EFCC detains ex-Kwara gov Ahmed over alleged N10bn fraud.

EFCC detains ex-Kwara gov Ahmed over alleged N10bn fraud.

A former governor of Kwara State, Abdulfatah Ahmed, was on Monday grilled and detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for alleged fraudulent transactions involving billions of naira that took place during his tenure as governor.

The ex-governor, who was spotted at the EFCC office in Ilorin on Monday morning, was not freed as of the time of filing this report on Monday night.

A credible source in the Ilorin office of the EFCC said the ex-governor was not allowed to leave.

“Yes, the immediate-past governor is here; he got here in the morning and he’s still with us,” the operative told one of our correspondents on condition of anonymity.

“Alhaji Ahmed has not been released on bail by the EFCC as we are talking now,” another source told one of our correspondents at 10.31 pm on Monday.

Multiple sources in the EFCC told our correspondents that the anti-graft agency was conducting preliminary investigations into transactions amounting to N10bn, during the tenure of the ex-governor.

The funds, they said, were in connection with some projects executed in the state during Ahmed’s tenure.

“It is a preliminary investigation, so it is too early to say that this is what happened to the money. Investigations are still ongoing, so it is when investigations have been concluded that one can say this is exactly what happened to the money. But for now, it is just preliminary investigation,” one of the sources told The PUNCH.

 Ahmed was governor of Kwara State between 2011 and 2019.

In 2021, a team of EFCC operatives questioned Ahmed at the headquarters of the anti-graft agency in the Jabi area of Abuja, concerning an alleged diversion of funds, amounting to N9bn, from the coffers of the Kwara State government.

Meanwhile, when contacted by our correspondent via phone calls and Whatsapp messages, the spokesperson for the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, declined comments on the issue.

Ahmed’s Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji AbdulWahab Oba, confirmed his visit to the EFCC office.

 “Dr Ahmed’s visit to the EFCC is procedural and routine. He was invited and he honoured them as he’s always done. He’s always ready to respond to any query or question regarding his tenure as a governor of the state.

So, there’s nothing unusual about the invitation and his honouring the anti-graft agency,” Oba said.

Oyebanji Leads High-Level Talks with American Embassy, Cavista Holdings to Drive Economic Development in Ekiti State.

Oyebanji Leads High-Level Talks with American Embassy, Cavista Holdings to Drive Economic Development in Ekiti State. 

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, demonstrated his commitment to fostering productive partnerships by convening a meeting with top officials of the American Embassy and executives of Cavista Holdings on Tuesday, February 20th. The meeting, held at the Governor's Office in Ado-Ekiti, aimed to explore opportunities for trade development between the United States and Ekiti State, as well as to discuss potential areas of collaboration for economic growth and development.

Leading the American delegation were Chargé d’Affaires David Greene and Consul General William Stevens, representing the United States Embassy. They were joined by a team from Cavista Holdings, headed by Mr. John Olajide.

The discussions focused on strengthening the trade relations between Ekiti State and the United States, with a particular emphasis on enhancing economic cooperation and investment opportunities. Governor Oyebanji emphasized the importance of leveraging partnerships with international stakeholders to drive the state's development agenda and achieve shared prosperity for all citizens.

During the meeting, various areas of potential collaboration were explored, including technology transfer, investment promotion, and capacity building initiatives. The American Embassy officials expressed their willingness to support initiatives that promote economic growth and entrepreneurship in Ekiti State, aligning with the goals of the BAO administration's shared prosperity agenda.

Cavista Holdings, a prominent technology company with interests in agriculture, energy, and hospitality, also expressed its commitment to contributing to the state's development agenda. Mr. John Olajide highlighted the company's expertise in digital solutions and its readiness to collaborate with the Ekiti State government on transformative projects that benefit the people.

Governor Oyebanji reiterated his administration's commitment to fostering partnerships that deliver tangible benefits for the people of Ekiti State. He emphasized the importance of strategic collaboration with international partners like Cavista Holdings and the American Embassy in driving sustainable economic growth and development.

The meeting concluded with a consensus to explore concrete avenues for collaboration, including joint investment initiatives, technology exchange programs, and capacity building projects. Governor Oyebanji expressed confidence in the potential of the partnership to create new opportunities and drive positive change in Ekiti State.

As Ekiti State continues its journey towards economic transformation and development, partnerships with international stakeholders like Cavista Holdings and the American Embassy are expected to play a crucial role in unlocking new opportunities and driving progress. The meeting underscored Governor Oyebanji's commitment to leveraging partnerships for the benefit of the people and the overall development of the state.

Herdsmen from Niger plotting to destabilise Benue – Gov.

Herdsmen from Niger plotting to destabilise Benue – Gov.

The Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has raised the alarm that some indigenes of the state are bringing in herdsmen from neighbouring countries, like the Niger Republic, to destabilise his administration.

The governor stated this on Sunday at the Chapel of Grace, Government House Makurdi, while addressing the people of the state.

According to a statement issued by Principal Special Assistant on Print Media, Donald Kumun and made available to journalists late hours of Sunday, the governor appealed to the people to remain calm, saying that the security agencies would ensure the safety of the people.

Alia revealed that those behind the influx of herdsmen into the state actually wrote a letter inviting them to the state.

The statement said the governor vowed not to tolerate any effort from any quarter aimed at distabilising the state.

He said, “I am quite saddened to speak about what some fellow Benue citizens are doing; what they are planting, planning, and executing, which is not in favour of the state.

“The security report has revealed that some Benue indigenes have gone out of their way to invite herdsmen all the way from the Niger Republic to troop into Benue State. All in the name of bringing down his administration and this is unacceptable, but the security agents are doing their work.

“Security apparatuses are doing their work and anyone found guilty of this will not go unpunished. This is not the Benue we pray for. The electioneering period is over and now is governance.”

 Famine looms as Sokoto traders flood Niger Republic’s markets with local rice

The governor vowed that the herdsmen who had come into the state would gradually return to where they came from.

He however called on those who were not ready to join hands with his administration to improve on the development of the state to leave the state.

“Please if you cannot join hands with this administration to improve the state to bring development to the state, where everyone has a sense of belonging, please leave the state.

“I assure the entire citizens that they should remain calm for my administration is not ready to welcome any crisis in the state. Crisis is not the portion of Benue State.

“Security agencies are ready to do everything possible for the people to have peace. The influx of herders will not harm anyone but they will return gradually to where they have come from.

“The mischief makers who wrote a letter inviting herders to come to Benue State will be disappointed. I stand on the platform of new Benue where development of both human and infrastructure development is possible,” Alia added.

The governor appreciated the people of the state for always supporting his administration through prayers and charged them to continue to stand by him and the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Ogun Assembly invites ex-commissioner, others over N92.9m allocation.

Ogun Assembly invites ex-commissioner, others over N92.9m allocation.

The Ogun State House of Assembly Committee on Public Accounts and Anti-Corruption has summoned the immediate past Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Waheed Odusile, over alleged financial infractions detected during the audit exercise.

Also invited by the lawmakers over the issue were a former Permanent Secretary, Abiodun Awere, and the Director of Finance and Accounts who served in the Ministry between 2021 and 2022.

The alleged infractions, according to a statement on Monday, are connected with N92.9m released to the ministry from the governor’s contingency fund to supplement funds for the expenditures of the ministry.

Odusile, a former President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, has therefore been mandated to appear with other officials before the committee on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at 1.00pm to provide further information on the finance of the ministry while he was in charge.

The chairman of the Committee, Damilare Bello, gave this directive while considering the ministry’s auditor reports for 2021 and 2022 and the financial records as presented by the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Waheed Adesina, at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The statement partly read, “The committee also directed the Ministry’s Director of Finance and Accounts to furnish the committee with further details on the transfer of N2.51m to individual accounts as contained in the Year 2021 Auditor General Report.

“According to the committee, it was observed from the available records and bank statements of the agency that N2,515,590 was transferred to the personal accounts of Ojo Emmanuel, Special Adviser on Media, for the purchase of working tools for OGSG New Media Team.

“This was a breach of due process and it is against financial regulation No. 614. It is advised that funds should be transferred directly to the vendors’ bank accounts and not individual personal accounts for the purpose of accountability and transparency.”

Oyebanji Empowers Farmers with SF2 Solar Irrigation Pumps to Enhance Food Security in Ekiti State.

Oyebanji Empowers Farmers with SF2 Solar Irrigation Pumps to Enhance Food Security in Ekiti State.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has intensified efforts to ensure food security by implementing strategic measures to boost agricultural productivity in the state. In addition to addressing security challenges that hinder farmers' access to their farmlands, the governor has embarked on initiatives to empower real farmers with modern agricultural tools.

One such initiative is the recent distribution of SF2 Solar Irrigation Pumps to farmers across the state. These solar-powered pumps are designed to provide farmers with reliable access to water for irrigation purposes, enabling them to cultivate their crops throughout the year, regardless of the prevailing weather conditions.

By equipping farmers with SF2 Solar Irrigation Pumps free of charge, Governor Oyebanji aims to revolutionize farming practices in Ekiti State and enhance agricultural productivity. With these innovative pumps, farmers can engage in 24/7 farming activities, even during the dry season, thereby maximizing their yield and income potential.

The SF2 Solar Irrigation Pumps offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution to water scarcity challenges faced by farmers, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. By harnessing solar energy to power the pumps, farmers can minimize their reliance on fossil fuels and reduce operating costs, making farming more economically viable and environmentally sustainable.

The distribution of SF2 Solar Irrigation Pumps underscores Governor Oyebanji's commitment to empowering farmers and promoting food security in Ekiti State. By providing farmers with the necessary tools and resources to improve their agricultural practices, the governor aims to stimulate economic growth, alleviate poverty, and enhance the overall well-being of rural communities.

Through collaborative efforts between the government, agricultural stakeholders, and development partners, Governor Oyebanji is laying the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector in Ekiti State. By harnessing the power of solar energy to drive agricultural innovation, the governor is paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for farmers and the entire state.

As farmers across Ekiti State embrace the opportunities presented by the SF2 Solar Irrigation Pumps, Governor Oyebanji's vision of a food-secure and economically vibrant state is steadily becoming a reality. With continued support and investment in agricultural development, Ekiti State is poised to emerge as a leader in sustainable agriculture and rural development in Nigeria.

The distribution of SF2 Solar Irrigation Pumps represents a significant milestone in Governor Oyebanji's quest to transform the agricultural landscape of Ekiti State and ensure a prosperous future for generations to come.

Economic challenges: Don’t despair, be resilient, Kalu tells Nigerians.

Economic challenges: Don’t despair, be resilient, Kalu tells Nigerians.

Deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu on Tuesday, February 20, appealed to Nigerians not to despair in the face of current economic hardship across the country, but to be resilient and determined to overcome the challenges.

Speaking at the resumption of plenary, Kalu said while sacrifice is a necessary step towards long-term stability and prosperity in the country, Nigerians must trust in the expertise of those tasked with guiding the economy, even as we hold them accountable for their actions.

He said true progress cannot be achieved solely through policy pronouncements but requires the collective effort of every Nigerian.

He said: “As we commence proceedings today, we are all aware of the challenges we face as a nation. The storm clouds of inflation gather the cries of economic hardship echo, and whispers of doubt threaten to dim the flames of our collective spirit.

“But let me assure you, the Nigerian spirit does not cower in the face of adversity. We are a nation forged in resilience, a people united by dogged determination. The challenges we confront may seem insurmountable.

“Yet, amidst these trials, amidst the anxieties and frustrations, I ask you, my colleagues, to remember the words of a great leader facing a seemingly insurmountable foe: “We have before us an ordeal of the most grievous kind. We have before us many, many long months of struggle and suffering. But I say to you, my friends: fear not.

“Just as Winston Churchill rallied his nation in their darkest hour, so too must we rise to the occasion. This is not the time for division, for despair, for pointing fingers. This is the time for unity, for strength, for a staunch belief in ourselves and the future of our beloved Nigeria.

“Do the challenges seem immense? Yes, they do. But are they insurmountable? Absolutely not! We have the tools, the talent, and the tenacity to overcome.

“The macroeconomic management approach laid out by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, while demanding sacrifice, is a necessary step towards long-term stability and prosperity. Let us trust in the expertise of those tasked with guiding our economic course, even as we hold them accountable for their actions.

“Let us rise above petty squabbles and unite in a common purpose. Let us channel our frustrations into constructive criticism, into holding ourselves and our leaders accountable, but always with the betterment of our nation as the guiding star.

“Let us focus on the broader canvas, on the multitude of measures being taken to address the root causes of inflation, streamlining foreign exchange flows, tackling food shortages, and investing in critical infrastructure. These, coupled with our collective spirit of enterprise and perseverance, hold the key to unlocking price stability and economic growth.

He added: “Let us not be swayed by the winds of pessimism. Let us not be cowed by the naysayers. Let us remember the words of Chinua Achebe in 1967: “Being a Nigerian is abysmally frustrating and unbelievably exciting.

“But let us not forget the “unbelievably exciting” part of Achebe’s description. This excitement is not a frivolous notion, but the drumming energy of a nation teeming with potential. Look around you, colleagues.

“See the young entrepreneurs defying the odds, the farmers growing green life from arid soil, the artists painting vibrant futures, and the innovators dreaming of solutions. This is the true face of Nigeria, a kaleidoscope of talent, resilience, and audacity. We are a nation on the cusp of greatness, a land pregnant with possibility.

“We are Nigerians, and within us lies the power to overcome any obstacle. Let us rise to the challenge, hand in hand, heart to heart, and together build a brighter, more prosperous future for ourselves and for generations to come. Go forth, colleagues, with renewed hope, with relentless resolve, and with the unshakeable belief that, united, we can and will prevail!

“Remember, the Nigerian spirit thrives not in comfort, but in the crucible of challenge. Let us rise to the occasion, and show the world the true meaning of resilience, of unity, and of unwavering hope.”

Fayemi Pays Tribute to Late Governor Akeredolu.

Fayemi Pays Tribute to Late Governor Akeredolu.                                                      ....Celebrates Legacy of Service and Inspiration.       By Olamide Akinwumi.

In a poignant evening of heartfelt tributes held in Ibadan, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and former Governor of Ekiti State, paid homage to the late Arakunrin Odunayo Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, reflecting on the profound impact of his life and legacy.

Dr. Fayemi commenced his tribute by acknowledging Arakunrin Akeredolu's enduring presence in the hearts and memories of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He described Akeredolu as a multifaceted individual, equally comfortable in elite circles and among the common people, reflecting a rare combination of confidence, humility, and authenticity.

Throughout their shared political journey, Dr. Fayemi witnessed Akeredolu's unwavering commitment to the common good and his steadfast dedication to public service. From Akeredolu's gubernatorial aspirations in 2012 to his eventual triumphs in 2016 and 2020, Dr. Fayemi attested to Akeredolu's resilience, integrity, and Christian ethos guiding his path.

Beyond political alliances, Akeredolu was celebrated as a dear friend, trusted advisor, and source of inspiration. Dr. Fayemi emphasized Akeredolu's legacy of touching countless lives and forging enduring friendships, transcending professional achievements. Akeredolu's advocacy for justice, equity, and multi-level policing, including his pivotal role in establishing the Western Region Security Network (Amotekun), showcased his unwavering dedication to serving the people.

Despite occasional criticisms of Akeredolu's approach, characterized by his outspokenness and refusal to compromise on core principles, Dr. Fayemi underscored the tangible results achieved under Akeredolu's leadership. From infrastructure development to social justice initiatives, Akeredolu's impact reverberated across generations.

As Dr. Fayemi lamented Akeredolu's untimely passing, he urged all present to honor his memory by continuing the fight for a better Nigeria—a Nigeria that works for all its citizens. He offered prayers for Akeredolu's soul and extended condolences to his family, recognizing the profound loss experienced by the nation.

In closing, Dr. Fayemi expressed gratitude for the privilege of knowing Akeredolu and vowed to carry forward his legacy of service and advocacy. As the evening of tributes concluded, attendees were reminded of Akeredolu's enduring spirit and the imperative of upholding his vision for a brighter future.