NEWS
EFCC Probes N7.5bn NSCDC Embezzlement Allegation
In a sensational development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated a thorough investigation into a purported embezzlement scheme, implicating contractors associated with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
According to exclusive sources, the probe revolves around the alleged diversion of a staggering N7.5 billion by contractors purportedly working closely with NSCDC’s Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi.
The source said “The investigators discovered that payments were made to a total of 20 contractors, with a significant sum of N2 billion allocated to three major contractors who each own five companies.
“Each contractor received a retention fee of 5%. Letters of invitation have been sent to these contractors.
“All the contractors have been interviewed except for one woman who has been working tirelessly to avoid it. Who received over 1 billion, and all the funds were discovered to have been converted to USD.
“The contractors made a useful statement that led to the recovery of approximately N1 billion, which the Audi had given to them to avoid being invited.
“The contractors have been under pressure from the EFCC as they have stated that the operatives are so professional that there is nothing to hide, given that they have records at their fingertips.
“One of the contractors informs us that they are planning to start a protest at the NSA office to seek assistance, as they feel that he is the only senior official who can help them reach the CG.
“They applied for jobs as contractors, only to learn that the job was already executed on their behalf by the Director of Procurement, Victor Fayemi, and Anthony Akpan, depending on the contractor they are in touch with. They sent account numbers with individual names, which the investigators informed them are BDC.
“The contractor that is yet to come is the MD of Absolute Solutions, Cerise ltd, BNT arm who have been getting paid since the CG assume office in 2021 and have been using same BDC to exchange funds which she’s always informed that the jobs have been executed on her behalf. The BDC investigated so far include. Main one global and Double Spec Agro.
“Another contractor that received over 1 billion is Sotitrech Computers, Jikol Multipurpose, and have exchanged funds through One Al-Hikma communications and made some refunds.
“It was observed at NSCDC that these payments were meant for jobs that had already been executed, but the contractors had not been paid. If the investigators request the goods, they will be found in the stores, but the main contractors who supplied them were not paid.” the source added
Additionally, sources within the NSCDC have revealed discrepancies in payments intended for staff during elections, alleging that NSCDC personnel received lower compensation compared to counterparts in other sister agencies.
In response to mounting allegations, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken decisive action by sending letters of summons to several NSCDC officers.
The list includes high-ranking individuals such as Victor Olanrewaju Fayemi, Anthony Akpan Uwen, Patrick Babatunde, Comfort Danladi, Akibo Michael Olusola, Umaru Usman Karshi, Adewale Kukoyi, Joseph Ajayi Ibitulo, A.A Jonathan, Paul Ahepa.
According to the sources, these officers are scheduled to undergo questioning starting from May 2, 2024, as part of the EFCC’s efforts to uncover the truth behind the alleged financial irregularities within the NSCDC.
The National Assembly management team, led by Clerk Sani Magaji Tambawal, has ramped up efforts to ensure a seamless presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The event, scheduled for a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives, is regarded as a significant moment in Nigeria’s legislative calendar.
Preparations include a thorough inspection of the assembly chambers to ensure all facilities are fully functional.
READ MORE: PDP Governors Probe Ondo Polls, Criticizes Edo Result
Deputy Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana, who is overseeing the technical arrangements, confirmed that key systems, including microphones, sound equipment, and other audio-visual tools, have been tested to ensure smooth communication during the session.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that the National Assembly is fully prepared to receive Mr. President and provide a conducive environment for this significant moment in our democratic process,” Ogunlana stated.
Seating arrangements are also being finalized to accommodate lawmakers, government officials, and other dignitaries expected at the session.
Security measures are being reviewed in collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of all attendees. Meanwhile, press accreditation is being managed to facilitate effective media coverage.
The 2025 budget presentation is expected to highlight the government’s economic priorities while reinforcing the partnership between the executive and legislative arms of government.
As the session approaches, the National Assembly has expressed its commitment to upholding Nigeria’s democratic values and providing a platform for transparent governance.
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has announced the establishment of a 14-member Assets Verification Committee to examine the financial records and asset management of the previous administration led by Godwin Obaseki.
In a statement released on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor revealed that the committee would be inaugurated on Tuesday, November 26, in Benin City.
RELATED NEWS: Gov Okpebhole Suspends Revenue Collection, Orders Arrest Of Violators
The panel is tasked with creating a detailed account of the state’s assets and liabilities to ensure transparency and accountability.
The committee will be chaired by Ernest Umakhihe, with Anslem Ojezua as Deputy Chairman and Frank Edebor as Secretary. Other members include Kassim Afegbua, Patrick Ikhariale, Taiwo Akerele, Patrick Idiake, Rasaq Bello-Osagie, Fredrick Unopah, Abdallah Eugenia, Patrick Obahiagbon, Kenny Okojie, Lyndsey Tes-Sorae, and Abass Braimoh.
Explaining the rationale behind the committee, Mr. Itua stated, “Despite repeated calls for a more holistic database of the assets and liabilities of the previous administration, the Godwin Obaseki-led government presented a scanty and limited report.”
He added that the initiative reflects the governor’s commitment to his campaign promises.
“In line with the governor’s campaign promise to ensure probity, accountability, and transparency in government, and to deepen the governance process, a committee made up of respected sons and daughters from Edo State has to be constituted,” the statement noted.
The committee’s work is expected to pave the way for a more accountable and developmental governance structure in Edo State.
In a bid to increase its global presence, the National Examination Council (NECO) has accredited more foreign schools.
This was contained in a statement issued under the signature of its Acting Director of Public Relations, Azeez Sanni, on Saturday.
He revealed that the accredited schools are in Niger Republic and Equatorial Guinea.
Recall that last year, the examination body accredited some centres in Niger Republic to enable Nigerian students in the Francophone country to sit for the examinations.
ALSO READ: Davido Is Our Son, Our Pride – Gov Adeleke
The statement read, “Determined to broaden its horizon and expand its global presence, the National Examinations Council has accredited more foreign schools to write the Senior School Certificate Examination and the Basic Education Certificate Examination.
“The newly accredited schools, in addition to the existing ones, are in Niger Republic and Equatorial Guinea.
“NECO accreditation team visited the Schools to assess their readiness to write the SSCE and BECE.
“The accreditation 5eam inspected classrooms, laboratories, libraries, computer laboratories, workshops, examination halls and sports facilities to determine their adequacy and suitability for NECO examinations.
“After a thorough evaluation and comprehensive assessment, the schools were granted full SSCE and full BECE accreditation status.”
National Assembly In Top Gear For Tinubu’s 2025 Budget Presentation
Edo: Gov Okpebholo Launches Probe Into Obaseki Administration
PDP Governors Probe Ondo Polls, Criticizes Edo Result
NDLEA Nabs Businessman For Using Ingestion To Smuggle Cocaine
Entertainment Made Africa Look Good Despite Bad Leaders — Davido
NECO Expands Global Footprints, Accredits Niger, Equatorial Guinea Schools
OSSG Raises Alarm Over Murder Plot By APC Chieftain
NCC, SMEDAN, NAICOM, SEC, Others Set for SUPERNEWS SMEs Conf June 13
Sahara’s Tonye Cole resigns from GPHCDA
Oando opens ultra-modern petrol station in Lagos
Niger Delta Avengers: President Buhari Reads riot Act …considers the carrot and stick option
