Tag Archives: News

Business, News

Peter Obi Empowers Youths At Kaduna SMES HUB Programme

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The former Governor of Anambra State and the 2023 Presidential standard bearer for the Labour Party, ( LP) His Excellency, Peter Gregory Obi, has lifted five young Kaduna State entrepreneurs with various sums of money to expand their businesses.

The five individuals were among the participants who excelled at the Kaduna small and medium scale enterprises exhibition, tagged SMES HUB Programme organized by Hassan Adamu during the weekend at the ancient power house of the Northern Nigeria.

Obi who was invited as a special guest at the event aimed at showcasing the ingenuity of the youths and their determination to be entrepreneurial or business owners was represented by the National Coordinator of Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko.

The five recipients of Obi’s empowerment supports were a lady chef, Ummu Kurthum of the Qrusty’s Dishes & Pastries who emerged first position, Aminu Ahmed Nu’uman who is in culinary business with the business name, Sufac Food Industry took Second Position while the third position went to Joel Tirom Muah, equally a lady whose business name is Pherobies & perfumes.

The consolation prices went to Moses Ojo whose interest is footwear and goes with the business name MO Footwears & Appeals and Hajara Jafar Muhammad another female participant whose business name is Gimbiya Integrated Firm.

Obi who in his usual way would not want the price values disclosed appreciated the efforts of the participants in trying to stand on their own without waiting for government and urged them to remain determined in their strive to be self employed.

He equally praised the organizer of the f kaduna SMES HUB Programme for the initiative stressing that it was a good platform to get the best skills out of the youths and put them into positive engagements so that they can believe in themselves.

The youths who exemplified various business ideas and innovations were happy with the show of love, kind gesture and award of prices by Peter Obi through the Obidient Movement.

Education, News

Visa Crisis Between Nigeria and Ethiopia Imperils Pan-African Cooperation, AASU Urges Immediate Diplomatic Resolution

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The All-Africa Students’ Union (AASU) has issued a statement of grave concern regarding what it describes as a “wanton visa consular crisis” between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. The regional umbrella student body warned that the escalating tensions between these two influential African countries are inflicting serious harm on academic mobility, regional cooperation, and the broader goals of continental integration.

In a formal statement released by the Union, AASU condemned the recent developments in consular relations, particularly the mutual removal of both nations from each other’s eVisa eligibility list. According to the Union, there is now no known avenue for ordinary passport holders from either country to apply for visas, a situation that has led to significant delays, rejections, and confusion for travelers, especially within the academic community.

“These recent developments have resulted in stringent visa requirements, delays, and rejections, severely impacting regional integration, academic mobility, and cooperation between the two nations,” stated HE Osisiogu Osikenyi E., President of the All-Africa Students’ Union.

The Union expressed deep concern about how this consular standoff undermines critical frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. According to the statement, these frameworks are founded on the principles of economic integration, free movement, and pan-African collaboration — principles that are now being put in jeopardy by this growing visa impasse.

President of All-Africa Students' Union (AASU), HE Osisiogu Osikenyi

“The visa consular crisis undermines the principles of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which aim to promote economic integration, mobility, and cooperation among African countries,” the Union stated. It emphasized that the ability of students, researchers, and academics to travel, collaborate, and engage in joint intellectual endeavors is being severely hindered, threatening to stall the continent’s academic and developmental progress.

AASU’s statement further highlighted the damaging consequences this crisis is having on education and research partnerships. The Union noted that joint academic programs are being canceled or indefinitely postponed due to the prevailing visa uncertainties. Student exchange programs, a vital aspect of academic development and cultural exchange, have also been significantly disrupted. Researchers, too, are finding it increasingly difficult to collaborate, share knowledge, and innovate, as visa constraints continue to close doors that should be open.

“The restrictions imposed by both countries have resulted in cancelled academic programs, disrupted student exchanges, and limited research collaboration,” the Union emphasized. It expressed that such disruptions are not only a setback for the individuals affected but for the collective progress of African academia.

In light of the seriousness of the issue, the All-Africa Students’ Union issued an urgent appeal to the governments of Nigeria and Ethiopia to take immediate and decisive action. “The Presidency of the All-Africa Students’ Union urges the Governments of Nigeria and Ethiopia to ease visa requirements, simplify and streamline visa application processes to facilitate academic mobility and cooperation,” the statement declared.

The Union also called for increased diplomatic engagement aimed at resolving the crisis and repairing bilateral relations. “Engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis and strengthen bilateral relations,” AASU urged, adding that efforts should be geared toward promoting unity and shared progress rather than reinforcing division.

In a powerful concluding appeal, AASU called on key African leaders to intervene. “The AASU calls on HE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR of Nigeria, and HE Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali of Ethiopia; and other African leaders to swiftly summon their Foreign Missions in both countries to address the lingering impasse,” read the final section of the statement. The Union further urged the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, to take active steps to mediate and mobilize both governments in favor of resolving the crisis in the interest of regional integration and academic cooperation.

“We believe that by working together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous, and more integrated Africa,” President Osikenyi concluded, reinforcing the Union’s commitment to the vision of a connected and collaborative continent.

The All-Africa Students’ Union, which represents millions of students across the continent, is calling on all stakeholders — including the governments of Nigeria and Ethiopia, their diplomatic missions, and the African Union — to act without delay to reverse this troubling trajectory. As the crisis continues to affect students, researchers, and educators, the future of academic collaboration between two of Africa’s most influential nations hangs in the balance.

News, Politics

National Conference Drives Renewed Hope for Sustainable Development Across Nigeria’s LGAs

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In a landmark event redefining grassroots development, ALGON National President Hon. Engr. Bello Lawal, ably represented by Chief Odunayo Ategbero, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, ALGON, led representatives of all 774 Local Governments to the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The national conference, organized by ALGON in collaboration with Aspitah Global Resources Ltd, themed “Driving Sustainable Development Through LGAs,” highlighted the importance of strengthening rural governance capacity. Discussions focused on strategies for sustainable development, which are crucial for Nigeria’s growth.

In his address, the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, used the occasion to unveil several milestones achieved by the Ministry and highlighted the importance of building partnerships with the Association to develop the Sustainable Energy Access Project (SEAP), a key initiative of the Ministry. Chief Nnaji pointed out that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has provided tremendous opportunities for the development of Nigeria’s energy sector and called for maximum support.National Conference Drives Renewed Hope for Sustainable Development Across Nigeria’s LGAs

Other dignitaries presented various development initiatives that align with ALGON’s vision of capacitating sub-national governments. The speakers included Prof. Banji Oyeyinka, Senior Special Adviser to the President of African Development Bank (AfDB) Dr. Akinwunmi Adeshina Mr. Bryan Amonu, Data Analytics; Mr. Liu Song Zheng Brian, CEO of CKK Electric Power Engineering Company; Ms. Latifah Aspitah Isah, CEO of Aspitah Global Resources; General Timothy Olugboyega Olowomeye (rtd); Mr. Richardson Ojeka; Dr. Fasua Tope Kolade; Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission; and Mrs. Uju Rochas Anwukah, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health Nutrition, among many other top-level resource persons.

It is worth recalling that under Hon. Lawal’s leadership, ALGON has continued to demonstrate its capacity to address challenges facing Local Governments. The conference explored decentralization, collaboration with investors, and empowerment through Small Medium Enterprise Business, as well as agriculture, energy transition, and security. The gathering included several members of the Association, such as ALGON State Chairmen from Taraba, Hon. Jauro Hassan; Engr. Ikenna Adikibe from Imo; Hon. Shehu Jega, ALGON Technical Adviser; Hon. Samuel Akala, former Chairman of Karu LGA; Hon. Dr. Fasua Gbenga from Ondo; Hon. Samila Husani Moniki from Zamfara; Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi from Kwara.

Key focus areas of the conference included Security and Community Safety, Rural Community Empowerment through Value Chain Development, Climate Smart Agriculture, Renewable Energy, Industrial Transformation, and Localizing the Sustainable Development Goals. These initiatives align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

In his welcome address, Hon. Lawal thanked President Tinubu for hosting the conference, emphasizing its potential to benefit communities through engagement and mobilization. He noted the conference’s timeliness, given the Autonomy Judgment of July 11, 2024. Aspitah Global Resources Limited’s Ms. Latifah Isah thanked ALGON for making the event a national necessity. This conference marks a significant step towards strengthening rural governance and promoting sustainable development in Nigeria’s local governments.

The event featured paper presentations on local government departments, plenary sessions, question-and-answer segments. A communiqué is being awaited as soon as possible. Some ALGON Directors were present, including the Acting Director-General, Barr. Mrs. Evan Enekwe, who appreciated the attendees alongside Nuhu Ozigi, Director of Finance and Administration, as well as other top-level officers. The event concluded with excitement.

Law and Order, News

Nigeria’s Defence Ministry To Strengthen Military Cooperation With Israel

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Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda has reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s commitment to enhancing military cooperation with the State of Israel during a recent courtesy visit from Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Ship House, Abuja.

During their meeting, the two officials discussed strategies for bolstering defence cooperation, strengthening mutual security frameworks, and exploring opportunities for enhanced military training and capacity building within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Ambassador Aduda highlighted the critical need to deepen defence ties in  the light of evolving global security challenges. He emphasized the importance of strategic areas such as joint operations, knowledge exchange, and the modernization of defence cooperation. 

The discussions also included plans to finalize a new bilateral defence agreement aimed at fostering technical collaboration in defence industry development.

The Ministry of Defence is in the process of reforming the Defence Industry corporation so as to achieve effective regulation of the sector. 

Soon Nigeria will have the regulatory arm of DICON to regulate and license participation in the defence industry, as well as the commercial arm that will enter into partnerships and collaborations to assemble or manufacture arms and  ammunition, UAVs and armoured vehicles  alongside reputable  original Equipment6 manufacturers globally. 

 According to  Ambassador Aduda  “The Ministry will engage in strategic initiatives to replicate successful Israeli military cooperation frameworks in Nigeria, thereby enhancing our national defence architecture.” 

In response, Ambassador Michael Freeman expressed gratitude for the audience and underscored the significance of this partnership as a progressive step toward achieving innovative defence solutions. 

He extended a formal invitation to Ambassador Aduda  and his team to visit Israel, with the goal of further strengthening the ties between the two countries. 

Law and Order, News

Minister Badaru Highlights Tinubu’s Commitment to Elite Force Development for National Security, Welfare

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Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammad Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to providing modern military equipments , prioritizing welfare of personnel and trainings for operational effectiveness.

This statement was made during the Opening Ceremony of the First Batch of Special Operations Force Training and Equipping for the Armed Forces of Nigeria at Camp Kabala in Jaji, Kaduna State.

The Minister emphasized, “This milestone marks a new chapter in our commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence capabilities, enhancing our response to evolving security threats, and ensuring that our forces remain among the best-trained and most resilient in the world.”

He outlined the necessity for an elite force that is not only well-equipped but also proficient in advanced tactics, unconventional warfare, intelligence-driven operations, and rapid response missions.

He stated, “Our vision is to build a highly skilled, agile, and mission-ready force capable of executing specialized operations in diverse and complex environments.”

This Special Operations Force Training is a strategic initiative aimed at improving operational effectiveness in combating terrorism, insurgency, transnational crime, and other asymmetric threats facing our nation.

The Special Operations Force will serve as a critical pillar in securing national sovereignty, protecting citizens, and maintaining peace and stability both within and beyond our borders.

Furthermore, he said that the training program is meticulously designed to develop personnel in special combat tactics, counterterrorism operations, intelligence gathering, and hostage rescue missions.

“Trainees will be prepared for high-risk missions in urban and hostile environments, ensuring adaptability to dynamic threats. Given the inter-agency nature of modern security challenges, this training will promote seamless collaboration among personnel from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies,” he explained.

Recognizing that Special Operations require not only technical skills but also mental resilience, he emphasized that the training will rigorously test and refine the physical and psychological endurance of our troops. “Emphasis will be placed on leadership under pressure, fostering duty, discipline, and camaraderie among participants,” he stated.

According to the Minister: “Upon completion of this intensive training program, we anticipate a force capable of conducting high-impact operations with precision, speed, and efficiency. This will enhance our ability to neutralize threats and proactively respond to security challenges. The newly trained Special Operations Force will be deployed to critical areas nationwide, reinforcing our national security architecture,” he said.

Minister Badaru assured that this training is merely the beginning, as trainees will continue to hone their skills and adapt to new threats while upholding the highest military standards.

The inauguration marks the first batch of 800 trainees out of a planned total of 2,400, as part of a long-term strategy to develop world-class special operations capabilities within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The program will be sustained and expanded to include personnel from all branches of the Armed Forces. The President and Commander-in-Chief, as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, is committed to equipping our Special Operations Forces with modern weapons, surveillance systems, and intelligence tools to enhance operational effectiveness.

Furthermore, the Ministry will continue to collaborate with allied nations and international defence institutions to adopt best practices and improve interoperability in joint operations. Beyond this training, troops will have access to advanced specialized courses in counter-insurgency, cyber warfare, and strategic reconnaissance.

To the gallant trainees, Minister Badaru remarked, “This program will be one of the most challenging experiences of your career, but it will also be one of the most rewarding. Your dedication, resilience, and commitment to duty will define the future of Nigeria’s security landscape. I urge you to give your best, push beyond your limits, and embrace the honour of being part of this elite force.”

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda emphasized the critical role that Special Operations Forces play in modern military strategy, particularly in counterterrorism, asymmetric warfare, and high-risk operations. “Special Operations Forces are the backbone of modern military strategy, playing a critical role in counterterrorism, asymmetric warfare, and high-risk operations that demand precision, resilience, and exceptional tactical expertise,” he stated.

He reiterated that the training program is designed to equip troops with advanced skills necessary to address the complex and evolving security threats facing Nigeria.

He highlighted the importance of excellence, discipline, and adaptability in preparing forces to confront these challenges effectively.

He expressed gratitude to the esteemed instructors and training facilitators, acknowledging their dedication to shaping the next generation of elite warriors. “Your guidance will forge them into a formidable force capable of executing missions,” he stated.

Across West Africa, Law and Order, News

Towards Sustainable Peace: Minister Badaru Urges Collective Action on ECOWAS Security Needs

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The Nigerian Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has opened 43rd Ordinary Meeting of ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja with a call on member States to foster collaboration and solidarity in the face of emerging threats of terrorism, organized crimes, climate change and other forms of criminalities.

In his opening remarks, the Minister emphasized the urgent need for a unified approach to addressing the pressing security challenges facing the West African sub-region as well as highlighted the complexities of the current security landscape, noting that the rise of global populism and revisionist ideologies has heightened the vulnerability of the region. He asserted that economic growth and sustainable peace are intrinsically linked.

He urged member states to foster collaboration and solidarity in the face of emerging threats, including terrorism, organized crime, climate change, cyber-crime, and pandemics.

“The imperative for us in the sub-region is to strengthen our bond and collective resolve is greater now than ever,” Minister Badaru stated.

“We must recognize that we are collectively as strong as our weakest link. It is essential that we close ranks against these threats and refocus our strategy to deny terror and insecurity a breeding ground”, he added.

The Minister underscored the significance of the discussions planned for the meeting, which will focus on critical issues such as the ECOWAS Standby Force, Peace Support Operations, and Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea.

He expressed confidence that the deliberations would be characterized by collaboration, innovation, and a shared determination to craft sustainable strategies that address the security needs of the region.

Badaru also announced the activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force, a pivotal step in the collective fight against terrorism and insurgency, reinforcing the commitment of member states to ensure the safety and security of their citizens.

In rounding off, the Minister expressed profound gratitude to the Chiefs of Defence Staff for their unwavering dedication and professionalism in safeguarding the well-being of the people of West Africa.

He urged all participants to approach the discussions with purpose and unity, recognizing the potential of their collective efforts to shape a more secure and prosperous future for the sub-region.

Breaking News

 Sexual Harassment: CNPP, CSOs Demand Akpabio Steps Aside for Unbiased Investigation, Say Senate President Can’t Be Judge in Own Case

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Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) and civil society organisations (CSOs), under the auspices of the Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs), have addressed the ongoing feud between the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging Senator Akpabio to step aside for fair investigation of the sexual harassment allegation against him. 

While addressing the media in Abuja on behalf of the CNPP and the coalition, Hon. Nnaemeka Aleke, Public Relations Officer of the CNCSOs, highlighted the urgent need to safeguard the integrity of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Hon. Aleke emphasized the growing concerns regarding the Senate’s independence, particularly in light of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s endorsement of Senator Akpabio for the position of Senate President. “Many Nigerians perceive this endorsement as an endorsement of corruption and impunity,” the coalition stated. He further noted that the announcement of a recess package for Senators after the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly has led to a significant reduction in opposition voices within the Senate, raising alarms about the independence of the the lawmakers. 

The bodies also shed light on several unresolved allegations of corruption surrounding Senator Akpabio. Hon. Aleke cited calls for an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into Akpabio’s alleged diversion of N700 billion during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State. “An audit report has indicated financial infractions exceeding N1 trillion during his governorship,” the groups said. Additionally, allegations of misappropriation of over N200 billion in Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) funds during Akpabio’s ministerial role were highlighted.

This is even as the group noted that the conflict between Senator Akpabio and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has brought serious allegations of sexual harassment to the forefront as Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has formally submitted a petition detailing her experiences, which she publicly recounted during a television interview. 

Hon. Aleke pointed out that similar claims were made by Joy Nunieh, the former Acting Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in 2020 without conclusive investigation. 

In response to these developments, the CNPP and the CSOs have called for immediate action to address the situation. Their demands include the immediate recusal of Senator Godswill Akpabio from his position as President of the Senate while the allegations against him are investigated. “Senator Akpabio cannot be the Judge in his own case if justice must be seen to have been done,” they asserted. They also demanded that the Senate Committee investigating the allegations must operate with transparency and impartiality, and that the proceedings be broadcast live to ensure accountability and public trust. 

Furthermore, the CNPP and CNCSOs demanded that the Chairman of the committee, Senator Neda Imaseun, must also to recuse himself from the investigation due to his apparent bias against the petitioner as not to undermines the integrity of the investigative process.

Hon. Aleke concluded that the bodies were stressing the importance of upholding the principles of justice, accountability, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their status. “Nigeria’s reputation and the integrity of our Senate are at stake. We cannot afford to trivialize these serious allegations or allow them to go unaddressed,” he declared.

The political parties and the civil society coalition noted that their next line of action will be made known in the event that the outlined demands were not met. 

Law and Order, News

 Evolving Security Challenges: President Tinubu Directs Armed Forces, Security And Intelligence Agencies To Harmonize Operations

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Armed Forces, Security and Intelligent Agencies to harmonize their operations and adopt a whole of society approach in combating evolving Security challenges.

Mr. President underscored the critical importance of joint security operational effectiveness in tackling Nigeria’s emerging security challenges.

President Tinubu who was represented by the Honourable Minister of Defence H. E. Mohammed  Badaru Abubakar CON, mni gave the asserted this at the opening session of the Chief of Defence Staff Joint Task Force Commanders Conference held at Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

The President commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) for their unwavering dedication and sacrifice in safeguarding the nation. 

He noted that this year’s conference theme, “Enhancing Jointness across all Theatres of Operations,” aligns seamlessly with his administration’s strategic vision for a more secured Nigeria.

“This forum is expedient and timely especially at this time where the security landscape is dynamic and constantly evolving. Such a landscape undoubtedly requires us to harmonize our efforts and evolve proactive and innovative measures that can decisively address the security threats,“ he stated.

President Tinubu emphasized the necessity for enhanced collaboration among the military, police, intelligence agencies, and other security organizations to maximize operational efficiency. 

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and all security agencies, and further highlighted the importance of continuous strategy re-evaluation, the integration of emerging technologies, and strengthening inter-agency cooperation.

“I therefore urge you to holistically explore,in detail,the concept of jointness, while harnessing the power of emerging technologies and innovation. I further implore you to continue to work together to ensure multi-agency synergy on all fronts as this will enable the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain an agile, adaptable and lethal force performing at its highest potential,“ he emphasized.

President Tinubu also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, and all officers and personnel of the Armed Forces for organizing the conference. He reiterated his administration’s full support for Nigeria’s security forces.

President Tinubu wished the participants fruitful deliberations, expressing confidence that the outcomes of the conference will significantly contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s national security framework. 

Breaking News, Law and Order, News

BREAKING: GHL Floors First Bank As Court Sets Aside Assets Freezing Orders

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….Judge Says First Bank Suppressed Relevant Facts To Secure Order

In a landmark victory for General Hydrocarbons Limited,  the Federal High Court in Lagos has set aside an order of Mareva injunction freezing  the assets of the company and its directors.

The court, while upholding the arguments of GHL’s counsel, Abiodun Layonu, SAN held that  the injunction violated an existing order from a court of concurrent jurisdiction.In his ruling, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu, stated that when compared with an earlier order issued by Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa in Suit No. 1953, the Mareva Injunction should be set aside.

The court found that First Bank of Nigeria and FBNQUEST LTD, at whose instance the order was procured, failed to fully disclose Justice Lewis-Allagoa’s order, which made the Mareva Injunction incompatible with the earlier ruling.

The court consequently agreed with GHL that First Bank deliberately “suppressed facts” to mislead the court into granting the order against GHL.

The court in the circumstance, said it had no choice but to set aside the order freezing GHL accounts.

First Bank had approached the court via an ex-parte application against General Hydrocarbons Limited and 15 other entities even when there was a subsiting judgement.

Responding to the suit, GHL urged the court to  discharge the order freezing its assets and accounts on the grounds that  the court was misled in granting same.

The oil firm argued that the order was obtained through  fraudulent misrepresentation and concealment of material  facts.

GHL and other applicants accused First Bank of misleading the court to obtain orders against them.

They argued that had all the facts been presented before the trial judge, the order against them would not have been granted.

The trial judge upheld GHL’s arguments and consequently set aside the  freezing order. Meanwhile, GHL directors who were also negatively affected by the ex-parte freezing order have begun proceedings worldwide against First Bank, seeking $1bn each in damages for defamation and wrongful freezing of their accounts.

GHL is also bringing a case in the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee against First Bank lawyers, Babajide Koku SAN and Victor Ogude SAN for unprofessional conduct.

Breaking News, Politics

Leadership Claim: Edozie Njoku is an Impersonator – NRM Founding Chair Senator Dansadau

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The National Rescue Movement (NRM) has been plunged into crisis following claims by Edozie Njoku that he is the party’s National Chairman. However, the founding national chairman of the NRM, Senator Saidu Muhammed Dansadau, has raised an alarm over Njoku’s claim, describing it as impersonation.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Senator Dansadau stated that Njoku was never a member of the party and therefore could not have become the National Chairman. “The APGA-dismissed man was never a registered member of the NRM, and he can prove me wrong if he has done that,” Dansadau said.

According to Dansadau, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has, in a letter to the party, also confirmed that only the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) has the legitimate right to call for a party convention. This is in accordance with the provision of Article 8.1.2 (a-c) of the party constitution.

Njoku’s claim is not new, as he was previously removed as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) by the Supreme Court.

Senator Dansadau hailed recent efforts of the judiciary and security agencies in dealing with political cases, saying, “Firstly, kudos to the Nigerian judiciary for their recent judgments on political cases, and to the Nigerian security agencies for their efforts.”

“However, it’s imperative that both institutions deal decisively with ‘political traders’ who view political parties as mere business ventures. These individuals prioritize personal gain over the nation’s well-being, exacerbating Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges,” Dansadau added.

Senator Dansadau highlighted that the country’s underdevelopment stems from its politico-economic system, which emphasizes wealth accumulation and often enables individuals to cheat the system with impunity.

He then appealed to the National Assembly to urgently legislate laws that would help prosecute those who cause party leadership crises for selfish reasons. “Until we have such laws in place, someone like Edozie Njoku will continue to perpetrate crises in several political parties that he was never a member of,” Dansadau warned.

The NRM has scheduled its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting for February 8, where the date for the party’s National convention would likely be fixed.

Senator Dansadau has advised anyone interested in contesting for any vacant position in the party to purchase the party’s scratch card, register online, and be accepted as a member first. “We will not condescend to imposition, and anyone who wishes to lead the party must follow the due process,” Dansadau said.

He equally commended the judiciary and security agencies for their recent roles in dealing with political cases.