EFCC uncovers N37bn fraud in humanitarian ministry, indicts Buhari’s minister, contractor.

EFCC uncovers N37bn fraud in humanitarian ministry, indicts Buhari’s minister, contractor.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has uncovered a total sum of N37,170,855,753.44 allegedly laundered in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs under former minister Sadiya Umar-Farouk.

Details of the ongoing probe exclusively obtained by Sunday PUNCH revealed that the money was transferred from the Federal Government’s coffers and sent to 38 different bank accounts domiciled in five legacy commercial banks belonging to or connected with a contractor, James Okwete.

Following receipt of the funds, Okwete allegedly transferred N6,746,034,000.00 to Bureau De Change Operators, withdrew N540,000,000.00 in cash, purchased luxury cars with N288,348,600.00, and bought luxury houses in Abuja and Enugu State with N2,195,115,000.00.

Fifty-three companies were allegedly traced to Okwete, who was also said to have used 47 of the companies to lift Federal Government contracts amounting to N27,423,824,339.86. He is also linked with 143 bank accounts in 12 commercial banks in which 134 accounts are corporate accounts linked to different companies.

Checks by our correspondent with the Corporate Affairs Commission revealed that Okwete is a director in only 11 of the 53 companies, while the remaining 42 companies’ accounts are only linked to his Bank Verification Number as a signatory to the accounts.

Sunday PUNCH reports that the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs currently serves as the parent ministry to eight agencies, including the National Social Investment Office, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internationally Displaced Persons, among others.

Umar-Farouq was the pioneer Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development. She was appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in July 2019 as the youngest cabinet member.

Her work with Buhari dates back to his days as the leader and presidential candidate of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change when she was the national treasurer of the party and later the national treasurer of the All Progressives Congress.

She was later appointed minister in 2019 by President Buhari.

The EFCC document revealed, “Between 2018 and 2023, the subject (Okwete) received the sum of N37,170,855,753.44 from the coffers of the Federal Government linked to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

“The monies were sent to 38 bank accounts domiciled in five legacy commercial banks. The suspect transferred N6,746,034,000.00 to Bureau De Change Operators, N540,000,000.00 withdrawn in cash, N288,348,600.00 used to purchase cars, and used N2,195,115,000.00 to purchase choice properties within Abuja and Enugu State.

“Fifty-three companies were traced to the suspect. He used 47 of the companies to lift Federal Government contracts amounting to N27,423,824,339.86. Okwete is associated with 143 bank accounts in 12 commercial banks in which 134 of the 143 accounts are corporate accounts linked to different companies.”

In 2020, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission said it uncovered N2.67bn meant for the ministry’s school feeding programme in private bank accounts.

The former ICPC Chairman, Prof Bolaji Owasanoye, disclosed that the commission unravelled N2.67bn in personal accounts, being payment made to some federal colleges for school feeding during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020.

Other discoveries by the ICPC include 18 buildings, 12 business premises and 25 plots of land. Owasanoye said under the Open Treasury Portal review carried out between January and August 15, 2020, of the 268 Ministries, Departments and Agendas, 72 had cumulative infractions of N90m.

The former ICPC chairman argued that the money was paid when children were not in school.

Despite requests by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project to Umar-Farouq to publish details and names of the suspects, the former minister failed to reveal their names.

Reacting to this, SERAP had written on its official Facebook page, “Following the disclosure by the ICPC that N2.67bn meant for school feeding during the COVID-19 lockdown ended up in private bank accounts, we’re calling on the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development of Nigeria, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, to immediately publish details of those suspected to be responsible, or face legal action.

“If the names are not immediately published, we’ll issue a freedom of information request to ensure that those involved are named and shamed.

“We’ll also pursue appropriate legal actions to hold suspected perpetrators to account, in the public interest.

“Diverting funds meant to feed school children (who are already disproportionately affected by corruption), especially during COVID-19, is a blatant violation of the rights to education, health, and dignity, as well as the government’s own COVID-19 transparency frameworks.

“Corruption in school feeding increases distrust in the government. The Federal Government must ensure that transparency and accountability measures are fundamental to all school feeding and other initiatives in the context of COVID-19, to ensure the children receive the support they need.”

When contacted over the development, the spokesperson for the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, neither confirmed nor denied the story.

Oyewale simply said, “No comments on that.”

Lawyer, CSO react

Reacting, a human rights lawyer, Tolu Babaleye, said, “If we want to be sincere, the corruption under the Buhari government was unprecedented. The main accused under Goodluck Jonathan’s government was Diezani Alison-Madueke, but under Buhari, many have cases to answer. Nigerians deserve to know what happened in the aviation sector, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, and other sectors. I call on President Bola Tinubu to probe that administration so that Nigerians can know who is corrupt and for justice to be served.”

On his part, Chairman, Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa, Ezenwa Nwagwu, urged Tinubu to probe all previous administrations.

“Buhari’s government should be probed, and not just his government, but all previous governments and past heads of MDAs, and all those who are found wanting should be brought to justice,” Nwagwu noted.

Similarly, the Counsellor of a Civil Society Organisation, International Social Justice and Human Rights, Jackson Omenazu, said, “It is exceptionally important to probe the Buhari government, but Tinubu is morally incapacitated to probe Buhari’s government because he is an integral part of the APC government.

“Tinubu cannot exonerate himself from the maladministration of Buhari. (Godwin) Emefiele (former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria) is just a victim of circumstances. The only crime he committed was because he raised his head gullibly and showed interest in being President.”

Another lawyer and public affairs commentator, Jiti Ogunye, said that it was desirable for the present administration to probe the preceding administration following the Air Nigeria and CBN scandals, but regretted that the law did not make provisions for that.

Ogunye noted that the law only allowed the incumbent administration to probe individuals who were engaged in corrupt practices under the previous administration, including the President, to establish facts.

He stated, “When Nigerians are fascinated with the idea of a holistic and comprehensive probe of a past administration by the succeeding administration, the law does not grant an administration that blanket powers to probe the past administration in the way Nigerians imagine.

“We have anti-corruption agencies, which are the ICPC and EFCC. We have criminal laws, anti-corruption laws, and money laundering laws. Recently, we have had the Proceeds of Crime Act. The provision of these anti-corruption laws has no place for targeting an administration in totality like that, but if there are individuals, including a former president, who are suspected to have committed corruption crimes, guilty of corrupt practices, or suspected to have committed money laundering, if found guilty of all other crimes bordering on corrupt practices and abuse of power, these individuals may be investigated specifically.”

Credit: Punch newspaper

Anthony Joshua Triumphs Over Otto Wallin with Impressive TKO Victory in Riyadh.

Anthony Joshua Triumphs Over Otto Wallin with Impressive TKO Victory in Riyadh.               By Comr Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a spectacular showdown at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua, the Nigerian-born British heavyweight, showcased his prowess by securing a resounding victory over Otto Wallin during the "Day of Reckoning: A Fight Night."

The much-anticipated bout unfolded with Anthony Joshua delivering a dominating performance, reminiscent of his earlier years in the ring. The fight concluded in the 5th round, with Joshua sealing the victory through a Technical Knockout (TKO).

The electrifying match witnessed Joshua's strategic and powerful display, asserting his dominance over Wallin throughout the rounds. The Nigerian-born boxer demonstrated precision, skill, and resilience, leaving an indelible mark on the Day of Reckoning.

As the crowd erupted in cheers, Anthony Joshua's triumph adds another notable victory to his impressive boxing career. The Kingdom Arena in Riyadh played host to this unforgettable bout, solidifying Joshua's status as a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division.

Congratulations poured in for AJ from fans and spectators alike, acknowledging his exceptional performance in the ring. The victory in Riyadh serves as a testament to Anthony Joshua's unwavering dedication and skill in the world of boxing.

Anthony Joshua's Victory in Riyadh: A Dominant Display in the Ring, December 25, 2023.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Extends Christmas Message to Nigerians.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Extends Christmas Message to Nigerians.

In a heartfelt Christmas message, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reflects on the significance of the season, emphasizing the hope and redemption embodied by the birth of Jesus Christ. He acknowledges the universal nature of this festive time, transcending faiths, as an opportunity to cherish family, celebrate life, and embrace the gifts of love and friendship.

President Tinubu, recognizing the bittersweet experiences some may face during this period, calls for collective kindness, urging everyone to extend warmth to those in need. He envisions these acts of kindness as guiding lights into a promising New Year.

Addressing the transformative changes in the country, President Tinubu acknowledges the sacrifices required for necessary reforms. He reassures Nigerians that his administration will implement palliative measures to ease the burden on the vulnerable, alleviating hardships and ensuring the well-being of the nation's people.

As the country navigates the path to stability, prosperity, and renewed hope, President Tinubu appeals for confidence in his commitment to lead with vision, dedication, and empathy. He expresses optimism that the joint efforts of the people will usher in a new era of prosperity and irreversible progress.

President Tinubu takes a moment to remember and pray for the armed forces, safeguarding the nation, and pays tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in their service. He seeks divine protection for the military personnel and comfort for their families.

In concluding his message, President Tinubu invokes the guiding light of Christmas to lead the way into the new year and extends warm wishes for a Merry Christmas to all.

Fayemi Urges Unity, Peace, and Generosity as Nigerians Celebrate Christmas.

Fayemi Urges Unity, Peace, and Generosity as Nigerians Celebrate Christmas.

As Nigerians celebrate Christmas, Dr Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and Chairman of the Nigerian Governors' Forum (NGF), extends heartfelt wishes of peace, goodwill, and prosperity to all. 

In a message by the head of the Fayemi Media Office, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, Fayemi acknowledges Nigerians’ resilience in the face of challenges throughout the year and urged that in the spirit of Christmas, we should all come together in celebration, irrespective of religious or cultural differences, fostering a sense of togetherness and unity.

Fayemi said, “This festive season signifies a time for reflection, gratitude, and rekindling the flames of hope and unity that underpin our nation. It is a time to celebrate the values of love, compassion, and generosity which was illustrated by the birth of Jesus Christ.

‘’Despite our challenges, Christmas reminds us of the enduring power of faith, forgiveness, and resilience. Let us embrace this spirit and use it to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, foster peaceful coexistence, and rekindle the flames of national unity.

‘’I urge all Nigerians, irrespective of their differences, to use this special season to extend kindness and understanding to one another. Let us celebrate the joy of family and friends, share our blessings with those in need, and offer prayers for peace and prosperity for our nation.

‘’May the light of Christmas illuminate our hearts and homes, guiding us towards a brighter and more prosperous New Year. May the joy of this season fill our lives with happiness, hope, and renewed strength.’’

Lawmakers, Edun meet on presidential palliatives, loans.

Lawmakers, Edun meet on presidential palliatives, loans.

The House of Representatives Committee on Small and Medium Enterprises has met with the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, on key aspects of the implementation of the presidential palliative grants and loans.

The committee Chairman, Mansur Soro, who led the team on Friday to ascertain the extent of funding and releases so far made to implementing ministries, departments, and agencies, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Saturday by his Personal Assistant, Aleeyu Darazo.

The House Committee on SMEs had previously met with other top government officials. including the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, the Accountant General of the Federation, Dr Oluwatoyin Madein, as well as the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Charles Odii.

The statement read in part, “The 10th House of Representatives under the leadership of Tajudden Abbas places a high premium on SMEs development, hence its decision to create a standing committee on SMEs to ensure effective oversight of the SMEs activities and programmes of line MDAs.

“The presidential palliative grants and loans which come in three tranches of N50,000 grants to one million nano-businesses, N100,000 to N1m, and N75bn to manufacturers are due for disbursement anytime soon.”

President Tinubu had in July ordered the implementation of palliatives to cushion the effects of the removal of the petrol subsidy across the agriculture, transportation, social safety, and SME sectors of the economy.

US Group Awards Ekiti's Best Students N1.6 Million for Excellence.

US Group Awards Ekiti's Best Students N1.6 Million for Excellence.

The President, Ekiti Association Houston, United States of America, Pastor Bolu Alabi, has expressed the association’s commitment to promoting the culture of academic excellence in Ekiti State through spurring younger ones.

Alabi, who spoke in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital on Saturday, during the first annual prize-giving ceremony of the association, where a sum of N1.6m was shared among the 32 best JSS3 students, said, “The aim is to encourage academic excellence, healthy competition and to ensure our students are the very best they can be.”

The president of the US-based group, who lauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his good deeds in different sectors including education, said, “We are here today to contribute our quota to the development of the state.

“The award is for the very best students in the last JSS3 examination. The students are currently in SSS1. As an association, we want to be part of the good things going on in the state. That is why we are awarding prizes today to the best students in 32 secondary schools across the 16 local government areas of Ekiti State.

“This maiden edition is to kickstart what we believe will eventually become an annual award. Our ultimate goal is to get to a level where we will be giving awards to the best JSS3 students in every secondary school in Ekiti State annually. By the grace of God, next year, the number of schools will have increased,” Alabi said.

A US Fulbright Scholar, Prof. Wole Olaiya, in his lecture titled, ‘Education in a season of japa’, advised the beneficiaries and indeed secondary school students to “shun distractions and strive to achieve the education that will help to build your character.”

FG probes misconduct of Immigration personnel at Seme border.

FG probes misconduct of Immigration personnel at Seme border.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has expressed sadness over the alleged unprofessional activities and misconduct of personnel of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) at the Seme border.

The government therefore directed that immediate investigation and action be taken to ensure that such occurrences are stamped out.

The personnel were said to have behalf in manners not in tandem with the Standard Operating Procedure of Service.

Also, the Comptroller General of Immigration, Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju, has declared that if the allegations against the personnel were proven to be true, the Service would mete out severe consequences on the culprits.

Adepoju insisted that such misconduct is not reflective of the values and standards upheld by the NIS.

According to a statement endorsed by the Public Relations Officer of Immigration, Dr Dotun Aridegbe, the CG expressed dismay at the behaviour of the personnel and therefore assured the public that immediate steps are being taken to investigate the matter thoroughly.

Aridegbe said: “The NIS is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and service to the nation.

“In response to these allegations, the NIS is implementing changes at our borders to ensure the smooth passage of migrants without compromising national security.

“The Comptroller General is personally overseeing these changes to address any shortcomings and to reinforce a culture of accountability within the Service.

“The NIS acknowledges the importance of public trust and wishes to encourage the general public to report any unprofessional conduct or provide feedback through the following official platforms:

X (Twitter): @Nigimmigration Instagram: Nigimmigration NIS Contact Center: 09121900655, 09121556359 and 09121477092.

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“The Service assures the public that all feedback and complaints will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate action will be taken to address any misconduct.

“The Comptroller General is confident that, with the continued support of the Honourable Minister of Inter, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and his dedication to fostering a disciplined and effective workforce within the NIS, the Service will overcome challenges and strengthen its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and public trust.

“We remain committed to our mandate of ensuring the security of our borders and facilitating the smooth movement of people. We appreciate the cooperation of the public in helping us maintain the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.”