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Tag: EFCC

  • Anti-graft war: EFCC, DSS strengthen collaboration

    Anti-graft war: EFCC, DSS strengthen collaboration

    Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) have resolved to strengthen collaboration.

    Dele Oyewale, the EFCC spokesperson, said this in a statement yesterday  in Abuja.

    Oyewale said that the collaboration would be, particularly, in the area of intelligence to tackle the menace of economic and financial crimes and corruption.

    According to him, the two agencies made the resolution, when Paul Akugbo, new Director, Base Command Liaison, Lagos paid a courtesy visit to Michael Wetkas, Acting Director, Lagos Directorate of the EFCC.

    Meanwhile, Akugbo described the visit as most necessary towards strengthening the already existing collaboration between the DSS and the EFCC.

    “It is, indeed, a thing of honour to be among you today.

    “As you know, the Base Command is not the Lagos Command; rather, it is the national headquarters annex located in Lagos,” he said.

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    He commended the EFCC for its unrelenting efforts to stamp out corruption from the Nigerian society.

    He said that the visit was a proactive measure to meet the people on ground and familiarise with them for a better collaboration.

    “Security is not a one-man business; so, cooperation and collaboration are needed.

    “For a door to be a door,  it opens both ways for mutual support, and we cannot afford not to collaborate as security agencies.

    “We are here for national security, and we have to work better. This is because the criminals are bonding too.

    “I can assure you our cooperation will be robust, and our support will not be hindered,” he said.

    Responding, Wetkas expressed delight in receiving Akugbo and his team, adding that the DSS and the EFCC had always worked together.

    “On several occasions, we have written letters to you for certain people on our watch-list and you have intercepted them and handed them over to us. We thank you for this.

    “The success of our various services is our joint success. Lagos is a challenging place and we are here to support in any way we can,” he said.

  • EFCC goes after oil sector debtors owing Fed Govt $6b, N66b

    EFCC goes after oil sector debtors owing Fed Govt $6b, N66b

    Owing to the presentation of the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) 2022/2023 oil and gas sector report, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday vowed to act on the revelations among which is the industry is owing Federal Government $6billion and N66 billion.

    Speaking while presenting the report in Abuja, the EFCC Chairman, Olanipekun Olukayode revealed that only on Wednesday, he approved the payment of over N1 billion into the Federation Account from the funds recover from previous NEITI audit reports.

    He said the presentation of the report has just cut out EFCC job for it to implement.

    He said: “Over the years as an anti-corruption agency in the country we are part of the success of the work of NEITI. Where the work stops at the level of presenting this report, then we take off from there to ensure that the recommendations therein and revelations therein particularly as relates to criminal infractions, and violation of our financial laws, it is taken up seriously.

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    “I am also happy to announce to you that as at yesterday (Wednesday),  I still approved that over a billion so remitted to the Federal Government account as a result of the work of the last report of NEITI.

    “Since then we have been making recoveries. We have cases in court we are prosecuting and with this report 2022 and 2023.

    “We are also going to do everything within our power, deploying all our resources to ensure we implement the recommendations therein.”

    The NEITI report  disclosed that outstanding collectible revenues due to the Federal Government in the oil and gas industry as of June this year have risen to over $6.071 billion and N66.4 billion, respectively.

    These figures were among crucial information and data contained in NEITI’s 2022 and 2023 Independent Oil and Gas Industry Report, released yesterday in Abuja.

    A breakdown showed that the outstanding liabilities were $6.049 billion and N65.9 billion in unpaid royalties and gas flare penalties, due to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission as collectible revenues by August 31, 2024. The report also provides a detailed analysis of the information and data regarding who owes what in outstanding revenues due to the government.

    A further breakdown shows outstanding petroleum profit taxes, company income taxes, withholding taxes, and Value Added Tax (VAT) due to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), amounting to $21.926 million and N492.8 million as of June 2024.

    On fuel importation, the latest NEITI report disclosed that a total of 23.54 billion liters of PMS (premium motor spirit) were imported into the country in 2022, while 20.28 billion liters were imported in 2023. This represents a reduction of 3.25 billion liters, or a 14per cent decline, following the removal of the subsidy.

    A detailed 10-year trend analysis (2014–2023) in the NEITI report showed that the highest annual PMS importation into the country, 23.54 billion liters, was recorded in 2022, while the lowest, 16.88 billion liters, was recorded in 2017.

    The NEITI report also disclosed that a total of N15.87 trillion was claimed as under-recovery/price differentials between 2006 and 2023, with the highest amount, N4.714 trillion, recorded in 2022.

    On crude production, fiscalized crude production in 2022 stood at 490.945 million barrels, compared to 556.130 million barrels produced in 2021, representing an 11per cent decline. However, in 2023, NEITI’s independent report revealed total fiscalised production of 537.571 million barrels, a 46.626 million-barrel or 9.5per cent increase from total production recorded in 2022.

    A 10-year trend (2014–2023) of fiscalised crude oil production in Nigeria shows the highest production volume of 798.542 million barrels was recorded in 2014, while the lowest, 490.945 million barrels, was recorded in 2022.

    The NEITI report also provided detailed information and data on crude lifting. In 2022, total crude lifting was 482.074 million barrels compared to 551.006 million barrels lifted in 2021. In 2023, total crude lifting stood at 534.159 million barrels, representing an 11per cent increase of 58.08 million barrels.

    On oil theft and crude losses, a total of 7.68 million barrels of crude were either stolen or lost in 2023, representing a significant drop of 79per cent (29.02 million barrels) compared to 36.69 million barrels either stolen or lost in 2022.

    On overall revenue generation in the oil and gas industry, the report showed that material companies accounted for $15.549 billion (96per cent) and non-material companies for US$695.604 million (4%) in revenues generated in 2022. In 2023, material companies accounted for $21.415 billion (95 per cent), and non-material companies accounted for $1.238 billion (five per cent). The revenues came from 17 identified revenue streams, including proceeds from taxes, oil and gas sales, dividends from NLNG, royalty payments, signature bonuses, gas flare penalties, and concessions.

    NEITI’s independent industry report carefully reviewed and reported on all aspects of the regulatory framework for the oil and gas industry, including the legal framework, fiscal regime, roles of government entities and reforms, laws (PIA 2021), and regulations relating to addressing corruption risks in the oil and gas sector. The report also conducted an overview of the statutory procedures for the awards and transfers of licenses. It disclosed comprehensive information on property rights to oil and gas licenses and leases, including beneficial ownership information and public accessibility of contracts and licenses.

    Other areas covered included disclosures on the participation of state-owned enterprises in the oil and gas sector, exploration, production levels, and the valuation of extractive output. A total of 78 companies in the oil and gas industry and nine relevant government agencies that collect, keep custody, or manage oil and gas revenues were covered by the NEITI process.

    Speaking at the public presentation of the report today in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, reaffirmed “the unwavering commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria to the principles of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) being implemented in the country’s oil and gas sector by NEITI. We consider the EITI not only as a global standard for promoting transparency in the management of revenues from natural resources but also as a tool to strengthen public trust, accountability, and economic growth”.

    Sen. Akume, who also chairs the NEITI board, acknowledged that information and data provided by NEITI’s independent reports have consistently proven invaluable to the government. These reports have guided policy decisions, reforms, and measures that foster accountability, particularly in the oil and gas sector. In a sector where opacity could easily lead to leakages, inefficiencies, and corruption, NEITI has become an indispensable partner in ensuring that Nigerians are fully aware of how their commonwealth is managed.

    He gave assurances that the government’s commitment to this process extends beyond simple endorsement. The Federal Government considers NEITI’s role as a beacon of transparency and accountability in the extractive industries, and the credibility of its reports serves as a foundation for formulating national policies, fighting corruption, revenue growth, and ensuring equitable distribution of revenues. The data contained in this report will inform critical government decisions moving forward, especially as we continue to prioritize resource management, revenue mobilization, and public accountability.

    The SGF further emphasized: “As the Chairman of the NEITI Board, I stand before you today to underscore the Federal Government’s respect for NEITI’s independence. While my role as Chairperson is a testament to the importance the government places on NEITI, it also signifies the commitment to ensure that NEITI operates independently, without interference, as mandated by the EITI standard. It is our duty to safeguard this independence with great care and diligence, ensuring that NEITI can operate free from undue influence.”

    The Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, explained that the preparation of the report followed a meticulous and transparent process in line with global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) standards. “A rigorous, multi-stakeholder approach was adopted, involving extensive collaboration with government agencies, extractive companies, civil society, and indigenous consultants. We ensured that all data was collected, validated, and reconciled in an open and transparent manner,” the NEITI Executive Secretary stated.

    Orji added that the report provides valuable insights that will help guide policy, encourage robust public debate, and ultimately improve governance in the management of our natural resources. The report, as always, remains a vital tool for identifying leakages, improving revenue collection, and promoting resource management reforms.

    Meanwhile, the House Committee on Petroleum (Downstream) Chairman, Hon.  Nkechi Ugochinyere said he has presented a bill to the house recommending four per cent revenue remittance to NEITI from fund recovered due to its audit reports.

    Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream) Chairman, Senator Eteng Williams called for accurate data from the industry.

    He also sought action on the data, stressing there must be increased crude oil production.

  • EFCC versus Yahaya Bello

    EFCC versus Yahaya Bello

    “You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time”

    This quote by the late Abraham Lincoln, the 16thPresident of the United States of America which was further re-echoed in the 1970s by the legendary musician, late Bob Marley, as part of his song titled “Get up, stand up” is apt regarding the dramatization of the ongoing prosecution of the former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the. Suffice it to say that it is very obvious as to who is trying to fool who in his saga.

     Yet again, two days ago, former Governor Yahaya Bello was absent before Hon. Justice Nwite of the Federal High Court, sitting in Abuja. This is despite the subsisting Court of Appeal Order which affirmed the Federal High Court Order compelling Yahaya Bello to appear before Justice Nwite having ruled against his appeal to set aside Justice Nwite’s Order. Instead, Yahaya Bello has basically decided to hit the bulwark of the judiciary heading to the Supreme Court of the Federation in order to avoid complying with the Order of the Court of Appeal. I wonder what Mr. Yahaya Bello will do when the Supreme Court bounces him back to submit himself to the Federal High Court. Will he at that point appear before Justice Nwite? Or will he still be looking for other avenues to dodge the Courts? “Time is a gentleman”.

    Mr. Yahaya Bello who has been declared a fugitive (local and international), has so far refused to take a plea. Interestingly, it appears like it is not a drizzle for Yahaya Bello, but for him, it is a heavy downpour. This is because, 48 hours ago the EFCC has come up with another sucker punch by filing fresh 16 charges against him and two others on a N100.4 Billion case bordering on breach of trust, in another Court. This is adding another dimension to his travails. This will tally to almost N200 Billion as the total money belonging to Kogi State that is alleged to have been stolen by Yahaya Bello and his accomplices.

     By the way, I am one of the Nigerians who were taken aback by the inability of the EFCC to take Mr. Yahaya Bello into custody when he arrived at the EFCC Headquarters last week and presented himself – escorted by his Excellency, Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Governor of Kogi State. Despite the explanations given by the EFCC, a lot of concerned Nigerians believed that it was an opportunity for the EFCC to take Yahaya Bello into custody having declared him a local and international fugitive. Nonetheless, Mr. Yahaya Bello has the duty to comply with the Appeal Court Order for him to appear in Court to answer the charges proffered against him. The fact the EFCC failed to arrest him at the Headquarters is not an excuse for him not to comply with Court Orders.

     Former Governor, Yahaya Bello has so far made several unsuccessful attempts to frustrate the corruption case against him. Meanwhile, his supporters from Kogi State, some Civil Society Organizations, his supporters across Nigeria, and some days ago, the Kogi State Assembly are claiming that Yahaya Bello’s travail is a witch-hunt against him by the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Barrister Ola Olukoyede.

     However, in my opinion, the claim by the Kogi State Assembly that the EFCC Chairman is witch-hunting former Governor Yahaya Bello is clearly another failed publicity stunt to botch the investigation and prosecution of Mr. Yahaya Bello. Rather than focus on the mandate of delivering the desperately needed good governance to the good people of Kogi State, the State Assembly members are preoccupied with an obviously futile exercise of fighting EFCC. 

    Therefore, let us dimension the claims by the Kogi State Assembly and some supporters of Yahaya Bello to determine the veracity of such claims:

    Yahaya Bello is not the only politically exposed person thatis facing investigation and prosecution

    Over the past last one year since the beginning of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, there have been several ongoing high-profile grafts and other corruption cases at various stages of investigation and prosecution – with a scope and scale of cash and assets amounting to whopping Billions of US Dollars (Trillions of Naira); These are indicators of the critical momentum that the EFCC has built in such a short time under the leadership of Mr. Olukoyede, especially with the seriousness and fearlessness that the EFCC is currently executing her mandates. 

    Read Also: Tinubu’s plan to rejig cabinet excites ex-agitator

    Such high-profile cases include: the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele and his co-suspects, the former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello and his co-suspects, former Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Senator Hadi Sirika and his co-suspects,  suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, her predecessor and other co-suspects, suspended Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Board (REA) Mr. Ahmad Salihijo, the suspended Executive Directors of the REA, and their co-suspects, etc. So, I wonder how come former Governor Yahaya Bello and his supporters are claiming a witch hunt? What is the basis for their allegation?

    The level of pushback that is deployed anytime there are attempts to stand up against vested interests or fights against corruption in Nigeria, tells any right-thinking person that indeed we are in trouble in this country.

     Furthermore, from all indications, Mr. President has not been interfering with the works of the EFCC. What is key to note here is that even though, the EFCC Executive Chairman has the support of President Tinubu, Mr. The President would have called him to order or stopped him, if Mr. Olukoyede was operating unprofessionally. 

    Additionally, the claim by the Yahaya Bello media office that the EFCC has a vendetta against him is far-fetched. For example, if it is a vendetta, I expect Mr. Yahaya Bello to puncture all the allegations by countering with solid counter-evidences and accountability. That way Yahaya Bello can clear his name and prepare himself for a political future devoid of blemishes. That is the strategy that will work for him. Media war and propaganda will only make things worse for him. 

    Another key point to note is that, if the allegation by Yahaya Bello and his supporters, that the EFCC is hounding the former governor is true; does that mean that the Federal High Courts and the Court of Appeal are also aiding and abetting the EFCC’s vendetta against Yahaya Bello? This question is germane based on the fact that the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal have taken similar decisions, which speak volumes about the veracity of the need for Yahaya Bello to have his day in Court. This is so much so that on 17th July 2024, Hon. Justice Nwite had to issue an order of Court referring Mr. Bello’s two most senior defense lawyers to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) for probe over alleged professional misconduct – Is this also an EFCC vendetta?

    We can run, but you cannot hide from the long arms of the law

    Yahaya Bello is needlessly complicating his case whether he is guilty or not. In addition, I must say that Yahaya Bello’s supporters are not helping him with wise counsel on this matter. The ongoing civil and criminal corruption cases against the former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello which interestingly started about 2 years ago before the tenure of Barrister Ola Olukoyode as the Executive Chairman has become a macabre dance on the part of the former governor. In fact, in my view, Yahaya Bello has boxed himself into a legal cul-de-sac.

     This is a classic example of “you can run but you cannot hide from the long arms of law”. Nigeria and the international community are awash with the macabre dance by the former governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello who is trying to run and evade a reality that I thought the former Governor should know better.

     Let me be clear, I am not saying that Mr. Yahaya Bello has been found guilty – No! Mr. Yahaya Bello remains innocent until proven guilty by a Court of competent jurisdiction. My grouse is that the activities of Yahaya Bello and his co-travelers are leaving a very bad impression of him in the eyes of the public and the eyes of authorities (local and international).

     I urge Yahaya Bello, his team of lawyers, and supporters to do justice to the allegations made against him by puncturing the pieces of evidence line by line, item by item – and if he cannot, he should do what men of honor do – step up and take responsibility, it will not be the end of life. It will be an opportunity to close a chapter and open a new one that will be full of opportunities for greatness.

     Dear former Governor Yahaya Bello, until you step up to the plate and take responsibility, you are losing face and supporters. Please be wary of sycophants, who will only make your matters worse while they mock you behind you. At the end of the day, you will stand alone with a few of your true friends and loved ones who tell you the truth and mean well to you.

  • EFCC talks tough as NEITI report reveals $6bn, ₦66bn debt in oil, gas sector

    EFCC talks tough as NEITI report reveals $6bn, ₦66bn debt in oil, gas sector

    …approves payment of over N1billion to FG due to recoveries from previous reports

    Following the release of the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) 2022/2023 oil and gas sector report, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) pledged on September 26 to address the findings, which indicate that the industry owes the Federal Government $6 billion and ₦66 billion.

    During the report’s presentation in Abuja, EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukayode announced that he had approved the transfer of over ₦1 billion into the Federation Account on Wednesday, derived from funds recovered through previous NEITI audits.

    He stated that the report has clarified the EFCC’s responsibilities moving forward.

    Olukayode said: “Over the years as an anti-corruption agency in the country we are part of the success of the work of NEITI. Where the work stops at the level of presenting this report, then we take off from there to ensure that the recommendations therein and revelations therein particularly as relates to criminal infractions, and violation of our financial laws, it is taken up seriously.

    “I am also happy to announce to you that as of yesterday (Wednesday), I still approved that over a billion so remitted to the Federal Government account as a result of the work of the last report of NEITI.

    “Since then we have been making recoveries. We have cases in court we are prosecuting and with this report 2022 and 2023.

    “We are also going to do everything within our power, deploying all our resources to ensure we implement the recommendations therein.”

    The NEITI report has disclosed that outstanding collectable revenues due to the Federal Government in the oil and gas industry as of June this year have risen to over $6.071 billion and N66.4 billion, respectively.

    These figures were among crucial information and data contained in NEITI’s 2022 and 2023 Independent Oil and Gas Industry Report, released today in Abuja.

     A breakdown shows that the outstanding liabilities were $6.049 billion and N65.9 billion in unpaid royalties and gas flare penalties, due to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission as collectable revenues by August 31, 2024. The report also provides a detailed analysis of the information and data regarding who owes what in outstanding revenues due to the government.

    A further breakdown shows outstanding petroleum profit taxes, company income taxes, withholding taxes, and VAT due to the Federal Inland Revenue Service, amounting to $21.926 million and N492.8 million as of June 2024.

    On fuel importation, the latest NEITI report disclosed that a total of 23.54 billion litres of PMS (premium motor spirit) were imported into the country in 2022, while 20.28 billion litres were imported in 2023. This represents a reduction of 3.25 billion litres, or a 14% decline, following the removal of the subsidy.

    A detailed 10-year trend analysis (2014–2023) in the NEITI report shows that the highest annual PMS importation into the country, 23.54 billion litres, was recorded in 2022, while the lowest, 16.88 billion litres, was recorded in 2017. The NEITI report also disclosed that a total of N15.87 trillion was claimed as under-recovery/price differentials between 2006 and 2023, with the highest amount, N4.714 trillion, recorded in 2022.

    On crude production, fiscalized crude production in 2022 stood at 490.945 million barrels, compared to 556.130 million barrels produced in 2021, representing an 11% decline. However, in 2023, NEITI’s independent report revealed total fiscalised production of 537.571 million barrels, a 46.626 million barrel or 9.5% increase from total production recorded in 2022. A 10-year trend (2014–2023) of fiscalised crude oil production in Nigeria shows the highest production volume of 798.542 million barrels was recorded in 2014, while the lowest, 490.945 million barrels, was recorded in 2022.

    The NEITI report also provided detailed information and data on crude lifting. In 2022, total crude lifting was 482.074 million barrels compared to 551.006 million barrels lifted in 2021. In 2023, total crude lifting stood at 534.159 million barrels, representing an 11% increase of 58.08 million barrels.

    On oil theft and crude losses, a total of 7.68 million barrels of crude were either stolen or lost in 2023, representing a significant drop of 79% (29.02 million barrels) compared to 36.69 million barrels either stolen or lost in 2022.

    On overall revenue generation in the oil and gas industry, the report showed that material companies accounted for US$15.549 billion (96%) and non-material companies for US$695.604 million (4%) in revenues generated in 2022. In 2023, material companies accounted for US$21.415 billion (95%), and non-material companies accounted for US$1.238 billion (5%). The revenues came from 17 identified revenue streams, including proceeds from taxes, oil and gas sales, dividends from NLNG, royalty payments, signature bonuses, gas flare penalties, and concessions.

    NEITI’s independent industry report carefully reviewed and reported on all aspects of the regulatory framework for the oil and gas industry, including the legal framework, fiscal regime, roles of government entities and reforms, laws (PIA 2021), and regulations relating to addressing corruption risks in the oil and gas sector. The report also conducted an overview of the statutory procedures for the awards and transfers of licenses. It disclosed comprehensive information on property rights to oil and gas licenses and leases, including beneficial ownership information and public accessibility of contracts and licenses.

    Other areas covered included disclosures on the participation of state-owned enterprises in the oil and gas sector, exploration, production levels, and the valuation of extractive output. A total of seventy-eight (78) companies in the oil and gas industry and nine (9) relevant government agencies that collect, keep custody, or manage oil and gas revenues were covered by the NEITI process.

    Speaking at the public presentation of the report today in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, reaffirmed “the unwavering commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria to the principles of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) being implemented in the country’s oil and gas sector by NEITI. We consider the EITI not only as a global standard for promoting transparency in the management of revenues from natural resources but also as a tool to strengthen public trust, accountability, and economic growth,” the SGF stated.

    Sen. Akume, who also chairs the NEITI board, acknowledged that information and data provided by NEITI’s independent reports have consistently proven invaluable to the government. These reports have guided policy decisions, reforms, and measures that foster accountability, particularly in the oil and gas sector. In a sector where opacity could easily lead to leakages, inefficiencies, and corruption, NEITI has become an indispensable partner in ensuring that Nigerians are fully aware of how their commonwealth is managed.

    He gave assurances that the government’s commitment to this process extends beyond simple endorsement. The Federal Government considers NEITI’s role as a beacon of transparency and accountability in the extractive industries, and the credibility of its reports serves as a foundation for formulating national policies, fighting corruption, revenue growth, and ensuring equitable distribution of revenues. The data contained in this report will inform critical government decisions moving forward, especially as we continue to prioritize resource management, revenue mobilization, and public accountability.

    The SGF further emphasized, “As the Chairman of the NEITI Board, I stand before you today to underscore the Federal Government’s respect for NEITI’s independence. While my role as Chairperson is a testament to the importance the government places on NEITI, it also signifies the commitment to ensure that NEITI operates independently, without interference, as mandated by the EITI standard. It is our duty to safeguard this independence with great care and diligence, ensuring that NEITI can operate free from undue influence,” Akume concluded.

    Read Also: Bobrisky: Reps to investigate allegations against EFCC, NCS

    The Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, explained that the preparation of the report followed a meticulous and transparent process in line with global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) standards. “A rigorous, multi-stakeholder approach was adopted, involving extensive collaboration with government agencies, extractive companies, civil society, and indigenous consultants. We ensured that all data was collected, validated, and reconciled in an open and transparent manner,” the NEITI Executive Secretary stated.

     Orji added that the report provides valuable insights that will help guide policy, encourage robust public debate, and ultimately improve governance in the management of our natural resources. The report, as always, remains a vital tool for identifying leakages, improving revenue collection, and promoting resource management reforms.

    Meanwhile, the House Committee on Petroleum (Downstream) Chairman, Hon.  Nkechi Ugochinyere said he has presented a bill to the house recommending 4% revenue remittance to NEITI from fund recovered due to its audit reports.

    Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream) Chairman, Senator Eteng Williams called for accurate data from the industry.

    He also sought action on the data, stressing there must be increased crude oil production.

  • House to probe allegations against EFCC, Correctional Services

    House to probe allegations against EFCC, Correctional Services

    The House of Representatives on Thursday resolved to investigate the allegations against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Correctional Services over the prosecution and imprisonment of popular cross dresser Bobrisky. 

    The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance by Hon. Patrick Umoh (APC, Akwa Ibom). 

    He recalled the disturbing and widely circulated publication from Martins Vincent Otse (also known as VeryDarkMan) against critical Nigerian law enforcement institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Correctional Service. 

    Read Also: How I encouraged VeryDarkMan in Bobrisky’s EFCC N15m saga – Seun Kuti

    He said the publication alleged the EFCC dropped money laundry charges against Idris Okuneye (also known as Bobrisky) after collecting N15m.  

    He said further the publication alleged that the Idris Okuneye, upon conviction for abuse and defacing of the Naira, by the court did not serve his time at the Nigeria Correctional Service but was lodged outside the confines of the Service. 

    He expressed concern about the negative image and portrayal of Nigeria as a corrupt nation. 

  • EFCC ready to engage Yahaya Bello in Court -Spokesperson 

    EFCC ready to engage Yahaya Bello in Court -Spokesperson 

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it is ready to engage former Kogi governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in court over the fraud allegation of N8.2 billion against him.

    EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, that Bello must have his day in court.

    He said that just like other indicted former ministers, ex-governors, several top government officials, captains of industries, internet fraudsters facing trial, Bello would not be an exemption.

    ”EFCC is eager to engage the former governor in the courtroom, where the avalanche of evidence so painstakingly assembled can be presented,” he said.

    He said that attempt to frustrate the ongoing investigation and prosecution of the alleged fraud case would not work.

    Read Also: Yahaya Bello: EFCC chair gets kudos

    Oyewale said the anti-graft agency was ready to provide all evidence to prove its case in court.

    ”Bello must have his day in court, no matter the recourse to blackmail, appeal to emotive public sympathy or acts of brigandage.

    ”The EFCC will continue with its no sacred cow policy, no matter whose ox is gored,” he said.

    He said since the former governor would not submit himself to EFCC office for questioning, “the appropriate place of surrender would be before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

    “Before whom his legal team had undertaken to produce him to answer to the 18-count money laundering charges preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.”

    According to him, the commission remains committed to ensuring that the law takes its course in the money laundering charges already filed against Bello in Court.

    ”The EFCC is not unaware of the fact that corruption fights back.

    ”Bello must have his day in court, no matter the recourse to blackmail, appeal to emotive public sympathy or acts of brigandage.

    ”The EFCC is not running a circus show. Corruption issues should not be turned into a theatre of the absurd.

    (NAN)

  • EFCC accused of bias in Yahaya Bello’s prosecution

    EFCC accused of bias in Yahaya Bello’s prosecution

    The Media Office of Alhaji Yahaya Bello, Kogi State’s immediate past governor, has alleged that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is driven by desperation and ulterior motives in its prosecution of Bello.

    In a statement issued in Lokoja on Wednesday, Director Ohiare Michael said: “The EFCC’s operational and procedural blunders since the inception of the money laundering case against Bello reveal its true intentions.”

    Michael noted that the EFCC’s actions, including its statement titled “Yahaya Bello Must Have His Day in Court,” demonstrated a fixation on tarnishing Bello’s image for political reasons.

    Read Also: Yahaya Bello: EFCC chair gets kudos

    He cited the events of 18 September, where Bello voluntarily submitted to the agency but was not detained, followed by an overnight attack on the Kogi Government Lodge.

    Michael questioned the EFCC’s motives: “If genuinely interested in prosecution, why not arraign Bello on the next adjourned date? Why embarrass the country to satisfy collaborators’ egos?”

    “We urge Nigerians to ask: what does the EFCC truly want from Yahaya Bello? His Excellency will have his day in court, in line with the rule of law, not the EFCC’s prescription.”

    (NAN)

  • Yahaya Bello: EFCC chair gets kudos

    Yahaya Bello: EFCC chair gets kudos

    Journalists Against Corruption has urged President Bola Tinubu to call Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, to order, over “obstruction of the statutory functions of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in the bid by EFCC to arrest and prosecute former governor, Yahaya Bello.”

     JAC express its dismay “Governor Ododo, who has sworn to uphold the constitution, could brazenly, unabashedly and persistently shield Yahaya Bello, away from accounting for his activities as governor for eight years.”

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     It said: “A valid and subsisting warrant of arrest has earlier been issued against Bello. What is expected of a former governor is to submit to the rule of law and make himself available for interrogation and possible prosecution.

      “It is clear and unambiguous that the immunity enjoyed by Governor Ododo does not cover his predecessor.  “It is on this note that we are calling on President Tinubu not to watch the disgusting and internationally embarrassing scenario involving Bello and Ododo further, as it portends serious danger for the nation.”

  • Bello must have his day in court, says EFCC

    Bello must have his day in court, says EFCC

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has described as “preposterous’’ the claim by  former Kogi State Governor Yahya Bello that his life was under threat.

    The commission  said  Bello ‘’should be more interested in clearing his name’’ than ‘’insinuating that he was the target of a phantom assassination’ by its agents at the Kogi State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.’’

    Spokesman for the anti-graft agency Dele Oyewale,  stated this in a statement yesterday.

    The statement is the first comprehensive reaction by the EFCC to the drama that played out on September 18  when the former governor showed up at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

     The agency explained in the statement that in the past 20 years, none of those it had investigated, prosecuted, and secured their conviction was assassinated.

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    The commission explained  that Bello was not arrested during his “touted surrender” because of  available “backend intelligence.’’ 

    It said: “It is public knowledge that a former governor of Kogi State,  Mr. Yahaya Bello had made several unsuccessful attempts to throw spanners in his ongoing trial through some irresponsible and utterly rascally efforts.

    “The appropriate place of surrender would be before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja,  before whom his legal team had undertaken to produce him to answer to the 18-count charges of money laundering preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). 

    “Yahaya Bello should be more interested in clearing his name than playing the victim and crying persecution, where none exists.

     “To even insinuate that he was the target of a phantom assassination attempt because the EFCC  made efforts to effect his arrest at the Kogi State Governor’s Lodge where he had been hiding, is preposterous.

    “ It is the first time in the commission’s more than two decades existence that such a jejune claim would be made. This is no more than scaremongering, intended to scandalise the commission.

    “But EFCC is not deterred by this, and other shenanigans by the ex-governor.  The commission remains committed to ensuring that the law takes its course in the money laundering charges already filed against Yahaya Bello in court.

       “EFCC is eager to engage the former governor in the courtroom where the avalanche of evidence so painstakingly assembled can be presented and arguments marshaled for justice to be served to all parties involved in this saga.

    “The true test of Yahaya Bello’s willingness to abide by the law in the criminal proceedings instituted against him at the Federal High Court Abuja by the EFCC is to present himself to the court in obedience to the order of Justice  Nwite.

    “His presence in court is the only step  that will  convince Nigerians that his touted submission to the EFCC which was widely reported in the media on September 18, was not a stunt

    “ Till date,  Bello is yet to take his plea in the alleged N80.2billion money laundering charges preferred against him before Justice Nwite.

    “ His invasion of the corporate headquarters of the commission with a retinue of security details, hand-to-hand cahoots and carriage with a sitting governor having immunity,  unwarranted media blitz, scripted sleight of hands unknown to the public and other backend intelligence available to the commission, compelled a tactical rebuff of his touted surrender offer.”

    The anti-graft commission gave insights into what transpired when Bello was at its office and called for restraint by the public in responding to its operations.

    It said: “The incident of Wednesday,  September 18, 2024, regarding the orchestrated antics of the former governor to surrender himself to the EFCC, having denied being invited by the commission and operating underground as a fugitive for several months,  expectedly raised concerns and curiosity of many Nigerians who had been waiting frantically for his arrest and trial.

     “As a responsible anti-graft agency, the EFCC is sensitive to public opinions, especially if they are in tandem with its operational codes and Standard Operating Procedures.

    “However, no hysteria, blackmail, sentiment, or coordinated attacks in some section of the media would make the commission compromise its integrity.

    “Yahaya Bello’s matter cannot define the success or failure of the works of the EFCC,  as the scorecard of the commission is remarkable and undeniably impressive.

    “The EFCC is not unaware of the fact that corruption fights back.   Bello must have his day in court, no matter the recourse to blackmail, appeal to emotive public sympathy, or acts of brigandage 

    “Within the year, the Commission had arraigned three former ministers, two ex-governors, several top government officials, captains of industries, internet fraudsters and many more would be arraigned in due course.”

  • EFCC launches probe into Bobrisky’s N15m bribery claim

    EFCC launches probe into Bobrisky’s N15m bribery claim

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has ordered an investigation into the bribery allegations against its officers by Idris Okuneye (alias Bobrisky).

    Okuneye alleged that some unnamed officers collected N15 million to drop money laundering charges against him. He only pleaded guilty to abuse of the naira.

    Martins Vincent Otse (a.k.a VeryDarkMan) shared a call recording of the allegation.

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    Bobrisky also alleged that he spent his prison time in a private apartment.

    EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede constituted a team of investigators to look into the allegations.

    “To this end, the Commission hereby invites both Okuneye and Otse to make themselves available at its Lagos Directorate to assist investigators unearth the alleged bribery.

    “The EFCC wishes to assure the public that the allegations would be thoroughly investigated and the result of the findings made public accordingly.

    “The Commission is committed to its core values of integrity, courage, professionalism and collaboration at all times,” Head of Media & Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said in a statement.