Oil Theft: Navy Hands Barge, TUG Over To EFCC
The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) DELTA has handed over the impounded TUG MV STEPH 1 and Barge SIMI to the officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The arrested vessels, laden with product suspected to be stolen Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO), were handed over to the anti-graft agency on Wednesday at the NNS DELTA Jetty. Commander88 Samuel Musa, the Base Operations Officer (BOO) of NNS DELTA released the vessels to the EFCC on behalf of the Commander, NNS DELTA, Commodore Chindo Yahaya. Addressing newsmen, Yahaya said that Barge SIMI was impounded with about 120,000 litres of product suspected to be AGO at Workson Jetty, Edjeba, on the NPA Expressway in Warri South. He said that TUG MV STEPH 1 was arrested at KFT Yard, Edjeba on the NPA Expressway while discharging suspected AGO into some rubber tanks. The commander said that the two vessels were arrested on July 6. “On July 6, 2023, NNS DELTA arrested Barge SIMI, laden with about 120,000 litres of product suspected to be AGO at Workson Jetty, Edjeba on the NPA Expressway. “The barge was without necessary documents and approvals. “Preliminary investigation revealed that the product is an accumulation of Remnants On Board (ROB) from various vessels. “Accordingly, Barge SIMI is hereby handed over to the EFCC for detailed investigation and further necessary action. “Similarly, On July 6, 2023, NNS DELTA also arrested TUG MV STEPH I at KFT Yard, Edjeba on the NPA Expressway in Warri,” he said. Yahaya said that TUG MV STEPH 1 was caught discharging product without necessary documentation, and approvals adding that it was consequently detained and taken to NNS DELTA. “Accordingly, TUG MV STEPH 1 is hereby handed over to the EFCC for detailed investigation and further necessary action,” he said. Yahaya said that the NNS DELTA was poised to rid-off its area of illegal activities or operations. He warned those who indulged in such illegalities to desist forthwith. Mr Gomina Suru, Assistant Cdr. EFCC Two, Benin Zonal Command led officials of the anti-graft agency to receive the vessels on behalf of the Commission. “I am directed by the EFCC Two, Benin Zonal Command to take over the TUG and Barge from the NNS DELTA for the furtherance of investigation.” Officials of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) were on ground to collect samples of the product.
Court Grants Emefiele N300m Bail
Former Central Bank Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, who is facing charges of financial impropriety and corruption, has been granted bail by Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court Abuja. This recent bail, set at N300 million with two sureties in like sum, requires the sureties to possess certificates of occupancy within Abuja’s upscale Maitama District. Moreover, Emefiele must surrender his travel documents to the court registrar and remain within the Abuja Municipal Council as part of the bail conditions. This development follows a previous bail grant of N20 million by the Federal High Court in Lagos four months ago. The charges against Emefiele are linked to alleged irregularities and misconduct during his tenure as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). More details later…
Vote Buying: EFCC Intercepts N11.04m, Arrests 14 Suspected In Imo, Bayelsa, Kogi
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 14 suspected vote buyers in Otueke, Adawari playgrounds in Bayelsa and at various polling units in Imo and Kogi. EFCC Spokesperson Dele Oyewale said this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja. According to him, the suspects were arrested on Saturday in intelligence-driven operations that commenced several days before the ongoing governorship elections in the three states. “Also, a total sum of N11,040,000, comprising N9,310,00 intercepted from suspected vote buyers and sellers in Bayelsa, and N1,730,000 intercepted from electoral fraud suspects across Imo State, were recovered from them. “Also, two vehicles were intercepted from the suspects. They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded,” he said. The commission had earlier deployed its personnel to monitor the Saturday’s governorship elections in the three states. Oyewale had said in a statement on Friday in Abuja, that the aim of the deployment was to prevent politicians and their agents from engaging in vote buying during the elections. He explained that the exercise was part of the commission’s drive to checkmate electoral fraud and associated financial crimes.
Court Order: EFCC Cringes, Produces Godwin Emefiele
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja complied with the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory’s order regarding the case of former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele. After being held in custody by Federal Government security agencies for over 150 days, Emefiele was brought to court in accordance with the order issued by Justice Olukayode Adeniyi. Former CBN Governor Emefiele, dressed in a yellow Babariga and a Hausa cap, entered the courtroom at around 12:30, accompanied by a group of EFCC operatives providing security. Outside the court premises, Emefiele’s friends and relatives eagerly awaited the Judge’s arrival for a hearing in his fundamental human rights case. Justice Adeniyi reaffirmed his order on Monday, which mandated that the detained former CBN governor be brought to court on November 8. This hearing’s purpose is to consider granting him bail. The court also emphasized the option for the anti-graft agency to grant bail to Emefiele in accordance with the law on fundamental human rights.
Court To Decide Fate Of Ex-NNPC GMD, Andrew Yakubu’s Seized $9.8m November 1
The former Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Andrew Yakubu, will learn his fate on November 1 regarding a lawsuit seeking the release of his $9.8 million cash seized by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from his Kaduna residence in 2017. Yakubu filed a suit against the EFCC, Central Bank of Nigeria, and a commercial bank, alleging their refusal to release the money after an Abuja high court had discharged and acquitted him of money laundering charges brought against him by the agency. Justice Inyang Eden Ekwo has scheduled November 1 to deliver a judgment on the money seizure case after Monday’s hearing. In March 2022, a Federal High Court in Abuja quashed the money laundering charges against Yakubu, which were brought after the EFCC discovered $9,772,800 and £74,000 in an apartment linked to him in 2017. Yakubu’s lawyer has returned to court, claiming that the monies have not been released as directed by the court, and is seeking an order for their release or, alternatively, for the money to be deposited with the Federal High Court Registrar pending the suit’s determination. The EFCC, represented by Faruk Abdullah, objected to the application, citing appeals filed in the Court of Appeal in Abuja against the judgment of the Federal High Court. Justice Ekwo, after hearing arguments from all parties involved, set November 1 as the date for a verdict on compelling the EFCC to release the money.
Antigraft Campaign: EFCC Secures 1,688 Convictions In 9 Months
The Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulkarim Ckukkol, has said that the agency, in its war against corruption, economic and financial crimes, has secured 1,688 convictions between January and September, this year. Ckukkol disclosed this weekend at the Passing out Parade of Detective Assistant Course 4 Cadre for 331 cadets of the commission at the Nigeria Police Mobile Force Training College, Ende Hills, Akwanga. According to him, the EFCC in 20 years of existence, has made a huge difference in the affairs of the nation. “Through the efforts of the commission, odious image of Nigeria as a 419 hub, with the attendant negative effect on our economy, was erased. “The Commission’s investigation activities have led to the recovery of asset running into billions of Naira. “Last year (2022), the commission secured a total of 3,785 convictions, the highest by any law enforcement agency in Nigeria in a single year. “Between January and now, the commission recorded 1,688 convictions. The figure is bound to increase as more cases are brought to conclusion in the courts,” he said. He said that the commission, in addition to enforcement activities, would continue to pursue its prevention mandate with relentless vigor through engagement with different stakeholders in the fight against corruption, economic and financial crimes. According to him, the commission recently broke new grounds in this endeavor with the commencement of test transmission of its radio station, EFCC Radio 97.3 FM. “The initiative promises fresh vista of opportunities for public engagement as the commission strives to get the people to own the fight against corruption,” he said. He urged the cadets to bolster the efforts of the Commission to consolidate on the achievements of the past and secure its place as a premier law enforcement agency not only Nigeria but the world. He urged them to be committed to the profession they signed up for, and should know that law enforcement, especially fighting economic and financial crimes, is a crucial national service. He described it as “a career” which takes years to build but could be destroyed in a moment of careless indiscretion or poor judgment. “For you to run this race and fulfill your dream as an EFCC officer, you must at all times stay focused and uphold the values of the Commission which are Integrity, Courage, Professionalism and Collaboration. “I must also sound a note of warning that the Commission will not condone any indiscipline, as violation of the established code of conduct will be met with appropriate sanctions,” he said. The Acting Commandant of the EFCC Academy, Karu, Abuja, Mr Baba-Shani Umar, urged the new cadets to stand on the precipice of new beginnings. “I urge you to remember the principles that have been instilled in you: integrity, Courage, professionalism and Collaboration in the pursuit of excellence. “Carry these values as your compass, and they will guide you through the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead,” he said. The Commandant, Police Mobile Force Training College, Ende Hill, Nasarawa, DCP Ikioye Orutugu, urged the cadets to make use of the training they had received in eradicating corrupt practices in the country. Orutugu admonished them to use their talents as well as skills acquired to contribute their quota to the fight against economic and financial crimes. He also stressed the need for inter-agency cooperation and mutual understanding among other sister agencies as witnessed between EFCC and the Nigeria Police for the growth of the nation.
EFCC Sensitises Gold Merchants In Zamfara Against Money Laundering
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sensitised gold merchants in Zamfara on their obligations as provided under the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Act, 2022. The sensitisation was conducted in Gusau for members of Zamfara Gold Buyers and Sellers Cooperative Union by the EFCC’s Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML). According to EFCC Spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren, in a statement on Thursday in Abuja, the sensitisation campaign is a routine industry assessment initiative meant to encourage the gold merchants to register, file report of their activities and shun money laundering. “It was undertaken to remind gold merchants in the state of their reporting obligations to SCUML. “Also, to remind them of the registration processes and punishment applicable for the flouting of rules and regulations as provided by the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Act, 2022,” he said. He quoted the Head of SCUML in the Zone, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, Ahmadu Bello as stressing the importance of registration for the merchants. “Registration and compliance with requirements of SCUML as provided for in the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Act, 2022 is non-negotiable amongst Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions. “SCUML will ensure that those that do not comply are presented before appropriate quarters for infringement,” Bello said. He further told the operators that SCUML was not out to punish them but to sanitise the sector and insulate it from money laundering. He therefore charged them to ensure that they register and obtain SCUML certificate, which is free, and render the required reports as at when due. The chairman of the cooperative, Mr Usman-Muazu Maishanu, assured that the members would comply with SCUML’s rules and regulations, including the registration and filing of reports electronically. He urged members that are yet to register, to do so in order to be on the wrong side of the law.
Anti-corruption groups demand transparency in investigation of Kano PCACC Chairman
A coalition of prominent civil society groups dedicated to combating corruption and promoting transparency and accountability is closely monitoring the alleged investigation of Barrister Muhyi Rimingado, Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (Kano State PCACC), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB). The statement, jointly signed by Olanrewaju Suraju of HEDA, Anwalu Musa Rafsanjani of CISLAC, David Ugolor of ANEEJ, Ibrahim M. Zikrullahi of CHRICED, and Muhammed Attah of PRADIN, underscores the coalition’s commitment to tracking developments in this case as they unfold. The coalition expresses concern that this probe follows the PCACC’s inquiry into alleged financial misconduct during the previous administration led by Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who currently serves as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The coalition stands in support of Chairman Muhyi Rimingado, believing that he will emerge unscathed from the investigation. In their official statement, the coalition commends the EFCC and CCB for their efforts to uphold transparency and accountability. They call upon these agencies to conduct their duties with unwavering professionalism and integrity, free from political interference. The statement emphasizes the importance of an impartial and thorough inquiry into recent developments surrounding the investigation of the Kano State Anti-Corruption Commission Chairman. The credibility and reputation of the Kano State PCACC depend on demonstrating transparency and fairness in its internal processes. All parties involved are urged to collaborate closely and adhere strictly to established legal procedures. The anti-corruption groups further call on the Kano State Anti-Corruption Commission, the EFCC, and the CCB to foster a spirit of collaboration in their individual anti-corruption pursuits. Timely cooperation between these agencies is crucial to addressing historical and current allegations of corruption promptly and diligently. By working together, these organizations can significantly contribute to a governance framework in Kano State characterized by transparency and accountability. For these groups, the commitment to eradicating corruption goes beyond mere rhetoric; it represents a shared conviction that eliminating corruption is fundamental to sustainable development, social justice, and the overall well-being of society. The coalition remains optimistic that the involved agencies will uphold the highest standards of professionalism and make substantial contributions to the realization of a corruption-free Kano State while holding former public office holders in the state accountable for their actions before the Kano State Anti-Corruption Commission.
EFCC nabs six alleged internet fraudsters in Abuja
In a recent development, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have taken into custody six individuals suspected of engaging in internet fraud activities. These arrests were carried out within the Bwari and Dutse areas of Abuja. According to Wilson Uwujaren, the EFCC’s spokesperson, these suspects were apprehended on Monday based on intelligence gathered about their purported involvement in cybercrime-related endeavors. The arrested individuals have been identified as Odey Paul (25), Greg Odey (23), Julius Okpanachi (21), Ugbede Opaluwa (25), Okpanachi Emmanuel (25), and Mohammed Abba (26). From the possessions of the suspects, law enforcement authorities managed to recover two Toyota Camry vehicles, one Mercedes Benz C300 car, a total of twelve mobile phones, and three laptops. As the investigation unfolds and progresses, the EFCC spokesperson, Uwujaren, conveyed that the suspects will be presented before the court to face legal proceedings. The aim is to ensure that justice is served once the investigation is thoroughly concluded.
EFCC cracks down on cyber fraud hideout, arrests 14 suspects in Benue
In a significant stride against cybercriminal activities, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended 14 individuals suspected of engaging in internet fraud in the city of Makurdi, located in Benue State. The spokesperson for the EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, released a statement in Abuja detailing the operation. Among the detainees are Solomon Oloche, Innocent Ochola, Aselo Wisdom, Simon Jeff, Innocent Raphael, Akula Kelvin, Emmanuel Okanche, Francis Chikodirie, Atoo Michael, Ochayi Nelson, Ngutor Paul, Michael Tyobe, Samuel Okanche, and Patience Tseaa. The arrests were conducted following an extensive period of surveillance and intelligence gathering, aimed at uncovering the alleged criminal activities of the suspects. The confiscated items from the operation encompass a Toyota Camry Car, 14 iPhones, 11 Android phones, 6 laptop computers, various ATM cards, a flash drive, MTN Router, a Tus bike, and an assortment of potentially incriminating documents. Uwujaren noted, “The suspects have cooperated during the preliminary interrogations and will be subject to legal proceedings once the investigative phase concludes.” This breakthrough signifies a determined effort by the EFCC to tackle cyber-based offenses and ensure that justice is served.