Fraud, Bribery Allegation: Kano government sues Ganduje, wife, others
The Kano State government has dragged the former governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, his wife, and others to court for allegedly collecting $200,000 from a contractor. The eight-count charges, according to the government, are offences contravening the state Public Complaints and Anti-Commission Commission Law 2008. The state government also accused Ganduje of collecting $210,000 kickback from “people and entities seeking or holding the execution of Kano State Government contract and or projects for the remodelling of Kantin Kwari textile market as a bribe through one of the contractors (agent)”. Other defendants in the case are Ganduje, Hafsat Umar, Abubakar Bawuro, Umar Abdullahi Umar, Jibrilla Muhammad, Lamash Properties Limited, Safari Textiles Limited, and Lesaga General Enterprises. “That you, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje sometime between the period of September 2020 and March 2021 or thereabout, at Kano in the Kano Judicial Division, together with one Hafsat Umar (your spouse) and Abubakar Bawuro, a Businessman, Safari Textile Ltd, a limited liability company, wholly owned and maintained by the 3rd Defendant, agreed to do an illegal act to wit: dishonestly converted to your own use the sum of N1,376,000,000.00 (One Billion Three Hundred and seventy-six million Naira) through account No. 7085982019 belonging to the 3rd Defendant being monies earmarked and approved for the purchase and supply of face masks and other hospital equipment for the health sector, thereby causing wrongful loss to the people and government of Kano State and thereby jointly committed the offence of Criminal Conspiracy contrary to section 96 and punishable under section 97 of The penal code (as amended) CAP, 105, Vol.2. The Laws of Kano State of Nigeria, 1991,” part of the charge sheet reads “That you, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, sometime between the period of September 2020 and January 2022 or thereabout, at Kano in the Kano Judicial Division, together with one Hafsat Umar (your spouse) and Abubakar Bawuro, a Businessman, Safari Textile Ltd, a limited liability company, while entrusted with the sum of N1,376,000,000.00 (One Billion Three Hundred and seventy-six million Naira) or dominion over the said sum, earmarked for the purchase and supply of face masks and other hospital equipment dishonestly misappropriated and/or converted the said sum to your own use through account No. 7085982019 belonging to the 3rd defendant, thereby jointly committed the offence of Criminal Breach of Trust contrary to section 311 and punishable under section 312 of The penal code (as amended) CAP, 105, Vol.2. “That you, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje sometime between the period of March of 2021 or thereabout, at Kano in the Kano Judicial Division, while serving as the Governor and being a public servant in the government of Kano State for your own benefit and that of your immediate family conspired with the 4th defendant (Umar Abdullahi Umar) being your biological son using 6th defendant (Lamash Properties Ltd) a company owned and or operated by members of your family including the 4th defendant and dishonestly allocated 501 (five hundred and one) high-density plots of lands you hold in trust for the benefit of all Nigerians at Zawachiki layout No. TP/KNUPD/256B in the name of the 6th defendant company under the pretext of site and services arrangement in the land compulsorily acquired by you being the Governor of Kano State from destitute members of the public (peasant farmers) where it was sold and the proceed part of which the sum of #700,000,000.00 (Seven Hundred Million Naira) was deposited in the account of Bureau de change operator vision Steel link Ltd No. Domicile at Access Bank where dollar equivalent was given to the 4th defendant to the detriment of the people and government of Kano State thereby jointly committed the offence of Criminal Conspiracy contrary to section 96 and punishable under section 97 of The penal code (as amended) CAP,105, Vol.2. The Laws of Kano State of Nigeria, 1991. “That you, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje sometime between the period of March of 2021 or thereabout, at Kano in the Kano Judicial Division, while serving as the Governor and being a public servant in the government of Kano State for your own benefit and that of your immediate family conspired with the 4th defendant Umar Abdullahi Umar, being your biological son using 6th defendant Lamash Properties Ltd a company substantially owned and or operated by members of your family including the 4th defendant and dishonestly allocated 501 (five hundred and one) high-density plots of lands you hold in trust for the benefit all Nigerians at Zawachiki layout No. TP/KNUPDA/256B in the name of the 6th defendant company under the pretext of site and services arrangement in the land compulsory acquired by you as a governor of Kano state from destitute members of the public (peasant farmers) which was sold and the proceeds, the sum of #700,000,000.00 (Seven Hundred Million Naira) was deposited in the account of Bureau de change operator vision Steel link Ltd No. 7816362026 Domicile at FCMB where dollar equivalent was given to the 4th defendant thereby causing wrongful gain to yourself and causing wrongful loss to the people and government of Kano State thereby jointly committed the offence Criminal Breach of Trust contrary to section 311 and read together with section 79 and punishable under section 312 of The Penal Code (as amended), CAP. 105, Vol. 2. The Laws of the Kano State of Nigeria, 1991.” The state government said a forensic expert would analyse the video, showing the former governor receiving dollar notes from a contractor. Ganduje, national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), served as governor of Kano from 2015 to 2023. In 2018, Daily Nigerian, an online newspaper, published a video of Ganduje allegedly receiving bundles of dollars from contractors, which he stuffed into his “babanriga”, a traditional outfit The newspaper said the former governor requested $5 million as a bribe from the contractors who recorded the video. In 2023, the Kano state Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) invited Ganduje for questioning over the incident in the video. The former governor did not honour the invitation and instead instituted
FIRS Issues Apology to CAN and Christians Over Controversial Easter Message
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has extended an apology to Christians, particularly the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), following the dissemination of a controversial Easter message that sparked widespread condemnation. The contentious message, depicted in a flier featuring a Point of Sale (PoS) machine with the caption, “Jesus paid your debt, not your taxes,” elicited significant backlash from members of the Christian community. In response to the outcry, the FIRS issued a statement late on Tuesday, expressing regret for the misinterpretation of its message. The agency emphasized that the dissemination of the flier was not intended to denigrate Jesus Christ or undermine his significant sacrifice for humanity. “The unintended meaning/insinuation being read into the post was not what we were out to communicate as an agency,” the statement clarified. Furthermore, the FIRS reiterated its commitment to impartiality and respect for all religious beliefs, affirming that its primary objective is the assessment, collection, and proper accounting of revenue for the nation’s welfare. “We believe it is an investment in the progress of the country when citizens pay their taxes,” the agency stated. The FIRS concluded its apology by expressing remorse to CAN and all Christians who were offended by the unintended implications of its Easter message. This conciliatory gesture from the FIRS aims to address the concerns raised by the Christian community and foster harmony and understanding between the agency and religious groups in the country.
Suspected membership of ISIS: Court grants DSS order to detain Nigerian, Osase Emmanuel
The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted order for the detention of a Nigerian, Emmanuel Osase accused of being a member of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria for 60 days. Justice Inyang Ekwo gave the order on Wednesday while ruling in a motion ex-parte filed by the State Security Service (SSS) marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/409/2024. The matter was brought before the court pursuant to section 66(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022. In his prayers, counsel to the SSS, Mr A. A Ugee asked the court for an order enabling the agency to detain Osase for 60 days pending the conclusion of investigation. Granting the order, the court held, “Upon studying the averments in the affidavit, I hereby grant the relief as prayed.” The judge subsequently adjourned the matter June 3, 2024. Osase who was arrested on March 11, was accused of propagating the messages of the terrorist group, opposing the Democratic system of government in Nigeria, and calling for terrorist attacks on Nigeria and its symbols of sovereignty. In an affidavit dated March 27, 2024, and deposed to by the personnel of the State Security Service attached to the Legal Service Department, National Headquarters, Abuja, Ahmad Abubakar, the service sought an order to detain the suspect for 60 days, adding that the release of the suspect could jeopardize its investigation. He said, “That it is necessary for the Applicant in the case to apply to this Honourable Court for an Order to detain the Applicant for a period of sixty (60) days, pending the conclusion of an ongoing investigation in a case of terrorism; ” That the Respondent was arrested by a team of personnel from the applicant’s office for alleged membership and propagation of Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorist messages, including opposition to the Democratic System of Government and the call for staging terrorist attacks against Nigeria State and its symbols of sovereignty;” Abubakar stated that Osase was jailed for five years for terrorism-related offences in France and was deported after the completion of his sentence. He noted that from the service’s preliminary investigation, Osase was still involved in terrorist activities. Abubakar said the respondent still engaged with a proscribed pro-ISIS online media group known as “al-Alawn Media Foundation.” “That Preliminary investigation revealed that the Respondent, who is an ex-convict, still engages in terrorist activities which previously led to his conviction in France; ” That the Respondent appeared not to have renounced his terrorist ideologies, as he continues to engage with the proscribed pro-ISIS online media group known as “al-Alawn Media Foundation” whose main objectives is the creation and dissemination of terrorist content and the promotion of terrorist attacks against Democratic Systems of Government such as Nigeria and the Western Governments including their interests across the globe; “That the Respondent who was born in the Federal Capital Territory left Nigeria for France and never returned to Nigeria until his deportation after completion of a five-year jail term in France for acts of terrorism and attempt to join the Islamic State (IS) linked terrorist group, Friqat Al-Ghuraba (Group of Foreigners) in Syria.” Abubakar stated that the respondent, upon sighting operatives of the service, formatted his phone. He said, ” That the Respondent at the point of arrest, formatted his mobile device to factory settings upon sighting security agents ostensibly to wipe out any suspicious contents on the device and cover up his nefarious activities; “That the activities of the Respondent constitute a potent threat to National Security and corporate existence of Nigeria;” He, however, urged the court to grant the request of the service, adding there was a need to painstakingly probe the respondent to ensure he does not constitute a security treat to the country and world at large. ” That the release of the Respondent at this time would jeopardize the investigation, as investigation has assumed a wider dimension; “That there is a need for a thorough investigation of the suspect to ensure that he does not pose any security threat to Nigeria or the world at large. “That the Respondent is helping with vital information that will lead to the arrest of other members who are still at large,” Abubakar stated.
Malabu OPL: EFCC Dismisses Prosecutor Amid Bribery Allegations
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken decisive action against one of its prominent prosecutors, Offem Uket, in response to allegations of bribery and misconduct linked to the Malabu OPL 245 oil block scam case. Following the dismissal of the case by Justice Abubakar Kutigi due to insufficient evidence, the EFCC opted to terminate Uket’s appointment. It’s alleged that Uket yielded to pressure from former Attorney General Bello Adoke and defense attorney Wole Olanipekun to undermine the trial. Despite the setback in court, the EFCC remains committed to challenging the ruling, citing substantial evidence against the accused parties. Expressing dismay over Uket’s purported actions, EFCC Chairman Mr. Ola Olukoyede reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to pursuing justice in the Malabu case. Uket, who has previously handled high-profile cases involving notable figures such as Stella Oduah and Sambo Dasuki, vehemently denies the bribery allegations. Nonetheless, his contract was not renewed amidst the controversy surrounding the Malabu proceedings. An internal investigation reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting Uket’s misconduct, prompting the decision to terminate his appointment. In response to the developments, Wole Olanipekun vehemently denied offering any bribes to Uket, dismissing the allegations as unfounded and irresponsible. He emphasized that investigations conducted by international authorities found no wrongdoing in connection to the Malabu transaction.
Why I Didn’t Shake Kano Governor’s Hands – Ahmed Musa
Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa has said he refused to shake the hands of Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State, in a recent video, out of respect for him and his office. Musa said this in a statement via his Instagram page on Tuesday amid a social media storm surrounding a viral video showing his refusal to shake the Kano governor. In the video, the footballer was seen shaking hands with the Kano State deputy governor while bowing to the governor and seemingly ignoring his handshake. In the statement, Musa described his action as a sign of cultural respect while calling for a shift in attention towards the pressing issues facing the nation. The Super Eagles captain asserted that the significance behind his gestures emphasised the deep-rooted traditions of the Northern culture. He, however, expressed disappointment that the incident has garnered such widespread attention, even from national media outlets, diverting focus from more pressing matters facing the country. Musa urged Nigerians to redirect their energy towards finding solutions to the nation’s problems rather than getting caught up in needless distractions. He said: “It has come to my attention that a moment captured almost a month ago, has unexpectedly become the centre of attention on social media. It is disheartening to see a simple act of cultural respect blown out of proportion. “In our Northern culture, the gesture of kneeling, shaking hands, etc. signifies the highest form of respect. This was my intention when I greeted the deputy governor in such a manner. “However, when it came to greeting the governor, I chose to bow and not shake his hands, honouring him in a way that is deeply rooted in tradition. “It’s unfortunate that amidst all the pressing issues our nation faces – economic hardships, security challenges, religious clashes, and more – this seemingly insignificant moment has garnered so much attention. “What’s even more disheartening are the comments questioning my respectfulness, especially from those who don’t know me personally. “Let’s pause for a moment and reflect on where we choose to direct our energy. Shouldn’t it be towards finding solutions to the problems plaguing our society rather than getting caught up in needless distractions? “I urge us all to channel our collective efforts towards addressing the real issues at hand. Let’s focus on uplifting one another, fostering unity, and working towards a better future for all.”
30 Children Reportedly Kidnapped by Bandits in Katsina
In a distressing development, it has been reported that approximately thirty children have been abducted by suspected bandits at Kasai village in the Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State. Batsari, a Security Frontline Local Government Area in Katsina, has witnessed a surge in banditry and criminal activities, posing grave threats to residents. As of now, governmental authorities and security agencies have not issued any official statements regarding the incident. A resident, who chose to remain anonymous, disclosed that the abduction occurred during the early hours of Monday. Efforts to obtain comments from the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Abubakar Sadiq, have been unsuccessful thus far. The situation is rapidly evolving, and further details are expected to emerge soon.
Deputy Speaker Kalu Advocates Political Means for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, revealed ongoing efforts to secure the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of IPOB, through a combination of legal processes and political negotiations. Speaking on “The Ben Kalu’s Mandate” radio show, Kalu emphasized the importance of behind-the-scenes political maneuvers in achieving Kanu’s release and fostering peace in the South East region. Kalu highlighted the role of the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P) in advocating for reconciliation and acknowledged Kanu’s significance in the peace agenda. He stressed the need for political solutions and urged the involvement of Igbo elders in discussions with the federal government. Kalu said: “The Peace in South East Project (PISE-P) has reconciliation in the mix of what we are trying to achieve. We recognise the importance of our brother, Nnamdi Kanu in the peace agenda we are pushing. That’s the truth. And I have been very vocal about it. I am not hiding it. “I have always told people that I will never deny Nnamdi Kanu. He’s my brother. We come from the same place and I will never be happy having him incarcerated when we can have him out and increase our pursuit towards peace. But we may not advance all the things we are doing behind our backs but I can assure you that all the powers-that-be in this country know that people like us are not sitting on the fence.” Addressing the South East Development Commission (SEDC) Bill, Kalu noted its progress in the conference committee stage, emphasizing the importance of resolving related matters to advance the region’s development. Kalu called for peace and loyalty to the government while pursuing concessions, underscoring the imperative of maintaining stability in the region.
PDP Reacts As Rivers Assembly Threaten To Impeach Fubara
The Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly for its recent threats to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The assembly, perceived to be loyalists of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, had issued the impeachment threat against Fubara, citing his alleged refusal to implement an eight-point Peace Accord signed with Wike on the orders of President Bola Tinubu. Among the accusations leveled against Fubara is the alleged failure to provide funding for the Rivers Independent Electoral Commission to conduct elections for local government councils in the state. In response, the state Publicity Secretary of Rivers PDP, Sydney Tambari Gbara, condemned the assembly’s actions, urging them to desist from disturbing the peace of the state. Gbara also called on the assembly members to address their legitimacy concerns, particularly in light of their defection from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the ongoing legal challenges questioning their status. Gbara emphasized that the assembly’s decisions and laws hold no significance to the people of Rivers State, labeling them as an “illegal assembly” whose actions are inconsequential. Furthermore, Gbara dismissed claims that Governor Fubara had failed to implement the Peace Accord, stating that the governor had taken steps to promote peace in accordance with the law.
Drama Unfolds As Senator Flees Live TV Interview To Avoid 2024 Budget Questions
In a dramatic turn of events, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe of Cross River North abruptly ended a live TV interview when pressed about the details of the 2024 budget. During the session, the senator expressed reluctance to delve into budget specifics and insisted on focusing on his constituency’s concerns. When confronted with questions regarding budgetary allocations for his district, the senator opted to disengage, citing a desire to avoid controversy. The unexpected departure occurred on the Arise News breakfast show, leaving the interviewers and viewers startled. “I was not elected by the people of Cross River North, you are, it is your duty, I believe, not mine (to scrutinise the budget), but let’s move on…., ” the TV anchor said. At that point, Senator Jarigbe quid in saying, “Come oh, what is this budget, budget talk nah? I want to talk about my thanksgiving and representation to my people. You people are doing budget, budget, I will walk away oh. You people want me to say something that I will go and face wahala, you should allow me oh, let me serve my people quietly.” Thereafter, the connection to Senator Jarigbe was lost. Efforts to get him back on line failed as the senator may have cut off the connection, thereby bringing the interview to an abrupt end.
What God Told Me About Tinubu’s Administration – Umahi
Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has boldly asserted that he received a divine message from God predicting an eight-year tenure for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Umahi, former governor of Ebonyi State, expressed unwavering confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, attributing his presidency to divine intervention. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Umahi emphasized the miraculous nature of Tinubu’s administration and its mission to rectify societal wrongs. Umahi said: “You must know that the coming onboard of Mr President is divine. When God starts a thing, He completes it. “So, I strongly believe and I am persuaded to let you know that God told me that this administration will last eight years because this administration is born of God. “You can see the miracle that Mr President is doing through the inspiration of God Almighty who brought him to right all the wrongs,” the minister noted on the show. “So, we are taking back this country and giving back this country to Nigerians and that’s what Mr President has come to do and we are just there to give him support.”