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“I Was Investigated For Being Privy To Illicit Transfer Of Funds,” — Obanikoro Admits

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6 years ago

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A former Minister of State for Defence, Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro, today  admitted before a Federal High Court in Lagos that he was investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for being privy to illicit transfer of funds. Musiliu Obanikoro Obanikoro made the statement while giving evidence in the criminal trial of the immediate-past Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, facing charges of an alleged N6.9billion fraud. Fayose was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Oct. 22, 2018, alongside a company, Spotless Investment Ltd, on 11 counts. He, had pleaded not guilty to the charge, and the court had granted him bail in the sum of N50million, with one surety in like sum. Trial had commenced on Nov. 19, 2018, with the EFCC calling four witnesses, while the court had then adjourned for continuation of trial. On Tuesday, Mr Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) appeared for the EFCC, while Messrs Ola Olanipekun (SAN) and Olalekan Ojo (SAN) represented the first and second defendants, respectively. Obanikoro, the fifth prosecution witness, who began his evidence on Jan. 21, and was cross-examined on Feb. 4, mounted the witness box in continuation of his cross-examination. Under cross-examination by the second defence counsel, Mr Olalekan Ojo (SAN), Obanikoro told the court that during his tenure as a Commissioner in Lagos in charge of Home Affairs and Culture, he had interfaced with various security agencies in the discharge of his duties. According to him, he had sourced for a security outfit known as Silva Mcnamara, owned by one Kareem Taiwo, to the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), when the need arose to provide for security operations in Lagos State. He said that the outfit performed credibly and did a good job. Ojo then asked the witness, “you said Kareem Taiwo did a good job,’’ witness replied “Yes’’. Ojo: “Then are you not surprised that a petition was still written by the NSA against both of you, for having gotten money from the NSA illicitly.’’ Obanikoro replied in the affirmative and added: “And I state that I deserve a medal of honour for the great work I did in securing Lagos State then’’. Ojo: “’Am sure you are aware of the offences you were alleged to have committed, for which you were granted bail by the EFCC,’’ witness replied `Yes’. Defence counsel then asked the witness to tell the court the offence. Obanikoro replied: “It was based on a petition sent by the NSA that about N4.6 billion or thereabout was sent in an account operated by me, without proper documentation’’. Defence counsel: “Will I be right to say that the allegations consisted of fraud’’. Witness: “Until I see it’’. Defence Counsel asked: “Are you still on Administrative bail?’’ Witness replied: “Well, I have not been discharged, to the best of my knowledge’’. Defence counsel: “It was also alleged that there were no approvals for the funds alleged to have been transferred to a number of companies listed in exhibit I, including Silva Mcnamara,’’ the witness replied: “correct’’. Defence counsel: “So I suggest to you that at all material time, you were being investigated to have been privy to the illicit transfer of funds’’. Witness: “Correct’’. Defence counsel: “Till today, the allegation of illicit transfer of funds has not being withdrawn against you by the EFCC’’. Witness: “To the best of my knowledge, you are correct’’. Defence counsel: “Did you produce any document to show the relationship between Kareem and the Office of the NSA, contrary to allegations that the NSA does not know him?’’ The witness replied: “No’’, and added that the Office of the NSA had responsibility for coordination of security across the nation, some of which are clandestine and not documented. On who gave instructions to Diamond Bank for the release of N1.2 billion, Obanikoro replied that “I was the only person that gave instructions to the bank’’. Defence counsel: “Can you tell the court by what means you gave the instruction and to whom?’’ Witness: “Verbally, to the then MD of Diamond Bank, Mr Oti’’. Defence counsel: “Was there any time your verbal instruction was reduced into writing?’’ Witness: “No’’. Defence counsel: “So, I suggest to you that what you are telling this court is that there is no written record for the release of N1.2billion by the bank’’. Witness: “Because of the nature of the job’’. Defence counsel: “Look at exhibit E9 -E11’’ and mention the names of the Directors of Silva Mcnamara’’. Witness : “Ezekwe Ikenna, Oshodi Idowu, and Adebiyi Elizabeth’’. Defence Counsel: “Who owns House 9, Layi Bembem, Parkview. Ikoyi,’’ witness: “That is my house’’. Ojo then said, I suggest to you that Ikenna Ezekwe lived in that house at one time or the other,” Witness: “Correct’’. Subsequently, Ojo sought to tender an extra judicial statement made by the then SA to Obanikoro, Mr Justin Erukaa, and the Prosecutor raised an objection. Following the objection by the prosecution, Justice Mojisola Olatoregun adjourned the case until Feb. 6 by 9: 00 a.m., for counsel to address the court on the admissibility of an extra judicial statement. According to the charge, on June 17, 2014, Fayose and one Agbele were said to have taken possession of the sum of N1.2 billion, for purposes of funding his gubernatorial election campaign in Ekiti State, which sum they reasonably ought to have known formed part of crime proceeds. Fayose was alleged to have received a cash payment of the sum of five million dollars, (about N1.8 billion) from the then Minister of State for Defence, Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro, without going through any financial institution and which sum exceeded the amount allowed by law. He was also alleged to have retained the sum of N300 million in his Zenith Bank account and took control of the aggregate sums of about N622 million which sum he ought to have known formed part of crime proceeds. Fayose was alleged to have procured De Privateer Ltd and Still Earth Ltd, to retain in their Zenith and FCMB accounts, the aggregate sums of N851 million, which they reasonably ought to have known formed part of crime proceeds. Besides, the accused was alleged to have used the aggregate sums of about N1.6 billion to acquire properties in Lagos and Abuja, which sums he reasonably ought to have known formed part of crime proceeds. The accused was also alleged to have used the sum of N200 million, to acquire a property in Abuja, in the name of his elder sister, Moji Oladeji, which sum he ought to know also forms crime proceeds. The offences contravene the provisions of 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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1 day ago

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November 6, 2024

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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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2 days ago

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November 5, 2024

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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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2 days ago

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November 5, 2024

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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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