Anambra exposes 427 ghost workers on payroll scam

Anambra Local Government Service Commission has uncovered over 427 ghost workers receiving salaries from the State Government despite not being legitimate employees. Chairman of the Commission, Vin Ezeaka, speaking to journalists in Awka, the Anambra state capital on Friday, disclosed that a comprehensive audit had uncovered more than 427 ghost workers receiving salaries despite not being actual employees. Ezeaka stated that the discovery occurred during a staff personnel audit aimed at sanitizing the local government system in the state. During this process, it was found that over 427 individuals were on the local government payroll without holding legitimate employment positions. He said: “Out of the 427 ghost workers uncovered, 59 were staff of the commission who had died a long time ago, 40 others had retired & are still on the payroll of the commission, while about 11 others are staff living abroad whose names were still on the payroll of government. “Others were some staff members of UNIZIK, and Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe. 59 deceased staff of the institutions, 40 retirees, and above all 222 workers on the payroll who nobody could identify as workers in any of the 21 LGAs and we have many of them living abroad and still receiving salaries. “The commission also found instances of certificate forgery, where six senior employees allegedly submitted fake credentials from IMSU. “We are going to finish our investigation and those caught in this unholy act will face the full wrath of the law in accordance with civil service rules.”

Gunmen Kidnap 6 Anambra Clerics

Some yet-to-be-identified gunmen have reportedly abducted Archbishop Uka Uka Osim of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star. The cleric, his wife, Anne Osim and son, Roland Uka Osim, and three other clerics from the ministry were abducted on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, in Abia State while travelling to Awka, the capital of Anambra State. They were reportedly on evangelical duties when they were ambushed by the armed men. The other three priests also kidnapped were identified as Azuka Ochu, Moses Okafor and Anderson Akwazie. The kidnapping incident was confirmed to journalists by the administrator of the spiritual organisation in Abia State, BCS, Bishop Denis Onuoha. He said four days later, the abductors had not reached out to anybody. “We are very worried, but we are assured that the Almighty Father, whom they worship and work for with total devotion, will help them out,” Bishop Onuoha told reporters. The cleric urged security agencies to assist and rescue the clergymen, stating that the church has embarked on deep prayers, believing that the Archbishop and his brethren will be rescued unhurt.

Anambra Governor Soludo Appoints Yoruba Man As Permanent Secretary

Anambra State Governor, Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has appointed an Osun State indigene, Bayo Ojeyinka as a Permanent Secretary in the state civil service. The appointment, which was based on merit, was commended by civil servants in the state, describing it as deserving. According to Business Day, Ojeyinka has been in the Anambra state public service system since 1995, after completing his National Youth Service Corps scheme (NYSC) in the state. He received the award as the best-serving corps member during his service year and was subsequently retained by the state government. Speaking on his promotion, Ojeyinka expressed gratitude to Governor Soludo and promised to increase his productivity, transparency, and fairness in his work. He said, “I am so excited to be considered. I don’t see this as a right but rather a rare privilege because so many brilliant officers also merited the promotion. “I thank Mr Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo for this honour, and Ndi Anambra for all their love, kindness and support in my 29 years of living in Anambra State. “I will repay the state with increased efficiency, productivity, transparency and fairness in my work. “I thank my colleagues to, the Head of Service, Her Honour, Barrister Mrs Theodora Igwegbe for her wonderful support. I promise to live up to the great expectations.”

Alleged N4b fraud: Obiano prays court to quash charges against him

Willie Obiano, the former Anambra State Governor, has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to quash the N4billion corruption charges brought against him by the federal government. He premised his motion on notice pursuant to provisions of the 1999 Constitution and the Administration of the Criminal Justice Act 2015. The ex-gov argued that there is a subsisting appeal by the Anambra state government challenging the authority of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC’s authority to investigate the funds. He argued through his counsel, Onyechi Ikpeazu SAN, that there was no connection between the proof of evidence and the alleged accusation against him. Obiani maintained that there was no testimony from any witness indicating that he issued directives for the disbursement of security votes and other funds belonging to the Anambra state government. He emphasised that the he cannot be held accountable for any alleged unlawful actions by officials of the Anambra state government as there is no concept of vicarious liability in criminal justice system. The former governor is being prosecuted by EFCC on 9- count charges bordering on money laundering to the tune of N40 billion. The anti-graft agency alleged that Obiano bypassed financial institutions in numerous unlawful cash transactions using funds allegedly stolen from the state’s account. The EFCC claimed that the cash amounts involved in the transactions exceeded legally permitted limits. The motion on notice was brought pursuant to section 6 (6) (a) and (b) and section 36(6) (6) b of the 1999 constitution as amended and section 1(1) & (2), 266, 271(b), 383(4) &492 (3) of the Administration of the Criminal Justice Act 2015. Among others, Obiano is seeking “An order of the court quashing the instant charge for it amounts to flagrant abuse of judicial process and a mockery of the criminal Justice “An order quashing the charge for non disclosure of a prime facie case being vague and devoid of precision in respect of all the 9 count charges. “No prima facie case has been disclosed against the defendant in this charge.There is no link between the proof of evidence and the purported allegation made against the defendant in the charge “No evidence exist from any witness showing that the defendant passed down directive for the disbursement of security votes and other funds belonging to Anambra state government. “The defendant cannot be made answerable for any purported unlawful actions of officials of Anambra State government as there is no vicarious liability in our criminal jurisprudence. “The thinking and conclusion of the prosecution on the counts arose from speculation and suspicions “The subject matter of the charge borders on accountability for security vote funds. The honorable court lacks the requisite jurisdiction to entertain issues on accountability for security vote funds “There is an appeal filed by the Anambra state government challenging the powers of EFCC to investigate the security vote of Anambra state government. “The preferment of the entire charge is in bad faith. This honourable court has inherent judicial power to grant all the reliefs sought above. At Thursday’s resumption of trial, Sylvanus Tahir (SAN), counsel for the EFCC, informed the court that he had received the defendant’s motion and had responded accordingly with counter affidavit. However, he said while attempting to serve the defendant’s counsel with his response, he found their gate locked but that he managed to deliver the response in the court room. Responding, Patrick Ekweto (SAN), counsel to Obiano requested time to respond to EFCC’S counter affidavit. In a short ruling, Justice Inyang Ekwo granted the defendant two days to file and serve their process on the EFCC. The matter continues March 13 for the motion to be heard.

Alleged N4bn fraud: Court hears Obiano’s motion on jurisdiction, March 7

The Federal High Court, Abuja has fixed March 7, to hear a motion filed by former Anambra Governor, Willie Obiano, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to hear the alleged N4 billion fraud charge filed against him by the federal government. The former governor is answering a nine-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering to the tune of N4billion, proffered against him the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC). He allegedly directed the diversion of the total N4 billion from the state’s account between April 2017 and March 2022, and spent the money for purposes unconnected to the security affairs of Anambra. On Monday, the Prosecution which was scheduled ready to called their witnesses was halted as Counsel to Obiano, Mr Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, informed the court that he had filed a motion challenging jurisdiction on behalf of his client. Confirming the service of the motion on notice, the prosecution counsel, Mr Sylvanus Tahir, SAN, however, said that he had yet to file a reply because he was served the motion on Monday morning in court. He drew the attention of these court that the issue on jurisdiction had been settled by the Supreme Court, adding that charges bordering on money laundering are decided at the Federal High Court. Justice Inyang Ekwo advised the prosecutor to do his part by filing his response to the motion. “It is not for you to tell the court the Supreme Court’s decision on the issue. Respond to the motion and leave the court to decide.” Obiano, who was governor from March 2014 to March 2022, allegedly diverted the money from the state’s account dedicated to security funds in his last five years in office. The Prosecution alleged that the finds were diverted through companies that had no business relationship with the Anambra government, converted to dollars and handed over to the former governor in dollars. The case, filed by EFCC detailed the nine companies allegedly used for diverting the funds from the state government’s security vote account. The federal government claimed that from Feb. 16, 2018 to March 9, 2018, an aggregate sum of N223,371,000 was paid from the security vote account into the account of Connought International Services Limited. The charge sheet claimed that from Oct. 30, 2018 to Nov.13 2018, a total sum of N95 million was paid from the security vote account into the bank account of S.Y. Panda Enterprises. Also, the prosecution alleged that from April 11, 2017 to June 21, 2019, a total of N416,000,000 was diverted from security vote account into the account of Zirga Zirga Trading Company Limited.

Anambra Labour Party Lawmakers Forfeit 6-Month Salaries

At least eight Labour Party lawmakers in the Anambra house of assembly have willingly given up their six months salaries to help alleviate economic challenges faced by citizens. The lawmakers said they took the decision at an emergency meeting of the party which held on Thursday. “We, the Labour Party House of Assembly members, wish to lend our voice to the cry of our Leader, His Excellency, Mr. Peter Obi, on the sorry state of the nation, after our emergency caucus meeting,” the statement reads. “We urge His Excellency, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, to stop work on all other sectors on the economy including infrastructure, for the next six months, and declare a state of emergency on security and hunger in the nation. “Similarly, we urge all other governors of the 36 states, including Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state, to suspend all infrastructural development for the next six months and also declare a state of emergency on security and hunger. “For this reason, we, the Labour Party house of assembly members have resolved to relinquish our basis salary for six months as part of our contribution to alleviate the sufferings of the masses. “We must commend our leader, Mr. Peter Obi, for his selfless efforts to ensure the stability and growth of our nation. It really shows that he is committed to making this nation a better place for all of us.” The lawmakers include Nkechi Ogbuefi, Henry Mbachu, Jude Ifeanyi Umennajiego, Fred Ezenwa, Justice Azuka, Paul Obu and Patrick Okafor.

Senate Denies Anambra State NDDC Membership

The Senate has dismissed a proposal to add Anambra State to the membership of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), leading to a tense debate among lawmakers. The rejection came after Senator Tony Nwoye, representing Anambra North, presented a bill seeking an amendment to the NDDC Act to include Anambra State. Senator Nwoye argued that Anambra, as an oil-producing state, deserved membership in the NDDC, citing its consistent receipt of 13% derivation since 2021. However, his proposal faced resistance from several senators who argued that the NDDC primarily serves as a regional or geographical intervention body and is not solely for oil-producing states. Senator Jibrin Isah, popularly known as Echocho, pointed out that Kogi State, also an oil-producing state, had been receiving 13% derivation since October 2022. The debate escalated as Senator Nwoye and Senator Echocho clashed over the inclusion of Kogi State in the discussion. Echocho urged Nwoye to focus on Anambra’s case and not drag Kogi into the argument. Attempting to provide clarity, Senate President Godswill Akpabio cautioned against the potential implications of granting Anambra State NDDC membership, suggesting that it could set a precedent for other states like Lagos, which also have oil wells, to demand inclusion. Akpabio also noted that the National Boundary Commission would need to assess whether Anambra’s proximity to the Niger Delta warranted its membership in the commission. Following the contentious deliberations, the bill for Anambra State’s inclusion in the NDDC membership was put to a voice vote, with a majority of senators voting against it, effectively shelving the proposal for the time being.

BREAKING: Obiano to be arraigned over alleged ₦4bn fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission will arraign the immediate-past governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano, on Wednesday, January 24, before Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, over alleged money laundering to the tune of N4,008,573,350. The ex-governor will be arraigned on nine count charges. The development comes over a week after the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede vowed to review all abandoned high-profile cases, especially those involving former Governors and Ministers. An impeccable source revealed, “We found that Obiano moved N4,008,573,350 from security votes into different accounts. The money at various times was changed into dollars and returned to Obiano by cash.” EFCC’s lead counsel, Slyvanus Tahir, SAN, will lead eight other lawyers in the trial of the former governor Some of the charges against Obiano include, “That you, Chief Willie Maduabuchi Obiano, whilst being the executive governor of Anambra State of Nigeria between March 2014 – March 2022, sometime between 7th February, 2018 to 18th February, 2019 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, indirectly transferred through Mr Willie Nwokoye, your then principal private secretary, the sum of N156,800.00 only from the Anambra State Government Security Vote Account No: 5030050875 domiciled in Fidelity Bank Pic into the Fidelity Bank Ple Account No: 6060018819 belonging to C.I. Patty Ventures Nigeria Limited (an entity that had no business relationship with the Anambra State Government), which funds were dissipated for purposes unrelated / unconnected with the security affairs of Anambra State, which you reasonably ought to have known that such funds formed part of the proceeds of your unlawful act, to wit: (Stealing and Corruption) and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (b) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) in 2012 and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act. “That you, Chief Willie Maduabuchi Obiano, whilst being the executive governor of Anambra State of Nigeria between March 2014 — March 2022, sometime between 9th August, 2017 to 4th March, 2020 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, indirectly transferred through Mr Willie Nwokoye, your then principal private secretary, the sum of N261,268,585.00 only from the Anambra State Government Security Vote Account No: 5030050875 domiciled in Fidelity Bank Plc into the Fidelity Bank Plc Account No: 5600062873 belonging to Easy Diamond Integrated Link (an entity that had no business relationship with the Anambra State Government), which funds were dissipated for purposes unrelated / unconnected with the security affairs of Anambra State, which you reasonably ought to have known that such funds formed part of the proceeds of your unlawful act, to wit: (Stealing and Corruption) and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (b) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) in 2012 and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.” When contacted by our correspondent on Tuesday, the EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale confirmed the development while noting that Obiano will be arraigned on Wednesday. “Yes, we’re arraigning Obiano tomorrow,” Oyewale noted. The ex-governor was first arrested at the Murtala Muhammad International Airport, Lagos, on March 17, 2022, as he was preparing to board a flight to Houston, the United States of America. The arrest took place at about 8.30 pm, hours after he left office as governor and, thus, lost his immunity from arrest and prosecution. He had been on the EFCC’s watchlist for some time before he was eventually arrested over corruption allegations. “Obiano was arrested for alleged misappropriation of public funds, including, N5 billion Sure-P and N37 billion security vote which was withdrawn in cash. Part of the funds was also allegedly diverted to finance political activities in the state,” EFCC had noted at the time.

Gunmen Kill 2 Policemen In Anambra

Tragedy struck in the Uga Community of Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, as gunmen unleashed terror, resulting in the deaths of at least two policemen and several others on Thursday, December 29, 2023. Residents urgently called upon security agencies and State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for intervention as armed assailants wielding AK-47 rifles conducted kidnappings and gunfire with impunity at the Uga junction.  Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and violent. The incident occurred at a junction leading to the homes of prominent political figures, including APC chieftain, Andy Uba, and PDP leader, Chris Uba. Reportedly, the gunmen abducted individuals from luxury cars, engaging in an intense exchange of gunfire when confronted by police officers. Disturbing video clips circulating on social media depict the aftermath, showing slain officers and abandoned SUVs with signs of forced abduction. Police confirmed the attack, revealing the assailants were disguised in military gear and likely crossed over from a neighboring state. Despite the brave efforts of officers from Enugu State attempting to thwart the attackers and ensure the safety of motorists, the gunmen managed to escape, leaving a trail of tragic fatalities and uncertainty in their wake.

N900m IPMAN Debt: Delay In Payment Due To Bogus Claims, Says Anambra Govt

The Anambra government has met with leadership of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) over debt claims by some marketers who supplied diesel for streetlight generating sets. Mr Tony Collins Nwabunwanne, the state Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, led the government team while Mr Chinedu Anyaso, chairman of IPMAN Enugu Depot Community, led the marketers in company of his executive members and some of the contractors. Speaking to newsmen, Nwabunwanne said the delay in payment was due to discrepancies and bloated bills which some of the contractors submitted. The Commissioner, who described meeting with the marketers as productive, said Anambra government was willing and ready to pay the contractors as soon as the inconsistencies in claims are cleared. He promised to present their plights to the governor in the coming days for his consideration. “We had a fruitful meeting, the marketers agreed that the blame is not entirely on government but that of the contractors, some of whom have made bloated claims. “But we have considered all that, we are making the necessary adjustments and very soon, Mr Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, will issue a directive,” he said. On his part, Anyaso thanked the Commissioner for his prompt response to their plea. Anyaso said IPMAN was satisfied with the outcome of the meeting and was hopeful that Soludo would act swiftly as promised in the interest of marketers and contractors. “I want to thank Gov. Soludo for the prompt response we got after complaining to him about the debt to our members and the effect on their businesses. “The Commissioner explained the issues to us and we understand better, but more importantly, we look forward to the fulfillment of the promises made in the meeting,” he said. IPMAN had complained about the non payment of about N900 million owed contractors and marketers who supplied diesel to the Anambra government for powering streetlight generators.