The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Alleged N80.2b fraud: Yahaya Bello’s trial to continue January 29

    Alleged N80.2b fraud: Yahaya Bello’s trial to continue January 29

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed further hearing in the ongoing money laundering trial of former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello to January 29, 2026.

    Justice Emeka Nwite announced the postponement midway into proceedings on Tuesday to enable the prosecution’s seventh witness, – Olomotame Egoro – who had taken the witness box, to conclude his evidence in chief.

    Bello is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a 19-count charge relating to money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds estimated at N80.2 billion.

    Read Also: FCT Minister Wike, military officer in altercation over land

    At the mention of the case yesterday, prosecuting lawyer, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN) invited Egoro, a Compliant Officer with Access Bank Plc, to the witness box.

    Pinheiro then applied to tender some documents through the witness, an application the defence lawyer, Abdullahi Yahaya, (SAN) objected to.

    Yahaya pointed out that the documents being sought to be tendered by the prosecution were strange.

    He observed that the certificate of identification attached to the documents was signed by one Faruk Idiaro and not Egoro.

    Yahaya claimed that the defendant was served with a proof of evidence that was not the same as what the witness tendered.

    In his response, Pinheiro argued that although the certificate of identification might seem different, the main documents, to which the certificate was attached, are the same.

    At that point, Pinheiro then prayed the court to suspend proceedings briefly to enable the defence team confirm that the documents referred to in the certificate of identification were the same as the documents tendered.

    The judge acceded to the prosecuting lawyer’s request and stood down the case briefly for parties to sort out their differences.

    At the resumption of proceedings, Egoro, who was led in evidence by Pinheiro, confirmed that there were seven columns in the statement of account that was tendered and explained what the different columns stood for.

    He was taken through the account statement of the Kogi State Government House Administration from December 2018 to August 2021.

    The witness identified cash payments on December 21, 2018 to one Aminu J.O, totaling N50 million in tranches of N10 million each.

    He also pointed out withdrawals in multiples of N10 million in favour of Abdulsalam Hudu on August 1, 2019.

    The prosecution also asked the witness to go through Exhibit 33-8, a statement of Fazac Business Enterprise, from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2022.

    The PW-7 identified inflows ranging from N4.49 million to N14.45 million from local governments of the state, on May 6, 2022.

    He said there were two inflows of N7.12 million and N9.4 million from two local government areas on May 9, 2022.

    The witness also confirmed that there were withdrawals from the account.

  • Ataga trusted me with his belongings, says Chidinma

    Ataga trusted me with his belongings, says Chidinma

    The trial of Chidinma Ojukwu, the first defendant in the alleged murder of Super TV Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Usifo Ataga, continued before Justice Yetunde Adesanya of the Lagos State High Court sitting at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Annex, yesterday.

    At the resumed hearing, the prosecution counsel, Mr. Yusuf Sule, continued his cross-examination of Ojukwu, who is standing trial alongside two co-defendants focused on her earlier claims regarding the ownership and sales of the late Atage’s devices, including a MacBook and several IPhones

    During questioning, Ojukwu reiterated that the late Ataga trusted her with his personal belongings whenever they met.

    She said the deceased was in possession of his iPhone and MacBook during their meetings, but maintained that some of the devices recovered as exhibits were hers.

    Read Also: COAS to Nigerians: expect improved security

    When asked to account for receipts of the items, Ojukwu told the court that although the police listed the receipt for the MacBook in the exhibit file, it was never tendered in court. She explained that she initially thought she had misplaced the receipt, but later obtained a replacement from the vendor, UC Best Computers.

    She further admitted that she sold the MacBook on June 18, 2021 – two days after Ataga’s body was discovered – at the cost of N495,000, claiming she was unaware of his death at the time. She also confirmed giving an iPhone 7 to her sister shortly after the incident.

    Pressed by the prosecution on why she did not notify the police, her family, or anyone else after Ataga’s death despite being the last person seen with him, Ojukwu told the court she was scared, and denied taking any of the deceased belongings or transferring money from his account.

    The defendant also acknowledged making two statements to the police—one written by the Investigating Police Officer and another dictated to her—but claimed that portions of the statements were not accurate.

    Tension briefly rose in the courtroom when she was shown a photograph of the deceased and asked to identify him. “Mr. Ataga,” she responded quietly.

    After the prosecution paused the day’s cross examination, Justice Adesanya adjourned the matter till November 25 for continuation of trial

  • Judge’s absence stalls Mohbad’s son DNA case

    Judge’s absence stalls Mohbad’s son DNA case

    The proceedings in the DNA case involving Liam, the son of late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad which was scheduled to hold on Tuesday could not hold at the Ikorodu Magistrate Court due to an official assignment of the judges at the Magistrate court.

    This was confirmed by the law firm of Wahab Shittu, SAN, representing the father of the deceased.

    Read Also: FCT Minister Wike, military officer in altercation over land

    The firm also notified the public of its withdrawal from the singer’s case.

    It was also gathered that a new counsel, Oladayo Ogungbe, has taken over representation in the matter and has formally served notice of appearance.

    The case has now been adjourned till December 2, for further proceedings

  • Society  to unveil compendium on women

    Society  to unveil compendium on women

    The Prudent Women Multipurpose Cooperative Society Limited (PW-MPCS) is set to unveil “100 Prudent Women: A Compendium of the Most Inspiring Biographies” as part of activities marking its 5th Anniversary Grand Celebration and the official launch of the Prudent Women Advancement and Advocacy Foundation (PWAAF).

    The event, which will hold on November 29, at the Abuja Continental Hotel, will feature a book presentation, a recognition ceremony, and the formal flag-off of a 12-month National Mentorship and Community Activation Programme scheduled to run from next month to November  , next year.

    The initiative seeks to harness the expertise of the 100 honourees to mentor young girls and empower communities across Nigeria.

    President and Founder of the Prudent Women Cooperative, and Convener of PWAAF, Mrs. Msurshima Comfort Chenge, described the project as “more than a book launch,” noting that it represents “a national mentorship compact uniting integrity, excellence, and impact to help young women rise, backed by real examples and measurable community outcomes.”

    Read Also: COAS to Nigerians: expect improved security

    According to her, the Cooperative’s fifth anniversary marks a milestone in a five-year journey of transformation and empowerment. “From a small circle of women, it has evolved into a dynamic network of over 7,000 members across Nigeria and the diaspora—united by faith, financial discipline, and a shared commitment to positive change,” she said.

    The compendium, “100 Prudent Women: A Compendium of the Most Inspiring Biographies,” celebrates women of impact whose lives exemplify strength, integrity, and purpose. It profiles 100 women drawn from diverse fields including public service, diplomacy, law, engineering, industry, academia, development, faith leadership, arts, and sports.

    Mrs. Chenge explained that the next phase of the movement, through PWAAF and the National Mentorship and Community Activation Programme, marks a transition “from a savings-based cooperative to a structured advocacy and mentorship platform addressing women’s financial, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.”

    “By establishing mentorship chapters nationwide, Prudent Women aims to build a holistic ecosystem that nurtures the ‘Total Woman’ — one who is financially empowered, socially impactful, and anchored in godly values,” she added.

    Beginning December 2025, PWAAF will coordinate mentorship pipelines, school and community clubs, leadership and life-skills training, gender-based violence (GBV) awareness and referral linkages, digital and financial literacy sessions, and girl-led micro projects with measurable and publicly reported outcomes.

    Project Director, Mr. Robert Ahen Chenge, said the initiative represents a major shift from motivation to measurable action. “We are moving beyond inspiration to implementation. These 100 stories become 100 living classrooms, taking mentorship, protection, and opportunity to real communities,” he said.

    The national initiative will engage a broad network of partners including Federal and State Ministries, the Legislature, Judiciary, professional bodies, universities, research centres, civil society groups, and faith-based organisations, particularly those working in women’s empowerment, education, health, justice, youth development, and community security.

  • ‘Consider physically-challenge’s needs in 2026 Budget’

    ‘Consider physically-challenge’s needs in 2026 Budget’

    A non-governmental organisation (NGO) dedicated to the welfare of persons living with disabilities, Kehinde Oshilaja Foundation, has appealed to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, to factor the needs of people with disabilities into the 2026 Lagos State Appropriation Bill.

    In a letter titled: “Letter of Proposal and Budget,” signed by the Coordinator, Comrade Kehinde Oshilaja, the foundation urged the state government not to overlook the physically-challenged community in its plans for affordable housing, health care and other infrastructures.

    The foundation appealed for the inclusion of well-equipped sporting facilities designed to enhance the physical and social well-being of persons with disabilities across the state.

    Read Also: FCT Minister Wike, military officer in altercation over land

    Oshilaja said the organisation had supported and cooperated with the Lagos State Government in its efforts to promote inclusiveness and social development.

    He reaffirmed the group’s loyalty to the Sanwo-Olu administration and hoped the government would continue to champion policies that would guarantee equal opportunities for residents, regardless of physical condition.

    The NGO hailed the government for its interventions in social welfare, education and empowerment, and called for more initiatives that would address the challenges faced by persons living with disabilities.

  • CEE-HOPE seeks media support for domestic workers’ rights, unionisation

    CEE-HOPE seeks media support for domestic workers’ rights, unionisation

    By Zainab Olufemi and Faith Ajiboye

    The Centre for Children’s Health Education, Orientation and Protection (CEE-HOPE) has called on the media to collaborate in amplifying the voices of domestic workers and supporting ongoing legislative efforts to ensure their rights and unionisation in Nigeria.

    Speaking at a consultation with media representatives held at CEE-HOPE’s headquarters in Agege, Lagos, the Founder and Executive Director, Betty Abah, said domestic workers remain among the most undervalued and vulnerable groups despite being the “invisible backbone of society.”

    Abah said the rights of domestic workers must be recognised as a matter of justice and equity, not charity, noting that their labour sustains countless households across the country.

    She drew attention to two key bills before the National Assembly, HB.1765, sponsored by Hon. Akin Alabi, and SB.629, sponsored by Senator Sani Musa, both aimed at formalising the domestic work sector, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and legal protection.

    “These bills represent a historic opportunity. If passed, they will enshrine fair wages, safe working conditions, access to social security, and enforceable legal recourse for domestic workers. They will also strengthen Nigeria’s image internationally as a country committed to labour justice and human rights,” she said.

    READ ALSO: Alleged N80.2b fraud: Court postpones Yahaya Bello’s trial to January 29

    According to her, unionisation is also crucial in protecting domestic workers from exploitation. She explained that when workers come together collectively, they can negotiate better terms and resist abuse.

    “Without a union, domestic workers remain isolated and voiceless. We have seen domestic worker unions in other countries push for better wages and respect, Nigeria must embrace this path,” she added.

    Abah emphasised the critical role of the media in shaping public perception and influencing policy, urging consistent coverage of domestic workers’ challenges.

    “The media is not just an observer but a partner in ensuring justice. Your reports can bring visibility to their struggles and push for the passage of these bills,” she said.

    She reaffirmed CEE-HOPE’s commitment to working with journalists, legislators, and labour groups to ensure that every worker in Nigeria is treated with dignity and fairness.

    “Together, we can make Nigeria a place where every worker however hidden today is treated with respect and justice,” she said.

    A member of the Child Protection Network (CPN), Lagos State, Ngozi Okoro, called for stronger child protection measures and a review of cultural practices that expose domestic workers, especially minors, to abuse.

    She decried the increasing cases of child maltreatment among domestic helps, describing it as a major human rights concern.

    “We want to talk about domestic rights every human deserves rights. Many young domestic workers suffer quietly under inhumane conditions. Some are burnt with hot irons, denied rest, or treated as slaves rather than helpers.”

    Okoro said cultural practices that normalize sending young relatives to work as domestic helps often lead to exploitation, neglect, and trauma. She urged greater enforcement of child protection laws and better awareness campaigns at the community level.

    “There are agencies doing great work, from legal aid to school-based awareness programmes, but we must do more. The lives and futures of these children depend on the actions we take today,” she said.

  • Police secure conviction in $1 million international oil fraud case

    Police secure conviction in $1 million international oil fraud case

    …as IGP commends officers’ investigative, prosecutorial dedication

    The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has secured the conviction of one Mr. David Udensik, also known as Dr. Jacob Bello, for his role in a transnational oil-related fraud scheme amounting to over one million United States Dollars (USD $1,000,000).

    The conviction followed a petition by a United States–based energy company, alleging that the suspect obtained funds from the firm under the pretext of facilitating legitimate crude oil transactions in Nigeria.

    Acting on the petition, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force – National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) commenced investigations which revealed that the suspect, between 2018 and 2023, operated a coordinated criminal network that forged documents purportedly emanating from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and other regulatory platforms to deceive the victim company.

    Forensic analyses confirmed that the documents, seals, and authentication materials presented by the suspect were entirely counterfeit. Funds traced through the scheme were found to have been diverted into accounts linked to the suspect and his accomplices.

    READ ALSO: Alleged N80.2b fraud: Court postpones Yahaya Bello’s trial to January 29

    According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, “following diligent investigative and prosecutorial efforts, the Federal High Court, Abuja, on 22nd October 2025, convicted Mr. Udensik on charges bordering on Forgery, Obtaining by False Pretense, and Money Laundering. The Court further ordered the forfeiture of assets valued at several hundreds of millions of Naira, including real estate and other properties derived from the proceeds of the crime, to facilitate restitution to the victim company.

    “Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has commended the officers involved in the investigation and prosecution for their professionalism. He affirms the commitment of the Force to protecting Nigeria’s corporate integrity and ensuring that cyber-enabled financial criminals, irrespective of status or location, are brought to justice.”

  • FoodTech startup announces firewood jollof festival 2.0 in Lagos

    FoodTech startup announces firewood jollof festival 2.0 in Lagos

    A Lagos-based foodtech startup, Firewood Jollof, has announced plans to host the second edition of its annual Jollof Festival on November 29, 2025, at Muri-Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos, with a focus on unifying African culinary heritage and promoting food tourism across the continent.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Firewood Jollof, Chizoma Chukwueke, said the 2025 edition, themed “Unifying African Jollof,” aims to preserve Africa’s rich food identity while celebrating the traditional firewood cooking method.

    “We announced our upcoming festival happening on November 29 at Muri-Okunola Park from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. This festival is about preserving our cultural heritage. We do not want it to go extinct. Every time this festival comes on board, it is something that will happen every year, and this is Firewood Jollof 2.0. This year is bigger and better,” she said.

    Chukwueke said that the idea behind Firewood Jollof is deeply rooted in nostalgia, adding, “It’s the way our mothers cooked it when we were younger. That is what we knew growing up. With everyone trying to recreate Firewood Jollof using gas and other means, we want to keep the real heritage alive.”

    READ ALSO: Alleged N80.2b fraud: Court postpones Yahaya Bello’s trial to January 29

    According to her, this year’s edition would introduce West African Jollof, prepared with ingredients from Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Kenya, featuring chefs from across the region. 

    The festival will also include cooking competitions, a children’s area, celebrity appearances, and expanded vendor participation.

    Chukwueke named Access Bank as the headline sponsor, with Devon Kings Oil, MTN, and Nestlé Pure Life as supporting partners. 

    She added that the festival would provide small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with a platform to showcase their products, generate income, and connect with new audiences.

    She further revealed plans to extend the festival to other Nigerian states in 2026, with long-term ambitions to take it to other African countries and London.

    Assistant Brand Manager, Devon Kings Oil, Voke Emeje, said the brand’s involvement aligns with its slogan, “Taste that binds.”

    “We want to be part of building and making memories. Firewood Jollof aligns with our positioning, which is unifying consumers. There will be food sampling, experience centres, games, giveaways, and much more,” she said.

    On his part, the Marketing Director, Firewood Jollof Nigeria, Chibuzor Chukwueke, said organisers are targeting over 20,000 attendees, double last year’s turnout of 10,000.

    “Last year was a blast. This year will be bigger. We had about 35 small businesses last year; we expect more this year, contributing to economic growth,” he said.

    He added that the festival would further drive food tourism and promote Nigeria’s cuisine across Africa, noting that the company also works with local farmers as part of its supply chain to support the event.

  • MURIC backs Dangote Refinery, holds solidarity rally in Lagos

    MURIC backs Dangote Refinery, holds solidarity rally in Lagos

    The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has expressed strong support for Dangote Refinery amid its ongoing challenges, warning that the refinery has increasingly become a recurring point of national debate.

    Speaking at a peaceful solidarity rally, MURIC Executive Director Prof. Ishaq Akintola said the refinery is frequently threatened whenever oil unions assert themselves.

    “Nigeria cannot afford to waste a $20 billion investment that is already performing wonders. Dangote Refinery is a money spinner, yet this is the same refinery that unions wish to strangle. Nigerians must not be caught napping,” he stated.

    READ ALSO: Tinubu unstoppable in 2027, says Orji Kalu

    Akintola emphasised that, as a human rights organization conscious of its corporate social responsibility, MURIC stands ready to defend the refinery in the national interest. He warned against allowing unions or vested groups, including the subsidy cabal, to destabilize the facility, noting that disruptions in the oil sector would drive up fuel, transport, and food costs, worsening life for ordinary Nigerians.

    MURIC’s demands include 100% crude allocation to Dangote Refinery, total cessation of oil imports, payment for crude in naira, a review of labour laws to make them investor-friendly, and a ban on PENGASSAN and NUPENG operations in private refineries.

    The group also called for federal government protection of the refinery, immediate implementation of the 15% tariff on imported products, and a halt to the dumping of foreign goods in Nigeria.

  • Immigration rescues 36 human trafficking victims, denies 332 foreigners entry into Nigeria

    Immigration rescues 36 human trafficking victims, denies 332 foreigners entry into Nigeria

    The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has rescued 36 victims of human trafficking and child labour at the Seme Border in the past month, as part of ongoing efforts to combat irregular migration, the Comptroller-General, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, announced.

    Speaking on Tuesday at the NIS headquarters in Abuja during a one-day Stakeholders Sensitization Seminar on Evolving Patterns of Smuggling of Migrants: Towards a Coordinated National Response, Nandap expressed concern over the increasing involvement of young Nigerians in the so-called “japa syndrome.”

    She noted that the NIS recently denied exit to 294 Nigerians suspected of involvement in smuggling activities.

    The NIS also blocked the entry of 332 illegal migrants into the country, a success credited in part to the installation of CCTV cameras at border posts.

    The seminar drew participants from key agencies including NAPTIP, NDLEA, NSCDC, the Nigeria Navy, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Diaspora Commission, the Boundary Adjustment Commission, the British High Commission, the National Commission for Refugees and Migrants, and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

    Mrs. Nandap emphasized that migrant smuggling remains a serious threat to the safety, dignity, and future of many Nigerians and called for multidimensional approaches to effectively tackle the challenge.

    She said, “Nigeria, with its large population and socio-economic diversity, remains both a source, transit, and destination country for migrants seeking improved livelihoods. Unfortunately, criminal syndicates exploit these aspirations, preying on vulnerable citizens and exposing them to grave risks.

    READ ALSO: Tinubu unstoppable in 2027, says Orji Kalu

    “Migrant smuggling has become more complex and transnational, driven by well-organised criminal networks.

    “Addressing it requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach rooted in partnership, vigilance, and shared responsibility. A coherent national strategy is essential—one that brings together Government Agencies, International Organisations, Civil Society, and the Private Sector.”

    Mrs Nandap, who outlined major steps so far taken by the NIS regarding its constitutional mandates, said the Service has increased the tempo of its awareness campaigns across the country, noting that this year alone, more than 577,200 NYSC Members were sensitised on the dangers of irregular migration.

    “The 2025 Nationwide Anti-Smuggling Sensitization Campaign, launched in Lagos, is now active across States, reaching schools, markets, worship centres, and motor parks.

    “Plans are also underway to establish Anti-Smuggling Clubs in schools and within the NYSC Community Development Service structure.

    Capacity Building – Through strong partnerships,” Mrs Nandap said, noting that, “We have expanded training programmes and enhanced the ability of our personnel to detect, prevent, and respond effectively to smuggling activities.”

    The Immigration boss said the Service would deepen cooperation with AU, ECOWAS, EU, IOM, UNODC, INTERPOL, and the Federal German Police, among others, to strengthen intelligence sharing, joint operations, and coordinated interventions.

    The Deputy Comptroller-General in Charge of Migration, DCG, Ngozi Odikpo, said the gathering was initiated for the stakeholders to share knowledge, expertise, and experiences so as to forge partnerships for better migration management and control.

    DCG Odikpo said migrants’ issues are no longer about laws, but about protecting lives and securing the country, stressing that the evolving patterns should be addressed holistically by all major stakeholders for the betterment of the country.

    The Force Commander of the Combined Maritime Task Force, Navy Commodore A Shettima, said there is a need for greater collaboration between the NIS and the Nigerian Navy to enhance operational efficiency in maritime domains.

    He said the collaboration would assist the Navy in ascertaining the identities of foreigners arrested for various maritime crimes, such as crude oil smuggling, piracy, and smuggling of migrants, while the naval platforms would also be made available for NIS personnel to help identify the countries of the suspected criminals.