronkwo Ejike, Kingsley Ibeh, Terrence Ekot, and Dj Spoiltkid.
Last week, these four social media users alleged that Bassey fathered the child of fellow popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, leading to the spread of the false accusation on X (formerly Twitter).
Bassey’s legal team stressed the severity of the matter, highlighting how such baseless accusations not only damage Bassey’s reputation but also have far-reaching consequences on both personal and professional fronts.
The petition read, “Our client is a gospel music minister whose songs and ministrations have impacted the lives of so many from different walks of life across the globe.
“On Friday, the 29th day of March 2024, Mercy Chinwo Blessed, another popular gospel music minister, and her husband posted pictures of their son and themselves on different social media platforms.
“However, our client was disheartened, saddened, and grossly disturbed to find that the above-mentioned suspects, as mischief makers with a criminal intent to destroy the image and character of our client, had made different social media posts of defamatory matter, calling our client ‘the father of minister Mercy Chinwo Blessed’s son,’ a woman who is married to another man.
“The post by Mr. Okoronkwo Ejike has since gone viral on the platform. In reaction to the post, Mr. Kingsley Ibeh commented on Mr. Okoronkwo’s post with a picture of our client with the caption ‘The real father of the baby.
“In a post on the platform “X” formerly known as Twitter, “Dj SpoiltKid” a verified X user, quoted the statement by Okoronkwo Ejike along with a screenshot of the post and added, ‘When are we doing a DNA test?’
“In another post, Mr. Terrence Ekot, on the platform “X” made a post thus: ‘Take a look at the stunning resemblance of mercy chinwo’s son and Nathaniel Bassey. Though the duo has been working together on several projects in the past..what do you have to say?” (sic).
The lawyers argued that the social media posts by the four individuals amounted to character assassination.
They said the actions violated Sections 373 and 375 of the Criminal Code Act, along with Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act.
“The consequences of making such statements on social media have been known to tarnish the reputations of individuals, render marriages unstable, and many never recover from them. International reputation is an asset—both for the individual and for the nation—and it takes time to acquire.
“Consequently, we urge you to use your good offices to, in the interest of justice, investigate this matter, arrest, and bring the suspect to justice, which will serve as a deterrent to others,” the petition added.
The Department of State Services, on Wednesday, obtained a court order to detain a Nigerian, Emmanuel Osase, who is accused of being a member of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.
Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja said the DSS could detain the suspect for 60 days.
The order followed an ex parte application, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/409/2024, taken before the judge by a DSS lawyer, A. A. Ugee.
Ugee told the court that the matter was brought pursuant to Section 66(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022.
He prayed the court for an order enabling the applicant to detain the suspect for 60 days pending the conclusion of investigation.
Ruling, Justice Ekwo, a vacation judge, granted the application.
He said, “Upon studying the averments in the affidavit, I hereby grant the relief as prayed. “
The judge subsequently adjourned till June 3 for further proceedings.
Osase, who was arrested on March 11, was accused of propagating ISIS messages, opposing the democratic system of government in Nigeria, and calling for terrorist attacks on Nigeria and its symbols of sovereignty.
In a March 27, 2024 affidavit, Ahmad Abubakar of the DSS Legal Service Department, Abuja, said the suspect needed to be detained because his release would jeopardise the DSS investigation.
He said, “The respondent was arrested by a team of personnel from the applicant’s office for alleged membership and propagation of Islamic State in Iraq and Syria terrorist messages, including opposition to the democratic system of government and the call for staging terrorist attacks against the Nigerian state and its symbols of sovereignty.”
Abubakar stated that Osase was jailed for five years for terrorism-related offences in France and was deported after the completion of his sentence.
Abubakar added, “Preliminary investigation revealed that the respondent, who is an ex-convict, still engages in terrorist activities which previously led to his conviction in France.
“The respondent appears not to have renounced his terrorist ideologies, as he continues to engage with the proscribed pro-ISIS online media group known as ‘al-Alawn Media Foundation,’ whose main objective is the creation and dissemination of terrorist content and the promotion of terrorist attacks against the democratic systems of Nigeria and the Western governments, including their interests across the globe.
“The respondent, who was born in the Federal Capital Territory, left Nigeria for France and never returned to Nigeria until his deportation after completion of a five-year jail term in France for acts of terrorism and attempt to join the Islamic State (IS) linked terrorist group, Friqat Al-Ghuraba (group of foreigners) in Syria.
“The respondent at the point of arrest, formatted his mobile device to factory settings upon sighting security agents ostensibly to wipe out any suspicious contents on the device and cover up his nefarious activities.
“The activities of the respondent constitute a potent threat to national security and corporate existence of Nigeria.
“The release of the respondent at this time would jeopardise the investigation, as investigation has assumed a wider dimension.
“There is a need for a thorough investigation of the suspect to ensure that he does not pose any security threat to Nigeria or the world at large
“The respondent is helping with vital information that will lead to the arrest of other members who are still at large.”