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Alleged forgery: EFCC re-arraigns former Bank PHB MD, 2 others

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday re-arraigned the former Managing Director of the defunct Bank PHB (now Keystone Bank), Francis Atuche, for alleged forgery.

Atuche was re-arraigned alongside two others, Joachim Nnosiri and Uguru Onyike.

They are standing trial before an Ikeja Special Offences Court. on a nine-count charge bordering on using false documents, conspiracy and forgery.

The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

EFCC had told the court that the defendants committed the offences on March 4, 2013 in Lagos.

According to the commission, Atuche contacted Nnosiri, an office assistant with the bank, to deliver some forged documents to the bank’s corporate headquarters in Lagos for onward presentation in court as exhibits.

EFCC said that Atuche was standing trial before Justice Lateefa Okunnu of the Ikeja High Court, when he presented the alleged forged documents.

The anti-graft agency alleged that the forged documents were board resolutions of Future View Securities Ltd, Extra Oil Ltd and Trajek Nigeria Ltd.

According to the commission, the documents has been missing in the bank since October 2009.

The prosecution said offences violated Sections 364, 363 and Section 409 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011.

After the defendants were re-arraigned, counsel to EFCC, Mr Fanen Anum, told the court that the case would start de novo.

He, therefore, asked for a trial date.

Counsel to all the defendant, Mr Anthony Ejere, and Mr Clement Onwuenwunor (SAN), urged the court to allow their clients enjoy the earlier bail granted to them by the court.

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Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe granted their prayers.

The judge adjourned the case until May 6, 2025 for commencement of trial.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the defendants were standing trial before Justice Habeeb Abiru before the judge was elevated to the Appeal Court.

The case was re-assigned to Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo who went on retirement.

The case was finally re-assigned to Justice Abike-Fadipe of the Ikeja Special Offences Court. (NAN)

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Governor Uba Sani Extends Warm Ramadan Greetings, Calls for Unity and Reflection in Kaduna State

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As the holy month of Ramadan 1446 AH begins, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Muslim faithful in Kaduna State, Nigeria, and across the globe.

In his Ramadan message, Governor Sani emphasized the importance of reflection, empathy, and solidarity during this sacred period.

Governor Sani urged Muslims to embrace the noble values of Ramadan, including generosity, brotherhood, and cooperation. He called on citizens to share food, love, time, and respect with the less privileged in society, reinforcing the spirit of compassion that defines the holy month.

“This is the time to renew our relationship with Almighty Allah and seek His mercy for our state and country,” Governor Sani stated. He also encouraged citizens to pray fervently for the sustenance of peace and unity in Kaduna State, highlighting the strength of the state’s diversity.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to consolidating peace, revitalizing the economy, and ensuring sustainable growth and development in Kaduna State. “As a government, we shall continue to do all that is necessary to place Kaduna State irreversibly on the path to progress,” he said.

Governor Sani concluded his message with a prayer for the spirit of Ramadan to illuminate the hearts and souls of all citizens. “May this holy month bring blessings, peace, and prosperity to our state and nation. Ramadan Mubarak,” he added.

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Northern Christian Leader Urges Action On Insecurity As Ramadan Begins

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As Muslims across Nigeria commence the holy month of Ramadan, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Reverend Joseph Hayab, has called on the government to tackle insecurity, hunger, and economic hardship in the country.

In a goodwill message to the Muslim community on Saturday, Reverend Hayab emphasised the importance of Ramadan as a period of reflection, devotion, and unity.

He urged both leaders and citizens to use the fasting season to promote national cohesion through interfaith dialogue and mutual support.

“This special time is not only an opportunity for reflection and devotion but also a chance to strengthen the bonds of community and friendship,” he said.

“May your fasts be accepted, your prayers answered, and your hearts be filled with appreciation for the blessings in your lives.”

He also extended his best wishes to Muslims and their families, expressing hope that the period would bring peace, joy, and spiritual growth.

“In this blessed month, may you find tranquillity in your worship and kindness in your deeds. Let us embrace the spirit of giving and compassion, supporting one another as we journey through this sacred time,” he said.

Reverend Hayab reiterated his appeal to the government, stressing the urgent need to address the security and economic challenges facing Nigerians.

“We are appealing to the government to bring an end to insecurity, hunger, and hardship in the country,” he stated.

He further prayed for divine blessings upon the nation’s citizens and leaders, urging all Nigerians to use the Ramadan period to seek solutions to the country’s challenges through unity and honest dialogue.

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Natasha’s alleged sexual harassment against Akpabio is grave and must be investigated – Atiku

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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for a thorough investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and mistreatment leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Atiku in a post on his X handle on Friday, emphasized that the allegations are grave and deserve a credible, transparent, and independent investigation, noting that the Nigerian Senate represents the voice of the people and its leadership must uphold the highest standards of integrity, dignity, and respect.

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar

He said: “Like millions of Nigerians, I watched with deep concern this morning as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan raised serious allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and mistreatment against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

“These allegations are grave and deserve a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation.

“The Nigerian Senate represents the voice of the people. Those who serve in it — especially its leadership — must uphold the highest standards of integrity, dignity, and respect, both for their office and for the Nigerian citizens they serve.

“As the third most powerful figure in the country, the Senate President should embody unimpeachable character.

“Sexual harassment in the workplace is a significant barrier to women’s advancement and, by extension, the nation’s progress. Allegations of such misconduct should never be simply dismissed, particularly when they involve a public officer with immense power, influence, and responsibility.

“As the chief presiding officer of the Upper Chamber, the Senate President has a duty to champion the protection and empowerment of Nigerian women through legislation — not to be the subject of allegations that undermine those very principles.

“The handling of this matter will send a strong message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the inclusion of women in governance”.

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Atiku, therefore, urged President Bola Tinubu and the Senate to take the allegations seriously, ensuring that the investigation is impartial and transparent.

He stressed that the handling of this matter will send a strong message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the inclusion of women in governance.

With only four women currently serving in the Senate, Atiku believed it is imperative to foster an environment where female legislators can serve without fear of harassment or intimidation.

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