EFCC arraigns TStv MD, executive director for money laundering, fraud

 

EFCC arraigns TStv MD, executive director for money laundering, fraud

The TStv boss was also accused of duping a former minister.

ByAgency Report  June 6, 2024 Reading Time: 2 mins read

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Thursday, arraigned the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of Telecom Satellites Limited (TStv), Bright Echefu, and three others on nine-count money laundering charge.

Others arraigned alongside Mr Echefu before Justice Inyang Ekwo of a Federal High Court, Abuja, include the Executive Director of TStv, Felix Igboanuga; TStv and Briechberg Investment Ltd as 2nd to 4th defendants respectively.

They, however, pleaded not guilty to all the counts.

Upon their non-guilty plea, EFCC’s counsel, Tahir Sylvanus, prayed for an order remanding Messrs Echefu and Igboanuga in a correctional centre pending the hearing and determination of the case.

Mr Sylvanus hinged his application on the grounds that it took almost a year after filing the charge before the defendants could be arraigned.

The lawyer, who said Messrs Echefu and Igboanuga were a flight risk, alleged that the duo refused to turn up for arraignment after being admitted to administrative bail and the charge filed on 9 June 2023.

He, therefore, asked for a speedy trial of the matter.

But Eyitayo Fatogun, who appeared for the defendants, informed the court that a bail application had been filed on his clients’ behalf in October 2023.

He urged the court to admit them to bail, pledging that the defendants were ready to stand trial.

But Mr Sylvanus disagreed with Fatogun.

The prosecution lawyer said a counter affidavit was filed on 16 October 2023 in opposition to their bail plea.

He said though the court had a discretionary power to grant bail, the antecedent of the defendants had proven that they were a flight risk.

Justice Ekwo asked if the defendants were earlier granted administrative bail and Mr Sylvanus responded in the affirmative.

The judge consequently admitted Messrs Echefu and Igboanuga on the terms of the administrative bail earlier granted by the anti-graft agency.

He ordered the defendants to deposit their international passports with the court registrar and not to travel outside the court’s jurisdiction without prior leave of the court.

Justice Ekwo, however, threatened to revoke their bail if they failed to show up in court for their trial.

The judge adjourned the matter until 15, 16 and 17 June for trial commencement. He threatened that Messrs Echefu and Igboanuga would remain in remand until their trial lasted if their bail was revoked.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the defendants were alleged to have, on or about 18 May 2020, committed the money laundering offence, including tax evasion, unremitted Value Added Tax (VAT) and Company Income Tax and Pay As You Earn (PAYE) deducted from the salaries of 165 staff.

FLOODING DUE TO INDISCRIMINATE WASTE DISPOSAL;

 FLOODING DUE TO INDISCRIMINATE WASTE DISPOSAL; 

..... Why Residents Must Take Responsibility

Emmanuel Nicholas

2min reads

June 06 2024

Akwa Ibom State is known for being the cleanest State in Nigeria, largely due to the efforts of the government to maintain cleanliness in all ramifications. 

The Government of Governor Umo Eno made part of it first line charge in keeping the environment in the State very clean. 

The Government sweeps all the streets every day, clear drainage, cut grasses, run quarterly evacuation of surface and underground drainage systems. 

The Akwa Ibom State Government has made significant investments in acquiring waste disposal vehicles and large waste bins for residents to freely dispose of their waste. Meanwhile, in many other states in Nigeria, residents are required to pay for such services.

The State also has designated the last Saturday of each month as a sanitation day to allow residents to tidy up their surroundings. Despite strict movement restrictions in place, the majority of residents have chosen not to take advantage of this opportunity to clean their environment.

One of the critical issues facing Akwa Ibom State is the improper disposal of waste and the neglect of drainage systems by residents. 

Residents must recognize the importance of proper waste disposal and clearing of drainage to prevent flooding, But they constitute a Nuisance by dumping their waste into waterways. 

Having lived in Lagos for over fifteen years, I have never seen the state government clearing waste from the drainage systems., Instead, residents have to engage licensed sanitation agents to help them clear the drainage, dispose of their waste or to do both by themselves. 

In Akwa Ibom State, the government through the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection And Waste Management Agency has established designated points where residents can deposit their waste,

And the agency then collated the waste to central disposal site for recycling and reclamation of the valley. 

 The residents do not take responsibility for cutting the grass outside their homes, They also leave this task to Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection And Waste Management Agency. 

Regrettably, residents of Akwa Ibom tend to dispose of their waste in drainages and waterways, leading to flooding during the rainy season, causing property damage and loss of life. 

Ironically, these same individuals then point fingers at the government for not doing enough to prevent flooding in the state. 

A notable example was the recent flooding in a section of the Housing Estate extension in Uyo, the state capital.

 Upon assuming office as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State in 2015, Deacon Udom Emmanuel encountered flooding in the area that tragically claimed the life of a young girl. 

At that time, the entire Estate lacked asphalt roads and drainage systems. 

As a conscientious leader, Governor Emmanuel took action by awarding contracts for the construction of 28 streets equipped with drainage on both sides, and it was completed and commissioned. 

From then such incidents never occurred. 

This type of calamity could be averted if residents took responsibility for properly disposing of their waste and maintaining clean drainage systems, instead of solely relying on the government for these duties.

Another critical element in ensuring a flood-free future for Akwa Ibom State is prudent urban planning.

 Residents should obtain proper approvals before constructing buildings to prevent encroachment on waterways and designated drainage areas.

I recall an incident where a man constructed a house that became a barrier that blocked waterways on one of street's exit from housing Extension into Mbak Road. It required the intervention of the Uyo Capital City authorities, who dismantled the structure and allows water to flow. 

Therefore, collaborating with government agencies on urban development projects will help prevent construction in flood-prone zones and ensure that structures are not erected over underground drainage systems.

Obstructions such as these buildings hinder the opening of underground drains when it is blocked, leading to blame being unfairly placed on the government for demolition actions to unblock the drains. 

To prevent flooding in Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom State, and other cities, residents must make a concerted effort to take responsibility and commit to cleaning and clearing waterways.

 They should also work together with the government of Pastor Umo Bassey Eno to keep Akwa Ibom State clean, ensuring that the state maintains its reputation as the cleanest state in Nigeria and continues to win awards for cleanliness.

Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection And Waste Management Agency have been a very proactive agency that have been ensuring Akwa Ibom State remain clean and very conducive for human habitation.

There is need for residents to assist the Agency in ensuring the job is done perfectly .

A'IBOM ASSEMBLY APPROVES SIX MONTHS TENURE EXTENSION FOR LG TRANSITION COMMITTEES

 A'IBOM ASSEMBLY APPROVES SIX MONTHS TENURE EXTENSION FOR LG TRANSITION COMMITTEES

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has approved an extension of local government Transition Committee for another six months, pending the conduct of elections into local government councils. 

This followed a report of the House of Assembly Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs presented by its Chairman, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Mfon Idung, at Plenary on Thursday.

According to him, the current Transition Committee Chairmen and members in all the local government councils were enthusiastic to implement the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno through implementation of capital projects, personnel development and humanitarian services.

"The House Committee in carrying out its mandate, visited each local government council and upon arrival, was received by Transition Committee Chairmen and their team, and subsequently taken round project sites such as the Arise Demonstration Farms and other projects of each Council."

"Full allocation accruable to each local government council has been released to the Council by His Excellency, the Governor, since the inception of the Interim Administration."

"Most of the Local Government Transition Committee made judicious use of the funds allocated to their councils.  There was no local government council without a signature project", Idung said in his report.

The Lawmaker said the House Committee was satisfied with the performance of the Local Government Interim Administration except for a few Local Government Councils which are under the watch of the Committee.

In his contribution, the Deputy Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Otobong Bob (Nsit Ubuim), clarified that despite the resolution of the House, the State Governor however, reserves the right to  re-appoint or drop any Transition Committee Chairmen. 

Reacting, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, directed the Clerk to communicate the resolution of the House to the Executive Governor.

Press Unit,

Office of the Speaker,

Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, has met the 48-hour deadline set by President Tinubu on Minimum Wage

Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, has met the 48-hour deadline set by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to present a new minimum wage template.

According to online reports, the template proposes a new minimum wage of N105,000 (approximately $220 USD) per month for Nigerian workers. President Tinubu is currently reviewing the proposal, and an official announcement is expected to be made soon.

It is important to note that the Labour Unions had gone on a strike action on Monday after their meeting with the National Assembly leadership failed to yield a satisfactory result. The strike had a significant impact, grinding economic activities to a halt across the country, including the closure of international airports, schools, courts, banks, and hospitals.

The presentation of the new minimum wage template by the Minister of Finance is a crucial step towards resolving the ongoing dispute between the government and the Labour Unions. The outcome of the President's review and the subsequent announcement will be closely watched by the Nigerian public and the international community.

Spain to join South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at ICJ

 Spain to join South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at ICJ

Spain made this decision so that “peace returns to Gaza and the Middle East,” Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares explained in a press conference on Thursday.

We

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA • JUNE 6,

Spain made this decision so that “peace returns to Gaza and the Middle East,” Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares explained in a press conference on Thursday.

“A large-scale war that does not distinguish between civil and military objectives” is taking place, and the risk of escalation is increasing,” he said.

South Africa submitted the case in late December 2023, accusing Israel of committing acts of genocide in the Gaza Strip in violation of the 1948 Genocide Convention.

On January 26, the ICJ ordered Israel to take all measures within its power to prevent genocide and to ensure that its military does not commit genocide.

It further called on Israel to halt incitement against Palestinians as a group and to take immediate measures to ensure humanitarian aid.

On May 24, the ICJ ordered Israel to stop its military offensive in Rafah in southern Gaza with immediate effect.

“The ICJ precautionary measures are very far from being fulfilled,” Mr Albares remarked. “Spain does not rule on the crime itself; that is the court’s job.”

Mr Albares added that Spain will present a report to the court to justify its participation in the case.

(Xinhua/NAN)

“I Provided Everything For My Wife Afiba; She Lacked Nothing,

 The husband has been pondering the reasons behind his spouse behavior.

“I Provided Everything For My Wife Afiba; She Lacked Nothing, I Wonder Why She Allowed Her Single Friend Push Her Into This” — Husband Of Afiba, One Of The Girls K!llǝ∂ By Andrew Ochekwo, The Aba-based Man They Met On Facebook Says In An Interview

According to a Whatsapp chat in circulation, Celine charged the now deceased Andrew, N1million for him to spend time with she and her friend, Afiba.

We demolished illegal structures in the metropolis to curb crimes -Commissioner

 We demolished illegal structures in Bauchi metropolis to curb crimes – Commissioner

ByNews Desk

June 6, 2024

The Bauchi government has said that the ongoing demolition of illegal make shift structures would enhance security network in the state capital.

Abdulhamid Bununu, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs said this at a news conference on Thursday in Bauchi,

He said the exercise was prompted by credible intelligence on activities of criminal elements hibernating some of criminal elements hibernating some of the structures on the road side and other strategic locations in the metropolis.

“The government is not unaware of the consequences of such order on small business owners, but sees it as paramount to upheld the fabulous security enjoy by the state.

“The security will rapidly increase while security operatives will work for the protection of peace without hindrances in the state,” he said.

Governor's Generosity: Awarding #10 million Naira to Top Graduating Student

 The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has awarded ₦10 million to the best-graduating student of Lagos State University (LASU), Olaniyi Olawale, Accounting Education, who graduated with a CGPA of 4.98. 

THE SOUTHERN POST gathered that the Governor said that he awarded the best graduating student with a sum of 10 million Naira as a recognition of the academic achievement and hard work.

Death Toll Rises To 20 In Niger Mine Collapse, 14 Still Trapped – Police

Twenty people have been confirmed dead from the collapsed mine in the Galkago community in the Shiroro district of Niger state; while fourteen more people are still trapped and awaiting rescue.

By The Southern Post

The police commissioner during an inspection of the mine said that operators of the collapsed mining site operated without regard to safety measures and the welfare of the labourers.

This is according to the commissioner of Police Niger State Command Shawulu Danmamman who visited the mine site on Wednesday.

The incident which happened on Monday was believed to have been caused by the torrential rains which softened the soil.

Niger state emergency service agency spokesman Hussaini Ibrahim had said one person was confirmed dead, several others were injured, while 30 persons including the site manager, were trapped as a mining pit collapsed

The police commissioner during his inspection of the mine said that operators of the collapsed mining site operated without regard to safety measures and the welfare of the labourers.

The commissioner was accompanied by the state commissioner of Homeland Security, Bello Muhammad, and also the commissioner of solid minerals Garba Auna.

His inspection also revealed no ambulance or equipped medical kits were present in-situ as well as personnel to care for labourers in terms of emergencies. (CHANNELSTV)

Kano State Government Issues Quit Notices To Public Park Occupants

 Kano State Government Issues Quit Notices To Public Park Occupants

The move aims to reclaim these spaces for public use, fostering relaxation and ecological balance.

By Sadiq Ilyas

Updated June 6, 2024

The move aims to reclaim these spaces for public use, fostering relaxation and ecological balance.

Speaking at a news conference on Wednesday in commemoration of World Environment Day, the State Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Nasir Garo, emphasised the importance of this initiative.

“We have already served most of the occupants quit notice except those that petrol filling stations have been built on,” Garo stated.

The commissioner highlighted the government’s commitment, to improving air quality and enhancing the ecosystem.

“We are trying to improve on the quality of air in our environment as well as improving the ecosystem, hence the need to ensure the recovery of these entities,” he added.

In addition to reclaiming public parks, the Kano State Government has also embarked on an ambitious tree-planting campaign.

“KNSG is planning to plant more than 3,000,000 seedlings in collaboration with relevant stakeholders like ACReSAL, NGOs, individuals, and the organized private sector,” Garo announced.

This initiative is part of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, a six-year collaboration with the World Bank and the Federal Government. It aims to address the critical challenges of desertification control and landscape management across Nigeria’s 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Reflecting on the theme of this year’s World Environment Day, “Land Restoration, Stopping Desertification, and Building Drought Resilience,” Garo noted the state’s efforts to recover 10,000 hectares of degraded land for agricultural use.

“The state government, in collaboration with the ACReSAL Project and the Food and Agriculture Organisation, is working towards recovering about 10,000 degraded land in Kano,” he said.

The commissioner also highlighted several achievements of the current administration in environmental management. These include the establishment of a state-of-the-art soil and water laboratory at Yusuf Maitama Sule University, drainage clearance to prevent flooding, and ongoing erosion control measures.

Moreover, Garo praised the partnership between the Kano State Government and the National Great Green Wall project, which focuses on community tree nurseries and plantations.

Funds and lands are put together for the establishment of community tree nurseries and plantations in the state,” he noted.

Garo reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to environmental sustainability, and improving the welfare of Kano State residents.

“The welfare of ministry personnel and the enhancement of working conditions are also priorities, with repairs and renovations being carried out at the ministry headquarters,” he said.

US President’s Son Risks 25-Year Jail Term As Court Hears He Texted Using Crack Cocaine After Illegal Gun Purchase

US President’s Son Risks 25-Year Jail Term As Court Hears He Texted Using Crack Cocaine After Illegal Gun Purchase

According to the BBC, Mr Biden, 54, texted that he was “sleeping on a car smoking crack” in one message sent to his brother’s widow days after the firearm purchase, an FBI agent testifying at his trial said.

At the criminal trial of Hunter Biden, the son of U.S. President Joe Biden, Hunter Biden, the court heard from an FBI agent that Hunter texted that he used crack cocaine shortly after he illegally bought a gun in 2018.

According to the BBC, Mr Biden, 54, texted that he was “sleeping on a car smoking crack” in one message sent to his brother’s widow days after the firearm purchase, an FBI agent testifying at his trial said.

GOV ENO REASSURES A'IBOMITES OF GLORIOUS SECOND YEAR

 GOV ENO REASSURES A'IBOMITES OF GLORIOUS SECOND YEAR 

By Anietie Edet

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has expressed optimism that the second year of his administration will be glorious and prosperous

 

The Governor gave the assurance while addressing congregants on the third and final day of the government-backed Prayer Summit, organised by the State Chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria ( CAN) and Fathers in Faith for Good Governance held at the International Christian Worship Center, Uyo, with the theme, "From Glory to Glory".

Expressing gratitude over the contributions and commitment of different people to the success of the spiritually-stimulating event, Governor Eno thanked the organisers, Akwa Ibom Christian community, youths and all for holding hands in prayers, thanking God and handing over the affairs of the government in the next one year to the Almighty.

He particularly appreciated the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the Senior Pastor of the Shepherd House, Reverend Joshua Talena, Apostle Emmanuel Kure of the Throneroom Ministry and other clerics who availed themselves to minister to the State and its people.

Reflecting on his first year in office, the Governor said only God deserved the glory for whatever achievements that his administration has recorded so far, affirming that only God could have made the 3-days gathering such a success.

In his words, "Our presence here these three days means that we agree in totality to commit our ways to God and we are emboldened. We are here for the growth of Akwa Ibom, all of us in our different areas, we trust and believe in God that after these three days, God's hand will be evident on Akwa Ibom State.

"He has helped us in the first year. If we did anything at all, if we touched any life at all, the glory should return to God and we lay our crowns before him, because no man can do anything of his own accord. It is not in man to do anything good, so we return glory to God."

According to him, the three days gathering signals the beginning of the second year of his administration and a rededication of the State Government, assuring that God will do even more than he did in the previous year in leading the State in righteousness and establishing his glory over the land to prosper it. 

"We have also come these three days to say to him Lord, do much more for us. Our eyes are on you. We have no help except from you. So, we asked him these three days as a state to lead us, to guide us and to teach us.

"Our state will prosper and we will live aright. We will live with the fear of God and we will live in righteousness. That is our prayer, that's our desire and I know that God Almighty will bring all these to fruition because we have started with him, because His name is at stake over Akwa Ibom and I know that God will defend his name," the Governor stated.

In his message on the theme of the summit, "From glory to glory", the guest minister, Apostle Dr Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, Founder/President of Throneroom (Trust) Ministry Kaduna, noted that glory is the very essence of the life of God that beautifies everything.

Making reference to some major happenings in the country in particular, and around the world as a whole, he said God is deliberately interfering with history and people, and cutting off the legs of the wicked ones.

Apostle Nuhu Kure who said It's only God that brings people into glory urged Christians to always seek the face of God for His glory.

He commended the Governor for beginning his second year with God, assured that the State will continue to grow from glory glory .

AKWA IBOM LAWMAKER DONATES WATER PROJECTS, GENERATING SETS TO COMMUNITIES

 RELIEF, AS ESSIEN UDIM LAWMAKER DONATES WATER PROJECTS, GENERATING SETS TO COMMUNITIES 

The joy of the people of Ukana Ikot Akpabin and Ukana Akpautong both in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State knew no bounds on Wednesday when they received two water projects and two generating sets from the member representing Essien Udim State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Prince Ukpong Akpabio II as part of activities to celebrate his one year in office.

The facilities were in fulfilment of the lawmaker’s campaign promise and in line with his commitment to improving the welfare of his constituents through the provisions of basic and social infrastructure.

Cutting the tape to commission the projects in each of the two communities, Prince Akpabio also said that the gesture was part of his legislative duties to provide assistance in response to the yearnings of his constituents, thereby complementing the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno’s rural development drive at making life more meaningful to the people at the grassroots.

Prince Akpabio, who is the Deputy Chairman, House of Assembly Committee on Economic Planning and Development, explained that the generating sets are to help the communities in pumping the water, stressing that the initiative was targeted at achieving sustainable development goals of clean water and sanitation.

�He used the occasion to give his scorecard and that of the Governor in the areas of road infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, empowerment and improved reward system, as well as housing, human capacity development, peace and stability and promised that more projects would be facilitated to his constituency.

Receiving the project, Clan Head elect of Ukana East, Akuku Udousung Ekorok said the gesture was exemplary of the lawmaker describing him as a legislator with proven track records who had made life better for his constituents.

He assured Prince Akpabio that the people of Ukana Ikot Akpabin would continue to give him the necessary support to do more.

At Ukana Akpautong, the Acting Chairman, Akpautong Council of Chiefs, Chief Samuel Anthony Ntuk expressed gratitude to Prince Ukpong Akpabio for surpassing the expectation of the people and promised to protect the facilities against vandalism.

Activities to mark Prince Akpabio’s one year in office continues on Saturday, 8th June, 2024 with the inauguration of a two-bedroom bungalow for a widow in Ikot Ibanga and a three bedroom bungalow for a youth in Ikot Essien both projects designed, constructed and completed by the lawmaker to complement Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Compassionate Homes Initiative.

The finale of the first anniversary celebration holds Sunday, 16th June, 2024 with a thanksgiving service at Mount Zion Lighthouse Full Gospel Church, Ikot Ide, followed by dedication and opening of Constituency Office in Ukana Uwa and Ward Briefing and Empowerment in Ukana Ikot Nwo.

His mom asked to turn the Playstation volume down. He decided to stab her 22 times instead

 His mom asked to turn the Playstation volume down. He decided to stab her 22 times instead

“This is, as I said, in my more than a decade on the bench, one of the most brutal murders that I’ve presided over”

A New Hampshire man will spend at least 40 years in prison for killing his mom and setting her remains on fire after she asked him to turn down the volume of his PlayStation.

Thomas Humphrey, 47, was given the 40 to life sentence this week after he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. He also pleaded guilty to felony arson for burning the remains and was sentenced to five to ten years. The sentences will run back-to-back.

On Dec. 4, 2023, Humphrey was playing the PlayStation that his mom Linda Tufts, 70, had given him as a birthday gift, according to Law & Crime. The two got into an argument over the volume when Humphrey got angry and stabbed his mom 22 times.

After the stabbing, Humphrey lit his mother’s remains on fire inside their Goffstown, New Hampshire, home.

Humphrey had been living in his mom’s basement at the time of the attack.

First responders were called to the home around 2:20pm for a small fire. After they put out the blaze, they found Tufts dead in the home from the stab wounds.

Thomas Humphrey, 47, was sentenced to 40 years to life for killing his mom after they argued about the volume of his PlayStation.

Thomas Humphrey, 47, was sentenced to 40 years to life for killing his mom after they argued about the volume of his PlayStation. (Goffstown police)

Police also found Humphrey inside the home holding the knife, according to the report. He appeared to have self-inflicted stab wounds. Humphrey was taken to the hospital before he was charged with his mom’s murder.

Neighbors told local media that Humphrey had been kicked out of the house and was only allowed to return shortly before the attack. Humphrey’s father was at work when the killing happened.

New Hampshire Superior Court Judge N. William Delker blasted the killer as he sentenced him to decades behind bars.

“This is, as I said, in my more than a decade on the bench, one of the most brutal murders that I’ve presided over,” he said. “The brutality of this crime simply makes it too dangerous not to impose a very lengthy state prison sentence.”