Author: Merit Ugolo

Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, has charged the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, to evolve functional strategies and initiatives to tackle corruption and improve governance at the local government level. He gave the charge in Abuja yesterday at a two-day national workshop and Official Flag-off of Anti-Corruption Preventive Tools entitled: War Against Corruption at Grassroots held at the EFCC Academy. Olukoyede who spoke through the Secretary to the Commission, Mohammed Hammajoda, charged participants to leverage on their collective wisdom, experiences, and insights to forge strategies and initiatives to strengthen the fight…

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The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has debunked a news report of a so-called coup scare in the country, stressing that the report is unequivocally false, and is a heinous act of disinformation. He said the report is the figment of the warped imagination of detractors, whose malicious intent is to destabilize the country and undermine the present administration. Idris said the government would neither be distracted nor intimidated into abandoning the ongoing reforms aimed at rejuvenating the economy and creating a pathway of prosperity for the citizenry. The Minister said it is now evident that some…

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday, closed its case against Olugbenga Obadina and his company, Almond Projects Limited before Justice Nnamdi Dimgba of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja. Obadina and Almond Projects Limited are standing trial on an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy, official corruption and money laundering to the tune of N2,17,190,000 (Two Billion, Seventeen Million, One Hundred and Ninety Thousand Naira), being payment received from the Office of the National Security Adviser on November 28, 2015 without any contractual agreement or approval. Count three of the charge reads: “That you Olugbenga Obadina and Almond Projects…

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday, closed its case against Olugbenga Obadina and his company, Almond Projects Limited before Justice Nnamdi Dimgba of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja. Obadina and Almond Projects Limited are standing trial on an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy, official corruption and money laundering to the tune of N2,17,190,000 (Two Billion, Seventeen Million, One Hundred and Ninety Thousand Naira), being payment received from the Office of the National Security Adviser on November 28, 2015 without any contractual agreement or approval. Count three of the charge reads: “That you Olugbenga Obadina and Almond Projects…

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Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has condemned the coordinated and sustained targeting of journalists by the Israeli security forces in the ongoing conflict in Palestine, stressing that the action represents flagrant violations of press freedom and human rights. Idris made the remarks in his speech at the Extraordinary Session of the Islamic Conference of Information Ministers with the theme, “Israeli Government’s Disinformation and Hostilities Against Journalists during the Israeli Occupation of Palestine” held on Saturday, February 24, 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. Represented by the Head of Mission of the Nigerian Embassy in Turkey, Ambassador Zayyad Abdul-Salam, the…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has expressed appreciation to Church leaders for their prayers, leading to his survival of 38 court cases from pre-election to post election cases to the Supreme Court.  Governor Oborevwori stated this on Saturday at the wedding ceremony of Mr and Mrs Ovoke Akpobasa held at Light of Christ Ministry, Sapele. He described the groom as a son to him and congratulated him and his wife on their successful marriage ceremony. Oborevwori who said he was Governor for all Deltans, said he wasn’t bothered about the size of the church when he was told, stressing that…

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Thirteen Internet fraudsters have been convicted and sentenced to various jail terms by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City, Edo State. A statement by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission said eight of them: Ayodeji Emmanuel, Oyebade Johnpeace Jesustofunmi, Babatunde Oluwapelumi Richard, Owoyemi Michael Boluwatife Sodiq Bayonle Qosim, Sunday Solomon Blessing, Ilori Tolulope and Anthony Akinbulijo, are undergraduates of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State. Others are Ifiriyele Orilola Samuel, Ajileye Wale, Elvis Oni Mohammed, Ogbeifun Prince and Stephen Kelvin and Abudu Umaru The convicts were arraigned separately on one count charge…

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In a controversial statement, Ossai Ovie Success, a senior special assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, has drawn attention to the relationship status of DJ Cuppy, daughter of Nigerian Billionaire Femi Otedola. Success’ remarks, made on social media, have sparked widespread debate and criticism. “DJ Cuppy, who is beautiful with significant wealth at her disposal, remains single despite experiencing heartbreaks,” Success stated. “This serves as a lesson for all women to focus on self-improvement and spiritual growth rather than relying solely on their beauty or financial status.” Success admonished women against engaging in immoral activities, emphasizing…

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Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has appealed to the media to rally public support for the bold economic reforms being undertaken by the Tinubu Administration, which are aimed at opening vast opportunities for employment, sustainable economic growth, and prosperity for all Nigerians. Idris made the remarks in Abuja on Thursday at a national security conference organized by the Star Newspaper in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists. The Minister, who was represented by the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council, Mr. Dili Ezughah, acknowledged that at the inception of any reform, adjustments and sacrifices…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday, charged appointees of government and all public officers to pledge their loyalty to the State and not ethnic backgrounds, narrow political or social interests.  Governor Oborevwori gave the charge at the swearing-in ceremony of six new Special Advisers. Those sworn-in are: Mr. Ramson Ikweki, Mr. Dimaro Progress, Chief Barry Gbe, Barr. George Orogun, Mr. Nicholas Ojei, and Chief Jeffery Azagba. He noted that the appointment of the Special Advisers was a clear demonstration of his administration’s sincere drive to energise the machinery of government through the recognition of qualified and worthy persons from the…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, Monday, commended the wife of the Inspector- General of Police, Mrs Elizabeth Egbetokun, for working towards ensuring the sustainable welfare of families of police officers in the country.  Governor Oborevwori made the commendation when he received on an advocacy visit, the wife of the Inspector – General of Police and President of the Police Officers’ Wives’ Association, POWA, Mrs Elizabeth Egbetokun, and her delegation to Government House, Asaba. He commended Mrs Egbetokun for her advocacy and urged other officers’ wives to emulate the POWA President. He said Delta State was peaceful throughout the Yuletide because…

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Inflation, the sustained increase in the general price level of goods and services in an economy over a period of time, is a phenomenon that affects economies worldwide. It impacts consumers, businesses, and policymakers alike, shaping economic decisions and influencing living standards. Understanding the causes of inflation is crucial for mitigating its effects and maintaining stable economic conditions. 1. Demand-Pull Inflation: One of the primary causes of inflation is excess demand relative to supply. When demand for goods and services surpasses the economy’s ability to produce them, prices tend to rise. This can occur due to factors such as increased…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, Sunday, charged Permanent Secretaries and top management of the Delta State Civil Service to uphold professionalism and positively impact the state with their services.  Governor Oborevwori gave the charge at the 60th birth anniversary and retirement thanksgiving of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engineer Frederick Edafioghor, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Owhelogbo in Isoko North Local government area. The Governor said leaving an impactful life in service was better than short-lived instant gain and advocated for sustainable excellence in service delivery. He congratulated the celebrant, Engr Edafioghor for putting his best while in service,…

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President Bola Tinubu has said his administration is evolving home-grown solutions to address the nation’s food security challenges by setting up schemes to support local production and discourage all forms of rent-seeking that are associated with food importation. The President made the declaration at a meeting with 36 state governors, attended by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the DSS, and some ministers at the State House in Abuja on Thursday. On security, President Tinubu approved the establishment of a committee comprising state governors and representatives of the federal government to, among…

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Operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, arrested 14 (fourteen) suspected internet fraudsters in a training center of potential internet fraudsters in Makurdi, Benue State. The operatives, acting on intelligence, arrested the suspects in a three-bedroom apartment allegedly serving as a training centre for internet fraud trainees along Achusa Road, Makurdi. The suspects are: Asongu Terungwa, Aese Sonter,Nyoosu Terungwa,John Kator, Udi Micheal Aodona, Terungu Mnyam, Iorwuese Terhide, Ule Francis, Imoter Gloor Emmanuel and Samuel Lubem. Others include: Wergba Tertamge, Erukaa Ephraim, Agenale Franklin and Abechi Toryila. Items recovered include: laptops,…

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Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged heads of agencies, parastatals and government-owned companies across the state to embrace innovation, creativity and bolster government revenue to meet the ever-growing needs of Lagos residents. He urged them to explore new avenues and embrace cutting-edge solutions that will optimize the financial capabilities of the State and ensure adequate funds for the timely and effective implementation of critical projects that directly benefit the people. The Governor also reaffirmed his government’s steadfast dedication to enhancing the welfare and prosperity of each citizen, noting that the current administration remains resolute in its efforts…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, Monday, called on oil companies operating in the state to partner with the state government in funding the state security trust fund. Governor Oborevwori made the call when he received the new Police Commissioner in the State, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, and his management team on a courtesy call at Government House, Asaba. While congratulating the Commissioner of Police on his posting to the state, Governor Oborevwori urged him to work hard like his predecessor, Wale Abbas, who was recently promoted to Assistant Inspector -General of Police. Oborevwori said: “I welcome you to Delta State…

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said his administration is revolutionizing agriculture to make Nigeria self-sufficient in food production and a net exporter of agricultural products. Speaking when he received a delegation from the Global Tijaniyya Movement, led by Khalifa Muhammad Mahe Niass, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, on Sunday, the President said his administration will support plans and efforts to give ease and succour to Hajj pilgrims. He emphasized the importance of spiritual endeavours in nation-building, underscoring his administration’s commitment to supporting religious activities. He highlighted the need for collaboration between political and spiritual leaders to advance the nation’s…

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The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat has applauded the winners of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, just as he stated that the Race is one of the best among long-distance races in the world owing to its capacity and the atmosphere created by the state government. He said, “The Marathon has created an opportunity for people that came from other countries to understand our culture better, make friends here, and also have a socio-economic impact on the state”. On his part, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende said the yearly event is…

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Delta State Government has refuted attempted claims by the Federal Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs on the rehabilitation of the failed Bedesiegha bridge, along Bomadi Road in the State.  Addressing journalists at the project site, on Saturday, the State Commissioner for Works Highways and Urban Roads, Comrade Reuben Izeze said it was mendacious and an attempt to swindle the Federal Government for anyone to lay claim to a project not done by them. Izeze who was in company of his counterpart in the Ministry of Works, Rural and Riverine Roads, Mr Charles Aniagwu, Member Representing Patani Constituency, Hon. Emmanuel Sinebe…

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In a world that continually evolves, there remains an unwavering truth: the necessity of treating women with the utmost respect, empathy, and equality. The way society perceives and treats women is a litmus test for its progress and moral standing. It is time to abandon antiquated notions and embrace a new paradigm of understanding and appreciating women. This article serves as a clarion call, a strong-worded reminder that the time for half-hearted gestures and tokenism is over – it’s time to treat women right, unequivocally. Ditch the Patronizing Chivalry: Illustration 1: The antiquated concept of chivalry, masked as politeness, often…

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Justices Farouk Lawal Adamu and Abdullahi M. Liman of the Kano State High Court have convicted and sentenced Huseini Suleiman ( a.k.a Khalifa Abba) and Umar Yaú to four years imprisonment for Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card fraud. They were jailed after pleading guilty to one -count separate charge bordering on cybercrimes. The charge against Suleman reads ‘’That you HUSAINI SULEMAN (A.K.A. KHALIFA ABBA) on 19th September, 2023 in Kano within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, used the Guaranty Trust Bank MasterCard belonging to Abubakar Sarki Abdullahi and fraudulently withdrew the sum of N1, 285,000.00…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed grief at the passing of a former member of the House of Representatives, Dr Cairo Ojougboh.  He reportedly passed on while watching Nigeria Vs South Africa Semi-final match in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON), holding in Ivory Coast. He was 64 years. Dr Ojougboh who was the Akinuwa of Agbor kingdom, represented Ika Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and later served as National Vice Chairman South-South of the party before joining the All Progressives Congress, APC. He also served as Executive Director Projects…

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The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has hailed the Super Eagles for their resounding victory over the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in the semifinals of the African Nations Cup, describing their performance as the stuff of legends. Idris said the Super Eagles displayed remarkable talent, determination, and teamwork throughout the match, showcasing the true spirit of Nigerian football. He said through their indomitable spirit in pursuit of victory, the Super Eagles are inches away from clinching the coveted trophy for Nigeria. Idris said as the Super Eagles look forward to the final match, the nation, and…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday, flagged off the construction of additional eight duplexes in the Commissioners Quarters in Asaba, the state capital.  Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Oborevwori said the housing project was part of his administration’s effort aimed at improving physical infrastructure for better synergy and service delivery to Deltans. He disclosed that the project was yet another milestone in the life of his administration to offer meaningful development to Deltans, adding that meaningful development was the first pillar of his MORE Agenda for Deltans. Governor Oborevwori said: “Today marks yet another milestone in the life of this…

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The Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, has pledged sustainable development and transformation of the State with the efficient implementation of his administration’s MORE Agenda.  Governor Oborevwori gave the pledge on Tuesday, when he received on a congratulatory and solidarity visit, the State Advisory and Peace Building Council led by Professor Sam Oyovbaire, at Government House, Asaba. The Governor, who expressed delight at the visit, commended the elder statesmen for their support and prayers, assuring that his administration would work to revamp infrastructure in the state. Governor Oborevwori, who said the Advisory and Peace building Council was populated with men…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the construction of Orhorhor road and Mr. Benjamin Aboneje Oseragbaje road, (formerly Hardock road), both in Sapele, with a promise to ensure prompt completion of the projects.  Governor Oborevwori gave the approval when he visited an octogenarian businessman, Mr Benjamin Oseragbaje, and the Publisher of Vanguard newspaper group, Mr Sam Amuka-Pemu, in Sapele on Sunday. The Governor, who was elated to visit the elder statesmen, said he would have long visited but for the election-related disputes in court all of which had now been laid to rest by the Supreme Court. Oborevwori said:…

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Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Sunday, said that his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa does not interfer in the governance of Delta State. He said that unlike other former Governors of some States, Senator Okowa respects the office of the Governor. Governor Oborevwori disclosed this in his remarks at the 60th birth and 24th marriage anniversary thanksgiving of the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olorogun Kingsley Esiso at Living Faith Church, Shell Road, Sapele. He said: “Senator Okowa is a good man, he is not like other predecessors of other states. He has never interfered in the governance of the…

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The Delta State Commissioner for Urban Renewal Engr Michael Ifeanyi Anoka has urged the People of Ndokwa West to continue to support the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Anoka who made this call during PDP Stakeholder meeting and hosting of the Delta State Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme at his country home in Ogume Ndokwa West said he will never misuse the opportunity given to him to serve as Commissioner in the state executive council. He noted that the problems of the People are his problems and he should be seen as their Servant and not as a leader. Anoka urged…

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has said that despite the state being populated by different ethnic groups, the state remains one united family.  Speaking at the Ozoro Country home of former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Leo Ogor, Governor Oborevwori thanked the Isoko nation for their support for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the years and for his emergence as Governor of the State. The Governor had earlier led top government functionaries including his Deputy, Monday Onyeme, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, Majority Leader of…

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