The Zamfara State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) under the auspices of the Jajiyya Political Movement has vowed to participate actively in all party activities for the overall success of the party.
The Movement, led by its political leader and Hon member representing Kaura Namoda Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Rt Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, convened a stakeholders meeting in Kaduna where they reaffirmed their support for the party and its activities.
The meeting, which was attended by critical stakeholders of the APC Jajiyya political movement and a cross-section of party supporters, resolved to participate in all scheduled activities outlined by the National Headquarters of the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party said it has concluded all necessary arrangements to partake in the forthcoming Party congresses and assured to follow due process in the ongoing party membership E-registration exercise.
The Jajiyya Movement also reaffirmed its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in the 2027 general elections. “We unanimously endorsed Rt Hon Dr Aminu Sani Jaji PhD for Governor of Zamfara state and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in 2027 elections,” the movement reaffirmed in a crowded voice.
Rt Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, who addressed the Movement supporters, said the primary purpose of organizing the gathering was to reaffirm their support for the APC and its schedule of activities ahead of the 2027 general elections and to reassure their full support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He commended APC supporters in Zamfara state for their unflinching loyalty and support to the movement and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and urged them to maintain the feat.
The Chairman of Jajiyya Coordinating Committee, Hon Nasiru Zarumi Masama, expressed the movement’s readiness to support the candidature of their political leader, Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, for Governor of Zamfara state in the 2027 elections.
“We believe that Hon Sani Jaji is the most suitable person to lead Zamfara state,” Masama said, adding that considering his track record of dedication and generosity, he is the right person to rescue the state from its predicament.
The event was attended by critical stakeholders of the APC Jajiyya political movement and a cross-section of party supporters who expressed their enthusiasm for Hon Jaji’s gubernatorial ambition and pledged to work tirelessly to ensure that he emerges victorious in the upcoming elections.
The Movement’s leader, Rt Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, expressed his profound gratitude to the movement for their support and endorsement. “I want to express my gratitude to the movement for your support and endorsement,” he said.
The Jajiyya Movement has been a strong supporter of the APC in Zamfara state and has played a significant role in the party’s activities in the state. The movement’s decision to participate in the party congresses and E-registration exercise is seen as a boost to the party’s efforts to strengthen its structure and prepare for the 2027 general elections.
The APC has been facing challenges in Zamfara state, with internal conflicts and defections affecting the party’s performance in recent elections. However, with the Jajiyya Movement’s support and participation in party activities, the APC is expected to bounce back and present a strong challenge to other parties in the state.
The 2027 general elections are expected to be keenly contested, with several parties vying for power in Zamfara state. The APC’s decision to hold party congresses and E-registration exercise is seen as a step towards ensuring that the party is well-prepared for the elections.
The Jajiyya Movement’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid is also seen as a significant boost to the President’s efforts to secure a second term in office. The President has been facing challenges in his bid for re-election, with several parties and individuals expressing interest in challenging him.
However, with the Jajiyya Movement’s support, the President’s chances of securing re-election are expected to improve. The Movement’s leader, Rt Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, is a respected figure in Zamfara state and his support for the President is seen as a significant endorsement.
A former Delta Central Senatorial aspirant and former principal of Government College, Ughelli, Chief David Mafuvbe Siakpere, has died on Sunday, 18 January 2026.
This was made known by his son-in-law, Olorogun Fred Okiemute Majemite, in a news story on Facebook.
Siakpere, who hailed from Egbo-Uhurie, Uhurie Sub-clan of Ughievwen Kingdom, was a respected Nigerian economist, educationist, and politician whose contributions spanned decades.
He was the longest-serving principal of Government College, Ughelli, and also served as a principal at Ovwian Grammar School and several other schools.
He will be greatly missed by the people of his immediate community, Ughievwen Kingdom, Urhobo, Delta State, and Nigeria at large.
The Catholic Diocese of Warri solemnly announces the demise of its Bishop Emeritus, Most Reverend John Okeoghene Afareha, who departed this life on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Esteemed as a devoted shepherd, spiritual father, and man of profound prayer, Bishop Afareha was called home after a lifetime marked by unwavering dedication to God and service to humanity.
In an official communique issued the same day, the current Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, conveyed that the diocese received the loss “with deep grief, yet anchored in the sure hope of resurrection.”
Ordained to the priesthood on December 30, 1973, and consecrated bishop on May 14, 1997, Bishop Afareha earned widespread recognition for his fidelity to God’s will, pastoral humility, and relentless commitment to nurturing the spiritual welfare of the faithful throughout his ministry.
“Bishop Afareha’s life was a testament to faith and obedience, touching countless lives along his sacred journey,” the statement affirmed.
Bishop Ewherido further reflected, “Even in retirement, he remained steadfast in prayer and a beloved spiritual father to all.”
The diocese entrusted his soul into the boundless mercy of God, earnestly praying that he find eternal repose and be forever embraced in the bliss of heaven.
“Through the powerful intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, to whom he held profound devotion, may he rejoice eternally amidst the saints and angels,” Ewherido remarked, also invoking God’s consolation for all who grieve the loss of the venerable bishop.
In observance of mourning, the Bishop of Warri has mandated that Masses for the repose of Bishop Afareha’s soul be celebrated in every parish and chaplaincy until the Month’s Mind Mass.
Details regarding funeral rites will be announced in due course.
…As Agency recovers illicit drugs from his hideout, nabs ex-convict, female online vendor, others in Jigawa, Lagos, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Oyo, FCT, Enugu, Kwara raids
By Sunday Apah
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have successfully apprehended a long-wanted drug kingpin, Lekan Jimoh, popularly known as “Kanmo-kanmo”, ending a 12-year manhunt following his involvement in the brutal killing of three NDLEA officers.
In a statement by Femi Babafemi, Director, Media & Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja on Sunday 18th January 2026, stated that Kanmo-Kanmo, who is notorious for drug trafficking, evading arrest and mobilizing armed thugs against security agents was on Friday 16th January 2026 tracked to his hideout in Owode town, Ogun State by tactical teams of the Agency following credible intelligence.
During the clinical operation, the suspect was found in possession of 69 kilograms of skunk, a strain of cannabis.
The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the Agency’s commitment to ensuring that no fugitive, regardless of how long they evade justice, remains beyond the reach of the law.
Lekan Jimoh’s criminal history is marked by extreme violence and lawlessness. As a result, he had on 15th June 2014 orchestrated a barbaric mob action against a team of NDLEA officers who had attempted to arrest him at his enclave.
The attack resulted in the cold-blooded murder of three NDLEA officers, including Rabiu Usman Kazaure and two others, who were killed by armed thugs mobilized by Jimoh. While the suspect managed to escape the scene that day, the Agency remained resolute in its pursuit of justice for the fallen heroes.
In another encounter with Jimoh on 12th August 2023, when NDLEA operatives stormed his residence in Ado-Odo town, Ogun state, he managed to escape while operatives succeeded in recovering 139 sacks of skunk with a total weight of 1,922 kilograms.
Following assets forfeiture proceedings instituted in court by the Agency, the house in Ado-Odo, which served as a warehouse for his illicit drug trade, has since been finally forfeited to the Federal Government.
Meanwhile, NDLEA operatives in Edo state on Tuesday 13th January raided the Arokpa forest, Uzebba town, Owan West LGA, leading to the arrest of another drug lord, Isihor Edika, 53, and seizure of 320kg skunk and seeds.
In the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, operatives on Friday 16th January tracked and arrested a 44-year-old lady Yinka Agboola following intelligence on her online sale of illicit substances.
At the time of her arrest, 2.2kg skunk and litres of cannabis oil which she produces in her kitchen and sells through online advertisement were recovered from her home at the Kaura district, Abuja.
Another suspect, Tordue Pius Richard, 30, was on Tuesday 13th January arrested with 148.3 grams of cocaine and skunk at his 12 Biskira street, Abacha Estate, Abuja home.
While 118.1kg skunk was seized from the duo of Dauda Kareem and Saheed Obisesan at Fadeyi area of Mushin Lagos on Friday 16th January, not less than 116kg of same substance was recovered from a warehouse at new market area of Enugu, Enugu state same day.
Two suspects: Zaharadeen Yahaya, 25, and Sanusi Maman, 23, were on Thursday 15th January arrested by NDLEA operatives along Onitsha -Asaba expressway, Delta state, while conveying 410,800 pills of tramadol; 84.2 litres of codeine syrup; 82,250 tablets of diazepam; 900 tabs of swinol and 65 pills of Molly.
In Oyo state, Adetunji Ahmed Abayomi, 33, was nabbed on Thursday 15th January at Moniya, Ibadan, with 321 litres of skuchies, and 2.5kg Colorado, a synthetic strain of cannabis, while Rasheed Ajao, 28, was caught same day at Odo-Ona, Ibadan, in possession of 5.4kg Scottish Loud; 1.696kg skunk and 2.5kg Colorado, bringing the total weight to 9.696 kilograms.
In another raid at Agbeni area of the state capital, 52,430 pills of tramadol and bromazepam were recovered from the store of Orji Edwin, currently at large, on Saturday 17th January.
In Kwara state, NDLEA operatives on Tuesday 13th January raided a residential building at Gamo area of Ilorin where they seized 42 bags of skunk that weighed 387.40kg, while a total of 157,519 bottles of codeine syrup were discovered in a container at the Apapa port in Lagos during a joint examination of the shipment by NDLEA, Customs and other security agencies on Friday 16th January.
An ex-convict, Gaddafi Ammani, 26, was arrested with various quantities of skunk and exol-5 pills along his accomplice Ahmed Sani, 32, at Nassarawa GRA, Ringim LGA Jigawa state on Saturday 17th January.
Before Gaddafi’s arrest, he attempted to escape by climbing the roofs of many houses in his bid to escape. He was armed with a machete which he used to threaten NDLEA operatives and even inflicted injury on one of the officers.
Across all Commands and formations of the Agency nationwide, NDLEA officers continued their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities in schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week.
These include: WADA enlightenment lecture to students and staff of Umar Bin Khathab Islamiyyah School, Kurna, Kano; Tumbey College, Kajola Maya, Ikorodu, Lagos; Anglican Secondary School, Makurdi, Benue; members of Katsina emirate, Katsina; and residents of Maitumbi community, Minna, Niger state, among others.
While commending the officers and men of the Ogun, Lagos, Apapa, Edo, Delta, Oyo, FCT, Enugu, and Kwara Commands for the arrests and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) acknowledged their commitment and enjoined them as well as their colleagues nationwide to maintain the current tempo of their balanced approach to the Agency’s drug control efforts.
He described the arrest of Kanmo-kanmo as a triumph of justice and a testament to the Agency’s long memory, adding that the arrest sends a clear and unambiguous message to all drug barons and fugitives: “You may run, and you may hide for a season, but the long arm of the law will eventually find you.”
“The arrest of Lekan Jimoh is particularly significant because it closes a painful chapter that began on June 15, 2014. For twelve years, this individual lived with the blood of our gallant officers—Rabiu Usman Kazaure and two others—on his hands.
He mistakenly thought that time had erased his crimes. Today, we have proven that the NDLEA does not forget its own. We do not forget the sacrifices of those who laid down their lives in the service of our fatherland.
This arrest is for the families of those three officers who have waited 12 years for justice”, Marwa said in a tribute to the officers lost over a decade ago.
The member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. (Rev.) Francis Ejiroghene Waive, has called on the people of the federal constituency to embrace the ongoing INEC voter registration exercise.
Waive, who made this known on his official Facebook page on Sunday, said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is currently conducting a critical voter registration exercise targeting all eligible citizens aged 18 years and above.
He noted that shocking and distressing figures reveal the number of registered voters in the constituency remains alarmingly low—a situation so dire that it threatens to undermine the democratic voice of the people.
“This is your country,” Rt. Hon. Waive declared, his voice resolute and unyielding. “To vote and to be voted for is not a privilege—it’s a sacred civic right.
“To register is a solemn civic responsibility. None of us chose the land of our birth, but it is a divine mandate that we each contribute to its destiny. The very foundation of our democracy depends on your commitment now!”
According to the statement, with the clock ticking mercilessly towards the impending deadline, an unprecedented campaign has been marshaled, deploying town criers to the farthest rural hamlets, urging INEC to penetrate remote areas, and harnessing the power of social media and civil society collaborations to galvanize urban dwellers.
“Do not be deceived by complacency,” he warned. “If you have relocated or lost your voter card, INEC’s ongoing exercise has you covered. But hesitation will cost you dearly—there may be *no extension*. This is the final call. Act now!”
“Electoral apathy is a silent assassin of democracy, and my admonition leaves no room for error: Failure to register today is a forfeiture of your power, your voice, and your future.
“My dear Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu citizens—heed this urgent summons. Rally to the nearest INEC office without delay, or risk being consigned to the shadows of political irrelevance.
“This is not just registration. This is the battle for your voice, your vote, your destiny,” he added.
The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, is scheduled to launch the construction of the monumental N59.7 billion Uromi Junction Flyover at Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, on Monday, January 19, 2026.
This ambitious infrastructure undertaking forms a critical pillar of Oborevwori’s relentless campaign to enhance and modernize urban development throughout the state.
According to a statement released by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the groundbreaking ceremony will commence promptly at 11:00 a.m., with all invited dignitaries expected to be seated by 10:00 a.m.
Preliminary construction activities at the site, strategically located along the Lagos–Asaba Expressway at Uromi Junction, are already underway.
The renowned engineering firm Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has deployed resources and initiated preliminary groundwork, signaling the administration’s unwavering dedication to the punctual delivery of this flagship project.
This groundbreaking follows closely on the heels of the N39.3 billion Otovwodo Junction flyover inauguration in Ughelli, further reinforcing the administration’s infrastructure momentum.
With the addition of the Uromi Junction Flyover, Delta State now boasts five flyover projects under active development, each integral to the government’s comprehensive infrastructure renewal strategy designed to alleviate traffic snarls, enhance roadway safety, and invigorate economic growth within key urban hubs across the state.
Abubakar Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President and 2023 PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has officially abandoned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), committing himself to championing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign in 2027.
The defection announcement, made on Thursday at the National Assembly in Abuja, is widely perceived within political circles as a symbolic setback to Atiku’s presidential aspirations and a strategic triumph strengthening the APC’s foothold, especially in the North-East region.
Known popularly as “Abba,” Atiku’s younger son was ceremoniously received by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, alongside prominent APC leaders from the North-East geopolitical zone, an occasion the party hailed as a pivotal political realignment.
In his address to party officials and supporters, Abubakar formally renounced his membership in the PDP, expressing full allegiance to the APC. He described his defection as both historic and deeply personal.
He instructed all coordinators and members of his political network—previously operating under the Haske Atiku Organisation, which he established in 2022—to promptly join the APC and mobilize support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“My name is Abubakar Atiku Abubakar, popularly known as Abba. Today, I formally announce my departure from the PDP—the party where we campaigned in 2023—and my commitment to the APC,” he declared.
“After closely observing the exemplary leadership of His Excellency, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, I have resolved to support the re-election ambitions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. Consequently, I call upon all coordinators of my association to integrate into the APC and dedicate themselves to advancing President Tinubu’s agenda.”
APC National Vice Chairman (North-East), Mustapha Salihu, welcomed Abubakar, describing the defection as a profound and far-reaching development that signals a new era of “politics without borders.”
“Today marks a joyous milestone,” Salihu remarked. “We are transcending old social and political divisions. This young man has assessed the policies and initiatives of the Tinubu administration and chosen to align with them.”
He emphasized that the APC’s commitment lies in ideology and policy direction rather than personal gain, assuring Abba of equal rights and opportunities within the party.
**Ex-APC Aspirant Cautions Against Overcelebrating Defection of Atiku’s Son**
Senator Barau Jibrin praised Abubakar’s decision as courageous, enlightened, and principled, pledging unwavering support from APC leadership.
“You have arrived here driven by conviction, not familial ties. Your allegiance is to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his principles, and the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Barau affirmed.
He disclosed that Abba, who had been closely monitoring Nigerian politics from the United States, was inspired by the Tinubu administration’s reforms and outreach, prompting his return and allegiance to the ruling party.
“He embodies the focused, young leadership Nigeria urgently requires,” Barau added.
Additionally, presidential aide Alhaji Mahmoud Abdullahi assured Abubakar of President Tinubu’s endorsement and support.
“Just as Atiku is your father, so is Tinubu. Your decision signals a return to your rightful home. Both you and your coordinators have a promising future within the APC,” Abdullahi stated.
Speaking for the defectors, Kano State Coordinator Mubarak Musa called the move strategic, noting that all their political undertakings would henceforth operate under Senator Barau’s guidance.
“We committed tremendous effort to our previous platform. Now, we’ll redouble our dedication to deliver for the APC in 2027,” Musa asserted.
He hailed Senator Barau as their political mentor and a cornerstone of the APC in the North.
The event culminated with the renaming of Abubakar’s political network from Haske Atiku Organisation to Haske Bola Tinubu Organisation, underscoring a total political realignment and emphatic endorsement of President Tinubu’s second-term pursuit ahead of 2027.
The trial of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello before Justice Maryanne Anineh of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court, Maitama, Abuja continued on Thursday, January 15, 2026 with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC tendering more bank records as evidence.
The EFCC is prosecuting Bello, alongside Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu on a 16-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust and money laundering to the tune of 1N10.4 billion.
At the resumed trial on Thursday, the prosecution team, led by Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, informed the court that the case was slated for further cross-examination of Prosecution Witness Six (PW6), Mashelia Arhyel Bata, a compliance officer with Zenith Bank, who was present in court.
Cross-examining the witness, counsel to the first and second defendant J.B Daudu SAN requested for Exhibit S1 and asked the witness to clarify his earlier testimony that the statement of account had eight columns. “At the beginning of your testimony, you said there are eight columns in the statement of account. By ‘description,’ what do you mean?” Daudu asked.
Responding, the witness said, “It is the description of the transaction, my Lord. ”Referring to page three of Exhibit S1, the witness explained that the first column showed an entry dated January 20, 2016, with the description: “Cq 158 Abdulsalami Hudu for ₦10,000,000.”
He further pointed out another entry which read: “ZB chq 155 paid Halims Hotels and Tours, Lokoja, ₦2,454,400, my Lord.”
When asked if he knew the purpose for which the ₦10 million collected by Abdulsalami Hudu or the amount paid to Halims Hotels and Tours was used, the witness replied, “I won’t know the purpose the ₦10,000,000 collected by Hudu and equally that of Halims Hotels, how it was spent and for which purpose.
Daudu then requested for Exhibit X1 and asked the witness to confirm whether his attention had been drawn to certain entries in the account.
The witness replied that it was the account opening document of a company with account number 1014878995, domiciled at the Lokoja branch of Zenith Bank.
Daudu further asked the witness to confirm whether there were 21 transactions between March 10 and March 12, 2016. The witness, however, responded that the entries he started with were from November 14, 2016. Directing the witness to December 6, 2016, Daudu asked him to read the entries. The witness stated that the first entry was a transfer from the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service, a credit of ₦74,378,483.20.
“The second entry on December 6, 2016 is a cheque paid to Mohammed Jami’u Sallau in the sum of ₦10,000,000, my Lord,” the witness said.
When asked whether the column stated the purpose of the payment, the witness answered, “No, my Lord. Sorry, my Lord, looking at the narration, I would not decide the reason for the payment.”
He added that the same applied to another credit entry of ₦10,000,000 in favour of Mohammed Jami’u Sallau.
Z.B. Abbas then cross-examined the witness on behalf of A.M. Aliyu, SAN, counsel to the 3rd defendant.
Abbas asked whether all withdrawals made by the 3rd defendant were by cheque. The witness answered, “Yes, my Lord, they were cheque withdrawals. He further confirmed that the cheques were duly signed by the authorised signatories. Abbas also asked if Exhibit X1 was the statement of account of the Government House account, to which the witness responded in the affirmative.
On Exhibit X2, Abbas asked whether the 3rd defendant had been introduced to the bank as a civil servant and accountant. The witness answered, “Yes, my Lord, he is an accountant.”
Abbas then suggested that the 3rd defendant was merely carrying out his duty as an accountant. This drew an objection from prosecution counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, who argued that the witness was not a civil servant working for the Kogi State Government and therefore could not testify to that fact.
Justice Anineh sustained the objection.
When asked about the signatories to the account, the witness listed three individuals: Chris Onyepola, Permanent Secretary; Onyechukwu Daniel L., Chief Accountant; and Abdulsalami Hudu, Accountant.
“These three individuals are the signatories to the account,” the witness confirmed.
Pressed further on transactions dated February 19, 2016, the witness stated that there was an inflow from UBA for a Police Reform Programme or payment of security fund amounting to ₦10,000,000 per tranche, made in six tranches, totalling ₦60,000,000.He further explained that on May 3, 2016, there was an inflow with the narration “payment of sec/fund” dated February 24, 2016, amounting to ₦50,000,000, followed by another transfer for payment of “sec fund” in the same amount.
The witness confirmed that after these inflows, the 3rd defendant made withdrawals. He also testified that on September 14, 2016, there were two inflows of ₦50,000,000 each, totalling ₦100,000,000, and that the 3rd defendant made a withdrawal the following day.
On September 20, 2016, he said there were two tranches of ₦10,000,000 and ₦15,000,000 described as “His Excellency Special Sec Vote.”
Similarly, on September 22, 2016, there was an inflow of ₦50,000,000 followed by a withdrawal by the 3rd defendant. Asked to confirm whether Exhibit X1 originated from Zenith Bank, the witness replied, “It came from our bank.”
He added that while abbreviations are standard in banking, he did not know the meaning of “sec” as it was not a term used by their bank.
On August 9, 2016, the witness confirmed there was an inflow of ₦50,000,000, after which the 3rd defendant made withdrawals. He also stated that on August 18, 2016, six withdrawals were made by one Umar Comfort, and that another withdrawal by the same individual occurred on August 23, 2016. When asked whether the first defendant was the only person operating the Government House account, the witness answered, “No.” Following the conclusion of the cross-examination, Pinheiro said the prosecution had no re-examination and applied that the witness be discharged. He also informed the court that the prosecution had a short witness from Keystone Bank to be called as Prosecution Witness Seven (PW7).PW7, Mohammed Bello Hassan, was thereafter sworn in. Led in evidence by Kayode Enitan, SAN, the witness identified himself as an executive trainee with Keystone Bank. He told the court he appeared pursuant to a subpoena.
The prosecution tendered the subpoena, certificate of identification, and the statement of account of Dantata and Sawoe Construction covering January 1 to December 31, 2021. Counsel to the 3rd defendant objected, stating that reasons would be given later.
The documents were admitted in evidence and marked accordingly.
Referring to Exhibit Z1, Enitan asked the witness to confirm whether the statement had columns and narrations. The witness said it had seven columns. Drawing his attention to page two, the witness confirmed that on February 17, 2021, there were several credit entries of ₦10,000,000 each. He further confirmed that entries on February 18, 21 and 22, 2021, were also credits of ₦10,000,000 each.
Explaining the narrations, the witness said that on February 17, 2021, Maigari Murtala transferred ₦10,000,000 in six tranches, totaling ₦60,000,000.
He added that Yusuf Mubarak transferred ₦10,000,000 on February 17, another ₦10,000,000 on February 21, and ₦10,000,000 on February 22. “In total, there were nine transfers of ₦10,000,000 each by Maigari Murtala and one transfer of ₦10,000,000 by Yusuf Mubarak, making ₦100,000,000,” the witness confirmed.
Under cross-examination by J.B. Daudu, SAN, the witness said he had been an executive trainee for two years and worked in the marketing department. He admitted that he was not the account officer of Dantata and Sawoe and that he was sent by the bank to comply with the subpoena. He also said he did not personally know Maigari Murtala or Yusuf Mubarak.
Under further cross-examination by counsel to the 3rd defendant Aliyu, the witness stated that he had never encountered the name Abdulmumini Hudu, did not know when the account was opened, and was unaware of the account signatories.
With no re-examination, PW7 was discharged. Enitan then called Prosecution Witness Eight (PW8), Gabriel Ocha, a compliance officer with FCMB, No.4, Gwani Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja. He also appeared under subpoena, bringing along a certificate of compliance and other documents covering the period from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2024, in respect of Kunfayakun Global Limited.
Counsel to the 3rd defendant objected to the admissibility of the documents, reserving reasons for later. Nevertheless, the court admitted them and marked them as Exhibits AA (subpoena), AB1 (certificate of identification) and AB2 (account opening package).
Led by Enitan, the witness explained that the statement of account had seven columns, representing date, reference, description, value date, deposit, withdrawal and balance. Referring to page seven of the statement, the witness read an entry dated November 1, 2021, showing a debit of ₦30,000,000 from Kunfayakun Global Limited in favour of the American International School for Abdul Bashir.
He further testified that on November 1, 2021, there were three web transfers of ₦10,000,000 each, credited from Haruna Gana and Haruna Gaddafi, totalling ₦30,000,000.
He also confirmed a NIBSS transfer on the same date from Behamas Global Ventures in the sum of ₦25,959,000.
On November 2, 2021, the witness said there were transfers of ₦10,000,000, ₦10,000,000 and over ₦8,000,000 to Zadakkayak Global.
After cross-examination by counsel to the defendants, the prosecution called Prosecution Witness Nine (PW9), A.D. Ojoma, a compliance officer with Sterling Bank. He also appeared under subpoena with a certificate of compliance and the statement of account of Bespoke Business Solutions Limited.
While counsel to the 1st and 2nd defendants did not object to the admissibility of the documents, counsel to the 3rd defendant objected, reserving reasons for later.
Led in evidence by Pinheiro, the witness identified several credit entries, including a transaction of over ₦57 million on March 5, 2019.
On April 3, 2019, he identified a credit entry described as “NAFFS Kogi State payment commission for March 2019,” from the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service, amounting to ₦138,492,215.91.
He also identified another credit entry on May 3, 2019, described as “NAFFS Kogi State 2019,” from the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service, in the sum of ₦136,809,102.70.
On August 6, 2019, the witness said there was a credit entry from the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service for payment of contractors amounting to ₦183,645,647.31. He further testified that on August 15, 2019, there was a credit entry of ₦242,250,000 for the purchase of OBPEH.
Justice Maryanne Anineh thereafter adjourned the matter till Friday, January 16, 2026, for continuation of trial.
Justice Yellim Bogoro of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, ordered the interim forfeiture of the sum of $150,000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars) linked to one Emmanuel Okoh, Director, Vetifly Global Inc.
The Judge gave the order, following a motion ex parte filed and argued by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,through its counsel, A.M.Dambuwa.
Moving the application for the interim forfeiture, Dambuwa stated that the petitioner, sometime in February, 2022, invested the sum of $1,500,000.00 ( One Million, Five Hundred Thousand United States Dollars) in the aviation business of Vetifly Global Inc.
He stated that the parties agreed that Return on Investment (ROI) would be 100 percent of the investment sum, which would be paid exactly 365 calendar days from the date of issuance.
He also told the court that Okoh, however, reneged on the terms of agreement and also travelled out of the country, with the investment sum of $1.5m.
According to him, “ All efforts by the petitioner to reach Okoh were unsuccessful, hence he approached the EFCC.
“ Investigation conducted on the “Aircraft Service Agreement” between Velifly Limited and Zejet Limited led to the invitation of the Managing Director of the Xejet Limited, and one Emmanuel Ayuba Iza, who reported and volunteered a statement.
“ In his statement to the Commission, Iza said that Okoh needed Air cargo and he approached Xejet Limited for a partnership through a letter written in July, 2021 for the purpose of cargo air service.
“An agreement named “Aircraft Services Agreement” was later executed between Vetifly Limited and Xejet Limited.
“The aircraft service agreement between Emmanuel Okoh and Xejet Limited is to the effect that Vetifly Limited will provide funding for an air cargo service operation while the Xejet Limited is to provide cargo aircraft and handle the regulatory, operation and technical aspect of the service.
“ On March 2, 2022, the sum of $1,499,990.00 One Million, Four Hundred and Ninety-Nine Thousand, Nine Hundred and Ninety Dollars) was lodged by one REMX Capital Limited belonging to Vetifly Limited.
“The lodgement made to the First Bank account of Vetifly Limited on March 2, 2022 ( the sum of $1,499,990.00 (One Million, Four Hundred and Ninety-Nine Thousand, Nine Hundred and Ninety Dollars) is in correlation with the Swift document submitted by the petitioner.”
He, therefore, prayed the court to grant the application seeking an interim forfeiture of the property, which is reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.
In her ruling, Justice Bogoro granted the application, and also directed the Commission to publish the interim order in a national newspaper for any interested party to show cause why the final order of forfeiture should not be made in favour of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The Judge adjourned the case till February 11, 2026 for a report of compliance.
…As 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Commemorations Conclude in Delta State
By Sunday Apah
The 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day observances culminated on Thursday in Delta State with a dignified and solemn ceremony at the Cenotaph in Asaba, where wreaths were laid at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The event was graced by the presence of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, alongside his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Chief Judge Justice Tessy Diai; senior military commanders; and the state’s Commissioner of Police.
Other notable attendees included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu; Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe, HRM Maj-Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.); and representatives of the Nigerian Legion, amongst other esteemed guests.
Upon arrival, Governor Oborevwori, the Special Guest of Honour, was accorded a formal military salute and conducted an inspection of the guard of honour, where personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces and Nigerian Legion provided a stirring display of discipline, reverence, and national solidarity.
A minute of silence was observed to honor the sacrifice of the nation’s fallen heroes, succeeded by interfaith prayers delivered by Christian and Muslim clerics beseeching divine mercy for the souls of the departed, comfort for their families, welfare for veterans, and wisdom for the country’s leaders.
Following the prayers, Governor Oborevwori led the Service Commanders, Police Commissioner, traditional ruler representatives, legionnaires, and senior government officials in a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Key moments of the event included the firing of volleys and the symbolic release of white doves by the Governor, representing peace, hope, and renewal, and underscoring Delta State’s unwavering dedication to the lofty principles for which Nigeria’s heroes bravely laid down their lives.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day continues to serve as a poignant national tribute, emphasizing the profound cost of liberty and the collective duty to uphold peace, unity, and patriotism across generations.
It is noteworthy that on December 2, 2025, President Bola Tinubu officially launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal Fund, honoring Nigeria’s fallen soldiers, wounded veterans, and active service members stationed on the front lines.
