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Category: News

Alleged $6.3m CBN looting: Boss Mustapha describes report as malicious, calls for probe

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, has vehemently denied a report alleging his involvement in the alleged illegal withdrawal of $6.3 million from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) during Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

The report, published by an online newspaper, claimed that a special investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu uncovered the alleged theft, which supposedly occurred on February 8, 2023, weeks before the presidential election.

The report further alleged that Mustapha, along with the embattled former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, authorized the removal of the cash from the bank’s vault under the guise of funding foreign election observer missions.

The investigator’s report, as quoted by the publication, claimed CCTV footage captured how the money was moved out of the apex bank.

However, Mustapha, in a strongly worded statement made available to journalists on Saturday, categorically refuted the accusations, calling them “outrageous and unsubstantiated.”

He described the article as a “malicious fabrication” and an “orchestrated” attempt to assassinate my character and besmirch my reputation.”

The former SGF stressed that he lacked knowledge of the purported “Presidential Directive” cited in the report as justification for the withdrawal.

He also stated that he was never involved in discussions or transactions related to any payments for foreign election observers.

Furthermore, Mustapha questioned the timing of the allegations, pointing to the sensitive pre-Christmas period as a deliberate attempt to exploit public sentiment and sow seeds of doubt.

The former SGF demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter, urging the authorities to probe the source of the fabricated documents and expose those behind the “smear” campaign.”

Mustapha also appealed to the public and media to exercise critical thinking and not succumb to misinformation.

Part of his response reads: “The article hinges on the dubious premise of forged documents and a misleading narrative. It claims that $6.3 million was withdrawn from the CBN vaults based on a purported “Presidential Directive” bearing the signature of President Buhari. This document, unsurprisingly, has not been presented for public scrutiny. In fact, I have no knowledge of such a directive, nor was I ever involved in any discussions or transactions regarding the alleged payment to foreign election observers.

“I demand a thorough and transparent investigation into this matter. Let the relevant authorities probe the source of these fabricated documents and expose those responsible for this malicious attempt to damage my reputation. I have nothing to hide and welcome any legitimate investigation that sheds light on the truth.

“Throughout my career in public service, I have always upheld the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct. I have served with dedication and transparency, and my record speaks for itself. I will not allow this baseless and defamatory attack to go unchallenged. I will defend my reputation vigorously and ensure that the truth prevails.

“This is not just about me; it is about upholding the integrity of public service and safeguarding the reputation of those who have served this country with honour. I trust that the Nigerian people will see through this orchestrated attack and recognize it for what it truly is: a desperate attempt to silence a voice of reason and integrity.”

12/24/2023
Court Frees 36 IPOB Members After 2-Year Detention

The Ebonyi State High Court has finally released all 36 members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) who had been held in custody for two years in Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi State.

This release comes after a series of legal battles and unexpected charges brought against them.

Initially accused of murder, the IPOB members pleaded not guilty, and their case proceeded with the prosecution presenting six witnesses.

However, upon submission of a No Case Statement, the court upheld it, resulting in the dismissal of the initial charges (HAB/29c/2021).

The plot thickened when, on the day set for the ruling, the State government surprised the defense with new charges (HAB/43c/2022) related to possession of firearms, unlawful association, arson, breach of peace, warlike activities, and robbery.

Despite this, the court upheld the No Case Submission for the second set of charges but ordered a new charge (HAB/59c/2022) related to murder against the same defendants.

This legal maneuvering and the subsequent court discharge of the accused led to their return to prison due to the pending third charge, scheduled for plea and hearing on January 18, 2024.

The defense lawyer, Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, expressed frustration, citing an apparent attempt to hinder the release of these individuals despite their clearance by the court.

Ejiofor emphasized their commitment to pursuing the freedom of these IPOB members, denouncing what he perceives as a manipulation of the judicial system.

He also hinted at disciplinary actions against those involved in what he views as a perversion of justice.

12/23/2023
Emefiele Meets Bail Conditions, Freed From Kuje Prison

Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, has been released from the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja after fulfilling the conditions for his bail.

Adamu Duza, the facility’s spokesperson, confirmed this release on Saturday, stating that Emefiele regained his freedom on Friday, December 22.

Emefiele, along with Sa’adatu Yaro, a CBN employee, and her company, April 1616 Investment, faced accusations of procurement fraud.

The charges initially amounted to 20, but were later reduced to one by the federal government in November.

The allegations against Emefiele centered on favouring Yaro by awarding contracts for the purchase of 43 vehicles totaling N1.2 billion between 2018 and 2020.

These included various Toyota models and were purportedly obtained at inflated prices.

Upon his arraignment, Emefiele pleaded not guilty to the revised charges.

He had been in detention at the Kuje facility awaiting the court’s ruling on his bail application, which was granted on November 22 by a Federal Capital Territory High Court, setting bail at N300 million.

The conditions required two sureties with properties in the Maitama district in Abuja.

Emefiele’s legal issues began in June when the Department of State Services (DSS) arrested him following a suspension by President Bola Tinubu.

Subsequently, in July, he faced charges related to “illegal possession” of firearms at a federal high court in Ikoyi and was granted bail at N20 million.

This week, a federal government probe panel raised further allegations against Emefiele, accusing him of maintaining multiple foreign bank accounts and engaging in other financial misconduct during his tenure as CBN governor.

12/23/2023
Nigerian Army Elevates Brigadier General Frank S. Etim, 46 Others To Generals

The Nigerian Army Council has recently announced the promotion of 47 Brigadier Generals to Major Generals and 75 Colonels to the esteemed rank of Brigadier General.

This promotion followed the retirement of 113 generals earlier in the week.

A statement released on Friday by Brig. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, revealed that the council sanctioned the promotions on Thursday.

Among those promoted to the rank of Major General is Frank S. Etim, the Commander of the 6 Brigade, Jalingo, Taraba State.

Born in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Major General Frank Sunday Etim originally hails from Cross River State and completed his primary and secondary education in Kaduna State.

He began his career as a Second Lieutenant after graduating from the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1996 (43rd Regular Combatant Course), showcasing remarkable leadership skills across various command, staff, and instructional positions.

His significant career highlights encompass serving as a Platoon Commander, Battalion Adjutant, Company 2ic, Company Commander, and Commanding Officer of the 19 Battalion Nigerian Army.

Furthermore, he held crucial roles as a staff officer at strategic units, including the Army Headquarters, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Defence Headquarters. Notably, he served as Aid-De-Camp (ADC) to the Chief of Defence Staff and later to the Joint Force Commander of the United Nations/African Union Hybrid Operation in Darfur, Sudan.

Prior to his role as Commander of the 6 Brigade, he distinguished himself as the Commandant at the prestigious Amphibious Training School, Nigerian Army, located in Calabar.

Brig Gen FS Etim’s career encompasses active participation in various operations, including Operation HARMONY IV in Bakasi Peninsula, multiple UN and AU missions in Sudan and Sierra Leone, and numerous internal security operations within Nigeria.

His academic pursuits include a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from NDA, an Advanced Diploma in Security Strategic Studies from the National Defence University China, and a Master’s Degree in Military Science and Strategic Studies, also from the National Defence University Beijing China.

Additionally, he obtained certificates in Administration from Tshingua University China and holds the distinguished title of Senior Executive Fellow from the Chinese Executive Leadership Academy (CELAY) in Ya’an, China.

Maj-Gen FS Etim’s quest for knowledge led him to attend over 20 seminars and workshops, both locally and internationally. He holds esteemed memberships in organizations such as the Chartered Peace Institute of Nigeria (National Peace Academy) and the Chartered Institute of Administrators of Nigeria (FCAI).

The statement also announced the elevation of several other officers to the rank of Major General and Brigadier General, citing their diverse contributions and accomplishments within the Nigerian Army.

12/23/2023
CBN Rescinds Ban on Cryptocurrency Transactions

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has retracted its prohibition on cryptocurrency transactions in Nigeria.

This policy reversal was conveyed in a circular no. FPR/DIR/PUB/CIR/002/003, dated December 22, 2023, and signed by Haruna Mustafa, Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department.

Earlier, in February 2021, the apex bank had imposed a ban on cryptocurrency transactions in Nigeria, citing concerns over potential money laundering and terrorism financing risks, as well as the absence of regulatory measures and consumer protections.

However, citing evolving global trends and regulatory developments, the CBN acknowledged the necessity of regulating Virtual Assets Service Providers (VASPs). This recognition aligns with the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) updated Recommendation 15 in 2018, which urged the regulation of VASPs to prevent misuse of virtual assets for illegal activities. The Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 also included VASPs within the definition of financial institutions.

The new guideline issued by the CBN is aimed at providing clarity to financial institutions under its purview regarding their relationships with VASPs operating in Nigeria. Notably, this guideline supersedes previous directives, particularly circulars FPR/DIR/GEN/CIR/06/010 dated January 12, 2017, and BSD/DIR/PUB/LAB/014/001 dated February 5, 2021.

Despite the lifting of the ban, the CBN reiterated that banks and financial institutions are still prohibited from directly engaging in trading, holding, or transacting in virtual currencies on their own accounts.

Under the revised directive, banks and financial institutions are mandated to promptly comply. The CBN also reminded these entities of its previous circular, BSD/DIR/PUB/LAB/014/001 dated February 5, 2021, which urged them to identify and close the accounts associated with cryptocurrency transactions.

12/23/2023
French Embassy Offers Lucrative Job Opportunities to Nigerians

The French Embassy has announced a lucrative job opportunity for Nigerians willing to work as English Language Assistants in France.

The embassy is looking for English Language assistants to work in France for a 7-month period, providing an excellent chance for individuals to immerse themselves in the French language and culture.

Information released on the embassy’s official website indicates that eligible candidates must be between the ages of 20 and 30 and possess at least a B1 level of proficiency in the French language.

The application window for this employment opportunity opened on December 19, 2023, and is set to end on January 19, 2024.

Successful applicants will not only gain professional experience but will also have the chance to travel, live, and work in France.

The role requires a commitment of 12 hours of work per week, and the contract duration is seven months.

Meanwhile, one of the most attractive aspects of the opportunity is the salary offered to the selected candidates.

English Language assistants will receive a monthly salary of N911,000 or €1,010.67, translating to a total of N6,377,000 over the course of the fellowship.

Prospective candidates are encouraged to visit the embassy’s application portal to complete the application process.

12/22/2023
Baby Trapped as Building Collapses in Lagos

A distressing incident unfolded today around 9:30 am in Herbert Macaulay Way, Ebute Metta, Lagos, as a two-storey building collapsed, trapping at least one woman inside and a baby.

Reports say that the trapped woman was an illegal occupant, despite repeated evacuation notices served by the Lagos Building Control Agency (LASBCA).

According to Ibrahim Farinloye, the Territorial Head of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Lagos, the collapsed building had been the subject of evacuation warnings, leading to the departure of its original occupants.

It was believed the property changed hands roughly four months ago.

Farinloye stated, “Three occupants managed to escape by leaping to safety with the help of nearby residents. However, it’s suspected that one woman remains trapped inside. There might be two more individuals involved, but this hasn’t been confirmed yet.”

Emergency services are currently engaged in a search and rescue operation at the site, striving to free the woman trapped under the rubble.

12/22/2023
President Tinubu Orders Payment of Outstanding N-Power Stipends

President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate payment of overdue stipends owed to N-Power beneficiaries nationwide.

This action was prompted by a report revealing that Batch ‘C’ beneficiaries hadn’t received their stipends for nine months.

The beneficiaries’ outcry led by the National Association of N-Power Beneficiaries prompted the President’s intervention.

They expressed frustration over the non-payment, citing financial uncertainty and despair.

Following a thorough verification exercise by the Ministry, Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Minister, confirmed the commencement of fund disbursement in line with President Tinubu’s directive.

The Minister emphasized the significance of this payment for Nigerian youths during the festive season, affirming the President’s commitment to their welfare.

“I ensured beneficiaries were paid before Christmas as directed by the President. Payment has begun, and beneficiaries can check their bank accounts,” Zubair stated.

12/22/2023
Breaking: Rivers elders drag Tinubu, Fubara, INEC, others to court

Six elders from the Rivers State, have instituted a legal action against President Bola Tinubu, for allegedly compelling Governor Siminilaya Fubara, to enter into an unconstitutional agreement, signed December 18.

The matter before the Federal High Court, Abuja, maintained that the agreement was not only illegal but amounted to an usurpation, nullification, and undermining of the extant/binding relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution, as amended

The suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1718/2023, mentioned the Rivers State House of Assembly representing Bonny State Constituency, Victor Jumbo, are Senator Bennett Birabi, Senator Andrew Uchendu, Rear Admiral O. P. Fingesi, Ann Kio Briggs and Emmanuel Deinma as the Plaintiffs.

Specifically they want the court to, among other things, determine whether President Tinubu, Governor Fubara, and the Rivers State Assembly have the rights and are entitled to enter into any agreement that has the effect of nullifying or undermining the constitutional/legal potency of the provisions of Section 109(I)(g) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

They contended that neither President Tinubu nor Governor Fubara has the statutory powers to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, from conducting fresh elections to replace the 27 Rivers State lawmakers.

The said lawmakers defected from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Others are the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Governor Fubara, the Rivers Assembly, Speaker of the Rivers State Assembly, and the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

12/22/2023
Enugu Guber: Supreme Court Upholds Mbah’s Victory

The Supreme Court of Nigeria, Friday, affirmed the election of Peter Mbah as the governor of Enugu State.

The Apex Court aligned with the decisions of the court of appeal Lagos and that of the Enugu state Election Petition Tribunal which upheld the election of Mbah as governor.

The five-man panel of the justices, lead by Justice Muhammed Garba, resolved the issues canvased by the appellant who is the candidate of Labour Party (LP) Mr. Edeoga Chijioke Jonathan against him.

The Labour Paper(LP) candidate has prayed that, Mbah was not qualified to participate in the election because he failed the basic eligibility test by filing a forged NYSC discharge Certificate under oath.

They also contested that the election was not conducted in substantial compliance with the Electoral Act, with respect to the non-use of BVAS machines for accreditation, inter-changing of LP’s results in 19 PUs at the Ward Collation Centre in Udenu LGA , electoral violence and.

Also, that the election result was not counted in accordance with the law due to over-voting, wrong tabulations especially in Mbah’s Owo Ward and Ugbawka 1 Ward, both of Nkanu East LGA, etc.

At the court of Appeal, sitting in Lagos, led by Tani Yusuf-Hassan, the appallate court held that the Labour Party (LP) and its governorship candidate failed to provide sufficient evidence to prove that Mr Mbah was not qualified to contest the election.

On the allegation of over-voting, Mrs Hassan said in her lead judgement that voters’ registers were not presented before the lower tribunal.

She, therefore, ruled that the appeal failed because the petitioners failed to submit the voters’ registers for the disputed areas to substantiate the over-voting allegation.

The court also determined that the witnesses presented by the Labour Party did not sufficiently prove the existence of over-voting in the governorship election.

Consequently, the court dismissed the case for lacking in merit and upheld the judgement of the election tribunal, which had earlier affirmed INEC’s declaration of Mr Mbah as the winner of the 18 March governorship election.

Moreso, the Supreme Court on the issue of non qualification of Governor Mbah, held that, the allegations by Jonathan have laid without proof at all and liable to be truck out.

“There is merit in the argument of the appellant and lacks merit.”

On the complain of lack of proper evaluation or counting of results in accordance with the law by the appellant, the court held that, the Tribunal was right to hold that the evidences were merely hearsay as they are not substantiated.

“The Appeal lacks merit and the decision of the of appeal is affirmed in its entirety.” The Court held.

“All parties bear their respective costs.” The Court added.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Governor Mbah as winner of the governorship election with 160,895 votes.

Mr Edeoga of the LP came second with 157,552 votes, while Frank Nweke of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) polled 17, 983 votes to place third.

Dissatisfied with the results, Mr Edeoga and his party filed a petition, challenging Mr Mbah’s victory, asking that he should be declared as winner on the grounds that he and the party, polled the highest number of valid votes.

Counsel to Governor Mbah Mr. Damian Dodo SAN while reacting on the judgment said it was in line with the law.

12/22/2023