Showing posts with label Crime. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Crime. Show all posts

BREAKING: DSS Arraigns Former AGF Abubakar Malami, Son Over Alleged Terrorism Financing and Illegal Firearms


By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), alongside his son, Abdulaziz Abubakar Malami, before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged terrorism-related offences.

The father and son were brought before the court on Tuesday on a five-count charge bordering on terrorism financing, aiding and abetting terrorism, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

Details of the Charges

According to the prosecution, Malami allegedly failed to act on intelligence and case files relating to suspected terrorism financiers during his time in office as the nation’s chief law officer. Authorities claim that this refusal amounted to abetting terrorism financing.

In addition, both defendants are accused of illegally possessing firearms and ammunition without proper licensing.
Security operatives reportedly recovered:
One firearm, Several live cartridges

Multiple expended rounds of ammunition
The prosecution argued that the possession of these items without lawful authority could constitute preparatory acts linked to terrorism under Nigerian law.

Court Proceedings

When the charges were read in court, Malami and his son pleaded not guilty to all counts.

The prosecution urged the court to remand them in DSS custody pending trial, citing the seriousness of the allegations and national security concerns.

Defence lawyers made an oral request for bail, but the presiding judge declined, stating that bail applications must be properly filed through written motions.
Adjournment
The court subsequently adjourned the case to a later date to hear the formal bail application and begin trial proceedings.

Why This Case Matters

The arraignment marks one of the most significant legal actions involving a former top government official in recent years. As a former Attorney-General, Malami once oversaw the country’s justice system, making the charges particularly high-profile.

Legal observers say the case could test the government’s commitment to accountability and the fight against terrorism financing.
More updates are expected as the matter returns to court.

Alleged Coup: Soldiers Must Face Civilian Trial, Not Court-Martial — Falana


By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has said that any military officer accused of plotting a coup against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration cannot be tried through a court-martial under Nigeria’s democratic system.

Falana insisted that such suspects must be prosecuted in civilian courts in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution.

Speaking during an interview on national television, the legal expert addressed the growing debate over how alleged coup plots should be handled in a democratic government, stressing that Nigeria’s legal framework no longer permits military tribunals for crimes against an elected administration.

According to him, court-martial proceedings are meant strictly for internal military discipline and not for constitutional offences like treason or attempts to overthrow a democratic government.

“We are under a democratic government, and as far as the constitution is concerned, we have to take them to a high court,” Falana said.

“The soldiers cannot be court-martialed. They are not trying to remove a military dictator. It’s an attempt to remove an elected government, a constitutional government, to disrupt the constitutional arrangement,” he added.

Falana explained that once an alleged offence goes beyond military misconduct and becomes an attack on the state or constitutional order, it must be handled by civilian courts.

He warned that trying such cases through military tribunals would contradict democratic principles and weaken the supremacy of the constitution.

The senior lawyer maintained that upholding due process through the regular court system remains essential to protecting Nigeria’s democracy and rule of law.

‘I Was Marked for Death’ — Defence Minister Musa Reveals Coup Plotters Planned to Shoot Him, Tinubu


By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has revealed that suspected coup plotters planned to shoot him if he resisted arrest during a failed attempt to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking on Channels Television on Sunday, Musa disclosed that he was a prime target of the renegade military officers behind the botched plot, describing them as “unserious individuals” who underestimated the strength of the Armed Forces.

Musa, who served as Chief of Defence Staff when the alleged plot was being hatched, said the conspirators had concluded plans to detain him — and kill him if necessary.

“I was also a target. I am sure you know. I was supposed to be arrested and if I refused, I was supposed to be shot,” he said.

He dismissed the plotters as ill-prepared and reckless, questioning how they believed they could successfully confront Nigeria’s military establishment.

“If you look at the calibre of persons, I don’t know what got into their heads that they could take on the Armed Forces like that. Even Nigerians would have fought them,” Musa added.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) had earlier denied reports linking the cancellation of Nigeria’s Independence Day anniversary events to the coup attempt, insisting the decision was unrelated.

It also clarified that the arrest of 16 officers was not initially connected to an overthrow plan.
However, on January 26, the DHQ confirmed that intelligence agencies uncovered a coordinated plot in late September 2025. 

The scheme allegedly involved plans to assassinate President Tinubu, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, and other senior government officials, while detaining top military commanders.

Authorities said joint intelligence from the army, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) foiled the plan before it could be executed, with several suspects arrested and others still being tracked.

The revelation underscores fresh concerns about internal threats within the military and renewed efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic order.

Bandits Attack Agwara, Niger State, Burn Church, Police Station and Kidnap Villagers

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

Agwara communities in Niger State were thrown into chaos early Sunday as armed bandits attacked, burning down a police station and a church, while abducting a nursing mother, her four children, and several other villagers.

The attackers, reportedly operating as terrorists under the guise of banditry, also killed an elderly woman in Kabe community and looted large quantities of food and other valuables during the assault.

The church destroyed in the attack has been identified as belonging to the United Missionary Church of Africa (UMCA).

Eyewitnesses described the terrifying events, stating, “The bandits left around 6 a.m. and moved towards Sokonbara village, not far from Kabe, after the initial attack.” Residents added that the group carried away significant food items and other goods after the killing in Kabe.

Among those abducted was Malam Ahmed Burade, a former chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and headmaster of the local primary school, along with his wife and five children. Sources revealed that Burade managed to escape during a gunfight between the bandits and members of the local vigilante group. 

However, his nursing wife and four children remain in captivity.
As of the time of this report, police authorities have not released any official statement on the incident.

This latest attack follows a disturbing pattern of violence in Niger and Kaduna states, where bandits have repeatedly targeted villages, churches, and other vulnerable communities, abducting
 residents and causing widespread fear. Just days ago, similar attacks in Kaduna saw nearly 200 people kidnapped, highlighting the growing insecurity in the region.

Nigerian Troops Eliminate ISWAP Commander ‘Julaibib’ in Major Offensive in Borno


By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have recorded a significant counter-terrorism success after killing a senior commander of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), identified as Julaibib, during a fierce military operation in Borno State.

The high-profile terrorist leader was neutralised on Friday, January 30, during an intelligence-led assault around Kimba in Damboa Local Government Area, a known hotspot for insurgent activities in Nigeria’s North-East.

Intelligence-Driven Strike

According to a statement released on Saturday by the Media Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant General Sani Uba, the operation was carefully planned using actionable intelligence targeting insurgents operating along the Gujba axis of the notorious Timbuktu Triangle.

Military sources disclosed that Julaibib’s death has caused confusion within ISWAP ranks, weakening the group’s command structure and disrupting its operations across the area.

The army described the development as a major setback for the terrorist organisation’s leadership and coordination capabilities.

Additional Terrorists Neutralised
In a separate operation, troops working closely with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) successfully ambushed insurgents moving between Ngazalgana and Lamusheri communities.

Security forces tactically positioned themselves along the identified route and engaged the terrorists in a gun battle. Three insurgents were killed, while several others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.

Soldiers recovered two AK-47 rifles from the scene, further reducing the terrorists’ firepower.

Gwoza Encounter

Earlier, on January 29, troops stationed at Tsokorok in Gwoza Local Government Area also clashed with Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters during another ambush operation.
The insurgents were forced to retreat after a brief exchange of fire. One terrorist was confirmed killed, while no casualties were recorded among government forces. 

Two motorcycles believed to be used for mobility by the terrorists were seized.
Military Reaffirms Commitment
Lieutenant General Uba noted that the overall security situation in the theatre remains under control, adding that Operation HADIN KAI will continue aggressive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks.

He emphasised that the military remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, restricting insurgents’ freedom of movement, and restoring lasting peace and economic stability to communities across the North-East.

Strengthening Security in Borno

The latest victories underscore the Nigerian military’s sustained efforts to degrade Boko Haram and ISWAP capabilities through coordinated intelligence, community collaboration, and targeted strikes.

Security analysts say eliminating senior commanders like Julaibib could significantly weaken insurgent planning and morale in the region.

As operations intensify, residents of Borno and neighbouring states hope the continued pressure on terrorist groups will pave the way for improved safety and normalcy.

Nollywood Actor Stanley Amandi Arrested Over Alleged Links to Coup Plot Investigation

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

The quiet arrest of Stanley Amandi, a Nollywood actor and former chairman of the Enugu State chapter of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), has stirred fresh questions about an ongoing national security probe involving both military officers and civilians.

Amandi was reportedly taken into custody earlier this week in Enugu during a low-key operation carried out without prior public notice. Details surrounding the arrest initially remained unclear, leaving even members of his family uncertain about which security agency was responsible.

Confusion Over Arresting Agency

According to sources familiar with the situation, relatives first suspected the Department of State Services (DSS) due to the discreet nature of the operation and the lack of immediate communication. 

However, formal notification later confirmed that Amandi is being held by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), the military’s external intelligence service.

The delayed clarification has highlighted the secrecy surrounding the investigation, which authorities have described as highly sensitive.

Family Seeks Medical and Legal Access

After learning of his detention, Amandi’s family reportedly contacted the DIA to request visitation rights for his wife, legal representatives, and a medical doctor.

The request was said to be based on health concerns, as the actor is believed to suffer from hypertension.
It remains uncertain whether the agency has granted the family’s request.

Alleged Role in Media and Messaging
While security agencies have yet to publicly outline the exact allegations, reports suggest investigators do not view Amandi as directly involved in operational or military planning.

Instead, he is believed to have been linked to what officials describe as the “media and messaging” aspect of the suspected plot. Authorities suspect he may have been positioned to influence public narratives or help legitimize an unconstitutional takeover attempt, categorizing him as a civilian collaborator rather than a key planner.

Wider National Security Crackdown
Amandi’s arrest is said to be part of a broader sweep targeting an alleged network of serving military officers and civilian associates accused of plotting to destabilize President Bola Tinubu’s government.

Intelligence sources indicate the investigation began after a serving officer reportedly alerted senior commanders to suspicious meetings and unusual conversations within the ranks. Subsequent assessments pointed to a small group allegedly exploring ways to undermine Nigeria’s democratic order.

Security agencies then launched coordinated arrests across different locations to prevent what officials described as a potential escalation.
What initially appeared to be routine disciplinary matters within the armed forces were later reclassified as national security concerns.

Growing Public Interest

The involvement of a well-known Nollywood figure has drawn significant public attention, as it is uncommon for someone from the entertainment industry to be linked to allegations of this scale.

As investigations continue, calls are increasing for authorities to provide greater transparency regarding the legal grounds for the arrests and the evidence supporting the claims, while balancing the need to protect sensitive intelligence operations.

For now, many questions remain unanswered as Stanley Amandi’s case unfolds amid one of Nigeria’s most discreet and complex security investigations in recent years.

Court Grants Yahaya Bello Permission to Travel for 2026 Lesser Hajj



A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has granted permission to a former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, to travel to Saudi Arabia to perform the 2026 lesser Hajj (Umrah).

The court gave the approval following an application by Bello seeking temporary leave to travel outside the country for religious purposes.

Justice Emeka Nwite, on Thursday, ordered the temporary release of Bello’s international passport, which had been in the custody of the court, to enable him undertake the religious exercise.

Bello is currently standing trial before the court over alleged misappropriation of funds in a case instituted against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC).

The EFCC is prosecuting the former governor over alleged money laundering to the tune of N80.2bn, allegations which Bello denied when he was arraigned before the court.

The former governor, in an application dated January 20, and supported by a 24-paragraph affidavit deposed to by himself, sought the court’s permission to travel to Saudi Arabia for supplication.

Moving the application, his lead counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, told the court that the request was to enable the defendant travel to the Holy Land during the month of Ramadan to observe the lesser Hajj.

Daudu informed the court that Bello had not visited the Holy Land in over eight years, adding that there was a need for him to go and pray to God to deliver him from his challenges.

Responding, the lead prosecution counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, said the prosecution would not oppose the request for the defendant to travel for the lesser Hajj, but stressed that it would not concede any of the trial dates already fixed by the court.
In a short ruling, Justice Nwite granted the application for the release of Bello’s international passport, which was deposited with the Registrar of the court.

According to the judge, “I have listened to the submissions of counsel in this matter and am minded to grant the application”.

Consequently, the court approved the release of the passport from March 13, 2026, for a period of 10 days, and adjourned proceedings till Friday, January 30th, for the continuation of the examination of the seventh prosecution witness.

Earlier in his testimony, PW7, Olomotane Egoro, a subpoenaed official of Access Bank, told the court of cash inflows from local government areas of Kogi State into the accounts of Fazab Business Enterprise and E-Traders International Ltd.

Egoro also told the court that several cash withdrawals were made from the accounts.

Ebonyi Police Confirm Detention of Officers Over Alleged Killing of Motorcyclist



Okola Akpakpan

The Ebonyi State Police Command has confirmed the detention of some of its officers over the alleged shooting and killing of a motorcycle rider in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital.

The command disclosed that they have commence investigation into the fatal shooting that occurred on 27 January, 2026 at about 10:30 pm around Hariz Filling Station along the ever busy Abakaliki- Enugu highway. 

It said Preliminary reports indicate that operatives of the Command attached to the Central Police Station, Abakaliki, while on routine patrol around the Spera-in-Deo Flyover, responded to a distress call when one of the officers unprofessionally shot in the air.

Regrettably, the bullet struck a motorcycle rider identified as Nwanchor Uwaezuruike 'm'. He was immediately rushed to the hospital for medical attention but was later confirmed dead.

This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the command's Public Relations officer, SP Joshua Ukandu and available to journalists in Abakaliki.

The affected officers have been taken into custody pending the outcome of a thorough inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

It noted that the Commissioner of Police, Ebonyi State Command, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (DC, SCID) to carry out a thorough, impartial and professional investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

According to the statement,The Commissioner of Police has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and assured them, as well the general public, that justice will be served.

The Command reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and professionalism and will keep the public informed as further developments emerge from the investigation.

Yahaya Bello: Kogi iIndigenes To EFCC: Don’t Allow Embittered, Ethnic Jingoists Lead You Astray


From Our Correspondent 


Indigenes of Kogi State have cautioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, against those they described as embittered and desperate ethnic jingoists who are strengthening the public opinion that the Commission is collaborating with certain opposition figures to persecute the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
The indigenes said since the allegation of corruption by the EFCC against the former Governor became a national discourse, "some persons who are afraid of chasing their dreams at the polls have hidden under the veneer of activism to sponsor their tribesmen to impugn on the character of ex Governor Yahaya Bello maliciously".
Addressing a press conference yesterday, chairman of the forum, Benjamin Oguche noted that those still calling for the arrest of Bello even in the face of an ongoing court process, were either uninformed or out to rubbish the image of EFCC while pursuing their prolonged vendetta mission.
The Kogi youth leaders said this particular group had consistently pursued a "we against them" agenda, causing division and hate among the ethnic groups in Kogi, spreading falsehood and propaganda to the public on the matter.
"It is sad and regrettable that the so-called corruption allegation against Bello, which remains an allegation until established in the court of law, has become an opportunity for chronic political failures to unleash their intolerance and deep-rooted frustration on a state that our founding fathers have laboured so hard to unite. 
"Without credible reasons, they have been said to have mobilised resources to fight him for daring to govern a state he hails from and for overseeing a free and fair election which produced another governor, not from their fold," they stated.
According to them, the polarisation, ethnic and religious colouration that have been introduced in recent times into the EFCC trial of the immediate past Governor calls for worry, especially among every Kogi indigene who has a firm belief in the peaceful co-existence of the state as an indivisible entity.
"Suffice to say that what we see playing out today is a microcosm of what our country represents, where the so called minority is discriminated against, sidelined and treated like a lesser citizen in a country he has made equal, if not greater, contributions to building. The so called minority has been made to believe his voice does not count and his fundamental right to pursue social, economic and political interest taken away.
"Since through divine providence that former Governor Yahaya Bello became governor in 2016, several arrow of ethnic bitterness, needless attacks and corruption profiling have been targetted at him and his government for no offence other than for the simple reason that the responsibility to lead our dear state at that time fell on his shoulder.
"While God saw him through his four years in office, the people of our dear state equally and overwhelmingly renewed their mandate for him, sending him to go again, amidst hate campaign, violence attacks and ethnic war by some ethnic driven elites who have sworn never to allow certain ethnic groups have a taste of leading the state. While this gathering is not about catalogue of exploits he achieved and the records he broke within these eight years, it is important to note that since he left office, same known tribal jingoists and ethnic champions have been having sleepless nights plotting the downfall of the man.
"The anti-Bello protests in the UK last week, Lagos last week and Abuja today highlight the glaring danger those they regard as minority ethnic groups face in the hands of those who feel that their population is for the purpose of suppressing the fundamental rights of others to seek political interest. One continues to wonder where the protesters gathered the money to go on a protest spray, if some people are not bankrolling them, which suggest a sinister plan different from genuine fight against corruption as the public is made to understand.
"We understand that the case for which these hate-induced protests are going on is in the court and the court is a place of orderliness where every party will push their stands without necessarily drawing dagger to murder our peace. We are, however, surprised that dimension of sustained protests have been added to their inglorious mission.
"We have often expressed our confidence in the judiciary and irrespective of how long it could take, the wheel of justice must grind to a logical end. We, however, frown at the seeming open hands the EFCC has been showing to the protesters which is fuelling an unfortunate suspicion that must be immediately corrected.
"While we welcome in its entirety the probe of the former Governor, we, however, reject the deliberate image smearing against him. We call on the EFCC to disregard the propaganda of ethnic agents and face the task of diligent prosecution," the youth leaders advised.

Group demands Immediate suspension of EFCC Chairman Bawa over alleged crime

By Blessing Bature 


A group under the aegis of North Central Citizens Council, NCCC, has called for the immediate suspension of the chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Abdulrasheed Bawa over alleged financial crimes.


Coordinator, North Central Citizens Council (NCCC), Comrade Mohammed Eneji disclosed this on Sunday in a press briefing demanding that the federal government begin a thorough investigation into several allegations against him, especially for the fact that the commission have suffered a lot of set backs as it relates to corruption on previous leadership of Magu, saying this shouldn't be swept under the carpet.


The NCCC noted that the main purpose of the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission as a law enforcement agency that investigates financial crimes, has been eroded under the inept leadership of Abdulrasheed Bawa. 


According to the coordinator, the flamboyant lifestyle of Abdulrasheed Bawa have always raised suspicion as to the income of the embattled Chairman. Several credible media houses within and outside the country have reported stories about an alleged embezzlement of public funds by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission boss.


He hinted that one of the allegations is that the Chairman recently expended a large amount money to the tune of $300,000 for hotels and other activities, which is far and beyond his income as civil servant, during a visit to Mecca with his family on a lesser Hajj. Equally, the incident of Abel Isah, an EFCC cadet in Sokoto who was allegedly beaten to death by superior officers for refusing to sign off on incomplete exhibits is still fresh in the minds of Nigerians, Several calls were for the Commission to initiate a thorough investigation into his death, but up to this point, there has been no clear indication by the powers-that -be at the Commission that a probe has begun. It stands to reason that there are ulterior motives why the Commission is reluctant to commence an investigation in this most heinous crime. What is the Commission hiding?


He said, North Central Citizens Council, representing the voice for the masses from the North Central geopolitical zone is calling for, It is for these reasons that we are calling on the relevant authorities to initiate a proper investigation into Bawa’s spending spree in Saudi Arabia and also his involvement in concealing and/or obstructing the investigation into the death of Abel Isah". 

"We are also calling on the Senate Presidency to halt any plans for the confirmation of Bawa as a substantive EFCC Chairman until the conclusion of the investigation, as doing so will send the wrong signal to Nigerians".

NDYC Calls On Senate To investigate EFCC Chairman Over alleged Financial Crimes




Blessing Otobong-Gabriel 

The Niger Delta Youth Congress, NYDC has called on the Nigerian Senate to conduct an independent and thorough investigation into the series of allegations levelled against  Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa the EFCC Chairman in order to restore public confidence in the EFCC and reaffirm its commitment to the fight against corruption.

The National Coordinator NDYC, Comrade Israel Uwejeyan, made the call in a statement, on Saturday in Abuja saying that the recent  allegations leveled against the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Abdulrasheed Bawa, if proven true, have the potential to severely undermine the credibility and effectiveness of the commission. It is therefore essential that a thorough investigation is conducted into these allegations

The group asked that the EFCC Chairman  step aside for a thorough investigation into the series of allegations levelled against him and called upon the chairman of the  EFCC to provide a comprehensive explanation regarding the sources of funds that facilitated his accommodation during the lesser Hajj in Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that he secured six opulent rooms at the Hilton Hotel in Mecca, and similarly resided in Sheraton in Jeddah, incurring a staggering expenditure nearing $300,000. In the spirit of transparency and accountability, Mr. Bawa owes the Nigerian public and the Senate a detailed account of the origin of these substantial funds.

He should step aside to ensure that the investigations are not influenced or compromised in any way, allowing for an impartial examination of the allegations brought against him.

And  called on all relevant stakeholders, civil society organizations, and the Nigerian public to support this call for Mr. Bawa to step aside  for a thorough investigation into these series of allegations. We must all work together to ensure that the EFCC remains an effective institution in the fight against corruption, upholding the principles of justice and accountability, the statement reads. 

The group further maintained that the Senate as custodians of our democracy, holds the power to make crucial decisions that directly impact the well-being and future of our country especially as it concerns key institutions like the EFCC, and so should demonstrate their commitment to upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and accountability and it will also reaffirm the trust of the Nigerian citizens in the legislative process, showing that their concerns are heard and addressed with sincerity. We implore you to prioritize the greater good of the Nigerian people over any undue influence or personal agenda that may compromise the pivotal role of the EFCC in combating corruption.

"The EFCC, as an institution charged with the responsibility of combating economic and financial crimes, plays a crucial role in our society. It is imperative that the commission operates with the highest standards of professionalism, credibility, and trustworthiness." And  any allegations of misconduct or impropriety involving its leadership must be treated with utmost seriousness, the statement said. 



Why Bawa didn't obey committal order -EFCC


The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday justified the refusal of its Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, to present himself and be committed to Kuje prison, as ordered by a court in Kogi State. 

Explaining that Bawa did not obey the court order because the commission has appealed the ruling, the Head, Media and Publicity, EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, who spoke with reporters in Abuja, said the EFCC boss was denied fair hearing and as a law abiding institution, the EFCC has approached the Appeal Court, for a stay of execution. 

He however failed to mention whether the stay of execution had been granted or not, as reporters tried to find out whether the appeal stopped the arrest of Bawa by the Inspector-General of Police. 

The spokesman of the anti-graft body also alleged that the protests by over 100 anti-corruption Civil Society Organisations (CSO), which entered it's fourth day on Tuesday, is being sponsored against the EFCC chairman to discredit his person. 

He said: "The group, through press conferences and staged street protests, have been calling for the sack of the EFCC Chairman for alleged disobedience of court orders. They claim they are motivated by the need to strengthen the fight against corruption. 

"Contrary to these claims, the EFCC wishes to alert the public that this group have no interest in the fight against Corruption and their allusion to disobedience of court orders by the EFCC chairman is an alibi to manipulate facts around judicial pronouncements and processes to pitch the public against the Commission," he said. 

He alleged that the CSOs are being sponsored by people under investigation by the Commission and had been mobilised and mandated by their paymaster to embarrass the EFCC chairman through choreographed street protests across the country, until he is removed from office. 

Uwajaren appealed to the public to disregard the campaign by this group as they do not represent the genuine interest of millions of Nigerians who are desirous of seeing progress in the fight against Corruption. 

"It is also important to reassure Nigerians and all stakeholders that the Commission has never, and will not take any steps to undermine the judiciary. As a law abiding institution, EFCC has conducted all its activities within the ambit of the law. Where judicial decisions were made against it, it has never resorted to self-help but availed itself of remedies under the law as it did in the instant case of committal orders of court," the EFCC stated.

I begged Rapist To Use Condom, Insisted He Must Do It - Nurse Cries Out




A Nurse and a married woman, Name withheld, has told Ikeja Special Offences Court, Lagos State, how she was allegedly raped by a security guard, Ibuchi Emmanuel, at a school where she worked as a nurse.

she said that she was on night duty on the day the incident happened, while Emmanuel was also on duty that night while she was on her way to inspect the school’s clinic before retiring to her desk, the defendant approached her and demanded to see her later that night.
She said around 9pm while she was at her desk, which had a bed beside it, the defendant knocked on the door to the room, but she hesitated to let him in and the defendant came in after he requested vitamin C from her.

After giving him the drug, the 35-year-old said she offered Emmanuel a seat when he said he had been wanting to say something to her.

According to her, during their discussion, he professed love to her and she replied that she was married with kids.

She said he then proceeded to force himself on her and told her not to bother screaming for help because no one would hear her voice.

“I then told him that I know you are a man but I’m going to fight you so you won’t be able to have your way. While we were dragging each other, he got tired and was like even if he was going to have sex with me, he had no strength left. I then told him to take himself away because I’m not a cheap woman; he should go and look for single girls.”

She said Emmanuel agreed to leave the room but changed his mind and began making moves to kiss, touch and take off her pants, which she resisted.

“He came back and pushed me. After he did, I tried to kick him but he grabbed my legs. By then, I was already laying on my back while he was using his security boots to march my legs. I started begging him not to do what he wanted to do, but he insisted that he must do it.

“I asked him if he knew about the place I came from. I reminded him that I’m from Delta and women from that state don’t meet other men once married. I continued to beg him and told him that his action would cost me my marriage. 

He said anything that would happen should happen. I told him to hold on and that I had a condom in my bag. He said no and that was when he finished having his way with me,” she added.

During cross-examination, she said the reason she told the defendant to get a condom was that she thought it would give her the chance to escape.

The case was adjourned by Justice Ramon Oshodi till March 22, 2023, for continuation of trial, while the defendant was remanded in the Ikoyi Custodial Centre.