INEC Removed Julius Abure from it's Portal, Uploaded Senator Nenadi Usman led Interim National Leadership

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has moved fast to update its portal, removing the former National Chairman's name, Julius Abure, and the National Working Committee NWC and recognizing Senator Nenadi Esther Usman's National Working Committee NWC. To notify the public that the court's decision is being implemented.

Labour party still remains a major opposition political party to contend the 2027 general elections in the country .

This is a big deal! The Usman-led NWC is now officially recognized. Congratulations to the Labour Party's family and Nigerians..

The next step is to hit the ground running to restructure the party.

CTC of an Abuja High Court which sacked Mr Julius Abure & instructed INEC to recognize Senator Nenadi Usman as the ONLY authority to represent Labour Party, Nigeria

 The Certified True Copy (CTC ) of the 21st January 2026 Judgment of an Abuja High Court which Ordered the sacking of Mr Julius Abure and instructed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize Senator Nenadi Usman as the ONLY authority to represent Labour Party, Nigeria. Share widely!

 Federal High Court 9 Abuja FCT Affirms Abure's Sack Orders INEC To Recognize Nenadi Usmans As National Chairman of Labour Party (LP) in Line with the Supreme Court Judgement of 4th April 2025

Wednesday 21st January, 2026

IN THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT ÀBUJA

IN THE ABUJA JUDICIAL DIVISION

SUIT NO: FHC/ABJ/CS/2262/25

BETWEEN

SENATOR ESTHER NENADI USMAN v. INEC

BEFORE: 

Hon Justice Peter Lifu (JP) (Court 9 Federal High Court, FHC, Abuja FCT)

PARTIES:

Plaintiff Present

APPEARANCES:

1. Innocent L. Adoo, Esq. with F.O. Akoh, Esq. and O.M. Offiah, Esq. (For the Plaintiff)

2. Adamu Bello, Esq. holding the brief of O.A.Adeyemi, Esq. (1st Defendant.)

3. O.V. Akowe, Esq.,  ( for the 2nd, 3rd & 4th Defendant)

4. Marshal  Abubakar, Esq., with Tamuno Tonye Ekundayo, Esq. (For the 5th Defendant i.e party sought to be joined) NLC

 

SUMMARY:

The matter is for Judgement. In his judgement My Lord ruled that the Supreme Court  Judgement of 4th April, 2025 had addressed the issue of Leadership of the Labour Party (LP) in it's landmark Judgement in Suit No: 

SC/CV/56/2025. 

He further stated that the issue of locus standi does not arise. 

The objections of the Defendants cannot succeed. 

(1). Questions raised by the Plaintiff are answered in the affirmative. 

(2). It is an internal affair of the party conducted by the STATUTORY National Executive Council (NEC) Resolution of 18th July 2025 in line with ARTICLE 13 and 14 of Labour Party (LP) Constitution 2019 as amended and the court cannot interfere.

(3). INEC is urged to recognize the Plaintiff as the ONLY VALID representative of the party and accord her all privileges while accepting all processes and correspondence emanating from same pending the conduct of Congresses and National Convention of the party. 

(4). No order as to cost.

Statement from the Labour Party: Today's Judgement Is a Victory For Democracy And Rules Of Law

The Labour Party has received with profound joy and relief the judgment of the Federal High Court, which ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately recognise Senator Nenadi Usman’s leadership as the only valid, authentic, and legitimate leadership of the Labour Party.

The party notes that today’s judgment represents a victory for democracy, for the Labour Party, and for the Nigerian people, and not a personal victory for Senator Nenadi Usman nor for any individual officer of the party.

Although the journey to this point was protracted, difficult, and at times turbulent, the Labour Party urges its members and supporters not to celebrate with triumphalism. Rather, this moment should be embraced as a solemn opportunity for genuine reconciliation. For us, it is a no victor, no vanquished moment. Let it be clearly stated: there is only one united and indivisible Labour Party in Nigeria. This judgment must mark a new beginning anchored on unity, healing, and collective progress.

Accordingly, the Labour Party calls on all members who may feel aggrieved by the current state of affairs - including those against whom today’s judgment was delivered - to sheathe their swords and embrace dialogue in the supreme interest of the party.

The party extends an olive branch to all contending tendencies within its fold. We sue for peace, plead for dialogue, and seek sincere reconciliation. There is enormous work ahead in rebuilding the Labour Party into a strong, credible, and virile opposition platform in Nigeria, a task that can only be accomplished in an atmosphere of unity, cohesion, and mutual respect.

In furtherance of this commitment to peace and reconciliation, the party shall immediately constitute a Truce and Reconciliation Committee mandated to engage all aggrieved members and restore lasting harmony within the party.

Furthermore, as a law-abiding institution and a major stakeholder in Nigeria’s democratic process, the Labour Party calls on INEC to end all unnecessary distractions by fully complying with today’s judgment and according Senator Nenadi Usman’s leadership the formal recognition clearly and unambiguously directed by the court.

Finally, the Labour Party congratulates its supporters across the nation for their resilience, steadfastness, and unwavering faith in truth and justice, even at moments when hope appeared lost. We also commend our team of lawyers for their professionalism and diligence, and express our gratitude to the judiciary for once again standing firm as the last hope of the common man.

 *Ken Eluma Asogwa* 

Senior Special Adviser, Media,

to the Interim National Chairman

of the Labour Party,

Senator Nenadi Usman

21st January, 2026

Labour Party Crises Laid to Rest As Federal High Court Removes Julius Abure, Affirms Nenadi Esther Usman Leadership

 The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Wednesday laid to a total rest as the court removed Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP) and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognise the Senator Esther Nenadi Usman–led executive of the party.

Justice Justice Peter Lifu delivering his ruling on Wednesday, relied on the April 4, 2025, decision of the Supreme Court to affirm Nenadi, a former Minister of Finance, as the legitimate leader of the labour party in Nigeria.

In his Judgement, Peter Lifu ordered the Nigeria's Electoral umpire Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to henceforth and immediately recognise the Nenadi-led Caretaker Committee as “the only valid authority to represent the Labour Party,” pending the conduct of a national convention.

The ruling followed a suit marked THC/ABJ/CS/2262/2025, filed by Nenadi. Julius Abure and the Nigerian Labour Congress were listed as defendants.

Justice Lifu held that evidence before the court showed that Abure’s tenure as national chairman had expired.

The judgement dismissed Abure’s argument that the matter was an internal party affair and therefore non-justiciable, ruling instead that the establishment of the caretaker committee was “a necessity” arising from the Supreme Court’s decision.

The judge recalled that the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee had earlier removed Abure following a leadership crisis within the party. A 29-member caretaker committee was subsequently constituted, with Nenadi appointed as chairperson.

That decision followed an expanded stakeholders’ meeting held in Umuahia, Abia State, and hosted by Governor Alex Otti. The meeting was chaired by the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, a former ally of Abure.

Abure, dissatisfied with his removal, had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking validation of his position as national chairman. In an affidavit supporting suit FHC/ABJ/CS/1271/2024, he claimed he was lawfully elected Acting National Chairman at a NEC meeting in Benin City on March 29, 2021, following the death of the party’s substantive chairman.

He further told the court that at a NEC meeting held in Asaba on April 18, 2023, and monitored by INEC, the party renewed the tenures of state chairmen, expelled members accused of anti-party activities, and filled resulting vacancies.

Abure also said the party held its national convention on March 27, 2024, in Nnewi, Anambra State, where he was elected National Chairman, adding that the party under his leadership produced candidates for the Edo and Ondo governorship elections.

Although both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal initially ruled in Abure’s favour and ordered INEC to recognise him, the Supreme Court later overturned those decisions.

In a lead judgment prepared by Justice Inyang Okoro, the apex court allowed the appeal filed by Nenadi and the committee’s secretary, Hon. Darlington Nwokocha, while dismissing Abure’s cross-appeal.

The Supreme Court also urged political parties to adhere strictly to their constitutions in appointing officers and advised officials whose tenures had expired to vacate office accordingly.

Labour Party (LP) Press Statement : "COURT STOPS ABURE FROM GOING AHEAD WITH HIS ILLEGAL CONGRESSES

The general public, particularly all Labour Party (LP) supporters across the country, are hereby notified that on 26th November, 2025, the High Court of Abia State sitting in Isiala Ngwa granted an interim order in Suit No: HIN/47/2025. 

The order, sought by Hon. (Sir) Emmanuel Nwaeze Otti, restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Barr. Julius Abure and his illegal National Working Committee from proceeding with their purported and unlawful ward, local government, and state congresses.

The Labour Party (LP) therefore urges its teeming members nationwide to completely disregard the so-called illegal and unlawful congresses being promoted by Julius Abure and his associates. 

These illegal exercises have already been declared null and void by a court of competent jurisdiction. As a law-abiding political party, we enjoin all our members to respect and comply with the court’s directive. 

The Labour Party congresses will commence soon, and members will be duly informed once the details are finalised.

In the same vein, the Labour Party calls on the Inspector-General of Police, who is the 6th Defendant/Respondent in the matter, to ensure the arrest and prosecution of anyone organising or participating in any purported Labour Party congresses scheduled for 2nd, 4th, or 6th December, 2025 or on any other dates, except such activities are duly authorised by the legitimate leadership of the Party headed by Senator Nenadi Usman.

Furthermore, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), who is the 7th Defendant/Respondent, being a responsible and law-abiding institution, is advised to dissociate itself from this illegality being orchestrated by individuals determined to tarnish the hard-earned reputation of the Commission. 

In line with the Electoral Act and all relevant laws, the Labour Party (LP) will formally notify INEC of its authentic activities once its timetable for congresses and convention is released.

Ife Salako

Interim National Publicity Secretary

Labour Party (LP)

1st December, 2025

BREAKING NEWS: A High Court In Abia State Restrained INEC From Recognizing Barr Julius Abure Nor Monitoring His Purported Congresses

A High Court of Abia State of Nigeria on Monday Restrained the Nigeria's Electoral umpire the Independent National Electoral commission (INEC) from recognizing Barr Julius Abure nor monitoring his purported congresses slated for 2nd, 4th and 6th of December, 2025.

Barrister Julius Abuse and Alhaj Lamidi Apapa against the Supreme Court ruling, for their selfish gains are working with the Presidency to ensure the distablisation of the major opposition political party in the country, Labour Party.

Victory For Democracy Against Trampling on the Supreme Court Judgement of 4th April 2025 in Suit No: SC/CV/56/2025 & LP NEC Resolutions of 18th July 2025 and the Federal High Court Judgement of 15th August 2025

 

The Position of Osun Civil Societies Coalition (OCSC)on Continuous JUSUN Strike which has grounded judicial operations across Osun State

OCSC Calls for an  urgently reconvene a neutral, transparent, and time-bound negotiation session to end the industrial crisis

Profile picture: Comrades Whaeed Lawal, Segun Mayegun,
Akin Government, Olowu Emmanuel, others.

The Osun Civil Society Coalition (OCSC) has made its position known to the public and government of Osun State as well as other Stakeholders regarding the ongoing industrial strike by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Osun State Branch.

The OCSC Coalition in Press statement earlier this Month expresses deep concern over the prolonged industrial action by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Osun State Branch, which has grounded judicial operations across the state since 19th of September 2025.

While acknowledging the legitimate demands of judiciary workers for improved welfare, promotions, and professional development, OCSC equally emphasises the sacred duty of the judiciary as the last hope of the common man. 

The continued closure of courts not only undermines access to justice but also inflicts hardship on citizens awaiting trial, litigants, lawyers, and other stakeholders in Osun State.Credible media reports have attributed the cause of the deadlock to unresolved issues of delayed staff promotions (2024–2025), non-sponsorship of training at the National Judicial Institute (NJI), and welfare-related grievances, compounded by limited communication between JUSUN leadership and the judicial management under the Honourable Chief Judge Adepele Ojo.

In line with the provisions of Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees the right of every citizen to freely associate and protect their interests through trade unions, and Section 7(1)(a) of the Trade Disputes Act, Cap T8, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, which encourages settlement of industrial disputes through mediation and conciliation, OCSC recognises that the demands of judiciary workers fall within the ambit of lawful labour agitation.Furthermore, Section 18 of the Trade Disputes Act explicitly provides that all parties to an industrial dispute are under an obligation to “continue to engage in dialogue, conciliation or arbitration in good faith until a resolution is achieved.

” It is therefore imperative for both the judicial management and the leadership of JUSUN to comply with these statutory obligations in the interest of industrial harmony and constitutional order.As a coalition devoted to good governance, transparency, and justice, Our sole concern is to ensure a fair, inclusive, and lasting resolution that will preserves the integrity of the judiciary, and to ensure that the right of all parties are not infringe upon.

Accordingly, OCSC Calls on the Honorable Chief Judge of Osun State, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), and the leadership of JUSUN to immediately return to the negotiation table in compliance with Sections 4–9 of the Trade Disputes Act, which outline the procedures for voluntary mediation, conciliation, and reference to the Industrial Arbitration Panel (IAP) where necessary.Urges the Osun State Government and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Osogbo Branch, to provide moral and administrative support for a neutral mediation platform in accordance with Section 5(2) of the Trade Disputes Act, aimed at restoring industrial harmony within the judiciary.

The Osun Civil Societies Coalition (OCSC) is ready to serve in the capacity of an observer, facilitator, or mediator whenever both sides are willing to engage in constructive dialogue, as permitted under Section 9 of the Trade Disputes Act, which recognizes the involvement of neutral civic bodies in dispute settlement.In the spirit of democratic accountability, OCSC wishes to state clearly that if, within the next seven (7) days from the date of this statement, both parties fail to commence meaningful dialogue or make visible progress toward resolving the industrial action, the Coalition will have no choice but to escalate the matter to higher authorities which will include, the National Judicial Council (NJC), the Osun State House of Assembly Committee on Judiciary, and other relevant oversight institutions which shall be in the intention to protect public interest and restore normalcy in the administration of justice.

Justice delayed remains justice denied. The people of Osun deserve a functional, fair, and responsive justice system. 

OCSC therefore calls on all stakeholders to act swiftly, responsibly, and patriotically in the interest of the state and her citizens.

Follow up letters to the appropriate Stakeholders have also been dispatched after the expiration of the initial 7days ultimatum by the coalition.

The OCSC on 22nd of November 2025, in an address to the Honourable Chief Judge of Osun State High Court of Justice, Osun State, the Chairman, Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Osun State Branch, the Executive Governor of Osun State

Government Secretariat, Abere and  the Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly

House of Assembly Complex, Osogbo in what the Civil Society called a "FOLLOW-UP ADVISORY ON THE FAILURE OF BOTH PARTIES TO COMMENCE MEANINGFUL NEGOTIATION"

The Osun Civil Societies Coalition (OCSC) wishes to formally notify all concerned actors and the general public that the seven-day negotiation window, first announced in our press statement dated November 4, 2025, has now expired without any visible or measurable progress toward resolving the ongoing industrial dispute between the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Osun State Branch, and the Judiciary management under the Honourable Chief Judge.

This development is deeply regrettable and continues to inflict serious harm on the administration of justice in Osun State. The constitutional right of citizens to access the courts (Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution) remains severely obstructed, while the prolonged shutdown undermines public confidence in our justice system.

OBSERVATIONS WITHIN THE SEVEN-DAY WINDOW

Despite repeated appeals:

• No structured negotiation framework was established.

• No joint communiqué or progress update was issued by either party.

• No mediation session was convened involving neutral stakeholders.

• Industrial harmony has not been restored.

Thus, OCSC is compelled to issue this advisory in line with its duty to safeguard public interest and strengthen democratic accountability.

REITERATION OF DUTY TO NEGOTIATE

OCSC hereby reminds all parties that under the Trade Disputes Act (Cap T8, LFN 2004):

• Section 3(1) mandates parties to an industrial dispute to explore internal dispute resolution mechanisms before escalation.

• Sections 4 and 5 provide for mediation and conciliation where disputes persist.

• Section 6 empowers the Minister of Labour to intervene if negotiation fails.

Likewise, under the Nigerian Constitution and principles of natural justice, the judiciary has a duty to ensure uninterrupted access to justice, while workers have a lawful right to demand fair treatment and improved conditions through peaceful means.

Both parties therefore share a joint responsibility to negotiate in good faith.

POSSIBLE ESCALATION BY OCSC

In line with our earlier position, if meaningful dialogue is not initiated immediately, the Osun Civil Societies Coalition shall proceed with the following escalation steps:

1. Formal Petition to the National Judicial Council (NJC)

Drawing attention to administrative lapses and the prolonged breakdown of judicial operations.

2. Briefing of the Osun State House of Assembly Committee on Judiciary

Requesting legislative intervention and a public hearing on the crisis.

3. Submission of a Situation Report to the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment

Invoking Sections 6–9 of the Trade Disputes Act on unresolved industrial disputes.

4. Public Accountability Walk and Civic Engagement Campaign

To draw attention to the constitutional and human rights implications of the shutdown.

5. Release of a Comprehensive Crisis Report to National Media Houses

Highlighting findings, timelines, responsibilities, and recommendations.

These steps are not punitive but aimed at restoring normalcy, promoting dialogue, and protecting the rights of the citizens.

CALL FOR URGENT ACTION

OCSC again calls on:

• The Honourable Chief Judge,

• The JUSUN leadership,

• The Osun State Government, and

• Other institutional stakeholders

to urgently reconvene a neutral, transparent, and time-bound negotiation session to end the industrial crisis.

Justice delayed is justice denied. Osun State cannot endure further paralysis of its judicial system.

Comrade (Dr.) Waheed Lawal is the Chairman of the 

Osun Civil Societies Coalition (OCSC).

Leader of IPOB Nnamid Kanu Sentenced To Life Imprisonment , To Be Held In Protective Custody

Kanu to appeal Life sentence 

Kanu

 The leader of the Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB) Mazi Nnamid Kanu has been Sentenced to life Imprisonment for Terrorism and other charges. He is to be serving the prison terms in protective custody and not in any prison.


Today in a Federal High Court in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria , precising Judge, Justice James Omotosho delivered the following sentences and orders on Nnamdi Kanu:


Prison Sentences:


- Life imprisonment on Counts 1, 4, 5, and 6.
L

- 20 years imprisonment on Count 3 (no option of fine).

- 5 years imprisonment on Count 7 (no option of fine).


All sentences are to run concurrently.


Special Custody Conditions (due to what the judge described as Kanu’s violent tendencies and atrocities):


- Kanu is NOT to be kept at Kuje Correctional Centre.


- He is to be held in protective custody (specific facility not named in the excerpt, but under strict security).

- He is completely barred from possessing or accessing any digital device (phone, laptop, tablet, etc.).


- Any future access to a digital device is allowed only with the express approval and direct supervision of the National Security Adviser (NSA).


Forfeiture Order:


All transmitters and broadcasting equipment belonging to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) or used by Radio Biafra are permanently forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

He was convicted on seven count charges.


Count one: That you Nnamdi Kanu, male adult of Afaraukwu lbeku Umahia North Local Government Area of Abia State being the leader of the Indigenous People of Bialra (IPOB) on diverse dates in 2014 and 2015 in London, United Kingdom, did broadcast on Radio Biafra monitored in Enugu and other areas within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, preparations made by you and others now at large for states in the South-East and South-South zones and other communities in Kogi and Benue States to secede from the Federal Republic of Nigeria with a view to constituting same into the Republic of Biafra and you thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 41(c) of the Criminal Code Act, CAP. C77, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.


Count two: That you Nnamdi Kanu, male, adult, of Afaraukwu Ibeku, Umuahia North Local Government Area ot Abia State, on or about the 28th April, 2015 in London, United Kingdom did broadcast on Radio Biafra monitored in Enugu, Enugu State and other parts of Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, referred to Major General Muhammadu Buhari, GCON, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a paedophile, a terrorist, an idiot and an embodiment of evil, knowing same to be false and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 375 of the Criminal Code Act, Cap C. 77, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.



Count Three: That you Nnamdi Kanu, male adult of Afaraukwu lbeku Umahia North Local Government Area of Abia State between the month of March and April 2015 imported into Nigeria and kept in Ubulusiuzor in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra state within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, a Radio transmitter known as TRAM 50L concealed in a container of used household which you declared as used household items and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 47 (2) of the Criminal Code of Act, Cap C45, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.


Count four: That you, Nnamdi Kanu, male, adult, of Afaraukwu iIbeku, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State in London, United Kingdom between 2018 and 2021 Radio Biafra monitored in Enugu, Enugu State and FCT, Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, professed to be a member of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a proscribed organisation in Nigeria and you thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 16 Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act, 2013.


Count five: That you Nnamdi Kanu, male, adult, of Afaraukwu Ibeku, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State on the 22th of April, 2021 in London, United Kingdom on Radio Biafra monitored in Enugu, Enugu State and other parts of Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did an act of terrorism in that you incite the other members (followers) of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB}, a proscribed organisation in Nigeria, to look for security personnel, their family members through a Radio Biafra on 102.1FM monitored through the IPOB Community Radio and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 1 (2) (h) of the Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act.


Count six: That you Nnamdi Kanu, male, adult, of Afaraukwu Ibeku, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia Stale on the 16thh of May, 2021, in London, United Kingdom within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did commit an act in furtherance of an act of terrorism by making a broadcast that “In 2 weeks’ time, what will happen will shake the world, people will die, the whole world will stand still, mark my word” and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 1 (2) (b) of the Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act, 2013.




Count seven: That you Nnamdi Kanu, male, adult, of Afaraukwu Ibeku, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State on the 31st of May, 2021, in London, United Kingdom within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did an act in furtherance of an act of terrorism by issuing a deadly threat that anyone who flouted your sit-at-home order should “write his/her will,” as a result banks, schools, markets, shopping malls, fuel stations were not opened for businesses and vehicular movements grounded and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 1 (2) (b) of the Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act, 2013.




Kanu will appeal against the life imprisonment and other jail terms handed down by Justice Omotosho, his former lawyer and consultant, Aloy Ejimakor, has said.


Speaking to reporters after the sentencing on Thursday, former lawyer and consultant to the convicted IPOB leader, Aloy Ejimakor, said Kanu would challenge the judgment at the Court of Appeal. He said, “From here, we are heading to the Court of Appeal. It is the only court in the country that sits as a jury, and we are going to approach the justices there to review what happened in court today.”


Ejimakor described the sentencing as a “travesty of justice” and expressed confidence that the appellate court will overturn the conviction.
“If the Court of Appeal disagrees with us, we will proceed to the Supreme Court. But by God Almighty, Nnamdi Kanu is not going to stand convicted. He is going to get overturned,” he added.

#PHOTOS: Nigerian Army General Court Martial sentenced a Private Lukman Musa to death by hanging

The Nigerian Army General Court Martial has sentenced a Private Lukman Musa to dêath by hånging for the mürder of a tricycle rider who's name is Mr. Abdulrahman Isa, in Azere town, Bauchi State.

OMOYELE SOWORE GOES TO COURT AGAINST SSS, META AND X: ASKS FEDERAL HIGH COURT TO STOP FACEBOOK AND TWITTER FROM DELETING HIS STATEMENT CALLING TINUBU A CRIMINAL

Sowore 

On behalf of our client, Omoyele Sowore, we have filed two fundamental rights actions at the Federal High Court, Abuja, against the State Security Service (SSS), Meta (owners of Facebook), and X Corp. (formerly Twitter).

These suits were filed to challenge the unconstitutional censorship initiated by the DSS/SSS against Sowore’s accounts maintained with Meta and X.

The lawsuit states categorically that this is about the survival of free speech in Nigeria. If state agencies can dictate to global platforms who may speak and what may be said, then no Nigerian is safe, their  voices will be silenced at the whim of those in power.

Censorship of political criticism is alien to democracy. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in Section 39, guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression, without interference. No security agency, no matter how powerful, can suspend or delete those rights.

Meta and X must also understand this: when they bow to unlawful censorship demands, they become complicit in the suppression of liberty. They cannot hide behind neutrality while authoritarianism is exported onto their platforms.

Our prayers before the Court are simple:

That the SSS has no power in law to censor Nigerians on social media;

That Meta and X must not lend their platforms as tools of repression; and

That our client’s rights and by extension, the rights of all Nigerians, be fully protected against unlawful censorship.

We call on all lovers of freedom, journalists, human rights defenders, and the Nigerian people to stand firm. Today it is Sowore; tomorrow it may be you.

This struggle is not about personalities. It is about principle. And we shall resist every attempt to turn Nigeria into a digital dictatorship.

Signed, Tope Temokun of

TOPE TEMOKUN CHAMBERS, LAGOS, Esq.

16/09/25

Peter Obi — Coordinated Lawlessness, Impunity Reigns In Nigeria, Our Country Has Become Lawless

Any society where lawlessness overrides the rule of law is not destined to be a haven for investors. Recent reports showing that Nigeria’s human rights indicators have worsened merely highlight severe shortfalls in government protection for civil liberties, personal security, and… pic.twitter.com/3Dn2UZlPKq

— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) June 24, 2025

Any society where lawlessness overrides the rule of law is not destined to be a haven for investors. Recent reports showing that Nigeria’s human rights indicators have worsened merely highlight severe shortfalls in government protection for civil liberties, personal security, and basic living standards. I know what I have been going through as a person in abuse of my human rights just because I contested a Presidential election which I have legitimate rights to do. So I imagine what small business owners, regular citizens, and vulnerable communities face every day. If this level of lawlessness can happen to someone with a registered company and legitimate means, what hope does the ordinary Nigerian have? This morning, my youngest brother called me frantically, informing me that a group of people had invaded his company property in Ikeja, Lagos, and were demolishing the building. He had just come in from Port Harcourt and was denied entry to the property by security men who told him the building was being pulled down. They even informed him that this demolition had started over the weekend. As a peace-loving Nigerian, he quickly started processing to go to court immediately, not knowing what must have resulted in this, as they moved fast to destroy his home without any restraint. I rushed to Lagos from Abuja after the call this morning and headed straight to the property. On arrival, I was met by security people who tried to bar me from entering the property. I humbly pleaded with them that the property belonged to my brother’s company, and from the records, the company had owned the property for over a decade. They told me they had a court judgment, and I immediately requested it. You would not believe that the court judgment they claim was issued against an unknown person, and squatters. I went further to ask about a demolition order or permit, and there was none. How do you sue an unknown person? How does a court issue a judgment in such a farce of a case? No one was served. No name was written. Yet they showed up with excavators and began destroying a structure that had stood for over 15 years. I immediately asked the excavators for the person who had sent them, and they said they didn’t know anyone, but they were only informed to come and demolish the house. I immediately told them to tell whoever it is that I would like to speak with them, if they can call my number, which I shared with the excavators, so that I can speak with whomever gave them the order to demolish the property. I stood there from 10am to 2pm, waiting to get a call at least and nobody called or came. The contractor even said he didn’t know who sent him. Two men later came and said they would like us to go to a police station. I asked if they even had a demolition order but they had nothing. The whole situation screamed of coordinated lawlessness and impunity. Our country has become lawless. I just started reminiscing about how just over the weekend, I had a meeting when someone told me how he has investments in Ghana, Senegal, and the Benin Republic, but won’t touch Nigeria despite his market being here. I asked him why. His answer was piercing: “Nigeria is a lawless country. Until we have laws that protect people, nobody will invest in Nigeria.” I am just shocked. How did Nigeria get to this level of lawlessness? What kind of country are we trying to build when the rights of citizens, their lives, their properties, and their voices are trampled upon daily? I remain committed to a better Nigeria where lawlessness will be a thing of the past, protection of life and property, respect for human rights, care for the less privileged, and basic education for all children. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

EFCC Re-arraigns Fadama Society Executives for Alleged ₦178m Fraud in Jos

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, May 29, 2025, re-arraigned two executives of the Covenant Fadama Multi-purpose Cooperative Society, its Secretary, Okewole Dayo, and Chairman, Bishop Katung Jonas before Justice Sharon T. Ishaya of the Federal High Court sitting in Jos, Plateau State.

The duo were docked on a 23-count charge bordering on conspiracy, obtaining money under false pretence, and money laundering to the tune of ₦178,885,000 (One Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million, Eight Hundred and Eighty-Five Thousand Naira).

Investigations by the EFCC revealed that the defendants allegedly formed the cooperative society to fraudulently induce unsuspecting members of the public into investing substantial sums of money. The funds were then laundered through multiple bank accounts and withdrawn using proxies. The proceeds were allegedly used to acquire properties in Jos and Kaduna.

 

One of the charges, Count 2, reads:

"That you, OKEWOLE DAYO (Alias OKEWOLE DAVID DAYO) and BISHOP KATUNG JONAS, being Secretary and Chairman of Covenant Fadama Cooperative Society, sometime in 2012 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did knowingly transfer the sum of ₦50,000,000 (Fifty Million Naira) from Covenant Fadama Cooperative Society’s First Bank Account number 2003050001625 into Dadin Kowa Micro Finance Account, First Bank Account number 2016452671, which sum represents proceeds of unlawful act and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15(2)(b) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2012 and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act."

 

Count 8 read: "That you, OKEWOLE DAYO (Alias OKEWOLE DAVID DAYO) and BISHOP KATUNG JONAS, being Secretary and Chairman of Covenant Fadama Cooperative Society, sometime in 2012 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did, with intent to defraud, obtain the sum of ₦10,000,000 (Ten Million Naira) from Reke Vida Ltd under the false pretence that you were going to invest the money in Covenant Fadama Cooperative Society as members and pay a monthly 10% dividend as return on investment, which you knew to be false, thereby committing an offence contrary to Section 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act."

 

Both defendants pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them.

 

Prosecution counsel, Ibrahim Buba, informed the court of the EFCC's readiness to proceed. "In view of the defendants’ not guilty pleas, we are ready to open our case and bring in our witnesses. We already have a date fixed for tomorrow, my Lord," he said.

 

However, defence counsels raised concerns over their availability.

 

Counsel to the second defendant, J.J. Achi told the court that he would not be available due to a personal emergency.

"My Lord, my brother is critically ill and was brought from Kaduna. He is to be moved into theatre, and my attention is urgently required," he explained.

 

The first defendant's counsel, C.I. Nwogbo, also expressed his inability to proceed, citing logistical constraints.

"I just recently joined the case and applied for the Certified True Copies of documents attached to the proof of evidence on April 2. I’ve not received them yet, and there are logistical issues with my client who does not reside in Jos," he stated.

 

Justice Ishaya expressed concern over the delays and the impact on the prosecution’s efforts. "The prosecution is coming all the way from Abuja. I do not appreciate a situation where counsel travels such a distance without making any progress," she said.

 

She then asked the prosecution how many witnesses they intended to present in the course of the trial.

 

Buba responded: "We initially had 18 witnesses on our list, but due to the passage of time, some are now inaccessible and two are deceased. There may be a need to add new witnesses."

 

After listening to all submissions, Justice Ishaya adjourned the case to July 22 and 23, 2025 for continuation of trial.

Source: EFCC 

Alleged N76bn and $31.5m fraud: Court Adjourns Ex-AMCON MD, Kuru, Others’ Trial Till June 4

Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, adjourned till June 4, 2025 further hearing in the trial of Mallam Ahmed Kuru, a former Managing Director of Assets Management  Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON, and four others,  over alleged N76bn and $31.5m fraud.  

Kuru , alongside Capt. Roy Ilegbodu, Managing Director of Arik Air, Kamilu Omokide, Receiver Manager of Arik Air, Union Bank Nigeria Plc and Super Bravo Limited is facing trial on a six-count charge bordering on conspiracy, stealing, and abuse of office to the tune of N75bn and $31.5m fraud.

At the resumed sitting on Wednesday , the second prosecution witness , PW2, Austine Obigwe, a former  Group Executive Director of Union Bank Plc, stated that in 2011, two years after he exited Union Bank,  Arik Air was indebted to his company, Staal, to the tune of $2.3m. 

 He, however, said: “I am not interested in collecting it.  I wrote it off when I discovered that Arik Air started having challenges.”

During cross-examination by the defence counsel, including Olasupo Shasore, SAN (for the second defendant); Olalekan Ojo, SAN (for the fourth defendant); and Tayo Oyedepo, SAN (for the fifth defendant),  the  PW2 also confirmed that following his exit from Union Bank, he began consultancy engagements with Arik Air and other companies. 

When asked whether the founder of Arik Air, Johnson Arumemi-Ikhide, was a personal acquaintance, he responded in the affirmative.

He, however, added  that “ I currently don’t have any formal relationship with the airline, I maintain a relationship with Arumemi-Ikhide.”

Obigwe stated that he participated in an inspection of 26 aircraft belonging to Arik Air in 2009, and found them to be airworthy and in good condition based on assessments provided by Lufthansa.

“I had no reason to doubt Lufthansa’s evaluation,” he said, adding that the purpose of the inspection was to ensure that the airline’s fleet had not been depleted.

When asked about the airline’s compliance with its loan obligations, Obigwe testified that during his tenure at Union Bank, there were no complaints from other financial institutions suggesting that Arik Air was defaulting on its loan obligations. 

He also confirmed that Arik Air was servicing its loan with Union Bank during his tenure.

Responding to a letter dated April 23, 2009, allegedly written by AMCON to Union Bank concerning a N46.11 bn debt owed by Arik Air, the witness stated that the letter was not brought to his attention while he was still with the bank.

When asked to speak about the character and management of Arik Air, the witness said: “I can only speak for the period I was there. When I was in Union Bank, Arik Air was one of the best companies.”

Also, when asked about the options available to lenders when a loan becomes non-performing, Obigwe said that the lender might choose to transfer the loan to another bank, reassign it, or enforce the security tied to the loan.

“ A lender is legally empowered to dispose of the security in the event of default by the borrower,” he added. 

The matter was adjourned till June 4, 2025 for the continuation of trial.

Source: EFCC 

Court Jails Man Eight Years for Impersonation in Lagos

Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Tuesday,  April 22, 2025, convicted and sentenced one Tobor Efeturi Godspower to eight years imprisonment for impersonation.

 

Godspower was arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on a two-count charge bordering on fraudulent impersonation and possession of fraudulent documents.

 

One of the counts reads; “That you, Tobor Efeturi Godspower, on or about the 24th day of October, 2024 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently impersonated one 'Stephen Townsend', purporting to be a military man stationed in Syria, with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 22(2)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.

 

The second count reads: “That you, Tobor Efeturi  Godspower, on or about the 24th day of October, 2024 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently held yourself out as the manager of crypto account bearing the name 'Rosemarie Altez', with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 22(3) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.”

 

He pleaded guilty to the charges when they were read to him.

 

In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, S.I.Suleiman, tendered the defendant’s statements dated October 28 and 30, 2024 and November 1, 4 and 6, 2024; a Toshiba laptop computer; iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 11 Pro Max; a casio wristwatch; fraudulent documents printed from his device as well as the sum of $300 restitution made by the defendant. 

 

Suleiman, therefore, urged the court to convict him as charged and sentence him accordingly. 

 

He also prayed that the exhibits recovered from the defendant be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria. 

 

Justice Aluko found the defendant guilty of the offences and sentenced him to four years imprisonment on each of the two counts. 

 

The Judge also gave him an option of fine of N600,000( Six Hundred Thousand Naira only) on each of the counts. 

 

The exhibits were ordered forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

 

The convict bagged his imprisonment when he was arrested  for fraudulently impersonating one 'Stephen Townsend', purporting to be a military man stationed in Syria and defrauded innocent victims in the process.

Source: EFCC 

Court Jails 23 Internet Fraudsters in Benin City

Justices  W.l. Aziegbemhin and A.N. Erhabor of Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City between April 11 and 17  convicted and sentenced 23 internet fraudsters to various jail terms

The convicts are: Uzorchukwu Peace Udoka, Erubasa Oghenetega, David Ogwunu, Jude Okólie, Lucky Ehizojie, Chineye Isioma Christian, Obadiunor Josoph Ikechukwu, Ugochukwu Adingwu, Ifeanyi Okechukwu, Patrick Chinedu Chukwujekwe, Ugboh Chibuzor, Monday Shedrack, Udochukwu Onuka, Uzodion Luke and Ehighola Emmanuel Akhere.

Others are Godstime Osunde Oskpolor, Promise Onyugboh, Onuka Patrick, Chinonso Peter Iwuchukwu, Ajayi Aisosa, Aiwansoba Prince, Goddey Jeremiah and Ojimah John Oseni

They were prosecuted on  one-count separate charges bordering on obtaining by false pretence, retention of proceeds of crime and possession of fraudulent documents by the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Commission .

The charge against Chinonso Peter Iwuchukwu reads: "That you Chinonso Peter Iwuchukwu (m) on or about the 12th of April, 2025 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did have in your possession, documents which you knew or ought to have known contained false pretence, thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 6 and 8 (b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act.”

All the defendants pleaded “guilty” to their charges when they were read to them, prompting the prosecution counsel, F.A Jirbo, I.M Elodi, K Y. Bello, to pray the court to convict and sentence them accordingly while counsel to the defendants pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy, stating that they have become remorseful for their actions.

Justice Erhabor convicted and sentenced Chinonso Peter Iwuchukwu, Jude Okolie, Obadiunor Josoph Ikechukwu, Ugochukwu Adingwu, Ifeanyi Okechukwu, Patrick Chinedu Chukwujekwe, Ugboh Chibuzor, Monday Shedrack, Udochukwu Onuka, Ehighola Emmanuel Akhere, Godstime Osunde Oskpolor, Promise Onyugboh, Onuka Patrick, Aiwansoba Prince, Goddey Jeremiah, Ojimah John Oseni to two years imprisonment each or to pay N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine respectively, while the duo Chineye Isioma Christian and Uzodion Luke were sentenced to Three Years Imprisonmen each or to pay N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine respectively

Justice W.I. Aziegbemhin convicted and sentenced Uzorchukwu Peace Udoka, Erubasa Oghenetega, Ajayi Aisosa to two years imprisonment, each or to pay N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine respectively. The duo of David Ogwunu, Lucky Ehizojie were convicted and sentenced to Three Years Imprisonment each or to pay N500, 000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine respectively

In addition to their sentences, all the convicts forfeited their phones,

computers and money found in their respective bank accounts to the Federal Government of Nigeria,  being proceeds of crime.  They also undertook in writing to be of good behaviour henceforth.

The convicts’ journey to the Correctional Centre began with their arrest in a sting operation by operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC following intelligence that linked them to fraudulent internet activities.

Source: EFCC 

Quadri Alabi, Teen Who Stood In Front of Peter Obi 's Convoy Regains Freedom From Kirikiri Months After Being Framed For Armed Rubbery By Lagos Police — Lawyer

Demands #100m Compensation 

The lawyer to the illegally detained teen Quadri Alabi, Barrister Inibehe Effiong ESQ said the teen has regain his freedom.

Inibehe on a social media post confirmed his released from Kirikiri. Demanded for a compensation of #100m from the Lagos State Police.

Quadri Alabi, the teen who stood in front of the campaign convoys of the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections Peter Obi was detained by the Lagos Police command on an aledged rubbery case.

According to Inibehe: "We are excited to announce that Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the 17-year old teenager who gained fame during the 2023 elections after he spontaneously jumped and stood in front of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi has been freed by the court today, 17th April, 2025."

"Our client, Quadri was abducted by two ‘Area Boys’ who are notoriously known in the community as Lege and Baba Waris close to his family residence at Amukoko, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area and dumped at the Amukoko Divisional Police Headquarters (Pako Police Station) in Lagos State."

"Quadri was returning from work when he was grabbed by the duo, who along with other jealous and entitled Area Boys in the community, have been harassing him and threatening to deal with him since 2023 for not giving them ‘their share’ of donations gifted him during the last elections period.'

"Quadri’s family informed us that the Baale of the community equally pressured them to buy a cow and rice and cook for the community to appease the Area Boys."

"The abductors initially told the officers at Amukoko Police Station that our client was involved in street fighting.'

"To the consternation of Quadri and his family, the police on 26th January, 2025 took Quadri before a Magistrate in Apapa, and obtained an order remanding him at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri on a trumped-up charge of armed robbery."

"The police fraudulently joined Quadri with four strange adults who had no form of connection or relationship whatsoever with him and claimed that the four strange men were his case mates."

"As part of the diabolical frame-up of our client, the officers at Amukoko Police Station also misrepresented his age to be 18, knowing that disclosing his actual age would likely raise eyebrows."

"When we were briefed by Quadri’s mother a week ago, after the matter was brought to public attention by Ms. Hassana Nurudeen, the Co-founder of Ray of Hope Prison Outreach, we swiftly escalated the case and took necessary steps towards securing his freedom."

"At the Court today, the presiding Magistrate, His Honour, A. O. Olorunfemi (Mrs.), confirmed that the legal advice issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), of the Ministry of Justice, Lagos State, Dr. Babajide Martins showed that there was no evidence to substantiate the allegation of armed robbery against Quadri."

"In his Legal Advice, the DPP recommended the non-prosecution of Quadri. Thus, the presiding Magistrate discharged him and he was accordingly freed."

"We commend the DPP for standing by the truth in this matter."

"We demand that the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, and the Inspector General of Police, should as a matter of urgency, remove the DPO of Amukoko Divisional Headquarters and subject him to orderly room trial along with the IPO, one Inspector Odigbe Samuel, and other officers who participated in this evil, sinister, oppressive, and corrupt scheme of framing-up a teenager for armed robbery at the behest of rogue ‘Area Boys’."

"We demand that the Nigeria Police Force should pay the sum of One Hundred Million Naira (N100,000,000.00) to our client as compensation.'

"Also, we also demand a public apology from the police."

"If the above three remedial demands are not fully complied with immediately, we shall initiate legal actions to seek redress."

"Quadri’s case is a painful example of the putrefying corruption, monstrous impunity, and pervasive injustice in the Nigeria Police Force."

"There are many Quadris languishing in detention centres across Nigeria because of the unbridled criminality, lawlessness, and lack of accountability in the Police institution and the weakness of the justice system."

"History will vindicate the just." Inibehe concluded.

EFCC presents first witness against Sierra Leonean for Non-Decleration of $90,000

The Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Okotie-Eboh, Ikoyi, Lagos, onTuesday, April 15, 2025,  presented its first prosecution witness, PW1, Danladi Ibrahim, an operative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in the trial of  Alhaji Ahmed Shaw , a Sierra Leonean, before Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The defendant was arrested on March 3, 2025 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos by operatives of the NDLEA, for non-declaration of the sum of $90,000( Ninety Thousand United States of America Dollars). 

Upon his arrest, the Agency , on Friday, March 5, 2025, handed him over to the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the EFCC, Okotie Eboh, Ikoyi, Lagos for further investigations.

Consequently, he was arraigned on Thursday, April 3, 2025  on a one-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering. 

The  count reads: “That you, ALHAJI AHMED SHAW, on the 3rd  day of March, 2025 in Lagos , within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, failed to make a declaration of the sum of $90,000 (Ninety Thousand United States of America Dollars) to the Nigeria Customs Service at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 3(5) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Act, 2022.”

The defendant pleaded “not guilty” to the charge when it was read to him. 

At the resumed sitting on Tuesday,  Ibrahim,  led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, Z.B. Atiku said: “On March 3, 2025 , at the new arrival hall of MMIA , I intercepted Alhaji Ahmed Shaw. I asked him where he was coming from and he said Sierra Leone. I then requested his passport. Thereafter, I conducted a search, and found the money concealed in his hand luggage.”

He further told the court that the defendant, upon enquiry, said the money was for a business trip. 

According to Ibrahim, the defendant, his lawyer, the arresting officer and the exhibit officer were present when the money was counted.

When asked by the prosecution counsel to identify certain documents, he did, saying they were the statement made by the defendant in the NDLEA custody, a transfer note from the NDLEA to the EFCC , and the sum of $90,000. 

Atiku then sought to tender, as evidence,  the defendant’s statement to the NDLEA, the transfer note from the NDLEA to the EFCC, and the sum of $90,000."

The defence counsel, however,  objected to the admissibility of the transfer note from the NDLEA to the EFCC on the grounds that the witness was not the author but “only the arresting officer.”

In view of this, the prosecution counsel withdrew the handing over letter. 

Justice Dipeolu Admitted the statement made by the defendant and the sum of $90,000 as exhibits. 

 

While cross-examining the witness, the defence counsel asked him about his encounter with the defendant.

 

When asked if he saw the defendant finish his clearance from the Immigration  Service, and why he stopped him out of other passengers, the witness replied that “He was profiled and asked routine questions, including  where he was coming from and what he does for a living.  

“He said he was a businessman but I was not satisfied with his response; so, I ordered my officers to search him.”

Also , when asked the witness if the defendant showed proof that he was a businessman, the witness said “ No”.

Asked if there were officers from other agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service around him on that day, the witness said he could not respond to the question because he was at his own duty post.

“ It is my duty to do the investigation. Mine was to question whether the money was declared and the defendant did not respond to that question EFCC Presents First Witness Against Sierra Leonean for Non-declaration of $90,000

The Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Okotie-Eboh, Ikoyi, Lagos, onTuesday, April 15, 2025, presented its first prosecution witness, PW1, Danladi Ibrahim, an operative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in the trial of Alhaji Ahmed Shaw , a Sierra Leonean, before Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The defendant was arrested on March 3, 2025 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos by operatives of the NDLEA, for non-declaration of the sum of $90,000( Ninety Thousand United States of America Dollars). 

Upon his arrest, the Agency , on Friday, March 5, 2025, handed him over to the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the EFCC, Okotie Eboh, Ikoyi, Lagos for further investigations.

Consequently, he was arraigned on Thursday, April 3, 2025 on a one-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering. 

The count reads: “That you, ALHAJI AHMED SHAW, on the 3rd day of March, 2025 in Lagos , within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, failed to make a declaration of the sum of $90,000 (Ninety Thousand United States of America Dollars) to the Nigeria Customs Service at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 3(5) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Act, 2022.”

The defendant pleaded “not guilty” to the charge when it was read to him. 

At the resumed sitting on Tuesday, Ibrahim, led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, Z.B. Atiku said: “On March 3, 2025 , at the new arrival hall of MMIA , I intercepted Alhaji Ahmed Shaw. I asked him where he was coming from and he said Sierra Leone. I then requested his passport. Thereafter, I conducted a search, and found the money concealed in his hand luggage.”

He further told the court that the defendant, upon enquiry, said the money was for a business trip. 

According to Ibrahim, the defendant, his lawyer, the arresting officer and the exhibit officer were present when the money was counted.

When asked by the prosecution counsel to identify certain documents, he did, saying they were the statement made by the defendant in the NDLEA custody, a transfer note from the NDLEA to the EFCC , and the sum of $90,000. 

Atiku then sought to tender, as evidence, the defendant’s statement to the NDLEA, the transfer note from the NDLEA to the EFCC, and the sum of $90,000."

The defence counsel, however, objected to the admissibility of the transfer note from the NDLEA to the EFCC on the grounds that the witness was not the author but “only the arresting officer.”

In view of this, the prosecution counsel withdrew the handing over letter. 

Justice Dipeolu Admitted the statement made by the defendant and the sum of $90,000 as exhibits. 

 

While cross-examining the witness, the defence counsel asked him about his encounter with the defendant.

 

When asked if he saw the defendant finish his clearance from the Immigration Service, and why he stopped him out of other passengers, the witness replied that “He was profiled and asked routine questions, including where he was coming from and what he does for a living.  

“He said he was a businessman but I was not satisfied with his response; so, I ordered my officers to search him.”

Also , when asked the witness if the defendant showed proof that he was a businessman, the witness said “ No”.

Asked if there were officers from other agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service around him on that day, the witness said he could not respond to the question because he was at his own duty post.

“ It is my duty to do the investigation. Mine was to question whether the money was declared and the defendant did not respond to that question appropriately”, he added.

Justice Dipeolu adjourned the case till May 7, 2025 for continuation of trial.

Source: EFCC 

Court Orders Final Forfeiture of Livingtrust Mortgage Bank’s N6.6bn Shares, N42.4m, $26.44 in Lagos

Justice F. N. Ogazi of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, ordered the final forfeiture of 

2,041,087,747.00 units of Livingtrust Mortgage Bank Plc, formerly known as Omoluabi Mortgage Bank Plc, valued at N6,674,356,932.69.

The court also ordered the final forfeiture of the sums of N42,461,096.66 and $26.44.

The shares and the funds in the accounts were traced to Cititrust Holdings Plc and its subsidiaries.

The Judge gave the order, following a motion on notice filed by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the EFCC, Okotie Eboh, Ikoyi, Lagos through its counsel, Ahmad A Usman.

Justice Ogazi had earlier granted the interim forfeiture of the properties and also ordered the publication of the said order in a national newspaper for any interested parties to show cause why they should not be finally forfeited to the victims.

Moving the application for the final forfeiture, Usman said the Commission had published Cititrust Holdings Plc and some of its subsidiaries as part of the companies being prosecuted for operating as a Ponzi scheme. 

He said the properties were found to have been purchased with several investors’ funds.

“The shares were initially purchased from Osun State Government by Cititrust, using some SPVs and later harmonized and transferred to the name of Cititrust Holdings Plc,” he added.

The respondent, Cititrust Holdings Plc, however, contested the EFCC’s application for the final forfeiture through a motion and an affidavit.

In his ruling, the court discountenanced Cititrust’s application and affidavit to show cause and saw merit in the EFCC’s application.

The Judge, consequently, ordered the final forfeiture of the 2,041,087,747.00 units of Livingtrust Mortgage Bank Plc, the sums of N42,461,096.66 and $26.44 to the victims. 

 

The Judge also ordered that the victims be paid what is due to them and the remainder, if any, be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Source: EFCC 

EFCC Arraigns Man for Non-declaration of £8,020, $704 at Airport

The Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, arraigned one Agudosi  Christopher Okechukwu for alleged non- declaration of the sums of £8,020 (Eight Thousand and Twenty Pounds Sterling)  and $704 ( Seven Hundred and Four United States Dollars)  before Justice Yellim Bogoro of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The defendant was arrested in December 2024 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos by operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, for non-declaration to the tune of £8020 and $704 and was subsequently  handed over to the EFCC for further investigations.

Consequently, he was arraigned on Tuesday on a two-count charge bordering on money laundering.

The  count reads: “That you , Agudosi Christopher Okechukwu, on the 10th day of December, 2024 in Lagos, within the Jurisdiction of this Honorable Court , failed to make a declaration of the sum of £8,020  (Eight Thousand and Twenty Pounds Sterling) to the Nigeria Customs Service at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 3(5) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.”

The defendant pleaded “guilty” to the charges when they were read to him.  

Following his guilty plea, prosecution counsel, C.C. Okezie called on Abubakar Magaji, an operative of the EFCC, to review the facts of the case.

Magaji told the court that the NCS handed over the defendant to the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the EFCC, Okotie Eboh, Ikoyi, Lagos for further investigation after he was arrested with the sum of £8020 and $704.

He further told the court that “ His statement was recorded under caution.  He stated that he was arrested at the MMIA Airport with a total sum of £15,020 , and $704. He also stated that he declared £7000 and forgot to declare the sums of  £8020 and $704  on him”

“ He said he did not  make the declaration because he claimed to have suffered a loss and was going to bring back the corpse of his brother . 

He submitted the death certificate of his brother, his brother’s pictures and other documents”.

Thereafter, Magaji  identified the defendant’s statement, the handing-over note from the NCS , the arresting officer’s statement as well as the sum of £8020, and  $704 to the EFCC.

The prosecution counsel then sought to tender, in evidence, all the documents. 

Justice Bogoro admitted and marked them as exhibits P1-P11.

The Judge adjourned the case till May 2, 2025 for judgment and ordered that the defendant be remanded in a Correctional Centre.

Source: EFCC 

Refusal to Accept Naira As Legal Tender: Court Jails Man Four Years in Lagos

Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, convicted and sentenced one Uzondu Precious Chimaobi to four years imprisonment for his refusal to accept the Naira as a legal tender. 

Chimaobi was arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, on February 5, 2025 on a two-count charge bordering on refusal to accept the Naira as a legal tender. 

One of the counts reads: "That you, Precious Chimaobi Uzondu, on the 10th of December 2024, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, refused to accept Naira (Nigeria legal tender) by accepting the sum of $5700 ( Five Thousand Seven Hundred USD) as a means of payment for a purchase of a cartier diamond bracelet with serial number (12345678) and you, thereby , committed an offence contrary to Section 20 of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.”

He initially pleaded not guilty to the charge, leading to his full trial.

Subsequently, the prosecution presented its first witness, PW1, Owolabi Oyarekhua Jude, an operative of the EFCC.

Led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, H.U. Kofarnaisa, Jude told the court that “the Commission received intelligence on the activities of a jewelry company called Unlimited Jewellers Limited, “whose owner is one Uzondu Precious Chimaobi.

“The Company, which  deals in jewelry at Atlantic Mall, Chevron Drive, Lekki, Lagos intentionally tags and sells its products in Dollars as against the CBN Act, 2007 ,which stipulates Naira as the only legal tender in Nigeria.”

Continuing, he added that “ Subsequently, a covert operation was carried out , where an undercover operative of the Commission disguised as a customer to purchase a Diamond Nail bracelet that was tagged $6000 and bought it for $5700. 

“The company refused to receive Naira and demanded Dollars as a means of payment. The payment was made and receipt was issued in  Dollars . The owner of the company was arrested and taken to the Commission’s office.”

However, at the resumed sitting on April 14, 2025, the defendant opted to change his “not guilty” plea to “guilty.

Consequent upon his guilty plea, Kofarnaisa, prayed the court to rely on the evidence earlier given by the investigating officer, and admit the same in convicting the defendant. 

Kofarnaisa, thereafter, tendered the defendant’s statement and other evidence to further prove his guilt and they were admitted by the court. 

Justice Owoeye then adjourned till Tuesday, April 15, 2025 for ruling. 

Delivering judgment, they found the defendant guilty and gave him an option of fine of N50,000( Fifty Thousand Naira) on count one.

The Judge sentenced him to four years imprisonment, with an option of fine in the sum of N600,000 on count two. 

His Cartier Diamond wristwatch was ordered forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The convict bagged his imprisonment when he refused to accept Naira by accepting the sum of $5700 ( Five Thousand Seven Hundred USD) as a means of payment for a purchase of a cartier diamond bracelet.  He was charged to court and convicted.

Source: EFCC