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Fayose Received $5m From Dasuki’s Imprest, Obanikoro Tells Court

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A former Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro today told a Federal High Court that money was given to former Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State from the imprest account of a former National Security Adviser in June 2014.

Obanikoro gave evidence in the trial of Fayose before Justice Mojisola Olaterogun in Lagos, where Fayose is facing charges of N6.9bn fraud.

He was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on October 22, 2018, alongside a company, Spotless Investment Ltd. He faces 11 counts.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges, and was granted bail in the sum of N50m, with one surety in like sum.

The substantive trial began on November 19, 2018, with the EFCC calling four witnesses.

On Monday, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) appeared for the EFCC, while Messrs Kanu Agabi (SAN) and Olalekan Ojo (SAN) represented the first and second accused respectively.

Jacobs then called on Obanikoro, the fifth prosecution witness, to give evidence. The counsel led the former minister in evidence.

Jacobs asked him where he was in 2014 and he told the court that he was the Minister of State for Defence. The counsel then asked him to tell the court what he knew about the case.

The witness testified that in June 2014, when Ekiti State governorship election was near,  he received a call from the accused (Fayose), enquiring from him (Obanikoro) if there was any “message” for him from the then National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki.

The witness said that he told Fayose that there was none but promised to check with the NSA and give Fayose feedback.

He told the court that eventually, the NSA confirmed to him that he had a “message” for the accused and that the funds would be made available.

The prosecutor then showed the witness exhibit E to confirm if it was the account to which the funds were transferred, and the witness replied: “Yes.”

The witness told the court that on June 13, 2014,  and also on June 16, 2014, funds were posted into the account, adding that the funds were from the imprest account of the NSA.

He said that he asked the accused how he wanted the money, and he told him that some amounts should be paid in Naira and others in dollars.

According to him, the money was eventually brought in a bullion van to the private wing of the Ikeja Airport, where one Agbele, sent by the accused, was on standby. He testified that after confirmation from the accused, the money was taken to Ekiti State.

The witness told the court that afterwards, he went to Ado-Ekiti to meet the accused in his hotel, known as Spotless, and gave him the dollar component which was $5m.

The prosecution counsel asked Obanikoro how many days it was to the Ekiti governorship election when he gave Fayose the money. “About three days to the election,” the witness replied.

The prosecution also asked the former minister the source of the money. “The NSA is the only person that can ascertain the source of the money; it was from the imprest account of the NSA,” he said.

The counsel asked how the money was debited and the witness told the court that he gave instructions to the managing director of Diamond Bank, but was not available when the deductions were made.

When asked his connection with the accounts, Obanikoro said that it was used for security purposes, adding that he would not want to divulge further information on that.

After the evidence, the defence sought an adjournment to enable it to cross-examine the witness. After several objections and counter objections, the judge granted an adjournment until February 4 for cross-examination of Obanikoro.

The EFCC  said that, on June 17, 2014, Fayose and Agbele took possession of N1.2bn for funding his governorship election campaign.

The Commission said that the accused reasonably ought to have known that the sum formed part of crime proceeds. It alleged that Fayose received a cash payment of $5m (about N1.8bn) from Obanikoro without going through any financial institution, noting that the sum exceeded the amount allowed by law.

It also accused Fayose of retaining N300m in his Zenith Bank account and taking control of the aggregate sums of about N622m which sums, it said, formed part of crime proceeds.

Fayose was also alleged to have procured De Privateer Ltd. and Still Earth Ltd., to retain in their Zenith and FCMB accounts the aggregate sums of N851m which formed part of crime proceeds.

He was also accused of illegally using the aggregate sums of about N1.6bn to acquire properties in Lagos and Abuja.

The accused was also alleged to have illegally used N200m to acquire a property in Abuja in the name of his elder sister, Moji Oladeji.

The premier newspaper reports that the alleged offences contravene Sections 15(1), 15 (2), 15 (3), 16(2)(b), 16 (d), and 18 (c) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act, 2011.

 

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Pernod Ricard’s CEO for Africa and Middle East Visits Nigeria, Reinforcing Market Commitment Amidst Dynamic Landscape

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Pernod Ricard’s CEO for Africa and Middle East Visits Nigeria, Reinforcing Market Commitment Amidst Dynamic Landscape

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

Pernod Ricard, the world’s second-largest wine and spirits company, reaffirmed its dedication to Nigeria’s thriving market through a recent visit by Africa and Middle East CEO, Selcuk Tumay, accompanied by Chief Financial Officer Africa, Nevzat Akkiz, and Managing Director Africa, Sola Oke.

Pernod Ricard’s Africa and Middle East CEO, Selçuk Tümay (center), with Pernod Ricard Nigeria Management Team, MD, Pernod Ricard Africa and CFO, Pernod Ricard Africa and Middle East, Nevzat Akkız, during the recent visit of Selçuk Tümay to Pernod Ricard Nigeria.

The visit began with a business review at Pernod Ricard’s Lagos office, assessing regional performance and strategic planning.  A “Meet and Greet” session recognized local employees’ talents, fostering conviviality.

An immersion into the Nigeria’s vibrant retail landscape followed with an open market visit to Oke-Arin Market, guiding discussions on adapting marketing strategies. Retail partnerships were reinforced by visits to top stores, enhancing in-store experiences.  At night-time, On-trade visits showcased Pernod Ricard’s premium offerings.  The Key Distributors were not left out during the visits. These visits underscored collaborative relationships for a brighter future.

Selcuk Tumay stated, “Despite Nigeria’s complexities, especially foreign exchange volatility, we are optimistic. Adapting strategies will drive growth, support local partners and deliver exceptional consumer experiences.”

Exploring operational excellence: Pernod Ricard’s Africa and Middle East CEO, Selçuk Tümay, during a recent visit to Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s warehouse.

Building on success in Turkey and the Middle East, where innovative marketing and strategic partnerships fuelled double-digit growth, Pernod Ricard applies these learnings to Nigeria.

“We can leverage Turkey’s and the Middle East’s successes and best practices to navigate Nigeria’s challenges and unlock opportunities,” added Selcuk.

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SUNU Nigeria’s Free Mammogram/Breast cancer Screening Receives Positive FeedbackSUNU Nigeria

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SUNU Nigeria’s Free Mammogram/Breast cancer Screening Receives Positive FeedbackSUNU Nigeria –

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

SUNU Assurances Nigeria Plc, a leading insurance company and SUNU Health Nigeria Limited, a reputable health maintenance organization (HMO) in Nigeria, has received overwhelming positive feedback from beneficiaries of its recent free 3D mammogram-breast cancer screening initiative.

The program was launched to raise awareness about breast cancer and provide early detection services, was widely lauded by participants.As gathered, SUNU Nigeria remains committed to promoting preventive healthcare and empowering women.

Through the offering of free breast cancer screenings, the company aims to reduce the burden of breast cancer and improve the overall health and well-being of Nigerian women.

The initiative, which took place at DIAMED Centre, located at heart of Lekki, Lagos, attracted a large number of women from diverse backgrounds.

The screening process, which included mammograms and clinical breast examinations, was conducted by experienced medical professionals.Mrs Ajayi Funmilola, one of the 100 women who benefited from the screening exercise expressed her gratitude to the company.

“I’m so grateful to SUNU Nigeria for providing this free advanced mammogram screening. Of course, early detection is key, and this initiative has given me peace of mind.

Thank you for prioritizing women’s health”.Another beneficiary, Arogudade Feyisayo said, “The 3D mammogram screening offered by SUNU Nigeria was a game-changer.

It was a quick, painless, and thorough experience. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity to benefit from this initiative, I hope the company continue to be productive as they continue and increase the tempo in the future”.

“I’m incredibly happy to have had the opportunity to undergo a free 3D mammogram screening. It’s heartwarming to see a company like SUNU Nigeria prioritizing women’s health. May God continue to bless and prosper your organization,” commented Mrs. Olabisi Ajayi.

Commenting on the initiative, Mrs. Yusuf Japari, Head of Corporate Services at SUNU Assurances Nigeria Plc, highlighted the importance of corporate social responsibility, stating that the free mammogram screening is just one example of the company’s commitment to improving public health.

Mrs Yusuf stated, “At SUNU Nigeria, we believe in giving back to the community. By providing free 3D mammogram screenings, we’re not just offering healthcare; we’re empowering women to prioritize their health and well-being.

We are committed to continuing these initiatives to improve public health.”Dr. (Mrs.) Abiola Olorode, CEO of Diamed Centre stated that her facility is proud to partner with SUNU Nigeria to offer free breast cancer screenings during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. “By joining forces, we aim to promote early detection, educate women about breast cancer prevention, and ultimately save lives. We thank SUNU Nigeria for their commitment to improving public health and for sharing our vision of a healthier future.” SUNU Nigeria, encompassing SUNU Assurances and SUNU Health, is dedicated to improving as well as adding comfort to the lives of Nigerians.

SUNU Assurances offers reliable insurance coverage, while SUNU Health provides cost-effective healthcare solutions.

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Celebrate the Spirit of Christmas in Style This Season at Transcorp Hilton Abuja

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Celebrate the Spirit of Christmas in Style This Season at Transcorp Hilton Abuja

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

As December approaches, there is a buzz in the air, and people everywhere are starting to feel the magic of Christmas. Streets are filled with lights, homes are filled with vibrant decorations, and family plans for the holidays are well underway.

For those looking to truly immerse themselves in the festive spirit this year, Transcorp Hilton Abuja promises to be a holiday destination like no other, subtly transforming into a Christmas haven.

A Festive Transformation Like No Other

The Christmas season always brings with it a sense of warmth and celebration, and stepping into Transcorp Hilton Abuja this December will be like entering a world of Christmas magic. Visitors will be met with dazzling lights, shimmering ornaments, and beautifully crafted décor designed to spark joy and create a sense of wonder. The festive transformation at Transcorp Hilton Abuja is a nod to the holiday spirit, crafted to make guests feel like they’re part of something truly special.

Holiday Feasts with a Festive Twist

No Christmas experience is complete without a delicious spread, and Transcorp Hilton Abuja is ready to bring out the best of both traditional and contemporary festive flavours. This year’s holiday buffet will offer an array of treats, perfect for those who appreciate a hearty meal that captures the season’s spirit. The hotel’s talented chefs have worked tirelessly to prepare a Christmas dining experience that is both memorable and fitting for any holiday celebration.

Activities for Family & Friends to Enjoy Together

Christmas is a time for family, and the holiday lineup at Transcorp Hilton Abuja will include activities that bring everyone closer together. From cheerful carol singing to hands-on experiences like bead-making and festive games for kids, there’s something for everyone. With special appearances by Santa Claus, children can look forward to joyful surprises, making Transcorp Hilton Abuja a wonderful setting for families to make memories together.

Moments to Unwind in Holiday Comfort
For those looking to escape the holiday rush and unwind, Transcorp Hilton Abuja also offers spaces designed for pure relaxation. With accommodations overlooking Abuja’s skyline and a holiday-themed spa offering rejuvenating treatments, guests can relax and recharge before rejoining the celebrations. The tranquil atmosphere of the hotel provides the perfect balance to the holiday excitement.

Ring in the New Year with Elegance
As 2025 approaches, Transcorp Hilton Abuja invites everyone to ring in the new year in style with its New Year’s Eve Gala and New Year Countdown, making way for fresh starts and new memories.

Join the Celebration at Transcorp Hilton Abuja

This season, the warmth, joy, and traditions of Christmas come alive at Transcorp Hilton Abuja, a place ready to welcome all who wish to make this holiday season unforgettable. Whether you are looking for a festive family retreat, a romantic getaway, or a joyful celebration with friends, this is a destination crafted to capture the essence of Christmas.

This December, let the spirit of the season come alive—celebrate in the heart of Abuja, where every moment is filled with the magic of Christmax

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