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Adeyanju Challenges Wike Over Land Grabbing, Accountability

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Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has called on FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to be accountable for his actions regarding the seizure of land and its transfer to friends.

During a press conference in Abuja on Friday, Adeyanju responded to Wike’s earlier remarks, where the minister downplayed Adeyanju’s aspirations within the PDP and criticized his activism.

Wike had claimed that Adeyanju, a Kogi State native, sought to become the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, which he denied.

In response, Adeyanju emphasised that his only “crime” was holding Wike accountable for his actions, particularly regarding recent house demolitions and land seizures affecting vulnerable communities.

Adeyanju asserted that Wike’s disdain for constructive criticism reflects a broader issue of governance marked by poor policy decisions and land grabbing practices that disproportionately affect the less privileged.

He pointed out that the minister admitted to transferring seized land to friends, questioning why public resources should benefit a select few.

Addressing Wike’s claims about his political ambitions, Adeyanju clarified that he had indeed sought support from various party leaders, including Wike, but firmly stated that he had stepped back from politics eight years ago.

He emphasised that his activism is rooted in a commitment to social justice and defending the rights of those affected by Wike’s policies.

He expressed disappointment that Wike mischaracterized his attempts to engage with party leaders as “begging.”

Adeyanju pointed out that he had consistently consulted with PDP stakeholders across the country and had garnered support from prominent figures, including David Mark, during his political journey.

Adeyanju accused Wike of turning against him after he opposed the minister’s controversial decisions, calling Wike’s actions “selfish” and driven by personal interests.

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He stressed that his interest in the PDP National Publicity Secretary position was legitimate, as it had been zoned to his region.

In a pointed critique of Wike’s governance, Adeyanju claimed that the minister has failed to establish a second address outside of his political career, which he characterized as a facade for looting public resources.

He highlighted the ongoing land grabs occurring under Wike’s leadership, including the appropriation of parks for private development, urging the public to voice their concerns.

Adeyanju further likened Wike’s betrayal of allies to the actions of a well-known musician, Portable, noting that unlike Portable, who remains loyal to his supporters, Wike has consistently abandoned those who helped him rise to power.

He cited Wike’s history of turning against former allies, including notable political figures, and warned that Wike’s dealings are never secure.

Adeyanju alleged that Wike played a role in the controversial raids on judges’ homes during President Buhari’s administration, highlighting a pattern of intimidation and control over the judiciary.

He vowed that Wike would ultimately be held accountable for his actions, particularly concerning land seizures and the impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.

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Alleged N1.3bn Fraud: EFCC Arraigns P-Square’s Ex-Manager

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February 26, 2025

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Jude Okoye, the elder brother and former manager of Paul and Peter Okoye of the defunct music group, P-Square, on charges of laundering ₦1.38billion, $ 1 million and £34,537.59.

Jude was arraigned alongside his company, Northside Music Ltd, before Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court, Lagos, on a seven-count charge

One of the counts read: “That you, Jude Okoye Chigozie and Northside Music Ltd sometime in 2022, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did directly acquire a landed property known as No 5, Tony Eromosele Street Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos worth ₦850,000,000.00 (Eight hundred and fifty million naira) only, which money you knew or reasonably ought to have known forms part of proceeds of unlawful act and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (2) (d) and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.”

Another count read: “That you, Jude Okoye Chigozie and Northside Music Ltd sometime in 2022, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did indirectly using bureau de change convert the sum of $1,019,762.87 (One million nineteen thousand, seven hundred and six-two dollars eighty-seven cents), domiciled in Access Bank Plc operated by Northside Music Lid to the naira equivalent and remitted into various bank accounts with the intention of concealing that the said fund form part of the proceeds of an unlawful act and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (2)(a) and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.”

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He pleaded “not guilty” to the charges.

In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Larry Peters Aso, applied for a date for hearing as well as for the remand of the defendant in the correctional facility pending trial.

The defendant’s counsel, Inibehe Effiong, informed the court of a pending bail application. He asked for a short date for the hearing. Effiong also asked that the defendant be remanded in the EFCC’s custody pending the hearing of the application.

Aso objected to the request for the defendant to be remanded in the EFCC custody. He argued that the EFCC custody was already congested with suspects awaiting arraignment. He urged the court to remand the defendant to the correctional facility since he had taken his plea.

Justice Owoeye adjourned the matter till February 28 for bail hearing and April 14 for trial.

He also ordered that the defendant be remanded in the Ikoyi correctional facility.

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Hajiya Sa’adatu Sani Musa Honored With Yoruba Traditional Title of “Yeye Of Yorubas”

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February 26, 2025

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The wife of Niger East Senator, Hajiya Sa’adatu Sani Musa 313, has been conferred with the prestigious title of “Yeye of Yorubas”, meaning “Lover of the Yorubas”, in recognition of her outstanding generosity and unwavering support for Yoruba cultural activities in Niger State.

The honorary title was bestowed upon her by the Kabeyesi of Niger State,(Sarkin Yarbawa of Minna )Alhaji Abdulrazak Abdulkarim (Iyayi), in appreciation of her continuous contributions to the Yoruba community within the state. The Yoruba Forum, a prominent socio-cultural group, formally presented the title to Hajiya Sa’adatu at her Abuja residence on Wednesday.

During the ceremony, members of the Yoruba Forum lauded her commitment to fostering unity and cultural inclusivity. They assured her of their unwavering support in promoting good governance and leadership, not only for the people of Niger East but for the state as a whole.

Speaking at the event, Senator Sani Musa 313, alongside his wife, expressed gratitude for the recognition, reaffirming their dedication to the Yoruba community and other ethnic groups in Niger State. The senator highlighted the importance of unity among Nigeria’s diverse cultures and pledged to continue supporting initiatives that promote harmony and development.

The conferment of the “Yaye of Yorubas” title underscores Hajiya Sa’adatu’s significant role in bridging cultural divides and fostering peaceful coexistence among different ethnic groups in the state. It also reflects the growing appreciation of individuals who contribute to the welfare and unity of Nigeria’s diverse communities.

The event was attended by notable dignitaries, traditional leaders, and members of the Yoruba community, further solidifying the bond between the Yoruba people and the leadership of Senator Sani Musa.

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Africa holds key to unlocking 120 billion barrels of oil – OPEC Chief

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February 26, 2025

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The Secretary-General of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Mr Haitham Al-Ghais, has tasked Africa to unlock its proven oil reserves of over 120 billion barrels.

Mr Haitham Al-Ghais, OPEC Secretary-General, made this known while delivering a keynote address titled “Driving Cross-Continental Investments: Scaling Africa’s Energy Frontier”, at the ongoing Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2025 in Abuja, Nigeria.

The eight edition of the energy summit, which opened on Monday and ends on Thursday, has ‘’Bridging continents: Connecting investors with Africa’s Energy Potential’’ as theme.

He also said that Africa with around 18 trillion standard cubic metres of natural gas, was a testament to the continent’s crucial role in the global energy landscape.

“The world will need more of this oil in the future. Therefore, it is critical that the African oil and gas industry attracts the level of investment necessary to unlock this great potential”, Al-Ghais added.

He said that the vast resources at Africa’s disposal should not be disregarded or neglected merely to accommodate the energy transition agenda pushed by Western nations.

The secretary-general expressed appreciation to the leadership and people of Nigeria for their hospitality and thanked the summit organisers for their efforts in organising this year’s edition.

According to him, OPEC’s market research and forecasting points to the importance of Africa.

“Additionally, we know from Nigeria’s countless contributions to OPEC’s successes, how rewarding it is to work in this great nation. We encourage all potential investors to look at Nigeria’s oil and gas industry,”.

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Al-Ghais highlighted the strong and enduring relationship between OPEC and Africa, noting that half of OPEC’s member countries are from the continent, including Nigeria, the most populous African nation, and Algeria, the largest in geographical size.

Other African OPEC members include Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Libya.

He also lauded Africa’s youthful and dynamic population, which presents a strong workforce for the oil sector.

“It’s crucial to discuss how we can unlock the potential that this great continent holds, and how to create an investment-enabling environment that attracts the capital necessary to fully realize that potential,” he said.

“The investment needs of the oil industry are substantial, with cumulative requirements amounting to 17.4 trillion dollars by 2050.

“This is why stability in the oil market is essential for investors to plan effectively,” he added.
He highlighted OPEC’s views on some important topics relevant to both the global industry and Africa, including future of global oil demand, energy investment and finance, as well as the ever-evolving issue of climate change and energy transitions.(NAN)

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