Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes commission (EFCC) have arrested a syndicate of fake State House Staff in Abuja for alleged criminal conspiracy, false representation and employment scam.
A statement by Dele Oyewale, Head, Media & Publicity at the commission stated that the suspects were arrested separately following investigation on petitions by various victims who were promised jobs as “Directors General” at the Ministry of Communication, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other ministries.
The suspects are; Augustine Enamegbai Umogboi, who claimed to be a former staff of the State House, Eleojo Josephine Idakwo, a fake staff of the Ministry of Information in the Registry Unit, and Kingsley Onuh who also claimed that he just concluded his National Youth Service Corps, NYSC.
Others are Omata Sunday and Eljayon Nigeria Limited, one of the companies which bank account they were using to get money from their victims.
The were said to also have different account numbers of different banks through which they were allegedly receiving the money amounting to N22.3 million from different victims.
READ ALSO:EFCC to continue trial of Binance director, Gambaryan
Our wake revealed, that Umogboi was arrested on June 16, 2024, Idakwo was arrested on April 30, 2024, while Onuh was arrested on April 3, 2024.
Many supposed victims were said to have narrated their bitter experience in a series of petitions written to the EFCC.
“A sample of such a petition reads: “we were reliably informed that sometime around April 2023, Mr. Gabriel Kingsley Onuh notified our clients about job opportunities in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation LTD (NNPCL) and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). With support of Eleojo Josephine Idakwo who claimed to work in NNPCL, they undertook to assist Mr. Toheeb Adesina and Miss Asabe Gambo to secure employment in NNPCL, as well as Mr. Tertindi Reginald Igbayue in FRSC, subject to the payment of a fee. It was agreed that the payment would be in two tranches-initials part payment and the balance payment when the employment letter is ready and when documentation of credentials commences”
Another victim in a petition written to the EFCC stated that “Sometime in May 2023, one of my friends, Sunday Omata approached me that one Eleojo Josephine Idakwu told him that their office in the Presidential Villa is responsible for screening applicants for the appointment of ‘Directors General’ for all Ministries and Parastatals in the current government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. As such they want me to apply for the position of Director General in the Ministry of Communication. She however gave me a condition that I must pay them Five Million Naira (N5,000,000) before they can start the process. Since it involves a big office, they cannot do all the contacts for free and their boss in the office requires some money too. Since then, they have been requesting all sorts of money from me with various accounts”.
The EFCC spokesman also said “The suspects have given useful information to the EFCC and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation”.
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EFCC arrests fake State House staff for alleged N22m employment scam
Goods import gulps N16tn, increases 60% in 12 months, says NBS
The total value of manufactured goods imported into Nigeria hit N16tn between 2023 and 2024, according to Saturday According analysis of the Foreign Trade report published by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics over 12 months.
The analysis also revealed that the value of the manufactured goods imported into the country between April 2023 and March 2024 increased by 60 per cent when compared to the value of manufactured products imported during the previous 12 months, which began in April 2022 and ended in March 2023.
The value of the total manufactured goods imports for the 2023/24 year stood at N16,684bn, while the value of 2022/23 imports was N10,448bn, giving a difference of N6,236, which is 60 per cent of the latter.
In the key highlights of the country’s international trade contained in the Foreign Trade in Goods Statistics for the first quarter of 2024, which it published earlier this month, the NBS said, “The value of total imports stood at N12,643.23bn in the first quarter of 2024, representing an increase of 39.65 per cent compared with the value recorded in Q4, 2023 (N9,053.78bn) and a rise of 95.53 per cent from the value recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2023 (N6,466.10bn).
“In the first quarter of 2024, China ranked highest among the top trading partners on the import side, followed by India, United States of America, Belgium, and The Netherlands.
“The most traded commodities were motor spirit ordinary, gas oil, durum wheat (not in seeds), cane sugar meant for sugar refinery, and other liquefied petroleum gases and other gaseous hydrocarbons.
“In the reviewed quarter, the value of imported manufactured goods was N5,738.32bn, reflecting a 44.47 per cent increase from N3,971.91bn in Q4 2023 and a 139.47 per cent rise from N2,396.23bn in Q1 2023,” it added.
However, Saturday According analysis of the Foreign Trade statistics report quarterly published by the NBS between April 2023 and March 2024 revealed that the value of manufactured goods imported into the country was N3,019bn in the second quarter of 2023 which began in April.
The value rose to N3,956bn in the third quarter of 2023 and increased slightly to N3,971 in the fourth quarter of the year, which ended in December, making a total of N16,684bn including the cost value for the manufactured goods imports of the first quarter of 2024.
For the previous 12 months which began in April 2022 and ended in March 2023, the value of manufactured goods imported for the country was N2,756bn in the second quarter of 2022, N2,849bn in the third quarter of the year, N2447bn in the last quarter of the year and N2,396bn in the first quarter of 2023, giving a total of N10,448bn.
Reacting to the development, the Director of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, Muda Yusuf, said the country’s import figure rose due to naira devaluation.
He said, “I think it is because of the naira depreciation. If you are importing something that was $1m when the exchange rate was N450, now you are importing products worth $1 million, and the exchange rate is N1,500.”
Also, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria attributed the huge gap between the Nigerian import and export goods rate to the inability of the country’s manufacturers to compete with their international counterparts due to factors bordering on high production costs.
The President of MAN, Francis Meshioye, noted that Nigerian manufacturers are saddled with high production costs, which ultimately push up the prices of manufactured goods.
Meshioye said, “We tell our members to export more, but all these things are based on competitive advantages. If you want to export a product, it is fine, but at what cost are you going to export it? What will be your price? If the cost is astronomically high, it will be difficult to export. It is a circle.
“The export base should be good enough to support the floating exchange rate, but we need to have a good economic base to do that.”
He called on the government to look at why manufacturers cannot export as expected, adding that it could do that through a roundtable.
“They can look at those products that can generate money, and ask what the impediments to exports are. That would be fantastic. We need to boost our export base. It should be robust. The more we export, the more forex we earn. And the more forex we earn, the more we have to source our importation needs,” the MAN president remarked.
Top 10 stories from across Nigerian Newspapers, Saturday, June 22, 2024
Here are the top 10 stories making headlines across the country.
1. Row over recruitment lingers, as PSC accuses Police of intimidation, refusal to obey S’Court
The Police Service Commission (PSC) has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to provide concrete evidence to support its claims regarding the recruitment of constables.Read more
2. Obi challenges Tinubu to provide solutions to Nigeria’s many challenges
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi, has called on President Bola Tinubu to stop giving excuses but rather proffer solutions to the myriads of problems facing the country.Read more
3. Fubara removes Wike’s ally as chairman of Rivers traditional rulers’ council
The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Friday removed the traditional ruler of the Emohua kingdom, Chidi Awuse, as the chairman of the state’s council of traditional rulers.Read more
4. Police refuse Kano governor’s request to evict Emir Bayero from mini palace
Tension is rising in Kano after Kano State governor, Abba Yusuf’s request for police assistance in evicting the deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero was met with a refusal by the Police.Read more
5. Death toll in Lagos cholera outbreak reaches 24
The death toll from cholera outbreak in Lagos State has increased to 24.Read more
READ ALSO:Top 10 stories from across Nigerian Newspapers, Thursday, June 20, 2024
6. ‘Leadership is based on seniority,’ Rivers caucus in House of Reps disown colleague over remark on Ugochinyere
The Rivers State caucus in the House of Representatives has disowned one of its members, Dumnamene Deekor, as its spokesman.Read more
7. Nigerian govt approves N21bn to DisCoS for purchase of meters
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved N21 billion for the 11 electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) to provide meters for customers.Read more
8. British Airways grounds aircraft, apologises for hitch
British Airways has grounded its aircraft at the Murtala International Airport in Lagos due to a technical fault.Read more
9. Man jailed one year for stealing N1000 food items in Ogun
An Abeokuta Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Ogun State, on Friday, sentenced one Kazeem Salami to one-year imprisonment for stealing food items worth N1,000.Read more
10. Poland crash out of Euro as France, Netherlands share spoils
Poland have crashed out of the ongoing European Championship after losing their second group match against Austria 3-1 on Friday night.Read more
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Sociologists attribute marginalisation, stereotypes to ethnic clashes
Sociological experts have identified marginalisation of ethnic minorities as well as negative stereotypes as the primary causes of ethnic clashes in the country.
A lecturer in the Department of Sociology, University of Jos, Dr Janet Plang, disclosed this in an interview with Saturday According on Thursday, saying that exclusion of ethnic minorities from political power might cause the victims to resort to violence to assert their rights.
She said, “Ethnic groups that perceive themselves as marginalised or excluded from political power and decision-making processes may resort to violence as a means of expressing their grievances and asserting their rights.
“Competition for political power often exacerbates ethnic tensions, as different groups vie for control over state resources and institutions. Politicians often exploit ethnic divisions for personal gain, manipulating identities to win elections and control resources. This can lead to feelings of marginalisation and competition between groups.
“Also, unequal distribution of wealth and opportunities can fuel resentment. If certain ethnicities feel they are excluded from economic benefits, it can lead to frustration and violence.”
Also speaking with our correspondent, a sociologist, Dr Danjuma Asaka, pointed out that negative stereotypes of other cultures and religions across the country frequently result in ethnic violence.
“Religious differences and ethnic identities frequently intersect, which exacerbates intergroup relations and fuels conflict, especially in areas where religious identities are politicised,” he noted.
Children, other family members mourn as Suebebe is buried
Veteran actor, Dayo Adewunmi, aka, Sule Suebebe, has been buried. His remains were interred after a service at the Agbala Gabriel Apostolic Church in Ibadan on Friday, June 21, 2024.
The late actor died at the age of 68 on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, after battling ill health.
While giving a speech at the service, Suebebe’s first son, identified as Wale, thanked everybody who contributed to the life of his father in one way or the other.
He also stated that the relationship between him and his father was that of friends, even though they also had misunderstandings.
Meanwhile, a lady identified as Bola, stated that taking care of Suebebe in his last days was not an easy task. She noted that it was initially two of them taking care of the late actor, but the other person left after a while. She added that she sustained an injury on her head while trying to take care of Suebebe. Breaking down in tears, she concluded by praying for the soul of the deceased, and appreciating the pastor of the church.
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Male entertainers also affected by sex-for-jobs — Temitayo Adeniyi
Actress, Temitayo Adeniyi, has said that the issue of sex-for-jobs is not limited to female entertainers.
Speaking in an interview with Saturday Beats, she said, “Sex for gigs in the entertainment industry is a tale as old as time. And, that doesn’t only apply to the female gender alone. Men are actually not left out. Also, it is not limited to the entertainment industry. It happens in all sectors where male and female coexist.
“In the entertainment industry, it is mostly a case of two consenting adults. Whatever advances thrown at one can either be rejected or accepted; it is solely dependent on the individual. If it is otherwise, then it becomes a case of force.”
The actress, who has not been active on the movie scene for some time, stated that she took a break from acting, because she wanted to explore the world, acquire more knowledge, and focus on her businesses and investments.
Asked about the changes she would like to see in Nollywood, the light-skinned role interpreter said, “In recent times, there have been quite a lot of remarkable advancements in the Nigerian entertainment industry, and we are all proud of it. The industry is growing at a fast pace, and we are glad about that. I will love to see an industry that gives every talent a level playing field; where there isn’t stereotyping and favouritism.”
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TGP unveils roadmap for sustainability adoption
The Governance Platform has launched a roadmap to guide organisations in integrating sustainability into their operations, aligning with the outcomes of COP28.
The roadmap is based on insights from the book “Sustainability and COP28: What It Means for Boards,” co-authored by Professor Fabian Ajogwu, SAN, and Dr Onajite Newton.
The roadmap was unveiled during a recent executive breakfast session in Lagos, where the book was launched.
C-level executives from various multinationals and local corporations attended the event, engaging with the co-authors to gain valuable insights on enhancing sustainability awareness within their companies.
The co-authors emphasised the need for customised approaches to sustainability, balancing the 3Ps of people, profit, and performance, and establishing metrics for success.
They also addressed concerns about the perceived financial burden of adopting environmentally friendly business practices, highlighting the long-term benefits and investor preference for sustainable companies.
The President of the Society of Corporate Governance, Mallam M.K. Ahmad, presented the book, emphasising the need for directors to internalise the concept of sustainability and its implementation in their organizations.
According to Ajogwu, inculcating sustainability into the operations of companies necessitates customised approaches, as there is no universal solution for organizations.
He noted: “For a company to be sustainable, close attention needs to be paid to the industry they operate in, how they need to survive the environment, and changes they need to make.
Boards need to be more aggressive in taking their agenda and particularizing it in the sectors they work in and to sustain the purpose for which the entity was set up.”
Newton stated that she was motivated to write the book in order to change people’s mindset about sustainability.
He stated that educating the mindset of boards by prompting them to evaluate their current positions and chart a clear pathway to achieving sustainability in their business operations was integral to the book’s development.
Newton emphasised the importance of assisting boards in establishing metrics for success as a crucial aspect discussed in the book.
“Materiality assessment is extremely crucial when transitioning into a sustainability-focused organisation as there is no one-size-fits-all approach to it. As the first step, materiality assessment helps engage all stakeholders within an organisation to better understand where they see the company and acquire the key steps that need to be taken,” Newton added.
Sex important for happy home
Actress, Yetunde Bakare, belongs to the school of thought which believes that an active sex life is critical to having a happy home.
In an interview with Saturday Beats, she said, “In our society, people often fail to empathise with men. When a woman leaves her marriage, it is often seen as a move to protect her mental health. However, when a man makes the same decision, he is labelled as ‘irresponsible’, ignoring the fact that he is also human.
“One essential ingredient of a happy home is an active and fulfilling sex life. Marriage is a significant commitment, and one shouldn’t enter it without knowing their partner well. For couples who are no longer getting sexual satisfaction from each other, I would advise them to sit down, discuss the issue, and find a solution.
“Love might not always be enough, so it’s important to marry someone one can tolerate through all circumstances; be they financial, mental, or physical challenges. If none of those issues are present, but there is still ‘sexual withdrawal’, it is advisable to consult a marriage counsellor or sex therapist.”
Bakare also likened her acting career to a bumpy ride. She said, “Generally, life is full of ups and downs, so my experience so far has been a bumpy ride. I believe nobody has it smooth, even if they have money to run things in the industry .One will still face some challenges that might even affect one mentally if one doesn’t have a tough skin.”
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‘Seated’ to inspire, uplift listeners, says Vickie
A rising gospel artiste, Vickie, has said that her new single titled, ‘Seated’, is a song that will inspire and uplift listeners.
Speaking in an interview with Saturday Beats, she said, “This is a powerful track that can be described as a heartfelt anthem of faith and devotion, destined to inspire and uplift listeners with its profound message and captivating melody.”
According to her, the song also showcases her vocal dexterity and deep-rooted passion for gospel music.
She added, “The lyrics are a celebration of divine grace and the peace that comes from being in the presence of the Almighty God. With a soul-stirring blend of traditional gospel harmonies and contemporary sound, I believe that the song will resonate with audiences across generations.”
She also stated that the single is a preview of what’s to come in her forthcoming album, which, according to her, will deliver more inspiring and uplifting tracks.
The singer also asserted that she had an unwavering passion for sharing the message of faith and hope through music.
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NECA urges FG to adopt alternative policies for private sector growth
The Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, Mr Adewale Oyerinde, has encouraged the Federal Government to adopt alternative policies to foster growth and development in the private sector.
Oyerinde said that during a press conference on the upcoming Nigeria Employers’ Summit, themed ‘Economic Renaissance: Harnessing Government Reforms and Private Sector Agility’, scheduled to be held on June 25-26, 2024, in Abuja.
He remarked that the private sector had established itself as an essential pillar for national development.
He noted that having endured various reforms and economic plans, it consistently acts as the primary engine of national growth.
“The summit facilitates dialogue between employers, government agencies, and stakeholders to address crucial issues in the private sector. It aims to strengthen engagement and propose alternative policies, acknowledging the government’s need for recommendations,” Oyerinde said.
According to the NECA boss, the new government’s reforms are impacting national life differently, stating that NECA aimed to facilitate opportunities for government interaction with organised businesses on these reforms.
He further mentioned that the summit aimed to connect the reforms with the private sector rather than scrutinise them, noting that it would also explore how the government could leverage the private sector’s agility to navigate those reforms and achieve the desired outcomes.
“We believe the coming years can be very prosperous for Nigeria. By creating such platforms, we can share perspectives and guide the government through business challenges, leveraging the private sector’s flexibility,” he added.
Also, the Chairman, of the Committee of Finance Experts, NECA, who is also the co-chair of the summit, Mr Olumuyiwa Adebayo, said, “The summit will allow employers of labour to sit with those are policymakers to share the common ground of understanding some of the goals of the summit which entails fostering dialogue.
“We understand that we are in a democratic system and to allow government’s activities to function appropriately and achieve its goals we need to support the government, and to support them in policy making and also to call government to order when there is a need to do so and this is through advocacy.”
According to Adebayo, the government needs to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
He stated, “The government cannot become a major employer of labour because small and large businesses who fall under the organised private sector are key instruments to economic growth and development.”
On her part, the Chairperson NECA Committee Corporate Communications and Public Affairs and co-chair of the Annual Nigeria Employers’ Summit, Mrs Victoria Uwadoka, emphasised the importance of collaboration between the private sector and the government.
Uwadoka said, “The essence of the summit is to work together to develop the strategies that would drive economic growth. There are a lot of reforms that are going on right now, some of which will begin to result in the short term and long term, but we need to look at where we are right now and look at the things that can quickly revamp the economy so that businesses can thrive better.”
