Month: November 2024

By Uzair Adam

Operatives of the Special Investigations Team (SIT) attached to the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) Annex in Lagos State have apprehended one Chinedu Ngwaka, accused of orchestrating a fraudulent scheme valued at ₦320 million.

Ngwaka, who presented himself as a licensed Bureau De Change operator, allegedly used a counterfeit presidency number plate on his 2024 Toyota Hilux and carried a forged identity card supposedly issued by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.

This was disclosed on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the FCID Annex in Lagos, Mayegun Aminat, through a post on her X handle, #mayegunAmina.

According to the statement, a petition was submitted on September 9, 2024, to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, FCID Annex, by Chinedu Laz and Partners (Deo Gratia Chambers) on behalf of Mr. Tochukwu Unachukwu, the Managing Director of Casco Electronics Company Limited.

The petition accused Ngwaka and his wife, Janet Onyekachi Ngwaka, of defrauding Unachukwu of ₦320 million.

Following the petition, SIT detectives initiated an intelligence-led investigation.

Banking records were reviewed, and a warrant of arrest was secured, which later led to the detention of leading to Ngwaka.

Investigations revealed that between March and May 2024, Unachukwu transferred ₦320 million to Ngwaka’s companies, Edunaco Multiple Resources Limited and Bright Janes World, for the procurement of USD 200,000 to facilitate the supply of goods from China.

However, the Chinese suppliers confirmed they never received the funds, despite Ngwaka presenting fraudulent documents, including a telex confirmation from Zenith Bank, indicating the transactions were completed in two tranches of USD 100,000 each.

During the arrest, police recovered the black Toyota Hilux bearing a fake presidency number plate (02B679FG).

Further checks with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) revealed that Ngwaka had no affiliation with Phobia BDC Ltd., the company he claimed to represent, and that its license had been revoked earlier in the year.

The police also received additional petitions against Ngwaka, including claims from Mr. Moses Chizoba Enechukwu and Chinedu Nwaforcha, who alleged losses of ₦1 billion and ₦840 million, respectively.

Ngwaka and his accomplices will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation.

Meanwhile, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, FCID Annex, has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any fraudulent activities to law enforcement agencies.

By Anwar Usman 

The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Wale Adeniyi, has handed over 21 exotic cars worth over N8.1 billion to the Canadian government. 

The exotic vehicles include Rolls Royce, Labomgini Horicane, Mercedes-AMG and Range Rover. 

The comptroller explained that members of the syndicate stole vehicles from foreign countries and subsequently imported them into Nigeria using forged documents, adding that with the aid of the recently established Operations Hot Wheel, officers had recovered about 21 exotic cars from the criminal gang. 

Operation Hot Wheel comprises officers from the Nigeria Customs Service, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Canadian government. 

Adeniyi revealed that all 21 vehicles were recovered with the aid of the Canadian government as well as the EFCC.Speaking at the official handing over of the stolen vehicles, the CGC stated the Nigeria Customs Service had doubled its operations against vehicle trafficking syndicates operating within the country’s borders. 

The CGC added that, “according to INTERPOL reports, West Africa has emerged as a renown destination hub in the global stolen vehicle trade network, which extends from Europe and North America to as far as South America and Australia.

This challenge is particularly acute in Nigeria”. Adeniyi also highlighted that available data according to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveals that between 2013-2015, only 54 per cent of stolen vehicles were recovered, noting that it shows the scale and sophistication of this criminal enterprise. 

“Recent intelligence from international law enforcement agencies further confirms that our region has become a preferred destination for internationally stolen vehicles, a trend that not only denigrate Nigeria’s international world view but also impacts our economy through substantial revenue losses and increased security spending” Adeniyi stated. 

“In order to combat these challenges, the Nigeria Customs Service came up with Operation Hot Wheels, a targeted enforcement initiative aimed at disrupting the flow of stolen vehicles into Nigeria through our ports and borders. Launched as a collaborative effort between the Nigeria Customs Service, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Canadian authorities, the operation focused on intelligence sharing, coordinated surveillance, and strategic interdiction. 

“The operation’s primary objectives included identifying and intercepting stolen vehicles, dismantling trafficking networks, and strengthening international cooperation in tackling transnational vehicle theft. This multi agency approach was designed to leverage the unique capabilities and jurisdictional advantages of each participating organization,” Adenyi stated. 

According to him, criminals are now using various tactics, including false declarations and the use of containerised shipments, attempting to circumvent customs detection systems. 

He said the operation exposed how stolen vehicles were being smuggled through the nation’s ports using legitimate cargo as cover.

By Talent Bassey Akpan

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the world today. Nigeria is particularly vulnerable to its effects due to its diverse ecosystems, economic reliance on agriculture, and significant population density. The changes in climate patterns have profound implications for Nigeria’s environment, economy, and public health, making it crucial for the country to understand and address these challenges effectively.

In Nigeria, climate change has led to erratic weather patterns, manifesting in extreme floods and prolonged droughts. Since the late 20th century, rainfall patterns across the country have become increasingly unpredictable. For instance, while some regions experience heavy rains resulting in severe flooding, others suffer from acute water shortages and drought, particularly in the north.

The fluctuations impact agricultural output, as farmers rely on predictable rainy seasons for planting and harvesting. Consequently, food security becomes compromised, increasing food prices and poverty levels.

Agriculture is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to the GDP. However, climate change severely threatens agriculture, disrupting the growing conditions essential for crops and livestock. Changes in rainfall patterns can lead to crop failures while rising temperatures can reduce yields for staple crops like maize, cassava, and rice.

The situation is exacerbated by the fact that many Nigerian farmers employ traditional farming methods, leaving them ill-equipped to adapt to these rapid changes. As agricultural productivity declines, rural communities are further marginalized, leading to increased migration towards urban centres and creating additional strain on city resources.

The health implications of climate change in Nigeria are also far-reaching. Heatwaves, rising temperatures, and poor air quality can contribute to an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, changing weather patterns can spread vector-borne diseases, such as malaria and dengue fever, as the habitats for mosquitoes and other carriers expand.

Food insecurity and malnutrition resulting from agricultural decline may also lead to increased susceptibility to diseases and weakened immune systems, particularly among children and vulnerable populations.

In conclusion, the effects of climate change in Nigeria require a multifaceted approach, combining immediate action with long-term strategies. Efforts must include investment in climate-resilient agriculture, enhancement of water management practices, and promotion of sustainable land use. Furthermore, community awareness and education should be prioritized to prepare residents for potential climate impacts.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges posed by climate change, concerted efforts from the government, civil society, and international partners are essential to safeguard the future and ensure a sustainable environment for future generations. It is imperative for all stakeholders, including the citizens, to engage actively in combating this pressing global issue.

Talent Bassey Akpan wrote from Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano.

By Uzair Adam

At the Federal High Court in Abuja, the trial of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, took a new turn as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented evidence that N20 million earmarked for the Mambilla Hydro Power project was allegedly spent on personal accommodation.

The Daily Reality gathered that during Wednesday’s proceedings, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, retired Colonel Adebisi Adesanya, the third prosecution witness, revealed that Mamman used project funds to cover a year-long stay at Sami Court Resort Limited, a serviced apartment in Abuja.

Led in evidence by EFCC counsel A.O. Mohammed, Adesanya, who is also the resort’s Chief Security Officer and owner, testified that Mamman’s payments were made in installments deposited into the resort’s UBA account.

He identified “Exhibit PWC” as the invoice issued to Mamman after his N20 million payment, covering accommodation from August 30, 2021, to August 30, 2022, explaining that on September 6, 2021, N5 million was deposited by Golden Bond Nigeria Limited, followed by another N5 million from Mintedge Nigeria Limited on January 23, 2022. On March 9, 2022, Abdullahi Suleiman deposited N2.5 million, while the final installment of N7.5 million was made on May 10, 2022, by A.I.J Global Tools Limited.

According to Adesanya, the funds were used exclusively for a one-bedroom unit at the resort. Justice Omotosho adjourned the case to January 13, 2025, for further proceedings.

The EFCC is prosecuting Mamman on a 12-count charge of conspiracy and money laundering amounting to N33.8 billion.

By Uzair Adam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Yahaya Bello, the immediate past governor of Kogi State, before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Maitama over an alleged N110 billion fraud.

Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, was arraigned alongside two former state officials, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, who are the second and third defendants in the case.

After they pleaded not guilty to the charges, Justice Maryann Anenih ordered the trio to be remanded in EFCC custody and set December 10 to rule on their bail applications.

The EFCC, represented by a team of lawyers led by Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, opposed their bail, citing Bello’s repeated failure to appear in a separate trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Joseph Daudu, SAN, leading Bello’s legal defense, argued that his client is presumed innocent under the law and requested bail to prepare a proper defense.

He also noted that Bello appeared in court in compliance with a summons served on him late on November 26. Pinheiro countered, arguing that the bail application was premature since it was filed before the defendants were formally arraigned, rendering it “incompetent.”

The EFCC’s charges, marked CR/7781, include conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully obtained property.

The Commission alleged that Bello misused state funds to acquire properties across Abuja, including: No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama (N950 million), no. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II (N100 million) and no. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro (N920 million).

Additional properties listed include locations in Wuse Zone 4 and a luxury apartment in Dubai. The EFCC also accused the defendants of transferring over $1.1 million to TD Bank in the United States and of possessing N677.8 million linked to Bespoque Business Solution Limited.

Meanwhile, Murtala Ajaka, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate in the last Kogi governorship election, expressed his willingness to provide evidence to the EFCC.

He applauded the agency’s actions and called for a comprehensive investigation into state finances during Bello’s tenure, from January 2016 to January 2024, to ensure justice and accountability.

By Lawal Dahiru Mamman 

Africa boasts an abundance of resources, with its vast landscapes from north to south and east to west teeming with diverse natural and mineral riches. These treasures have the potential to revolutionise the lives of its citizens. The continent’s human capital is equally impressive, harbouring 18.3%—approximately 1.5 billion—of the global population, making it the world’s second-most populous continent.

In truth, these natural resources gifted to Africa have not been fully harnessed for the benefit of its people. In some cases, resources in regions have ignited conflicts and even war, leaving people in bemoanable poverty and deprived of basic necessities like food and water, which are essential for human survival. This is in sharp contrast to the supposed envious rapid developments cities should be undergoing for urban and economic renaissance.

Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, an enthusiastic advocate for the continent’s unity and independence, captured this problematic state of African nations when he said, “Africa is a paradox,” not without rhyme or reason but because “Her (Africa) earth is rich, yet the products that come from above and below the soil continue to enrich, not Africans predominantly.” 

Considering this age-long reality, leaders have repeatedly converged, deliberated, and mapped out strategies for development. Among many of these, Africa Agenda 2063 – a deliberate framework for socioeconomic transformation adopted by the African Union (AU) in 2015—and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)—an economic agreement aimed at creating a single unified market for Africa—remain the most talked about in the present. 

Little progress has been made with these well-thought-out agreements for nearly a decade. Recently, the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN) announced its intention to host a ‘Pan-African Legacy Conference’ in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. 

The conference will commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Mandela Washington Fellowship, a brainchild of former United States President Barack Obama to enhance U.S.–Africa relations, particularly among young people. Since its inception, the fellowship has sent over 7,200 young Africans to the U.S. for six weeks of professional development and cultural exchange. 

Themed “Shaping Africa’s Future through the AfCFTA and Agenda 2063” aims to chart a path for the next 10 years, focusing on economic development in Africa. It will bring young people closer to decision-makers to bridge the gap between the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and youth entrepreneurs. It will also ensure access to trade opportunities across Africa and unite the government, nonprofit sector, and business leaders to create a comprehensive framework for sustainable development.

A ruckus has been raised in the fullness of time for youth to participate actively in governance for Africa’s development. This conference is a deliberate attempt by young people to engage policymakers and industry experts in solving our age-old predicament: failing to cater to our rapidly growing population.

Could this gathering sew the Gordian knot, freeing Africa from the shackles of stagnation and retrogression and guiding her towards prosperity? Tempus Omnia Revelat—the future holds the answer. 

As Kwame Nkuruma astutely observed, “It is clear that we must find an African solution to our problems and that this can only be found in African unity. Divided, we are weak; united, Africa could become one of the greatest forces for good in the world.”

If the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Pan-African Legacy Conference will be a point of unity that proffers solutions and moves us towards economic liberation, so be it.

Lawal Dahiru Mamman writes from Abuja and can be reached via dahirulawal90@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Boko Haram terrorists have, in the early hours of November 25, 2024, launched a surprise attack on troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion under Operation HADIN KAI in Kukawa Town, Borno State.

The attackers, mounted on gun trucks and motorcycles, attempted to breach the camp using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) from the Gudumbali axis. 

However, the gallant troops responded with overwhelming firepower, supported by the Air Component and the Nigerian Army’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Command.

This resolute defense forced the terrorists into a disorganized retreat, leaving behind heavy casualties. During the confrontation, 12 terrorists were neutralized, while many others fled with gunshot wounds.

The troops also recovered several items, including five AK-47 rifles, one RPG bomb, one RPG tube, two Anti-Aircraft guns, one QJC gun, one NSV heavy machine gun, 40 motorcycles, and 152 rounds of Shilka ammunition.

Additionally, four out of seven VBIEDs deployed by the terrorists were destroyed. Unfortunately, three brave soldiers lost their lives during the attack.

The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen OO Oluyede, commended the troops for their courage and urged them to sustain their momentum with ongoing clearance operations and fighting patrols.

Operation HADIN KAI remains committed to eliminating the remnants of terrorism in the Northeast.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

The 60,000 barrel-per-day Port Harcourt refinery has officially resumed operations after years of inactivity. This marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to revitalise its oil and gas sector. As one of the country’s oldest refineries, with a history spanning 59 years, the Port Harcourt facility is now expected to load at least 200 trucks of petroleum products daily, easing supply constraints, reducing dependence on imported fuels, and introducing a new price regime to compete with the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote refinery. 

Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries have long been entangled in corruption, mismanagement, and relentless pipeline attacks by organised oil thieves. These issues have not only crippled their operational capacity but also forced the country to rely heavily on imported petroleum products, despite its status as a major oil producer.

As the old Port Harcourt refinery has resumed processing crude, with Warri and Kaduna expected to follow soon, an important question arises: Should Nigeria continue with the traditional model of absolute state control and management of its refineries? This outdated approach has proven ineffective, plagued by inefficiencies, corruption, and underperformance.

This presents both a challenge and an opportunity for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to revamp Nigeria’s refinery management system and introduce reforms to ensure long-term production and efficiency.

When all four state refineries are fully revived and operational, as anticipated, President Tinubu’s government has three viable options for reforming the management of Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries. One approach could involve retaining ownership of one refinery while granting it full autonomy to manage its operations independently, cover its expenses, and remit dividends to the government.

Another option is to lease one of the refineries to an oil company or a group of investors interested in petroleum product refining, ensuring it operates efficiently under private-sector expertise. Lastly, the government could fully privatise one refinery, distributing shares among the federal government, host communities, and Nigeria’s 36 states. This inclusive approach would address diverse stakeholder interests while ensuring effective management.

However, discussions about Nigeria’s refineries are incomplete without addressing the critical issue of managing the country’s extensive 5,120-kilometre oil pipeline network and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC Ltd.). While the engagement of local communities by NNPC Ltd. has started yielding positive results, significant challenges persist.

The most pressing issues include frequent illegal tapping by oil thieves, sabotage, encroachments on pipeline rights-of-way, delays in detecting leaks, and equipment failures caused by the inaccessibility of certain locations. Compounding these problems is the reliance on outdated methods of pipeline management, which hinder the system’s efficiency and responsiveness.

To address these challenges, adopting advanced technologies is essential. Systems like SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), Fibre Optic Cable (FOC) networks, and tools such as “go-devils,” scrapers, or smart pigs can revolutionise pipeline management. These technologies provide real-time monitoring and early warning systems, enabling swift responses to potential threats or damages, even in remote and inaccessible areas. By integrating these solutions, Nigeria can significantly enhance the security and functionality of its pipeline network, ensuring a more reliable and efficient oil and gas sector.

The revival of the Port Harcourt old refinery and the anticipated return to operation of the Warri and Kaduna refineries are commendable achievements. However, the Tinubu administration must critically evaluate and adopt a new, feasible, profitable, and masses-friendly approach to managing these refineries.

The traditional model of state absolute control has consistently failed, resulting in inefficiencies, corruption, and financial losses. It is time for a transformative strategy that ensures the refineries operate sustainably while delivering maximum benefits to the Nigerian people.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja, zaymohd@yahoo.com.

By Anwar Usman

The Chairman of the Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association, Kano State Council, Yahya Ibrahim, on Wednesday, lamented over the negative impact of the fuel subsidy removal on the livelihoods of the association’s members.

Ibrahim, noted this during a courtesy visit to the Chairman, Rano Local Government Area, he explains that the severe poverty being faced by mechanics was as a result of the puel subsidy removal.

The Zonal Information officer, Rabiu Kura, in a press statementsaid “40 per cent of mechanics in Kano are out of business due to the fuel subsidy removal, a situation that rapidly led to the decline of patronage of motorists.”

He explained that low patronage from motorists, who are struggling with the ongoing economic challenges, has led to a significant decline in business.

He called on the Kano State Government to intervene and provide support to help mechanics stay afloat.

The visit coincides with preparations for the NATA’s upcoming local government council election.

Earlier, the association’s Secretary, Sani Umar, praised Governor Abba Yusuf for his readiness to establishing a mechanical village in Kano.

In his remarks, the council Chairman, Muhammad Yau, thanked them for the visit and prayed for a successful election.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Kano state Governor, Abba Yusuf, has accused his predecessor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, of promoting corruption and nepotism in the management of urban planning and land allocations during his tenure.

Governor Yusuf vowed to expose and correct the mistakes made by Ganduje, who is currently the National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Comrade Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Governor Yusuf criticized Ganduje’s administration for alleged corruption, mismanagement, and urban planning failures.

He vowed to restore order through reforms, emphasizing accountability, innovation, and sustainable development.

Governor Yusuf also launched the recertification of Certificate-of-Occupancy (C-of-O) for efficient and transparent land management system in the sate.

Governor Yusuf described the development as a milestone for creating an efficient and transparent land management system.

He flagged off a comprehensive recertification of Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) to ensure accurate, secure land records, protect investments, and resolve disputes, urging landowners to comply promptly.

According to the Statement, central to the reforms is a state-of-the-art Geographic Information System (GIS) to modernize land management, improve urban planning, enhance taxation, and eliminate revenue leakages.

Measures also include banning inappropriate land allocations and setting up a State Task Force on Development Control to address urban development challenges and protect Kano’s cultural heritage.

Governor Yusuf highlighted the complete renovation of KANGIS and the Ministry’s facilities, now equipped with modern ICT infrastructure to enhance service delivery, reflecting the administration’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and development.