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Former CCT Chairman Danladi Umar Sent To Kuje Prison By Court

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Former CCT Chairman Danladi Umar Sent To Kuje Prison By Court

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of the former Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Danladi Umar in the Kuje Correctional Centre.

The decision was taken on Thursday when the court heard the alleged corruption charges against Umar, it was reported.

Justice Kekemeke ordered the remand after the federal government arraigned the former CCT boss on four counts of corruption.

The federal government said its investigations found the defendant had abused his official position to confer on himself an undue advantage when he was head of the tribunal.

He was charged with using his wife’s bank account to collect the sum of ₦5.5 million from a contractor hired to paint the headquarters of the CCT in Abuja in 2021.

The federal government further alleged that on January 25, 2024, the defendant also collected ₦6 million from a contractor that handled the digitization of the CCT’s records using his wife’s account.

The defendant was also accused of ordering another contractor to pay ₦2.43 million as tuition fees for his daughter at Baze University, Abuja.

He was believed to have committed offences that are punishable under section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

Umar, however, denied the charges.

The prosecution counsel, Christopher Mshelia, after his plea applied for his remand in a correctional facility while urging the court to fix a date for the commencement of trial.

However, the defendant through his legal team, pleaded with the court to grant him bail pending the determination of the case.

Justice Kekemeke then adjourned the case till July 15 for the defendant’s application for bail.

Remember in 2024, the Senate fired Danladi Umar as the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

The sack of Umar comes after the closed-door session of the lawmakers where the lawmakers approved the sack of the embattled CCT Chairman.

More than 84 senators supported the move to remove Umar from office, the Senate said.

The Senate relied on section 157 (1) of the 1999 constitution which provides that two-third of the membership of the Senate can remove the head of any statutory body alleged to have indulged in gross misconduct and misdemeanor in office.

The lawmakers had earlier adjourned into an executive session to deliberate on the allegations against Umar after a motion was moved on the Order Paper by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.

It was tagged, “Invocation of the provision of Section 157 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended for the removal of the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal.”

The Senator observed that the CCT boss had not met the required standard of a public officer to run the affairs of such a Tribunal.

He said the lawmakers have received a series of petitions, complaints and allegations of corruption and misbehaviour against the chairman.

Bovi Advises Not To Do Business With People That Place Ronaldo Over Messi

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Bovi Advises Not To Do Business With People That Place Ronaldo Over Messi

Nigerian comedian and actor, Bovi Ugboma, popularly known as Bovi, has sparked new reactions from football fans after weighing in on the age-long debate over who is the better footballer between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

In a video shared on his Instagram page on Wednesday, Bovi jokingly advised people to be wary of going into business partnerships with anyone who insists that Ronaldo is a better footballer than Messi.

‘Ask Them What Their Favourite Footballer Is’
The comedian said a person’s position in the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry can indicate how they view facts and reality, especially when money and trust are on the table.

“If you want to do business with someone you don’t know so well and you’re going to invest your money together, ask the person who his favourite footballer is.

“If he says Ronaldo you might still want to do business with him. If he says Ronaldo is his GOAT, that’s fine. But ask him to choose between Ronaldo and Messi, as to who is the better footballer. “If he says matter-of-factly that Ronaldo is a better footballer than Messi, pick up your shoes and run,” Bovi said.

Bovi: ‘Don’t Change Reality’
The comedian clarified there was nothing wrong with anyone liking Ronaldo as a favourite player or even regarding him as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time).

However, he argued that confidently claiming the Portuguese star is a better footballer than Messi should be taken as a red flag.

According to him, people holding such views may have the tendency to “alter reality” to fit their personal beliefs irrespective of the facts or evidence available.

He said this way of thinking could extend beyond football disputes and affect business transactions, as the individual might distort clear facts to match a desired story.

Since Bovi’s comments, a debate has ensued on social media with fans of both players arguing again about the superiority of Messi and Ronaldo.

For more than a decade, the rivalry between the Argentine and the Portuguese has dominated football conversations, with both players considered two of the greatest footballers of all time.

Nigerian Banks Face Rising Climate Risks From Oil And Agriculture, Fitch Says

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Nigerian Banks Face Rising Climate Risks From Oil And Agriculture, Fitch Says

Nigerian banks are especially exposed to climate-related risks as large parts of their loan books are exposed to oil, gas and agriculture, sectors that face profit pressure from global decarbonisation and rising extreme weather, Fitch Ratings has warned.

The rating agency said banks are facing growing climate risk that could affect asset quality and credit profiles in the coming decades.

In a new report titled “African Banks Have Structural Exposure to Climate Risk; Credit Implications Evolving,” Fitch Ratings said that while immediate impact on African lenders is still manageable, both transition and physical risks will increase over time, posing “significant challenges for banking systems across the continent.”

Fitch said a key vulnerability was Nigeria’s heavy dependence on hydrocarbons and agriculture.

A significant chunk of Nigerian banks’ loan books are exposed to sectors which could be hurt by global decarbonization policies, technological transitions and shifting investor preferences.

“Oil and gas, mining and heavy industry remain core activities in a number of countries, with Nigerian banks being among the most exposed due to the country’s dependence on hydrocarbons and agriculture,” Fitch said.

The agency warned tougher international commitments on climate could damage profitability in carbon-intensive industries and leave some assets “stranded” which would raise credit risks for lenders with concentrated exposures.

Agricultural borrowers also are facing more uncertainty as floods, droughts and other extreme weather events become more frequent and more severe.

These developments could impair the ability of borrowers to repay, depress collateral values and result in higher credit losses across the banking sector, said Fitch.

The report also noted an increase in regulatory focus on climate-related policy across Africa. Nigeria is developing carbon-pricing and carbon-market systems as part of its broader climate commitments.

These measures support sustainability goals but could increase operating costs for businesses in the affected sectors, with potential knock-on effects for banks through weaker borrower performance, Fitch said.

African banks are generally vulnerable to high transition risks given their exposure to sectors at risk from emissions-reduction policies and technological change. Transition risks dominate the near-term outlook, but Fitch expects physical climate risks to become more prominent by 2050, as higher temperatures, flooding, droughts and other hazards weigh on economic growth.

West Africa is listed as one of the most vulnerable regions and Fitch said the indirect effects for Nigeria could be significant.

Climate shocks can depress household incomes, lower corporate profitability and increase macroeconomic volatility, which may lead to higher credit risk for banks.

Real estate and agriculture related collateral could also lose value over time, increasing loan-to-value ratios and impairment charges.

“Fitch estimates Nigeria could score between 50-55 on its Climate Vulnerability Signals (Climate.VS) framework by 2050, putting it in a similar bracket to Ghana, Egypt, Kenya and South Africa,” it said.

“There are risks but there are also opportunities for banks that act early,” Fitch said. The report highlighted growth in green finance, sustainable lending and climate-focused investment products as possible avenues to diversification and resilience.

It recommended that banks integrate climate considerations into their risk management frameworks, diversify sector exposures, and engage customers on low-carbon transition strategies.

Fitch also cited increasing regulatory scrutiny. The Central Bank of Nigeria has started working on frameworks to enhance climate-risk classification, governance and transparency in the financial sector. The agency warned that banks that fail to adapt may face reputational damage, reduced investor confidence and funding constraints as global capital shifts towards institutions with stronger sustainability credentials.

Nigeria is walking a fine line between growth and climate commitments. The country, a major producer of oil and gas and possessing vast natural gas reserves, has also pledged to cut emissions under the Paris Agreement.

Fitch said the transition is likely to be gradual but that banks need to start preparing now.

“Institutions that are able to adapt to climate risks and benefit from emerging green finance opportunities are expected to be better positioned to remain resilient and support sustainable economic growth,” the report said.

Recall that last month Fitch warned that Nigeria’s proposed $5 billion Total Return Swap (TRS) with First Abu Dhabi Bank could obscure risks to the sovereign’s debt and make future debt restructuring more difficult.

While TRSs provide cheaper financing and diversify funding sources, they also carry “significant structural and transparency risks,” according to Fitch’s report Emerging Market Sovereigns’ Use of Total Return Swaps Raises Risks: Balancing Transparency and Recovery Risks Against Financing Flexibility.

 

‘El-Rufai Fought Buhari Because Of You’ — Wife Addresses Tinubu

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‘El-Rufai Fought Buhari Because Of You’ — Wife Addresses Tinubu

The wife of the troubled governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, Asiya El-Rufai, has responded to claims that her husband is viewed as a political threat.

“Why would anyone be afraid of political competition? Democracy should allow opponents to compete freely, rather than be intimidated.”

The lawyer was reported to have said this during an appearance on Arise Television.

“They think he’s a threat?” she said. Is he a risk? Why not test it? Why don’t they let him go and see if he’s really a threat or not? Fear of what? What can he do? He’s a person. He is one man. “Yes, he’s smart.” Yes, he’s smart. Yeah, he’s tactical. Yes, he’s powerful. But isn’t politics all about competing? Why do we fear competition? If we know that we have done well why should we run away from facing the opposition?

El-Rufai also said her family had supported his 2023 election saying they expected “basic courtesy” in return, while adding that President Bola Tinubu should not interfere with the trial.

She said the President may not have the power to stop the prosecution, but he has the power to ensure that the relevant agencies act fairly and follow the law.

I know what we went through. My husband supported President Tinubu because he is an honourable man. He fought everybody, he even fought President Buhari. He went to court against the President just to make sure that this agreement would stand. So yes I mentioned it because it’s normal to expect basic courtesy from someone that you’ve done so much for. “I campaigned for him myself,” she said.

“The President can’t stop anything, but he can tell them to do the right thing,” she added.

Federal High Court Voids ARCON’s N60bn Fine Against Facebook Nigeria

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Federal High Court Voids ARCON’s N60bn Fine Against Facebook Nigeria

LAGOS — The Federal High Court in Lagos has nullified the N60 billion sanction imposed on Facebook Nigeria Operations Limited by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), ruling that the regulator acted outside the powers granted to it by law and violated the company’s right to fair hearing.

In a judgment delivered by Justice Yellim Bogoro in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/2205/2024, the court declared ARCON’s Notice of Violation and Demand for Compliance dated October 21, 2024, invalid and unenforceable.

The court also granted a perpetual injunction restraining the regulatory agency from taking further steps to enforce the disputed sanction against Facebook Nigeria.

The case stemmed from allegations by ARCON that advertisements displayed on Facebook and Instagram were targeted at Nigerian audiences without obtaining prior approval from the Advertising Standards Panel, contrary to the provisions of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria Act, 2022.

Based on the alleged infractions, the regulator directed Facebook Nigeria to discontinue the advertisements and imposed a N60 billion penalty.

Dissatisfied with the action, Facebook Nigeria approached the court, arguing that ARCON lacked the legal authority to impose what it described as a punitive sanction without first giving the company an opportunity to defend itself.

The company also contended that it neither owns nor operates Facebook or Instagram, maintaining that both platforms are owned and controlled by Meta Platforms Inc., a separate corporate entity.

ARCON, however, argued that Facebook Nigeria represents Meta’s business interests within Nigeria and should therefore be held accountable for alleged breaches involving advertisements displayed on the platforms.

In resolving the dispute, Justice Bogoro held that the regulator failed to establish any legal basis for treating Facebook Nigeria and Meta Platforms Inc. as the same corporate entity.

The judge ruled that there was no sufficient evidence showing that Facebook Nigeria owns, controls, or manages the Facebook and Instagram platforms, adding that the regulator’s assertions alone were inadequate to establish liability.

The court further held that ARCON breached the constitutional principle of fair hearing by imposing a substantial financial penalty without first allowing the company to respond to the allegations.

Justice Bogoro also held that the offences relied upon by the regulator under the ARCON Act are criminal in nature and that any sanction for such offences can only be imposed after a conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction.

Accordingly, the court ruled that ARCON has no statutory authority to impose criminal fines through an administrative notice and declared the N60 billion penalty unlawful.

The judgment is expected to serve as an important judicial interpretation of the limits of regulatory authority in Nigeria, particularly in relation to digital advertising and the enforcement of statutory sanctions.

Legal observers say the decision reinforces the constitutional requirement that regulatory agencies must observe due process and fair hearing before taking enforcement actions capable of affecting the rights and obligations of individuals or corporate entities.

EFCC Arraigns Former Port Harcourt Refinery Boss Over Alleged N218.4m Money Laundering

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EFCC Arraigns Former Port Harcourt Refinery Boss Over Alleged N218.4m Money Laundering

ABUJA — The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned the immediate past Managing Director of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), Ahmed Dikko, before the Federal High Court in Abuja on allegations of money laundering involving N218.4 million.

Dikko was docked alongside Masterpiece Projects & Investment Ltd on a 12-count charge alleging violations of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

According to the EFCC, the former refinery chief allegedly used about N218.4 million to acquire a property in the Katampe Extension area of Abuja without processing the transaction through a financial institution, an act the commission said contravenes the provisions of the anti-money laundering law.

When the charges were read in court, Dikko pleaded not guilty to all counts.

Following the plea, prosecution counsel, Ekele Iheanacho (SAN), requested that the court fix a date for trial.

Counsel for the defendants, Ikechukwu Ajunwa (SAN), urged the court to grant his client bail, arguing that Dikko had complied with the conditions of the administrative bail earlier granted by the EFCC. He also assured the court that the former managing director would remain available for trial and would not interfere with the judicial process.

The prosecution opposed the application, relying on documents already filed before the court.

In his ruling, Justice Inyang Ekwo admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of N150 million with one surety in like sum.

The court directed that the surety must own landed property within the jurisdiction of the court and submit relevant title documents for verification. The judge also ordered Dikko to deposit his international passport with the court and prohibited him from travelling outside Nigeria without prior judicial approval.

The case was adjourned until October 12, 13 and 14 for the commencement of trial.

The arraignment comes weeks after the EFCC filed separate charges against Dikko and the former Managing Director of the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC), Jimoh Yisawu, over the alleged diversion of funds allocated for the rehabilitation of government-owned refineries.

In addition to the property acquisition allegation, the anti-graft agency accused Dikko of allegedly receiving and retaining funds from contractors engaged by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, concealing the source of part of the funds through third parties, and conducting financial transactions said to be in breach of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

The charges are yet to be determined by the court, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in accordance with Nigerian law.

Motion to Invite Tinubu Over Constituency Project Funding Sparks Heated Debate in House of Representatives

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Motion to Invite Tinubu Over Constituency Project Funding Sparks Heated Debate in House of Representatives

ABUJA — Proceedings in the House of Representatives on Wednesday were marked by a spirited debate after a motion seeking to invite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address lawmakers on delays in the funding of constituency projects generated sharp divisions among members.

The motion, sponsored by the member representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency of Abia State, Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, drew attention to concerns over the implementation of appropriated funds for constituency and zonal intervention projects across the country.

While presenting the motion, Ikwechegh said delays in the release of capital funds to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) had adversely affected the execution of projects approved under the national budget. He noted that information presented during budget defence sessions suggested that several government agencies had received little or no capital releases despite budgetary provisions.

The lawmaker argued that the development had slowed the implementation of projects intended to improve infrastructure and public services in various constituencies, prompting the need for greater accountability in the execution of the Appropriation Act.

As part of the motion, Ikwechegh proposed that President Tinubu be invited to appear before the House to provide clarification on the challenges affecting the release of funds and the implementation of constituency projects.

The proposal, however, attracted divergent views from lawmakers.

Members who backed the motion maintained that the House has the constitutional responsibility to oversee the implementation of budgets approved by the National Assembly and to seek explanations where government spending falls short of legislative expectations.

Those opposed argued that the operational responsibility for implementing constituency projects rests with the relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, rather than the President directly. They contended that oversight inquiries should be directed at the agencies responsible for project execution and budget releases.

The debate became increasingly animated as members defended their positions before Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, intervened.

Delivering his ruling, the Speaker observed that the prayers contained in the motion differed from those in the version initially submitted by its sponsor. Consequently, he declined to admit the motion in its presented form, effectively bringing deliberations on the proposal to a close.

The development has renewed discussions about the implementation of constituency projects and the timely release of appropriated funds for capital expenditure. Constituency projects remain a significant component of the federal budget, with lawmakers often describing them as important instruments for delivering infrastructure, healthcare, education, water supply, and other social amenities to communities.

Political analysts say the debate also reflects broader concerns over budget implementation and the constitutional roles of the executive and legislative arms of government in ensuring that public funds are effectively utilised.

As the implementation of the current budget continues, attention is expected to remain on the pace of capital releases and the progress of projects approved to support development across the country.

Enone Constituency: Supporters Back Philip Agbese for Second Term Ahead of 2027 Elections

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Enone Constituency: Supporters Back Philip Agbese for Second Term Ahead of 2027 Elections

Supporters of the lawmaker representing Enone Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Philip Agbese, have begun mobilising support for his re-election ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing continuity in representation as vital to sustaining development across the constituency.

The renewed endorsement comes as political consultations gradually intensify in Benue State, with prospective candidates and their supporters engaging stakeholders and outlining their priorities ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Backers of Agbese argue that his experience in the National Assembly and his engagement with constituents have positioned him to continue advancing the interests of Enone Federal Constituency. They maintain that retaining experienced representation would help consolidate ongoing projects while creating opportunities for additional federal interventions.

Supporters point to sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, youth empowerment, women’s economic development, and rural development as areas they believe should remain priorities in the years ahead.

According to them, continuity in leadership would provide a stable platform for pursuing programmes aimed at improving living standards and expanding access to economic opportunities for residents.

They also commend the lawmaker’s legislative role, noting that effective representation involves not only participation in parliamentary proceedings but also maintaining regular engagement with constituents and advocating policies that address local needs.

Community stakeholders backing the re-election bid have further appealed for unity among residents of Enone Federal Constituency, stressing the importance of collective efforts in driving sustainable development irrespective of political or social differences.

Political analysts observe that early endorsements and consultations are becoming increasingly common as aspirants and their supporters position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections. While formal campaigns are yet to commence, political activities are expected to increase as parties prepare for their nomination processes in accordance with the timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

For supporters of Hon. Agbese, the focus remains on what they describe as consolidating existing gains and strengthening representation at the federal level. They express confidence that his legislative experience and familiarity with the constituency’s development priorities will feature prominently in political discussions as the election season approaches.

With the 2027 general elections still months away, political engagement is expected to continue across Benue State as parties, aspirants, and stakeholders seek to build support ahead of the polls. The electorate will ultimately determine who represents Enone Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives through the democratic process.

Hon. Adakole Peter Okewu Highlights Community Development Agenda Ahead of 2027 Benue Assembly Election

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Hon. Adakole Peter Okewu Highlights Community Development Agenda Ahead of 2027 Benue Assembly Election

As political consultations continue ahead of the 2027 general elections, Hon. Adakole Peter Okewu has outlined his vision for Ogbadibo Constituency, presenting a development agenda focused on grassroots empowerment, cultural preservation, and inclusive governance.

Okewu, who is seeking to represent Ogbadibo Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly, said his aspiration is built on the principle of responsive leadership that prioritises the welfare of the people and addresses the developmental needs of local communities.

According to his campaign, the vision centres on improving the quality of life of residents through policies that promote education, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, women’s economic inclusion, and infrastructure development.

The campaign also stresses the importance of transparency, accountability, and regular engagement between elected representatives and their constituents, arguing that effective leadership should be measured by tangible improvements in people’s lives.

A major aspect of Okewu’s message is the preservation of Ogbadibo’s cultural heritage. The campaign says protecting indigenous traditions, customs, and languages while embracing modern development will help strengthen community identity and create opportunities for future generations.

In the area of economic development, the campaign proposes increased support for farmers, vocational training programmes, entrepreneurship initiatives, and improved access to markets for small and medium-sized enterprises. These measures, it says, are intended to stimulate local economic growth and expand employment opportunities, particularly for young people.

The campaign has also called for greater unity among residents of Ogbadibo, urging people to work together regardless of political, religious, or ethnic differences in pursuit of sustainable development across the constituency.

As preparations for the 2027 elections continue, political aspirants across Benue State have begun presenting their programmes and engaging with voters. Electoral activities remain subject to the timetable and regulations issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Okewu’s campaign says it remains committed to promoting people-centred governance, community participation, and sustainable development as key priorities for Ogbadibo Constituency.

Yemi Osinbajo Appointed To New Position

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Yemi Osinbajo Appointed To New Position

The former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, has pledged to step up environmental protection and climate action after his emergence as President of the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF).

Osinbajo is said to have made the pledge on Wednesday when delivering his acceptance speech at the Foundation’s 37th Annual General Meeting in Lagos.

He commended the NCF founding fathers, particularly its President Emeritus, Chief Philip Asiodu, for their foresight in advocating for conservation of the environment several decades ago, long before the issue of climate change became a global challenge.

The former vice president also acknowledged the contributions of late chief S.L. Edu and other founding trustees, saying their vision laid the foundation for the country’s environmental conservation movement.

“The founders understood the importance of biodiversity conservation long before the issue of climate change gained global prominence,” he said.

“They deserve our commendation and gratitude because, but for the vision they had, Nigeria would not have had the strong foundation it has today for climate action,” he said.

“The impacts of climate change are becoming more visible across Nigeria in the form of flooding, rising temperatures and other environmental challenges,” Osinbajo said.

He said parts of Europe were seeing temperatures of between 38 and 41 degrees Celsius, a trend he said highlighted the need for collective climate action.

“There is no question that we are living in the most challenging of times in respect to climate change,” he said.

But the former vice president was hopeful that advances in technology, innovation and scientific knowledge would create opportunities to address environmental problems more effectively.

Nigeria has the tools required to make a significant progress in biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability, he said.

Osinbajo described the NCF as Nigeria’s leading non-governmental organisation committed to environmental conservation and climate action.

He commended the Foundation’s trustees, members, management, staff, volunteers and development partners for their efforts in maintaining the conservation programmes over the years.

Osinbajo, while accepting his new role, promised to build on the achievements of his predecessors and deepen collaboration with stakeholders.

“I take this responsibility with much humility and gratitude.

“I look forward to working with the Board, management, staff, volunteers and partners to advance the Foundation’s mission and ensure a healthier environment for future generations,” he said.

He also promised to strengthen the Foundation’s leading role in the conservation of biodiversity and environmental sustainability in Nigeria.

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