The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southeast report

  • Permanent Secretary denies alleged sexual harassment

    Permanent Secretary denies alleged sexual harassment

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ibrahim Lamuwa, has denied the allegation of sexual harassment by Simisola Fajemirokun-Ajayi, a staff member of the ministry.

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, on May 27, 2024 wrote to the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Folasade Yemi-Esan, to probe the allegation.

    “Bearing in mind the gravity of the matter, I feel it necessary to draw your attention to it and ask that you handle it accordingly,” Tuggar wrote in the cover attached with the petition.

    In an official reaction, through his legal team led by Audu Anuga (SAN), Lamuwa strongly denied all the assertions by Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi, one of the minister’s aides.

    In the statement published by PRNigeria on Wednesday, Anuga faulted the claims, saying the accuser read wrong meanings to courteous dispositions of the Permanent Secretary.

    It reads: “We are legal representatives of Ambassador Ibrahim Lamuwa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, have been authorised to make the following statement on his behalf, in response to allegations of sexual harassment levelled against him by Mrs Simisola O. Fajemirokun-Ajayi, an aide to the Honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs.

    “The media, particularly the social media, has been inundated with the digital copy of a petition written by legal representatives of Mrs. Fajemirokun-Ajayi against Amb. Lamuwa. This petition was leaked to generate sympathy for her unsubstantiated claims.

    “We wish to state categorically that our client has never made any sexual advances towards Mrs. Simisola O. Fajemirokun-Ajayi, who he is aware is a married woman, neither has he ever made suggestive comments or innuendos that requested any form of untoward relationship between himself and her.

    “Our client distinctly recalls the events at the ministry’s retreat on October 7th 2023 where Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi claims that he invited her to his room. Our client states categorically that he never made such an invitation and that his only communication with Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi, which was an overt one, was where he checked on her, like he did to all participants on whether they had been well-lodged in their hotels.

    “He further recalls that the instance where he spoke of her as a nursing mother, during the same retreat was in a colloquial conversation they were having with other participants, where one participant even responded jokingly that when a woman says “her baby” it could mean either her husband or one of her children, of which he innocuously joked asking “how big is the baby?”

    “Our client maintains that those conversations were made jokingly and sees their misinterpretation as malicious and with ill intent. Our client also maintains that it is absurd for Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi to claim that he invited her to Hong Kong, given that the conversation they were both having was on how Hong Kong had digitised its work processes as far back as 1999.

    “Our client wonders how such a conversation became interpreted as an invitation for her to travel alongside himself, knowing full well that she is an aide to the minister. How can she leave the minister to follow the permanent secretary on a vacation? Would that not be the height of delusion for the one requesting and the one heeding the request?

    “It is clear that the minister’s aide has misinterpreted ordinary conversations, made openly and in the presence of other participants, for untoward intentions. We believe these allegations are directly tied to our client’s firm objections raised regarding Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi’s improper requests, particularly regarding financial matters in the ministry.

    “For example, Mrs. Fajemirokun-Ajayi made a trip to the World Economic Forum (Davos), of which she sought a reimbursement for the ministry. Our client firmly explained to her that while the ministry may look at avenues to refund her expenses, it is not the appropriate process for a trip to be made without approval, and then funded with taxpayers’ money. after the fact.

    “Further to this is the fact of Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi’s unfamiliarity with civil service rules and processes, where she had requested access to policy files and even financial records of high-level ministry activities from our client. By no means should the permanent secretary, as chief accounting officer of the ministry, provide such sensitive documents to an aide of the minister, worse via a WhatsApp chat.

    “There are due processes in government, and they must be followed. “We must emphasise that Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi is a political appointee not a civil servant. Thus, finance and policy matters are out of her bounds in this instance.

    “It is crucial to mention that our client, in all his 32 years of service in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, never received a query nor a report against him bordering on harassment, let alone sexual harassment. During this period, our client has served in Hong Kong, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Syria and more recently, Senegal, and there has never been a negative report on his conduct in any of these countries.

    “Ambassador Lamuwa has also served for nine years in the State House. From the office of the vice president to the office of the chief of staff to the president, and to the office of the president, and no negative report or allegation of any kind has ever been raised against him,” the legal document stated.

  • Onoh proposes referendum for Biafra Agitators, condemns killing of soldiers

    Onoh proposes referendum for Biafra Agitators, condemns killing of soldiers

    Following the deaths and other forms of violence recorded on Thursday’s Biafra Day commemoration at the Obikabia junction in Ogbor Hill, Abia State, the former campaign spokesman of President Tinubu in the zone, Dr. Josef Onoh, has suggested that the agitating States should be allowed a referendum to know if separation from Nigeria is a majority opinion of the people in the south east.

    Onoh said that after the referendum, any State that opts out will cut off from all ties with Nigeria and if any of such State unleashes any act of terrorism on any part of Nigeria, such a state will be visited with war and the Armed Forces will fully engage them from a point of war.

    Onoh commiserated with the Army who lost their men in the unfortunate incident and families of other Nigerians who lost their beloved one in the “cowardice act.”

    He noted that Nigeria soldiers were not trained to be killed by those they were trained to protect, regretting that the revise has become the case with the Nigeria soldiers being on the defensive.

    According to Onoh: “The south east Governors should come together and engage these Agitators, jointly than separately which has been the major loopholes these criminals have leveraged on to constantly unleash mayhem in the region.

    “I’m disappointed that all the elites and billionaires including politicians are dancing owambe in other safe regions of the country while remaining silent as their region is besieged by criminals. They would rather spend their wealth on police protection with some having more police men attached to them than the president himself. If the president declares state of emergency in the south east to contain the situation they will condemn him and bring in tribal and political sentiments.

    “Today in the south east, both economic and infrastructural development has declined, they work from Tuesday to Thursday, Fridays is now for burials, Saturdays for weddings and traditional marriages, Sundays for thanksgivings and child dedication and the Almighty Monday is now for resting and house chores. What a shame on once a vibrant region.

    Read Also: National Assembly halts amendment of CBN Act

    “Clearly ESN, IPOB and their associates are not to blame, rather it’s the attitude of 99% of people resident in the south east and their selfish exploitation of the sit-at-home to their own comfort that has fuelled the situation. They even circulate propaganda videos on social media 24 hours before each sit-at-home just to promote fear and ensure they don’t go to work or open the markets. I say shame on them. The residents even frustrate the efforts of their respective governors hence defeating the very purpose these governors have attempted to individually contain.

    “Finally our brave men and women of the armed forces have sacrificed a lot to be killed for nothing, the inaction of the police hierarchy during the endsars protest that saw criminals killing and beheading police officers have rise to the mayhem we face today and the boldness of burning police stations.

    “We only have one country, I can comfortably call the chief of army staff a southeastern, as a personal friend I know his capabilities and his formidable exploits in taming the criminal elements in the region when he was the GOC and I urge him to ensure that our brave soldiers did not die in vain, ensure their families find closure in a matter of days.”

  • Children deserve daily celebration not only on May 27 – Soludo

    Children deserve daily celebration not only on May 27 – Soludo

    Wife of Anambra Governor Dr Nonye Soludo has challenged parents to make it a daily routine to celebrate their children, stressing that they deserve to be celebrated.

    She said celebrating children should not be a yearly affair, noting that giving them sense of belonging would go a long way in reducing their attractions to vices capable of destroying their lives and destiny.

    Soludo spoke during a visit to the Model Community Children’s Home, Awka as part of her activities to mark 2024 children day, where she spent time with the children, cooking and feeding them.

    She recalled with nostalgia the motherly love and care of her mother while growing up, attributing her well cultured character to such motherly disposition.

    She said: “I’m here to celebrate the children’s day with the children, cook for them and feed them. They need as motherly love and warmth as they can get.

    “I visit them regularly and call on their caregivers to find out how they’re fairing when I’m away. You can see how familiar they are with me, with many desiring to sit on my laps.

    “We celebrate children everyday. For me as a mother, I celebrate my children every day. I was here four days ago. But today, we’re reminded and encouraged to leave everything and celebrate the children because they deserve to be celebrated.

    “While growing up, my mum played a wonderful role in my life. Because of the way she celebrated me, there were things I wouldn’t do as a student in boarding house because I know she’ll be disappointed to hear of any misbehavior from me. 

    “That’s why parents must be positive with their children. They can’t deviate, even under peer pressure influence. They need more of assurance and blessings than curse, because whatever you tell them will always come to pass.”

    The Governor’s wife advised the children to be focused and and to listen to their parents for proper guidance and direction in life.

    Read Also: Soludo commiserates with family of pupil flogged to death by teacher

    “For the children, times are very hard, especially with the era of social media influence. I urge them to remain focused and listen to their parents because they’re the people that will guide them and tell them the truth. 

    “Whatever you see out there in the social media can be deceptive and misleading. But that of the parents will lead you to the right path and the sky will be your limit,” she added.

    Coordinator of the home, Rev Sister Philomena Akuchukwu, appreciated the governor’s wife for the visit, describing her motherly care and attention to the children as top-notch. 

    “Since you came into office, you have not set eyes off our home. You visit us practically every month with food and drinks. You made our home your second home and know each and everyone of us very well. 

    “You cook for us by yourself, feed us and again pay our school fees. Every child that comes here goes home a different person. May God bless, protect, reward and keep you safe for us,” she posited.

  • Children’s Day: Be good ambassadors, Ighodalo urges children

    Children’s Day: Be good ambassadors, Ighodalo urges children

    Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, Dr Asue Ighodalo, has urged children to become worthy ambassadors for their families, communities, Edo State, and the nation. 

    In a goodwill message on Monday by his media team in Benin City, Ighodalo emphasised the importance of raising children with the awareness that they represent their families and the larger community.

    “On this auspicious occasion of Children’s Day, I rejoice with all of you, our dear children, who are our hope for a better tomorrow and society.

    “When we look at you, we feel so happy and blessed. You are destined to be your family’s and community’s ambassadors. As parents, we are determined to help you play this role effectively every day as you grow up.

    Read Also: DreamWorks celebrates children on Children’s day

    “I must emphasise that you need three things to succeed in this. First, be a disciplined child. Second, be respectful, and third, be ambitious. I sincerely believe that if you follow these three principles, you will grow to be the man or woman your family, community, and state will be proud of.

    “As for us, we are determined to ensure that we do everything possible to help you to fully realise the enormous potential in each of you. Trust me on this.

    “Thank you for adding so much joy and hope to our lives. Have a wonderful Children’s Day,” Ighodalo said.

  • Foundation distributes relief materials in honour of Dr. Gloria Awobasivwe

    Foundation distributes relief materials in honour of Dr. Gloria Awobasivwe

    A non-governmental organisation, Aleeta Foundation, has distributed relief materials to less privileged individuals in Utako village, Daki Biyu, Jabi communities in FCT in honour of renowned wellness, fitness, nutrition and aromatherapy and weight loss consultant, Dr. Gloria Praise Awobasivwe for her 53rd birthday. 

    Aleeta Foundation and its volunteers embarked on the programme in advancement of the ideals the celebrant stands for and consistently promoted. 

    The items distributed include food, drinks and other items. Beneficiaries could not hide their gratitude as the echo of “happy birthday Dr. Gloria Praise” rented the air while they enjoyed their party jollof rice. 

    The founder of Aleeta Foundation, Dr. Gloria Praise Awobasivwe, is an author of several published books and a symbol of humanitarianism as she has touched and impacted many lives through her work and philanthropic activities. 

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    Some of the celebrant’s business interest includes, GoNature ltd, GoWellness ltd and the GOLiTe and GoLean brands. 

    She is an ordained pastor at Salem Family (Foundation Faith Church) and founding minister of Women With Anointing Ministry (WWAM) a training and empowerment place for women which has been in operation in the past 15 years. 

    Aleeta Foundation wished Dr. Gloria Praise Awobasivwe more of God’s love and protection as she continues to serve humanity.

  • Enugu indigenes in Diaspora reject grazing bill

    Enugu indigenes in Diaspora reject grazing bill

    Enugu indigenes in Diaspora under the auspices of Concerned Patriotic Enugu Indigenes In Diaspora (CPEIID) have rejected the alleged secret passing of grazing bill by the House of Assembly.

    They asked Governor Peter Mbah and the Speaker to reverse the bill within 72 hours of receiving the letter.

    They warned that should the ultimatum be ignored, they will be forced to consider all peaceful and legal means to protect the interests of the state and the communities, including organised protests, legal actions and the exploration of other avenues..

    The open letter was titled: “Condemnation of the Secretly passed grazing bill and demand for Immediate reversal”.

    The letter dated May 11, 2024 by the group leader and 12 other members of the group reads in part: “We, the undersigned, are writing to express our deep concern and strong condemnation of the secretly passed grazing bill by the Enugu State House of Assembly. This bill, which was passed without public input or debate, allows for the establishment of grazing lands by The Enugu State Government for AK 47 riffles carrying terrorist herders, which has far-reaching and devastating implications for our communities and state.

    “The secret passage of this bill is a clear violation of our rights as citizens of Enugu State and a betrayal of the trust we have placed in our elected representatives. It is a clear example of the government’s failure to prioritize the needs and interests of its people.

    “The implications of this bill are severe and far-reaching. It will lead to the continuous massacre of our people, displacement of our people, the destruction of our crops and properties, and the continuous erosion of our cultural heritage.

    “It will also continue to perpetuate the criminal activities of Fulani herdsmen, who have consistently shown disregard for the law and the rights of our indigenous people and communities.

    “We believe that the bill will have numerous negative implications, including, increased instances of violence and insecurity, particularly concerning the ongoing attacks by criminal Fulani herdsmen in our different communities, displacement of indigenous communities and the subsequent loss of livelihoods, culture, and heritage.

    “Including escalation of tensions between communities and external groups, undermining the social fabric of our state, and the potential for exacerbating environmental degradation and negative impact to agricultural activities and further endangering our food security.

    “We have seen the negative implications of similar ranches in Benue State, Plateau State, Kaduna State, and other Nigerian States, where thousands of indigenous communities have been displaced and forced into IDP camps, without being protected by the security forces.

    “The experiences of these states serve as a stark warning of the dangers of allowing foreign herdsmen to take over our lands and displace our people. We cannot allow Enugu State to suffer the same fate.

    “Therefore, we demand that the Enugu State House of Assembly takes immediate action to reverse the secretly passed grazing bill and prioritize the well-being and prosperity of the people of Enugu State, take immediate action to compensate Enugu indigenous communities for their crop damages (Worth trillions of dollars) suffered due to the activities of Fulani criminal Fulani herdsmen and terrorist organization, and ensure that the government works to protect the rights and interests of its citizens, rather than prioritizing the interests of external groups.

    “When viewed from statistical point of view and reference the Federal Bureau of statistic (NBS) Federal republic of Nigeria 2019, Land Area of Nigeria by State, the Fulani and Northern Nigeria comprises 19 states, which are: Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Gombe, Adamawa, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kogi, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara, and FCT (Abuja).

    “According to the data provided by the National Bureau of Statistics, the total land area of the 19 northern states is approximately 786,372 square kilometers

    “On the other hand, Southeast Nigeria consists only of 5 states: Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo. The total land area of these 5 southeastern states is around 29,483 square kilometers

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    “Comparing the two regions; Northern Nigeria has a land area of 786,372 square kilometers. Southeast Nigeria has a land area of 29,483 square kilometers.

    “Therefore, the land area of Northern Nigeria is significantly larger than that of Southeast Nigeria by approximately 26 times.

    “Given the significant difference in land area between the two regions, it is clear that Northern Nigeria possesses ample land to accommodate grazing reserves without infringing on the rights and resources of South-East communities.

    “We implore you to listen to the voices of the people of Enugu State, who resolutely oppose this bill.

    “We also call on all stakeholders, including community leaders, civil society organizations, and citizens, to join us in condemning this bill and demanding that our government works for their people, not against them.

    “We also implore Governor Mbah to charge the security agencies to live up to expectations and protect Enugu communities from the mass destruction perpetrated by Fulani terrorist herdsmen. The security agencies have a responsibility to safeguard the lives and properties of Enugu citizens and a responsible state government is expected hold them accountable for their actions or inactions for criminalities by the Terrorist Fulani herdsmen in our dear state.

    “As an expression of the urgency and gravity of this matter, we request the immediate reversal of this bill within 72 hours of receiving this letter. Should this ultimatum be ignored, we will be forced to consider all peaceful and legal means available to protect the interests of our communities, including organized protests, legal action, and the exploration of other avenues to voice our collective dissent.

    “Rest assured, we will not sit idly while our rights and interests are trampled upon. We will resist this bill through every legal and peaceful means available to us”.

  • South East Asiwaju Renewed Mandate mourns Senator Eze

    South East Asiwaju Renewed Mandate mourns Senator Eze

    The Asiwaju Renewed Mandate (ARM) Southeast chapter, has described the death of Senator Ayogu Eze as a great loss to the circle of Nation builders determined to enthroning credible leadership in Nigeria.

    The group, which has Dr Josef Onoh as its Coordinator in the southeast and 

    Comrade A.C Ude as the Enugu Coordinator, said  Senator Eze was a quintessential leader and silent achiever.

    In its tribute, the ARM said it was a saddening loss for which appropriate words can be challenging to use to express shock and emotion.

    ARM however said:”For a second, you were flying,  like you always wanted to; now you will fly forever. 

    “In skies of Azure blue, we will see your smile in every ray of sunshine after rain and hear the echo of your laughter over all the pain.

    “The world’s a little quieter now.

    The colours have lost their hue.

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    The birds are singing softly, and our hearts are missing you. 

    “Unrivaled and inspirational, you were one of the best, and we are so fortunate to have had you in our lives. You will forever be remembered in the highest regard. You  imparted the world in so many beautiful ways that would be remembered with Love and Joy.

    “We, The Asiwaju Renewed Mandate family, South East Caucus, ably led by Dr. Josef Onoh and the state chapter, led by Com. A.C Ude, share in your grief and pray that God grant you all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

  • Lawyers storm Supreme Court for Yahaya Bello, hit EFCC

    Lawyers storm Supreme Court for Yahaya Bello, hit EFCC

    No fewer than 500 legal practitioners on Monday stormed the Supreme Court to condemn what they described as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) “illegal” approach against former Kogi Governor, Yahaya Bello. 

    In a statement by its co-convener S.K Alewu, the group lamented the EFCC’s attempt to arrest the former governor despite being served a valid court order that restrains it from doing so. 

    Alewu said not only has Bello’s fundamental rights been breached, the judiciary has also become willing tools in the hands of enemies of our rule of law.

    The lawyers urged the Judicial Council of Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu to call the EFCC to order to stop further abuse and disobedience of court orders. 

    He said: “It has become pertinent again that we address well-meaning Nigerians on the current attacks on the Judiciary by the very institutions created by law to enforce and guarantee the sanctity of our judicial processes. 

    “As young lawyers, we envisage a judiciary where justice is not only done but also seen to be manifestly done. It is in our patriotic quest to always pursue ventures that guarantee an independent judiciary that dispenses justice without fear nor Favour that we formed this civil society of lawyers. 

    “We are therefore perturbed that desperate politicians and corrupt elements in our polity are working very assiduously to bring the judiciary that sacrificed its all to guard its jurisdiction jealously under the military regime to public odium and opprobrium. 

    “It is more worrisome that even the very institutions that are created by law to enforce our laws have become willing tools in the hands of enemies of our rule of law and the judiciary to harangue our judges and bring the justice system to public ridicule. 

    “The current case between the EFCC and Gov. Yahaya is the most heinous of such instances. It is sickening that the commission will move to lay siege and even attempt to arrest the former governor of Kogi state despite being served a valid court order that restrains them from doing so and without vacating the said order. 

    Read Also: Yahaya Bello: Anti-corruption CSOs condemn unjust application of state power

    “The events of the past few days is capable of eroding the many gains and national acclaim the commission recorded and enjoys from majority of Nigerians who sees the establishment of the commission as the greatest intervention to the endemic corruption that has rocked our public service and government institutions since the return of Nigeria to democracy in 1999.

    “The only succour is that the current president of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a leader who gave his all to sustain our democracy. The President, at a point, became a victim of political with-hunt.

    “We have submitted petitions to the Nigerian Judicial Council and Mr. President asking that they use their good offices to call the EFCC to order and stop any form abuse and disobedience of court orders.

    Yahaya Bello
  • Don’t desecrate courts while fighting corruption, anti-graft CSOs caution EFCC, others

    Don’t desecrate courts while fighting corruption, anti-graft CSOs caution EFCC, others

    Anti-Corruption Civil Society Organisations(CSOs) have advised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) not to desecrate the courts in the course of carrying out its constitutional role of fighting corruption.

    The CSOs and human rights crusaders cautioned the EFCC and other anti-graft agencies against trampling on the rights of supposed suspects of corruption in order to avoid breaking a law to enforce another law.

    The activists, who spoke at a briefing in Lagos on Thursday, noted specifically that the recent public face-off between the EFCC and a former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello in Abuja, was “both unnecessary and unfortunate.”

    The Executive Chairman of the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL), Debo Adeniran,suggested that the rush by the EFCC to make an arrest, when the Court of Appeal hearing on its application to vacate the restraining order was just in a few days, might give credence to allegations of political persecution.

    “Mr. Olukoyede is my friend. But if he begins to trample on the rule of law, then that’s the terminal point of our friendship,” Adeniran said.

    The CSOs noted that the EFCC’s action on Wednesday was “tantamount to the agency preempting the outcome of its appeal and also violating a subsisting and valid court order to pause action pending the determination of the case before it.”

    “Our layman’s understanding is that a Court of coordinate jurisdiction cannot assume superiority over another,” they noted.

    Gbenga Soloki of the Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence, who also spoke, said civil societies in Nigeria would protest vehemently against any attempt to use the military to arrest an individual who had not been accused of treason.

    “It is extremely disappointing to hear this afternoon that EFCC is threatening to involve the military in their desperation to forcefully or violently arrest an individual who has not been alleged of treason.

    “Should that happen, we will be a laughing stock globally. Civil society will be active in protesting against such unforgivable infraction on our democracy should it happen as threatened. It should better not happen,” he said.

    Adeniran stated, “We do not consider Yahaya Bello a saint, but even the devil deserves his rights under the law. Court documents at our disposal show that the former Governor had obtained a High Court restraining order on the EFCC not to arrest or prosecute him pending the determination of a case of the enforcement of his fundamental human rights, which the Commission has rightfully appealed with the intention of vacating.

    “The Commission has done very well up to this point following the due processes of law because without vacating that order, it cannot proceed with arresting the suspect.

    “According to available court documents, hearing on the appeal has been slated to come up on Monday April 22nd in Abuja. However, suddenly yesterday (Wednesday) the news of the foiled arrest of the former Governor by the Commission went viral. One would have expected the Commission to wait for the determination of its own appeal before going after the suspect.

    “We think it is an abuse of court processes to ignore a court order still on appeal at the instance of the Commission and to obtain a warrant of arrest from another court on the same suspect.”

    The CSOs urged the EFCC to fight, prevent and prosecute corruption cases strictly within the ambit of the law set up to regulate the interaction between them and corruption suspects.

    They noted that laws, including the Nigerian criminal justice system regulations and court processes, were meant to be obeyed non-selectively by both state and non-state actors.

    The CSOs recalled that when the current Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, came on board last year, one of his promises was to operate strictly within the rule of law.

    Read Also: BREAKING: EFCC declares Yahaya Bello wanted over alleged N80bn ‘financial crimes’

    “For those who are likely to misinterpret this intervention as it is their regular trademark, this goes beyond Yahaya Bello. Injustice to anyone should not be allowed to stand because it may be your turn tomorrow,” they noted.

    The activists therefore urged the EFCC to revert to status quo antebellum pending the determination of its appeal and a vacation of the restraining order placed on it, saying “that is the way and dictate of the law.”

    The press conference was attended by Comrades Debo Adeniran, Executive Chairman, Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership CACOL); Sina Loremikan, (Campaign Against Impunity); Declan Ihekhaire, (Activists for Good Governance); Gbenga Soloki, CADOV; Ochiaga Ohaneze, (Ohaneze Youth Council); Funmi Jolade, (Women Democratic Vanguard); Kola Abe, (Centre for Socioeconomic Rights); Ologun Ayodeji, (Transparency and Accountability Group); Femi Lawson, (Centre for Public Accountability) and Gbenga Ganzallo (Media Rights Campaign), among others.

  • Defamation: Coalition threaten legal action against online media

    Defamation: Coalition threaten legal action against online media

    A coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), has cautioned an online media platform to retract a defamatory story about a philanthropist or face potential legal action.

    Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, recognized for his philanthropy and as a licensed agent of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), according to the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria (CCSON), was unjustly accused of smuggling in an unsubstantiated publication by the online outlet.

    The coalition expressed regret over the misuse of journalism by individuals who label themselves as “investigative journalists” without adhering to ethical standards.

    According to Alvin Ahmed, the Executive Secretary of the Centre for Ethical Conduct, Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE) at a press briefing by over 15 CSOs on Tuesday in Abuja, the coalition believes that falsely accusing individuals in the guise of investigative journalism without proof can deter good deeds.

    He said: “In the realm of community development and philanthropy, Alhaji Dende Egungbohun stands as a shining example of generosity and compassion.

    “Through his foundation, the IBD Dende Foundation, and personal outreach efforts, it is no news that he has touched countless lives, providing welfare packages, donations to churches and mosques, and spearheading community infrastructure projects.

    “From the construction of diverse basic social amenities to catering for medical bills, electrification projects, youth employment and empowerment, and school fees for the less fortunate in the society, to mention a few, Alhaji Dende’s commitment to uplifting and impact in society knows no bounds.

    “Yet, despite his selfless contributions to society, Alhaji Dende finds himself the target of baseless accusations and malicious slander.

    “For some months, certain individuals masquerading as investigative journalists have waged relentless campaigns of defamation, hurling unfounded allegations without a shred of evidence to support their claims.

    “One incident cited as justification for these attacks involves over two years old interaction viral videos which involve Alhaji Dende mediating in altercations between some clearing agents and Customs officials while passing by the scene of the occurrence.

    “Let us be unequivocal in seeking redress for the distasteful treatment as a Nigerian and certified agent is not only a fundamental right but a moral imperative.

    “To suggest otherwise is to grossly misrepresent the facts and impugn the characters of upstanding citizens.

    “It is also imperative to differentiate between smugglers and certified customs-licensed clearing and forwarding agents.

    “Alhaji Dende falls squarely into the latter category. He is a law-abiding individual who operates within the confines of the law, upholding integrity and compliance with the provisions of the Constitution at every turn.

    “Any insinuations to the contrary are not only baseless but a gross miscarriage of justice.

    The coalition lamented that journalism was being tainted by personal agendas beyond informing, educating, entertaining and contributing positively to society, which the profession is traditionally admired and respected for.

    Ahmed emphasized that unprofessional “investigative journalists” lacking integrity are detrimental to the field of journalism, undermining the efforts of professionals who prioritize truth, accuracy, and objectivity in their work, saying, “Perhaps most concerning of all is the damage inflicted upon the journalism profession with these baseless accusations.

    “Journalism, at its core, is a noble pursuit – a bastion of truth, integrity, and accountability. Yet, the actions of the individuals behind this charade have brought shame upon our profession, tarnishing the reputations of journalists everywhere.

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    “Therefore, let us be clear in our demand for apologies from the individuals responsible for these baseless accusations.

    “If they fail to retract their publications and issue public apologies, we will have no choice but to pursue legal actions to protect Alhaji Dende’s reputation and integrity.

    “If the society allows just anybody to wake up and begin to run down hardworking individuals for personal reasons, the country would end up discouraging such people and ultimately hand Nigeria over to charlatans and people of low moral capacity”.