News
Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC’s Rejoinder to The Guardian Newspaper Publication on Ascon Oil
The attention of our client, Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC (“our client/Stanbic”) has been drawn to a press release published on page 28 of The Guardian Newspaper of Wednesday, 9th November 2022 by a faceless “Concerned Downstream Oil & Gas Industry Stakeholders” and captioned “Stanbic IBTC Bank Contempt and Deliberate Sabotage of Judicial Process”.
The publication, a diversionary tactic, aimed at misleading our client’s customers, stakeholders and the general public, maliciously insinuated that our client employed extra-judicial processes in its attempt to recover the indebtedness of Ascon Oil Company Limited (“Ascon”) and also sabotaged lawful judicial processes.
We are not unaware of the fact that the dispute between our client, Ascon and Quest Oil and Engineering Services Limited (“Quest”) are currently sub judice as they are subject of cases pending before the High Court of Lagos State, the Federal High Court as well as the Court of Appeal.
Without prejudice to the matters currently before the Courts, it is imperative to provide the following clarification to dispel the malicious misinformation contained in the publication.
1. Our client is a foremost financial institution committed to driving financial inclusion in Africa and contributing to the economic development of Nigeria. Our client as a law-abiding corporate organization has consistently carried out its businesses within the confines of the law.
2. Our client advanced several credit facilities to Ascon and Ascon serially defaulted in repaying the facilities. As of 11th May 2020, Ascon’s outstanding indebtedness to our client stood at the sum of N2,465,914,688 (two billion, four hundred and sixty-five million, nine hundred and fourteen thousand, six hundred and eighty-eight Naira) and USD$59,260.94 (fifty-nine thousand, two hundred and sixty Dollars, ninety-four Cents) with interest accruing daily.
3. Due to Ascon’s failure to repay its indebtedness, Stanbic appointed Mr. Olawale Akoni SAN (“the receiver”) as a Receiver over the petrol filling station at Block 36, Admiralty Way, Lekki Peninsula Scheme 1, Eti-Osa Local Government Area, Lagos State (“the property”) used as security for the loan, pursuant to its powers in the deed of legal mortgage it executed with Ascon.
4. Consequently, the Receiver approached the Federal High Court in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/567/2020 Olawale Akoni SAN v. Ascon Oil Company Limited, where he obtained an Order on 15th May 2020, directing the men and officers of the Nigerian Police Force to offer protection to the Receiver, to take over possession of the property used as security for the loan facilities.
5. The Receiver in the company of the men and officers of the Force, executed the said Order on 20th May 2020, as he peaceably took over possession of the property and handed same over to Stanbic who assigned its ownership to Rainoil Limited at the material time.
6. Stanbic thereafter instituted an action before the High Court of Lagos State in Suit No. LD/6965GCM/2020: Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc v Ascon Oil Company Limited to recover the balance of the sum owed to it by Ascon, which debt continues to accrue interest on a daily basis.
7. Ascon applied to the Federal High Court to set aside the Order made in favour of the Receiver on 15th May 2020. However, in the Court’s ruling of 24th July 2020, the Court affirmed that the actions of the Receiver taken pursuant to the Order of the Court directing police protection is valid and thus refused to set aside the Order or any actions or steps taken pursuant to the Order. Ascon immediately appealed this ruling to the Court of Appeal vide a notice of appeal dated 5th August 2021 and is requesting that the ruling of the Federal High Court be set aside. There is nowhere in the Court Orders of 15 May 2020 and 24 July 2020 or any other Court Order whatsoever that grants Ascon or anybody acting on their behalf to take possession of the property/Petrol Filling Station.
8. Nevertheless, Ascon, in a brazen display of self-help and disobedience to valid Court Orders, proceeded to the subject’s property on 4th August, 2020 and attempted to take over possession of the property. However, Ascon’s unlawful actions were swiftly repelled. Unsatisfied with its failed attempts at unlawfully retaking possession, Ascon instituted multiple Court actions against Stanbic and reported Stanbic to several regulatory and law enforcement agencies.
9. Rather than respect the status quoand await the judicial resolution of the pending suits, Ascon on Friday, 13th August, 2021, in an illegal act of self-help, willful destruction and illegal takeover of property, led some thugs and unauthorized law enforcement officers to the subject property and unlawfully took over the property, despite the pendency of a Court Order. Ascon thereafter mischievously rebranded the name of the Petrol Station from Ascon to Quest Oil.
10. In Order to perpetuate and surreptitiously legalize its unlawful takeover, Ascon on Friday, 20th August 2021 obtained an Order from the Lagos High Court in Suit No. LD/8029GCMW/2021 – Ascon Oil Company Limited v Rain Oil Limited mandating that the parties maintain status quo. Stanbic is not a party to this suit nor was it named in the said Order. Interestingly, the status quo is that Stanbic remains the owner of the property having exercised its powers under the deed of legal mortgage and accordingly, Ascon (acting as Quest Oil) ought to have since relinquished possession to Stanbic in compliance with the status quo Order. However, Ascon/Quest has chosen to act in utter contempt and breach of the Court Order.
11. It is imperative to add that Ascon has never denied its indebtedness to Stanbic. Unfortunately, and contrary to the impression created in the malicious publication, Ascon has not made any offer for amicable settlement of the dispute or submitted any proposal to Stanbic for the repayment of its protracted debt, which continues to accrue interest on a daily basis. Rather, Ascon has characteristically challenged the quantum of the debt. In Order to determine its indebtedness to our client, Ascon filed an application in Suit No: FHC/L/CS/618/2020 Ascon Oil Company Limited vs. Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, wherein, Honourable Justice I. N Oweibo of the Federal High Court, Lagos appointed Deloitte to conduct a forensic audit Ascon’s account with Stanbic and confirm Ascon’s outstanding indebtedness to Stanbic.
12. The publication in The Guardian Newspaper is not only regrettable, but it is malicious and a gross misrepresentation of facts as well as a disservice to the reading general public. The publication in The Guardian was obviously engineered under the guise of a faceless group called “Concerned Downstream Oil & Gas Industry Stakeholders”.
13. Our client will not join issues with Ascon and its multitude of intermediaries over the pages of newspapers. Our client believes that justice will prevail through the instrumentality of the judicial process. While we counsel Ascon, Quest and their directors to eschew its extra-judicial tendencies and focus on how to repay its debts, we have our client’s firm instruction to take all lawful steps to protect its image and goodwill and we will not hesitate to initiate appropriate lawful measures to execute this instruction.
Signed:
BABALAKIN & CO
News
TCC is Required, WAEC Exams Still Free in Lagos, LIRS Clarifies
TCC is Required, WAEC Exams Still Free in Lagos, LIRS Clarifies
AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM
SPONSORED BY: H&H
The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has reiterated that the provision of FREE West African Examinations Council, WAEC registration for SS3 students in state-funded secondary schools is a vital policy of the Lagos State Government and that free education policy from kindergarten to SS3 is still in operation.
This initiative, part of the THEMES PLUS agenda, is included in the government’s broader efforts to provide essential services such as affordable housing, efficient transportation, free healthcare, youth and small business empowerment programs, enhanced security, and better road infrastructure, among others.
Mr. Ayo Subair, Executive Chairman of LIRS, stated, “It is standard procedure to require a Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) to access government services. To obtain a TCC, individuals must file their annual tax returns for the applicable assessment year and ensure their tax payments are currently based on their declared income.”
He highlighted that this requirement has been in practice for a long time and aligns with Section 85 of the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) 2004 (as amended).
It is important to emphasize that every resident of the state, whether in formal employment or not, is required by law to file annual tax returns, declaring their income and paying any taxes due.
This requirement is backed by the Nigerian Constitution, it is also the law, as stipulated in the PITA and part of the social contract between the government and residents.
The Lagos State Government is dedicated to offering quality and efficient services to its residents. As part of this mission, it mandates that all taxable individuals register with the tax authority, submit their returns, and pay applicable taxes to maintain an updated Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC).
Mr. Subair explained that tax compliance is essential for the sustainability of public programs and services.
He noted that requiring a TCC for access to free services is not a new policy but a longstanding practice intended to foster fairness and transparency in using public resources. Tax revenues help fund various public programs that benefit millions of Lagos residents. For informal sector taxpayers, who might not have detailed financial records, the government has introduced a presumptive tax of ₦10,100 (comprising ₦10,000 in annual tax and a ₦100 development levy) to facilitate their inclusion in the tax net.
To enhance convenience and streamline the process, LIRS has deployed staff and agents to markets and schools, establishing one-stop centers where individuals can obtain their TCC without needing to visit tax offices. Flexible payment options, including installment plans, are also available, though full payment must be completed before the TCC is issued.
He also added that the TCC of guardians will be accepted from students who do not reside with their biological parents.
“The aim is fairness, accountability, and sustainability,” emphasized Mr. Subair. “This policy is not about inflicting hardship, but rather ensuring that everyone, including those in the formal sector, contributes their fair share to sustain the provision of essential services.”
By meeting their civic responsibilities, residents play a role in the growth and development of Lagos State, reinforcing the government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.
News
LAWMA Intensifies Enforcement, Waste Clean-up Across Lagos
… Agency Urges Residents to Stop Patronising Cart Pushers
AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM
SPONSORED BY: H&H
The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has intensified its enforcement and clean-up operations across the state to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and maintain environmental sustainability.
The agency’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, emphasised LAWMA’s unwavering commitment to keeping Lagos clean, noting that the monitoring and enforcement team had been mobilised to ensure compliance with waste management laws of the state.
He said, “LAWMA remains resolute in stamping out illegal waste disposal and environmental violations. Our Environmental Monitoring and Enforcement Anti-Cart Pushers Squad has been actively dislodging illegal waste operators who contribute to the degradation of our environment. We urge residents to desist from patronising them and instead work with registered PSP operators for proper waste disposal.”
Gbadegesin said the enforcement team recently carried out major operations in areas like Ifako-Ijaiye, Dopemu, Agege, Ojodu Berger, and other parts of Lagos, apprehending cart pushers known for collecting waste and dumping it at unauthorised locations, stressing that such activities violated environmental laws and undermined the state government’s efforts at maintaining a clean and livable city.
He warned that ignorance of the law is not an excuse and anyone caught engaging in cart pushing would be made to face the full wrath of the law.
The LAWMA boss further noted that the Authority had also commenced the evacuation of waste from illegal dumpsites along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, particularly behind Circle Mall, adding that the operation, simultaneously taking place at Mile 2 Badagry expressway, would continue in the coming weeks, in line with the agency’s ongoing efforts to clear accumulated waste, remove silt along the median and verges and prevent indiscriminate disposal along highways.
In a separate exercise, LAWMA has intensified efforts to clean up Lagos waterways, ensuring that rivers and water bodies remain free of waste and blockages. The initiative is aimed at reducing environmental pollution and promoting cleaner water channels across the state.
Gbadegesin urged Lagosians to support LAWMA’s initiatives in 2025, by properly disposing of their waste, reporting service gaps, and calling the agency’s helplines for backup waste collection services.
“A cleaner Lagos is achievable when everyone plays their part. We urge residents to work with assigned PSP operators, report waste-related infractions, and adopt responsible waste disposal habits. Together, we can create a cleaner and healthier city for all,” he added.
For waste management related issues and complaints, please call LAWMA toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.
News
Access Bank Appoints Uche Orji as Independent Non-Executive Director
Access Bank Appoints Uche Orji as Independent Non-Executive Director
AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM
SPONSORED BY: H&H
Access Holdings Plc (‘the Company’) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Uche Orji as an Independent Non-Executive Director of its flagship subsidiary, Access Bank Plc (‘the Bank’), effective from January 7, 2025, following the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria (‘CBN’).
This appointment reflects our commitment to enhancing our governance practices and ensuring a diverse and experienced board.
Mr. Orji is a renowned investment banking professional, information technology entrepreneur, and finance expert with three (3) decades of professional and board experience. He is the Co-founder and Partner of Titangate Capital Management, an equity firm that invests in deep-tech, enterprise software, semi-conductors, hardware, and artificial intelligence companies.
He is the Founder and Director of Vitesse Africa Limited, an investment advisory firm focused on African energy, technology and infrastructure sectors. He serves as an Executive Board member and investor in Ultrasafe AI, an artificial intelligence/IT development firm that maintains strategic collaborations with leading technology companies. He also sits on the Board of Private Infrastructure Development Group, London, and chairs the Risk Committee.
Previously, Mr. Orji served as the founding Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority. He held positions as Managing Director and Senior Analyst at UBS Securities Limited New York and Managing Director and Head of European Technology/Semiconductor Equity Research at JP Morgan Securities, London. He also served as Executive Director/Portfolio Manager at Goldman Sachs Asset Management, London. Earlier in his career, he was Acting Financial Controller at Diamond Bank Limited and an Audit Trainee at Arthur Andersen & Co.
He holds a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Port-Harcourt and a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School.
Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Paul Usoro, SAN, the Chairman of the Bank said:
“Mr. Orji has been appointed based on his exceptionally rich professional, academic, and corporate board experience which will be invaluable to the Bank as we continue to pursue our strategic objectives.
We are confident that his addition to the Board would further enrich the quality of our decision-making process, enabling us to deliver even greater value to our customers and stakeholders.
His appointment has been made in accordance with the Bank’s internal policies and has been notified to all relevant regulatory authorities underscoring our commitment to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance.
On behalf of the Board, Management and staff, I warmly welcome Mr. Orji to the Board and look forward to his contributions towards our goal of becoming one of the top 5 African Banks in the shortest possible time.”
-
News6 years agoBreaking: ‘Penalty’ Crooner Small Doctor Caught in Possession of Fire Arms
-
News6 years agoPDP Set To Cause Panic Days To Polls: FG
-
News6 years agoINEC Engages EFCC, FIU In Tracking Campaign Funding
-
News6 years agoTiffany Trump Is Dating a Millionaire Michael Boulos From Nigeria
-
Politics6 years agoPDP Alleges Plot by APC, Presidency to Detain Its Leaders
-
Politics6 years agoOsinbajo Has Betrayed Yorubas, Says Afenifere
-
Politics6 years agoMuslim-Muslim Ticket: I Am Proud Of My Role In Stopping Tinubu – Saraki
-
News3 years ago
INEC Publish Final List of Candidates For 2022 Osun Governorship Poll