NigeriaNews24

Author: Amarachi Evangel

  • NDYPC Hails Otuaro’s Reforms in Presidential Amnesty Programme

    NDYPC Hails Otuaro’s Reforms in Presidential Amnesty Programme

    • Lauds transparency, fairness in beneficiary selection and grassroots empowerment

    • Says reforms align with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, restore trust in Niger Delta

    The Niger Delta Youths for Positive Change (NDYPC) has commended the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, for what it described as bold, people-focused reforms that are restoring trust and delivering tangible benefits to the Niger Delta.

    In a statement signed and issued by Comrade Elliott Yibakeni, after the conclusion of leadership training sessions with ex-agitator leaders in Abuja, the group said the PAP, once in urgent need of renewal, is now undergoing a transformation that reflects transparency, fairness, and accountability.

    “At a time when public trust in institutions was waning, Dr. Otuaro has emerged as a symbol of credibility and transformation,” the statement read. “His visionary leadership is restoring integrity, empowering communities, and driving a sustainable development agenda that resonates with the aspirations of the Niger Delta.”

    According to NDYPC, under Otuaro’s leadership, beneficiary selection has become fair and merit-based, ending years of favoritism and political interference. The group added that access to education, skills training, and empowerment opportunities, both locally and abroad, is now guided by equity and open competition.

    The group highlighted several internal reforms, including improved staff welfare, strengthened professional capacity, and strict adherence to best practices in public procurement. These, it said, have made the PAP more efficient, responsive, and transparent.

    NDYPC also praised Otuaro’s inclusive governance style, noting his sustained engagement with traditional rulers, women leaders, civil society organizations, and local communities. This approach, the group said, has strengthened peace-building efforts and deepened trust between the PAP and the people it serves.

    In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the PAP has maintained consistent payment of stipends to ex-agitators and extended direct support to vulnerable populations. NDYPC also applauded new healthcare interventions for ex-agitators facing health challenges.

    The statement further commended the programme’s investments in scholarships, vocational training, and economic empowerment initiatives aimed at preparing Niger Delta youths for leadership, innovation, and sustainable livelihoods.

    “Every decision reflects a deep commitment to public trust, responsible stewardship, and long-term development,” NDYPC stated. “Under Dr. Otuaro’s watch, the Niger Delta is rising stronger, united, and filled with renewed hope.”

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • I’m Ready to Give DJ Cuppy True African Love, If Her Father Signs This One Condition – Aigbegbele

    I’m Ready to Give DJ Cuppy True African Love, If Her Father Signs This One Condition – Aigbegbele

    • The race to win DJ Cuppy’s heart just got a dramatic twist, and it comes with a legal caveat!

    Omoba Kenneth Aigbegbele, a foremost promoter of traditional rulers, veteran journalist, human rights activist, and former media adviser to ex-First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, has thrown his hat into the ring as the man ready to end the billionaire heiress’s search for love.

    Aigbegbele, who sits atop the Silverdoors Communication Group and leads multiple advocacy organisations including Citizens Watch Advocacy Initiative (CWAI) and the Guild of Civil Societies and Media Executives for Equity, Justice and Transparency in Nigeria (GOCMEJ), declared that he is “very prepared” to marry the 31-year-old DJ, but on one non-negotiable condition, she and her billionaire father, Femi Otedola, must sign a “submissiveness” agreement.

    Beyond his public roles, Aigbegbele is also a mass communication scholar, a fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Public Relations (NIPR), with master’s degrees in Mass Communication and International Relations, and is presently pursuing his Doctorate. A seasoned media consultant to topnotch politicians, business bigwigs and military top brass.

    “As a true African man, I believe in mutual respect in marriage. I will love, protect, and comfort her at all times, but she must also accept me as the head of the family. That is why I am requesting her father’s formal consent to this agreement,” Aigbegbele told newsmen with a confident smile.

    He further revealed that his decision to seek Cuppy’s hand was not made lightly.

    “I have watched her all these years and considered so many things, especially knowing fully well that she was brought up well by Chief Otedola. After critical thinking and discussion with my immediate family, I have decided to marry her to show her that genuine love still exists,” he stated.

    Describing himself as a man who has experienced life and is ready for a lifelong commitment, the public affairs advocate stressed that his interest in DJ Cuppy is genuine and not influenced by her fame or fortune.

    “I am not married currently, though I have children. But I am ready, not just to marry her, but to give her the true African love she says she’s been searching for,” he said.

    In recent weeks, Florence “DJ Cuppy” Otedola has been vocal about her readiness to settle down, hinting that she is open to finding “real love” away from the glitz and glamour. Aigbegbele insists he is the perfect match to provide that stability, if she embraces his traditional values.

    With the challenge now thrown at Cuppy and her father, social media is already buzzing: will the billionaire DJ trade her independent streak for “true African love”? Or will this be one proposal that remains a headline fantasy?

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Ambode Declares Total Support for President Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid

    Ambode Declares Total Support for President Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid

    •  Dismisses claims of gubernatorial ambition under ADC.

    Former Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has publicly reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pledging full commitment to the President’s 2027 re-election campaign.

    In a strongly worded statement on Saturday, Ambode dismissed recent speculations linking him to a governorship ambition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the reports as “false publications” aimed at causing distractions.

    “I wish to publicly reaffirm my absolute and unshakable loyalty to the APC, the party under which I had the privilege of serving Lagos State as governor in 2015, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, my leader, mentor, and a tireless champion for Nigeria’s progress,” Ambode said.

    The former governor praised President Tinubu’s leadership style, describing him as a “proven achiever and result-oriented leader” whose administration has delivered significant reforms in pensions, student loan accessibility, youth empowerment, and national economic growth.

    Highlighting key achievements of the Tinubu administration, Ambode pointed to the elimination of fuel scarcity, improved security measures, and policies designed to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

    “His focus, determination, and inclusive governance style are restoring hope and delivering tangible results. I am convinced that, given another four years, Nigerians will have even greater reason to celebrate,” Ambode stated.

    He urged party faithful and Nigerians at large to ignore political distractions, pledging to work tirelessly to strengthen the APC and ensure President Tinubu’s victory in 2027.

    “Let it be clear: I stand solidly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress. We will work together to ensure victory in 2027 to continue delivering the dividends of democracy to all Nigerians,” Ambode concluded.

    Ambode’s declaration comes amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the former governor making it clear that his political loyalty remains firmly with the APC and its leader.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • ‎CHIEF AONDOAKAA BAGS AWARD FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

    ‎CHIEF AONDOAKAA BAGS AWARD FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

    Former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN has again bagged an award in recognition of his role towards Agricultural development.
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    ‎The award was presented to Chief Aondoakaa by Teryima & Msurshima Foundation on Thursday in Makurdi, Benue State during the flag-off ceremony of free seeds distribution to farmers in the state
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    ‎Ter Ushongo, HRH. Augustine Kuma who presented the award to the former Attorney General of the Federation on behalf of Teryima & Msurshima Foundation, highlighted the great role played by Chief Aondoakaa especially in the area of Agricultural and called on Benue sons to emulate what the legal Icon is doing.
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    ‎Recieving the award, Chief Aondoakaa appreciated the foundation for the special recognition saying, it will spur him to do more.
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    ‎While calling on Government to intensify efforts towards securing the rural areas to enable farmers go back to their farm, Chief Aondoakaa appreciated the passion Teryima & Msurshima has for farmers in the state calling on Benue peoples to support the foundation to do more.
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    ‎Highlights of the events was distribution of free seeds to Benue farmers.

  • IADI, Others Set to Protest Against Customs Boss Over Smuggling Allegations, Promotion Scandal

    IADI, Others Set to Protest Against Customs Boss Over Smuggling Allegations, Promotion Scandal

    • Calls on Tinubu to Reverse Tenure Extension

    • As Groups Decry Nepotism, Favoritism, and Disregard for Due Process

    Amid rising concerns over governance failures within the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), a coalition of civil society organizations led by the Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative (IADI) has announced plans to stage a nationwide protest and press conference against the leadership of the agency, particularly the Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

    According to reports, the planned civic action stems from a series of unresolved allegations, including collusion with rice smugglers, promotion irregularities, nepotism, and a growing culture of impunity and administrative silence within the Service.

    In a statement released on Wednesday, signed by IADI’s Executive Director, Comrade Christopher Ofomhi, the group disclosed that the protest is officially scheduled for Friday, 15th August 2025. The procession will begin at Unity Fountain, Abuja, and proceed to the Customs Headquarters, where demonstrators will demand accountability and comprehensive reform.

    The group also revealed that a formal petition dated 6th August 2025 has been submitted to the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, requesting approval and security coverage for the protest. IADI emphasized that the protest will be peaceful, lawful, and focused on drawing national attention to deep-rooted issues in the Customs Service that have long been ignored.
    Of particular concern according to the group, are fresh allegations that officers collect ₦250,000 per boat to facilitate rice smuggling through the Badagry waterways. These illegal activities, reportedly carried out in full view of Customs patrol boats, raise grave concerns about complicity at the highest levels.

    The coalition also decried alleged favoritism in special promotions, opaque examination procedures, and violations of seniority protocols, all of which they say are eroding morale within the Service and undermining public trust.

    Comrade Ofomhi lamented that despite repeated petitions and public outcries, the Comptroller-General’s office has remained silent. “We can no longer be quiet while due process is consistently trampled upon. It is our constitutional responsibility to demand accountability where there is silence and to challenge abuse where negligence thrives,” he declared.

    Ofomhi also disclosed that the protest will be an avenue to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider and reverse the recent tenure extension granted to CG Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, which he insists was not based on merit or transparency.

    “The extension appears to be a product of favoritism, not competence,” the group alleged, warning that such practices must not be tolerated under an administration committed to the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    They further stressed that bad leadership must be confronted, not rewarded, and vowed to escalate civic pressure if the authorities fail to act. While expressing openness to dialogue, the civil society groups made it clear that continued inaction would prompt a broader nationwide campaign to restore accountability and integrity across Nigeria’s security and revenue-generating institutions.

  • Access Bank: A Game-Changer in Africa’s Financial Future

    Access Bank: A Game-Changer in Africa’s Financial Future

    In today’s ever-evolving financial landscape, few institutions can claim to be true pioneers. But Access Bank, with its bold vision, cutting-edge innovation, and pan-African presence, has shattered the traditional image of a bank.

    It is no longer just a financial institution, it’s a movement, a catalyst for economic empowerment, and a force driving sustainable change across continents.

    From Nigeria to the World

    With headquarters in Lagos, Access Bank has become Africa’s largest bank by customer base, serving over 60 million customers across more than 20 countries in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. With bank’s total assets valued at a staggering N41.5 trillion (Access Holdings); N40.8trillion (Access Bank) as at FY December 31, 2024, it’s Nigeria’s largest bank by assets and a formidable multinational financial player.

    Global Footprint: Beyond Borders

    In Africa, it has recorded a domineering presence in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Zambia, DRC, Tanzania, South Africa, Cameroon, Mozambique, and Angola. Excellently spreading its tentacles in European countries, its footprint is felt in the United Kingdom and France while it has penetrated the
    Middle East: United Arab Emirates (UAE).

    However, the bank also have representative Offices in India, China, and Lebanon.

    Innovation as a Growth Engine

    What sets Access Bank apart isn’t just its size, but its commitment to innovation and customer-centric technology.

    In partnership with Avaya, the bank deployed a hybrid cloud contact center solution, enhancing real-time customer engagement and scalability.

    Result? An impressive 10% increase in customer satisfaction score (from 54% to 64%) and a dramatic Net Promoter Score jump from -4 to +23.

    Its digital banking platforms support millions of daily transactions, providing secure, accessible banking across mobile, internet, and agent networks.

    Expanding Digital Inclusion

    It’s investment in technology isn’t just about convenience—it’s about financial inclusion:

    * Over 50,000 Closa Agents across Nigeria, ensuring the unbanked and underserved have access to basic financial services.
    * Robust mobile banking platforms designed to work even in low-bandwidth areas.
    * Internet Banking offering seamless 24/7 account management, bill payment, and fund transfers.

    Banking on Sustainability: ESG in Action

    Access Bank is Africa’s most recognized ESG-focused bank, winning:

    * Best Bank in Nigeria
    * Best Bank in Ghana for ESG
    — both at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024 and 2025

    Through sustainable finance initiatives, the bank has:

    * Financed renewable energy projects across rural Africa

    * Promoted clean energy access

    * Cut carbon emissions through green operations and eco-loans

    Its SME Banking Programme empowers thousands of small businesses with tailored financial products, mentorship, and market access—crucial for Africa’s post-pandemic recovery.

    The 2027 Vision: 125 Million Customers

    With its determination to be a driver in the industry, Access Bank is targeting 22 African countries by 2027, signaling a strategic drive for dominance across emerging markets.

    However, doubling its customer base to 125 million by 2027 is a huge feet that is conquerable. In realisation of that, it’s anchoring on:

    * Aggressive digital expansion
    * Continental acquisition strategy
    * Inclusive financial products
    * Youth and women-focused entrepreneurship financing

    With its smart, people-first approach, Access Bank is not just participating in Africa’s growth story—it’s writing it.

    Conclusion

    As Africa eye a new economic dawn, Access Bank is proving that banking can be more than numbers, it can be purpose-driven, sustainable, and transformational.

    For the youth in Kano or Kigali, the entrepreneur in Accra or Addis Ababa, and the rural trader in Makurdi or Mombasa, Access Bank isn’t just a bank. It’s a partner for progress.

    According to the Nigeria Online Media Alliance (NOMA), this ambition is not only possible, it’s well underway.

    So, yes, Access Bank is more than banking. It’s the future. And the future is here.

    “Access Bank represents a bold new vision of what an African bank can and should be global, inclusive, digital, and sustainable. As Chairperson of NOMA, I can confidently say: This is not just Africa’s largest bank by numbers, it is Africa’s most impactful bank by purpose.”

  • REBUTTAL: BAYO OJULARI CLARIFIES RESIGNATION, DISMISSES “ABDUCTION” CLAIMS AS FICTION

    REBUTTAL: BAYO OJULARI CLARIFIES RESIGNATION, DISMISSES “ABDUCTION” CLAIMS AS FICTION

    Contrary to the sensational and wildly inaccurate report by Peoples Gazette alleging that the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Bayo Ojulari, was “abducted and forced to resign” by security officials, we categorically state that the story is nothing more than a poorly scripted work of fiction, better suited for a Nollywood thriller than credible journalism.
    Unlike the Gazette’s dramatic tale of midnight kidnappings and shadowy coups, Mr. Ojulari voluntarily tendered his resignation after due consultations with higher authorities in Abuja. His decision followed the recent official trip to Kigali for an oil and gas conference—a legitimate business engagement aimed at advancing Nigeria’s energy sector interests.
    “I was neither arrested nor strong-armed into resigning,” Mr. Ojulari clarified with amusement. “In fact, the only ‘pressure’ I faced was from my own conscience and commitment to accountability after the unnecessary controversy stirred around the Kigali trip. My resignation was a personal decision, submitted through the appropriate channels—not at gunpoint in some spy movie scenario.”
    The report’s claim that EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede and DSS Director-General Adeola Ajayi orchestrated an illegal “coup” to remove him is not only baseless but laughable. “If I were to be ‘forced out,’ it certainly wouldn’t be in silence—I’d have at least negotiated for a better headline!” Ojulari joked.
    As for the bizarre insinuations about British-Nigerian businesswoman Olatimbo Ayinde, Mr. Ojulari maintains that he has no personal or professional dealings with her and finds it curious that her name keeps appearing in unrelated matters. “I’ve spent decades in the oil and gas industry, building a reputation on transparency and expertise—not gossip columns,” he stated firmly.
    While Peoples Gazette may thrive on conspiracy theories and clickbait, the truth remains simple: Mr. Ojulari resigned honorably, the NNPCL continues its operations uninterrupted, and Nigeria’s energy sector remains focused on progress—not palace intrigue.
    We urge the public to disregard this fictional account and instead rely on verified statements from official channels. After all, in the words of Mr. Ojulari: “If I were going to stage a dramatic exit, I’d at least make sure it came with a soundtrack and better lighting.”

  • Again CSOs protest, accuse NNPCL’s Ojulari of corruption, embezzlement

    Again CSOs protest, accuse NNPCL’s Ojulari of corruption, embezzlement

    A coalition of civil society groups, including OilWatch Nigeria and Workers’ Rights Alliance, held a press conference at the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, July 31, 2025, demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

    The coalition alleged that Ojulari was implicated in a massive corruption scandal involving ₦34.65 billion, equivalent to $21 million. According to the group, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has already detained Abdullahi Bashir Haske, a close associate of Ojulari, who confessed to holding the $21 million on Ojulari’s behalf.

    The press conference was jointly signed by the trio of Emmanuel Ekpeyong representing OilWatch Nigeria; Danladi Usman from Workers’ Right Alliance and Babatunde Anifowoshe of Nigeria Concerned Citizens. The coalition also announced a three-day peaceful protest starting August 1, 2025, at the National Assembly, NNPCL Headquarters, and the EFCC office in Abuja.

    “We will not stand idly by while one individual’s greed tarnishes our collective future,” said Emmanuel Ekpeyong of OilWatch Nigeria. “The evidence against Ojulari is damning, and the EFCC must act swiftly to bring him to justice.”

    The coalition also accused Ojulari of living an extravagant lifestyle, residing in the lavish Presidential Suite of the Wells Carlton Hotel, and using shell companies to siphon funds through inflated contracts and kickbacks.

    The group is urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate zero tolerance for corruption by supporting the EFCC’s efforts to arrest and prosecute Ojulari and removing him from his position as NNPCL CEO.

    As the nation waits with bated breath for accountability, one thing is clear: the fight against corruption has reached a critical juncture. Will justice be served, or will the powerful once again escape accountability? Only time will tell,” the coalition stressed.

    The statement reads in full:

    We, the coalition of OilWatch Nigeria, Workers’ Rights Alliance, and concerned citizens, stand united today to confront a grave injustice that threatens the soul of our nation and undermines the credibility of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. We are here to demand the immediate arrest and prosecution of Mr. Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), who has been directly implicated in a massive corruption scandal. His actions have plunged Nigeria into a crisis of trust and economic sabotage, and we will not stand idly by while one individual’s greed tarnishes our collective future. The evidence against Ojulari is damning, and the EFCC must act swiftly to bring him to justice.

    Bayo Ojulari’s Implication in a $21 Million Scandal
    The recent detention of Abdullahi Bashir Haske by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for three days has exposed a staggering corruption scandal at the heart of NNPCL. Haske, a close associate of Ojulari, confessed to the EFCC that the $21 million found in his account—equivalent to approximately ₦34.65 billion at the current exchange rate of ₦1,650 to $1—belongs to Bayo Ojulari. Let us be clear: this is not a trivial sum. Thirty-four billion, six hundred and fifty million naira is an obscene amount of money, enough to fund critical infrastructure, healthcare, or education for millions of Nigerians. Yet, this fortune was allegedly stashed in an account that previously held a mere $5,000 (₦8.25 million). This revelation alone demands the immediate arrest and prosecution of Bayo Ojulari to uncover the full extent of his illicit dealings and ensure justice for the Nigerian people.

    Further Allegations Against Bayo Ojulari
    Extravagant Lifestyle at Wells Carlton: While Nigerians struggle to afford basic necessities, Ojulari resides in the lavish Presidential Suite of the Wells Carlton Hotel alongside Haske. This ostentatious lifestyle, funded by questionable means, is a gross betrayal of public trust and a clear indication of ill-gotten wealth.

    Damage to Tinubu’s Administration: Ojulari’s actions are inflicting irreparable harm on President Tinubu’s reputation. His leadership at NNPCL has fostered a culture of corruption, eroding public confidence in the government’s commitment to transparency. Allowing him to remain free sends a dangerous signal that corruption is tolerated at the highest levels.

    Shell Companies and Contract Fraud: Ojulari is accused of orchestrating the use of shell companies to siphon funds through inflated contracts and kickbacks. Haske’s testimony allegedly exposes a network of illicit transactions tied to NNPCL’s operations, with ₦34.65 billion being just the tip of the iceberg.

    Cronyism and Abuse of Power: Ojulari has filled key NNPCL positions with unqualified loyalists, sidelining competent professionals and prioritizing personal gain over national interest. This cronyism has crippled NNPCL’s efficiency and deepened public distrust, particularly among oil workers.

    Obstruction of Justice: Credible reports suggest Ojulari has actively interfered with EFCC investigations to shield his allies, delaying justice and allowing corrupt practices to flourish. Such actions are an affront to the rule of law and demand his immediate arrest.

    Our Demands
    We call on the EFCC to immediately arrest and prosecute Bayo Ojulari for his alleged role in the ₦34.65 billion scandal and other corrupt practices. The evidence provided by Haske’s confession is sufficient to warrant his detention and a thorough investigation into his financial dealings, including the source of the $21 million and his involvement in NNPCL’s questionable contracts. We also demand that President Tinubu sack Ojulari from his position as NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer to demonstrate zero tolerance for corruption and restore public confidence in his administration.
    The magnitude of this scandal—₦34.65 billion stolen from the Nigerian people—cannot be overstated. This is money that could have built hospitals, schools, or roads, or ensured fair wages and safety for oil workers, yet it was allegedly funneled into private hands under Ojulari’s watch. Justice must be swift, transparent, and uncompromising.

    Call to Action: Three Days of Protest
    To press home our demands, we announce a three-day peaceful protest starting tomorrow, August 1, 2025, at the National Assembly, NNPCL Headquarters, and the EFCC office in Abuja. These protests, led by OilWatch Nigeria and Workers’ Rights Alliance, will send a clear message to the authorities: Nigerians, especially those in the oil sector and workers across the nation, will not tolerate corruption on this scale. We will march until Bayo Ojulari is arrested, prosecuted, and removed from office.

    A Message to President Tinubu
    Mr. President, your administration promised renewed hope for Nigerians. Allowing Bayo Ojulari to evade justice undermines that promise and risks further economic sabotage and public unrest. We urge you to act decisively by supporting the EFCC’s efforts to arrest and prosecute Ojulari and by removing him from NNPCL immediately. Your legacy depends on your commitment to rooting out corruption, starting with this case.

    Conclusion
    The fight for a corrupt-free Nigeria, where our oil wealth benefits all and workers’ rights are protected, is a collective responsibility. We call on all Nigerians—youth, women, oil workers, and patriots—to join OilWatch Nigeria and Workers’ Rights Alliance in these protests and demand justice. Together, we can hold our leaders accountable and build a nation where integrity and fairness prevail. We thank the press for amplifying our voice and the Nigerian people for standing with us. Bayo Ojulari must be arrested, prosecuted, and sacked, and we will not rest until justice is served for the ₦34.65 billion scandal and beyond.

  • IBD Impex Debunks Smuggling Allegations Against Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun

    • …Calls for Responsible Journalism 

    IBD Impex Ltd has firmly denied allegations linking its Chairman, Chief Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun (popularly known as IBD Dende), to the smuggling of foreign rice into Lagos markets, describing the claims as baseless, misleading, and a calculated smear campaign.

    In a public memorandum signed by Adekunle Bamidele, Head of Media and Public Communications at IBD Impex Ltd, the company described the viral social media video circulating the allegations as a “deliberate smear campaign” aimed at discrediting a man whose only offence is “succeeding through legitimate enterprise.”

    The video in question reportedly features a woman blindfolding herself while alleging that smuggled rice is being sold in local markets and falsely linking Chief Dende to the trade. However, the memorandum asserts that the clip is emotionally manipulative and lacks any factual or evidential basis.

    “Alhaji Ibrahim Dende is not involved in any form of rice smuggling or economic sabotage,” the statement read. “He is a reputable businessman known for lawful operations and compliance with regulatory standards.”

    The company also noted that several public figures and market stakeholders, including respected journalist Babajide Kolade Otitoju of TVC, Chief Ibiola Solaja (Iyalaje of Mushin), Alhaji Muftau Adisa (Babalojas), and prominent trader Stella Mide, have all debunked the allegations, describing them as mischievous and false.

    Despite the social media storm, IBD Impex emphasized that Chief Dende remains undeterred, committed to ethical practices, and focused on his business.

    “He remains a patriotic Nigerian and a law-abiding businessman, dedicated to national development and commercial integrity,” the statement concluded.

    The company urged the general public, media professionals, and stakeholders to disregard the false video and refrain from spreading unverified claims, emphasizing the importance of truth, clarity, and responsible journalism.

  • CSOs Demand Governor’s Urgent Action As Ibusa Youth Crisis Escalates

    Civil society organizations identified as African Leadership Strategy & Transparency Development Initiative,
    have called on Delta State Governor, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently intervene in the growing leadership crisis rocking the Igbuzo Youth Council (IYC) in Ibusa, Oshimili North LGA, warning that the situation is fast deteriorating and could lead to violent cult clashes if left unaddressed.

    In an open letter signed by Amb. Nelson Ossaieze and Comrade Victor Itsede, the CSOs accused the local government chairman, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, of defying a valid court injunction by imposing an illegal interim executive on the youth council. They further alleged that Hon. Esewezie formed a group called Ibusa Youth Ambassadors, which he uses to enforce control over the council in violation of its constitution and the rule of law.

    The letter revealed that a peace meeting held on July 21, 2025, at the state secretariat following a previous petition dated May 28, ended in a stalemate.

    According to the CSOs, Chief Edwin Uzor, the governor’s Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Management, openly sided with the LG Chairman, asking the aggrieved youths to withdraw their case from court before being heard, despite ongoing violations of the same court order.

    They alleged that the chairman of the imposed interim body, Hon. Patrick Nwankwor, is a serving councillor and acting secretary to the Obuzor of Ibusa, both roles which violate the provisions of the IYC constitution. The CSOs warned that political interests are fueling the crisis and creating hostility on the ground, with community tension rising daily.

    Despite the issuance of Form 48 contempt proceedings by the court against those violating its order, the illegal interim body continues to operate freely, instilling fear and undermining the legitimacy of the existing council led by Chief Victor Ifeanyi Asiodu. The CSOs insist that the interference is politically motivated and against the values of justice and peace that Governor Oborevwori upholds.

    The organizations urged the governor to dissolve the interim executive, enforce the court’s order, and initiate a neutral, transparent process to restore legitimate leadership in the IYC. They also called for a fact-finding mission to assess the situation firsthand and prevent further escalation.