One of the two brothers, Henry Odep, believed to be part of cybercrime syndicates has disclosed that he made the sum of N460,000 from impersonating the FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu’s Facebook account.

The cyber thieves who were captured by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps made the confession when they were apprehended and paraded during a press conference held in Abuja on Tuesday.

In September 2023, the NSCDC FCT Command issued a public alert regarding a fake Facebook account impersonating the FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu.

Identified as Henry Odep and Emanuel Odep from Cross River State, they were apprehended with evidence linking them to cyber fraud activities.

Henry who spoke to journalists said he started a cybercrime business in 2016 through a friend who made huge money from it.

“I made N460,000 from the fake Facebook account of the commandant between September- December 2023,” he added.

Emanuel, upon apprehension, provided valuable information leading to the arrest of his elder brother, Henry, who was found in possession of the device used to operate the fake Facebook account.

Henry admitted to initiating his brother into cyber fraud, which involved duping numerous individuals through various online schemes, including impersonating the late Assistant Commandant General, NSCDC Helen Amakiri.

The NSCDC said investigation revealed their use of platforms such as Opay, Moniepoint, and Palmpay to receive illicit funds, as well as their association with individuals unknowingly involved in their criminal activities.

Those inadvertently implicated in the investigation, including Amadi Chisom and Okafor Evelyn, have been granted bail pending further legal proceedings, as they were found to know nothing about the fraudulent activities.

Items recovered from the suspects include various electronic devices and POS machines used in their illegal operations.

Odumosu, addressing journalists, stated that “after an extensive investigation and a seven-month pursuit, collaborative efforts between NSCDC intelligence units and their counterparts from Delta and Anambra State Commands led to the apprehension of the individuals responsible for the deceptive Facebook account.”

The FCT NSCDC Commandant also warned cybercriminals that they would be apprehended and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Odumosu noted that the arrest served as a clear message that crime does not pay, and collaboration with other security agencies will continue to ensure the safety and security of citizens against all forms of criminality.

“Investigation is still ongoing. When it is concluded, they will be prosecuted according to the extant laws, and we believe that appropriate sanctions will be meted out on them.

“We want to use this opportunity to warn all cybercriminals who specialise in defrauding people of their hard-earned money to find legitimate trade to do because, sooner or later, the long arm of the law would catch up with them.

“The NSCDC FCT Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, will continue to launch its dragnet into fighting any form of criminality that will contravene peace, security, and any other government’s interest for the people,” he said.

The House of Representatives on Tuesday directed the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to halt the rollout of the new electricity tariff.

The decision was reached after the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance, spearheaded by Nkemkanma Kama, a lawmaker from the Labour Party (LP) representing Ebonyi state.

Recall that on April 3, NERC approved an increase in electricity tariffs for customers belonging to Band A, which led to legislative action.

Customers in this category, who receive 20 hours of electricity per day, were supposed to start paying N225 per kilowatt (kW), a significant increase from the previous tariff of N66.

Meanwhile, yesterday, during a hearing at the Senate Committee on Power, Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, defended the tariff hike by stating that the Federal Government could no longer afford to provide subsidies on power.

He said for the sector to be revived, the government needs to spend about $10 billion annually in the next 10 years.

“This is because of the infrastructure requirement for the stability of the sector, but the government cannot afford that,” the minister had said.

Adelabu has stated that the electricity sector is attracting more investors due to the increase in electricity tariff for Band A customers.

Opay, a leading financial services provider in Nigeria, has reassured its customers regarding the security of their funds amidst the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) directive to suspend the creation of new accounts.

Recall Vanguard had earlier published an article on how Kuda Bank, Moniepoint, Palmpay, and Opay halted new account openings for customers in response to the aforementioned directive from CBN.

This suspension of new account openings for the mentioned fintechs follows closely on the heels of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) taking action against 1,146 bank accounts involved in unauthorized forex dealings.

In a statement on its X account on Tuesday, the bank said it’s committed to fighting illegal financial activities in the country.

It reads: “Opay remains committed to working closely with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other regulatory bodies to fight money laundering, fraud, terrorism financing, and other illegal financial activities.

“As a regulatory-compliant institution, OPay follows the rules set by the CBN and other regulators to ensure the financial system’s integrity. To achieve this, we have closed non-compliant accounts, implemented strict security measures, and educated customers to help combat fraud.

“To support government efforts to clean up the financial industry, Opay and other Fintechs companies have temporarily paused onboarding new customers and creating new wallets. This action reflects our commitment to a secure financial environment and fighting against illicit activities.

“Please note that existing accounts and wallets remain unaffected by the CBN’s directive. We want to assure our customers that their funds are secure, their data is protected and this is a temporary measure.

“Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we are committed to promoting financial inclusion and economic growth as key players in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem.”

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) revealed yesterday that its Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Group (CEPTG) had scrutinized poorly executed projects totalling N219.844 billion across 176 federal government agencies.

Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, the commission’s chairman, made this disclosure during a press briefing in Lagos, emphasizing the importance of directing government funds towards impactful projects in critical sectors such as education, agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure to benefit vulnerable Nigerians.

The tracking exercise, conducted as part of the 2024 phase six initiative from November 2023 to the first quarter of 2024, focused on key sectors in 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Dr. Adamu highlighted that 1,721 government-funded projects underwent scrutiny during this phase, with ongoing investigations into various infractions including underperformance, shoddy execution, abandonment, incompleteness, and project hoarding.

Regarding plea bargaining, Dr. Adamu noted its efficiency in saving time and money while aiding the government in recovering stolen funds.

Popular Clergyman Apostle Johnson Suleman shares a thought-provoking message with his congregation at Omega Fire Ministries International.

During his sermon, Apostle Suleman urged men to come together and support one another in a way that surpasses their support for women.

Apostle Suleman also directed his criticism towards men who prioritize aiding women over their own gender. He challenged the actions of those who neglect their fellow men in need in favor of helping women.

He highlighted the importance of forming strong teams and bonds through assisting men, while cautioning against potential controversies that may arise from helping women.

Apostle Suleman stressed that the gratitude shown by women when they receive help is often limited and minimal. He emphasized the idea that only a small number of females genuinely appreciate the assistance they receive.

A man has been arrested for abducting and hiding a 10-year-old girl in a refrigerator in Kaduna State.

The suspect was apprehended by the police in the north east State on Tuesday.

According to the police, the incident happened in Unguwar Gara Village of Kauru Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrest of the suspect to newsmen on Tuesday in Kaduna.

Hassan disclosed that Uwaila Idris, the mother of the abducted girl, reported the disappearance of her daughter, Hanifa Garba, on Saturday afternoon.

“She came to the police station and reported that on April 26, at about 1300hrs one Aminu Garba of the same address allegedly abducted her 10-year-old daughter named Hanifa Garba in his shop,” he said.

Hassan said when the suspect was asked about Hanifa’s whereabouts, he denied any knowledge of where she was.

He added, ” The suspect denied seeing her and went back to his shop, covered the girl’s mouth with a Hijab (veil) and forced her into a refrigerator, and padlocked her inside.

”The youths in the area insisted on searching the shop, after which Hanifa was found locked inside the refrigerator.

“The suspect was immediately arrested, while investigation is ongoing to establish the real motive behind the suspect’s action.”

He stated that the suspect would be charged in court on completion of the ongoing discreet investigations.

Davido’s Logistics Manager, Israel Afeare, popularly known as Israel DMW, has wadded into the beef between his boss and Wizkid.

DAILY POST reports that Wizkid and Davido were engaged in a fierce social media war on X on Monday.

Reacting via his Instagram story, Israel DMW stated that he was disappointed with Wizkid’s behaviour, stressing that Davido had done nothing to deserve it. 

He urged Wizkid to retire from the music industry “honourably” if he is fed up.

He also berated him for shading ace music executive, Don Jazzy.

Israel DMW wrote: “I use to like everything about you, thinking you’re a human being. I never knew you’re a fully daft headed human being. Why dis continous jealousy and hatred? Did oga [Davido] stops you from releasing ur own back to back sweet hits?

“He has never in anytime said anything bad of you at all. You you just keep hating him for nothing sake. Retire from music if you’re fed up. Resign honourably. Who the hell are you? You’re just a small dwarf. You will be taught a lesson, if you’re not careful.

“You’re an idiot. A whole Don Baba? Na ur mate? Ugbeowagbon, Usaloa.”

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Mr Peter Obi, has slammed President Bola Tinubu’s administration for going on with the controversial Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project in defiance of public outcry.

He expressed displeasure that the government is embarking on a project threatening jobs at a time of rampant unemployment.

According to him, it’s not too late to discontinue the Lagos-Calabar highway project, adding that urgent necessities are nationwide security, poverty eradication, healthcare, and education, especially for the poor and underprivileged.

Obi described the reported demolition of businesses and residences in the designated right of way for the project as insensitive and heart-wrenching.

He lamented that livelihoods are being wiped away, lifetime investments wasted, and jobs disappearing as a result of the demolition.

In a post on his X handle on Tuesday, the former Anambra State governor said that the hasty flag-off of the project defies the widespread outcry by the public, especially business and property owners directly affected by the project.

He said: “Contrary to reason and the necessity for compassion in public policy, the federal government has commenced the controversial Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project.

“The outcry against this project has been overwhelming due to the current situation in the country. However, reports as of yesterday indicate that demolition of businesses and residences in the designated right of way for the project has commenced from the Lagos end.

“The sight of this insensitive demolition is heart-wrenching. Livelihoods are being wiped away, lifetime investments are being wasted, and jobs are disappearing as bulldozers roar through. The homes of the elderly are being overturned by the power of bulldozers.

“This hasty flag-off defies the widespread outcry by the public, especially business and property owners directly affected by the project. Nobody knows the outcry that will accompany this project as it progresses towards poor rural landscapes.

“Thousands of jobs are about to be lost, with investments above $200 million at risk. Over 100,000 jobs in the leisure and hospitality sector face imminent extinction, along with 80 small businesses and their 4000 mostly youth employees.

“At a time of rampant unemployment, the government is embarking on a job-losing project. The economic losses currently observed are primarily limited to the initial kilometers in the Lagos area.

“However, the 700 km stretch of this road will pass through rural regions where affected individuals lack the voice, power, or influence to assert their rights. Significant sections of the public have questioned the process preceding the project’s approval, yet the government remains deaf to reason and caution.

“While acknowledging the economic value of the road, its conception dating back to Tafewa Balewa’s time, several parameters have changed. Insecurity and poverty are rampant, placing this project lower on today’s national priorities.

“It’s time to question the rationale and timing of this and similar projects. The nation is in its worst economic state in history, with poverty and hunger spreading. The basic necessities of life are beyond reach for most Nigerians.

“This is a moment when a committed government cannot embark on non-essential projects. Existing highways urgently need maintenance, and insecurity makes travel unsafe.

“Just a few days ago, many lives were lost, and over 70 vehicles were burned in a fuel tanker explosion that occurred on the East-West road in Rivers State. This tragic accident was primarily caused by the extremely poor condition of the road, which has been neglected for years and urgently needs attention. Our economy is struggling, and our health institutions are ill-equipped. Why embark on an expensive new highway project when there are close to 50 abandoned federal highway projects across the country?

“The urgent necessities are nationwide security, poverty eradication, healthcare, and education, especially for the poor and underprivileged. It’s not too late to discontinue the Lagos-Calabar highway project.

“We cannot afford another expensive abandoned project. Nigeria’s urgent development needs are more real and essential. We do not need landscape decoration escapades.”

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has warned of social media misuse and calls for an overhaul of strategic communication to counter disinformation.

Ribadu stated that the negative use of social media poses both local and global threats, presenting an immediate national security priority.

Ribadu delivered remarks in Abuja during a session with representatives from groups associated with the Strategic Communication Interagency Policy Committee.

He instructed media managers in defense, security, and response agencies to change their approach to engaging the public and countering disinformation from the country’s enemies.

He suggested that spokespersons in the security sector should address the use of media and social media platforms, which create division between citizens and governments at various levels.

Ribadu highlighted the prevalence of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation and identified them as hazards to national security and public involvement.

The NSA stated, “Across the world, we have also assessed the adept use of social media platforms by those who seek power to shape public opinion against citizens. This threat is both global and local and presents an immediate national security priority.

“The urgency to prepare and be proactive in our national security strategic communication management is now, and the spokespersons have a critical role to play.

“Upon the sweat and blood of service personnel and the men and women who protect us daily, we must build a narrative of resilience and mobilise our people.

“We must tell their stories and sing their praise as part of a broader national strategic communication programme.

“As spokespersons, you have a critical role to play in effective governance communication to project our results and reach audiences at home and abroad.

“Countering fake news will require that we are ahead of the news and proactively update the public.”

The NSA assured that going forward, government communication would be in line with President Bola Tinubu’s vision and directives, with messages carefully coordinated to reflect national security objectives and values.

The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, on Tuesday, revealed that the People Democratic Party, PDP, will lose a sitting governor in the South-South to the Labour Party.

In a statement signed by his spokesman, Oluwatosin Osho, the prophet explained that the current PDP management will continue to put the party in more crises, adding that many important people are decamping to another party as a result of the leadership crisis rocking the opposition party.

He said; ‘’A sitting governor in PDP will decamp, a prominent governor in South-South will decamp to the Labour party. The current management will put PDP in a big problem, If PDP isn’t careful, the party will become a forgotten factor in the country.’’

The prophet further noted that although the current leadership will plunge the party into more issues, a powerful person will take over the party.

“The management will compress the PDP, they will put the party into more crisis but I see a powerful person coming to take over the party,” he said.

Primate Ayodele also disclosed that a third force would emerge, adding that it would be a coalition of aggrieved members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and PDP.

He warned that the coalition would be a strong movement.

‘’However, I still see a third force that will be formed by aggrieved members of APC and PDP, it will be a strong one; both parties should prepare,’’ he added.