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Ikoyigate: Ex-NIA Boss, Wife To Be Docked Tomorrow

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Almost 16 months after he was sacked from office for fraud and other related offences, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a four-count criminal charge against the former director-general of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ayodele Oke, and his wife, Mrs. Folashade Oke.
The anti-graft agency filed the charges yesterday before the Federal High Court in Lagos.

It accused Oke and his wife of concealing the sum of $43,449, 947 belonging to the federal government in property, located at Flat 7B, Osborne Towers, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The EFCC also accused the couple of converting to personal use the sum of $1,658,000 belonging to the federal government, funds they reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act.

EFFC said that the offences contravened Section 15 (21(0) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) (Amendment) Act 2012 and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act.

They will be arraigned tomorrow before Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke.

In count one, the EFFC alleged that Oke and his wife on or about the 12th April, 2017 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this court indirectly conceded the sum of $43, 449, 947 property of the federal government in Flat 73 No. 16 Osborne Road, Osborne Towers, Ikoyi, Lagos which sum he reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act to wit: criminal breach of trust and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (21(0) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) (Amendment) Act, 2012 and punishable under Section 15(3) of the some Act.

The second count read that Oke and his wife between 25th August, 2015 and 2nd September, 2015 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this court indirectly used the sum of $1,658,000, property of the federal government to acquire Flat 75, No. 16, Osborne Road, Osborne Towers, Ikoyi, Lagos which they ought to know was part of the proceeds of an unlawful act to wit: criminal breach and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) (Amendment) Act, 2012 and punishable under Section 15(3) of the some Act.

The third count read that Oke between 25th August,2015 and 2nd September, 2015 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of the court directly retained the sum of $160,777,136.85, property of the federal government he knew formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act to wit: criminal breach of trust and thereby committed on offence contrary to Section 15 (2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) (Amendment) Act, 2012 and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act.

The last count stated that Oke between 25th August,2015 and 2nd September, 2015 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of the court directly converted the sum of $160,777,136.85, property of the federal government “thereto to your own use which sum you reasonably ought to have known formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act and a criminal breach of trust” thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) (Amendment) ACT, 2012 and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act.

Premier  recalls that the Justice Saudi Saidu of the same court had on January 19, 2018 ordered the permanent forfeiture of the sums of $43,449,947, £27,800 and N23,218,000 allegedly kept in the Ikoyi flat by Oke and his wife.

When the lead was blown off the saga, President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2017 sacked Oke following the report of the investigations conducted by a panel headed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, into allegations of fraud levelled against him.

EFCC Files N500m Fraud Charge Against Babachir Lawal
Also yesterday, EFCC filed a 10-count charge of fraud and fraudulent acquisition of properties against former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), David Babachir Lawal and two other persons.

EFCC sources said he will be arraigned nextweek.
Also listed in the charge are Rholavision Engineering Ltd and Josmon Technologies Ltd, two companies allegedly used to perpetrate the contract fraud.
The charges were filed at a High Court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Others listed as defendants in the case are the director of Rholavision Engineering Ltd, Hamidu, David Lawal, another staff of the company, Sulaiman Abubakar, and managing director of Josmon Technologies Ltd, Apeh Monday.

While Lawal allegedly awarded different contracts amounting to about N560million to companies where he held personal interest, his co-defendants were charged for abetting the SFG to own private interests in the companies and in the award of contracts to them.

The charges read: “That you Hamidu David Lawal being a director of Rholavision Engineering Ltd, Sulaiman Abubakar, being a staff of Rholavision Engineering Ltd, Apeh Monday John, being the managing director of Josmon Technologies Ltd and Rholavision Engineering Ltd on or about 4th March, 2016 in the Abuja Judicial Division of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory did abet the holding indirectly of a private interest by Engineer Babachlr Davld Lawal in the award of contract to Josmon Technologies Ltd for the removal of invasive plant species and simplified irrigation by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) through the Presidential Initiative for North East (PINE) to the tune of N272,524,356.02 which Rholavision Engineering Ltd executed and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 26 (1) (c) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000 and punishable under Section 12 of the same Act,” Count 9 of the charge reads.

According to charge dated 30th January, 2019, filed on the same day, Lawal conspired to commit an offence to wit: fraudulent acquisition of property, and indirectly holding private interest in yje award of contracts.

Count 7 reads: “That you, Engineer Babachir David Lawal while being the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and a director of Rholavision Engineering Ltd on or about the 4th March, 2016 at Abuja in the Abuja Judicial Division of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory did knowingly hold indirectly a private interest in the contract awarded to Josmon Technologies Ltd, but executed by Rholavislon Engineering Ltd for the removal of invasive plant species and simplified irrigation to the tune of N272,524,356.02 by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) through the Presidential Initiative for North East (PINE) and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 12 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.”

A Senate ad-hoc committee on mounting humanitarian crisis in the Northeast had in December 2016 indicted Lawal for fraud in a contract awarded for the clearing of “invasive plant species” in Yobe State, through PINE.

The committee, chaired by Senator Sheu Sani alleged that PINE spent several millions of naira to cut grass.
Rholavision was said to have gotten suspicious payments of N200million from the contract. Sequel to the allegations, President Buhari in October 2017, relieved Babacahir of his duty as SGF and announced the appointment of Boss Gida Mustapha as his successor.

The Osinbajo panel also indicted him in its report.

 

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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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