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Anti-Corruption: Group Condemns EFCC’s “Gestapo-Style” Treatment of Yahaya Bello
The Progressives Action for Justice, Unity, and Democracy (PAJUD) has strongly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its alleged harassment and persecution of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
The group stated its displeasure on how In a shocking display of brazen power and vindictiveness, the EFCC has resorted to using arbitrary court injunctions and Gestapo-style tactics to hound and persecute the former governor.
In a statement to newsmen on Monday, PAJUD Convener, Comrade Musa Abdullahi, described the EFCC’s actions as unethical and scandalous, citing the agency’s blatant disregard for due process and the rule of law. It noted that despite Bello’s willingness to cooperate with the EFCC, the agency has continued to employ desperate tactics to discredit and harm him.
The group claims that EFCC Chairman, Olukayode Olanipekun, has a personal vendetta against Bello, stemming from the former governor’s refusal to secretly visit him through a special entrance gate. This perceived slight they say, has allegedly led to the EFCC’s sustained victimization of Bello, with the agency determined to secure a guilty verdict by any means necessary.
PAJUD criticized the EFCC’s handling of the case, stating that it undermines the principles of justice, fairness, and due process.
The group expressed concern over the EFCC’s direction under Olukayode’s leadership, highlighting the agency’s past successes and its former reputation as a role model for anti-corruption activists.
The statement also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, citing Bello’s contributions to his 2023 presidential election victory. PAJUD emphasized that the EFCC’s actions are not only a disservice to Bello but also an embarrassment to the Tinubu administration.
Furthermore, PAJUD questioned the EFCC’s motives, suggesting that the agency is pursuing a politically motivated agenda. The group demanded that Olukayode recuse himself from the case, citing his apparent bias and lack of impartiality.
The group however called on the EFCC to allow Bello his day in court, rather than resorting to portfolio injunctions and other underhanded tactics. The group emphasized that Bello, as a bonafide citizen of Nigeria and a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress, deserves the same rights and protections afforded to all citizens.
“The EFCC’s actions against Bello are a blowback to the anti-graft campaign and an embarrassment to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration. We will not allow further breaches of Bello’s rights. The EFCC must redeem and restore its lost glory as a role model for anti-corruption activists.”
In conclusion, PAJUD reiterated its commitment to justice, unity, and democracy, and vowed to continue monitoring the EFCC’s actions in the Bello case. The group urged Nigerians to demand accountability and transparency from the EFCC, ensuring that the agency upholds the principles of fairness and due process in all its dealings.
- … Endorses Solar Drive, Sets Sights on 2030 Energy Targets
- …Urges Journalists to Support, Not Sabotage Nigeria’s Clean Energy Transition
In a renewed push for sustainable national development, civil society organizations have thrown their weight behind Nigeria’s shift to renewable energy, commending the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) for its commitment to powering underserved communities through clean energy solutions.
Under the umbrella of the CSOs Budget Implementation, Assessment, Monitoring, and Evaluation Committee (CBIAMEC), stakeholders held a press briefing in Abuja themed “Powering Nigeria’s Future: Advocating for a National Shift Toward Renewable Energy for Sustainable Development.”
Speaking at the event, CBIAMEC Chairman, Ambassador Splendour Agbonkpolor, emphasized that renewable energy holds the key to unlocking economic prosperity, job creation, and climate resilience. He described Nigeria’s energy access gap, where over 85 million citizens still lack electricity as a national emergency that demands bold, innovative, and inclusive solutions.
“We are here today not just to speak truth to power, but to align with power that works for the people. Renewable energy is not just a technology; it’s a tool for justice, equity, and human dignity.”Agbonkpolor said.
The committee particularly commended FG for its strategic initiatives aimed at deploying 4 megawatts of renewable energy in all 36 states and the FCT, as well as a separate plan to deliver 5 megawatts to every local government in partnership with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).
“These projects are not only ambitious, they are necessary. They represent a real chance to lift communities out of darkness, boost local economies, and bring Nigeria closer to its renewable energy target of 30% by 2030.” Agbonkpolor noted.
The committee also addressed the ongoing ₦10 billion in the 2025 approved budget for the installation of a solar mini-grid at the Presidential Villa. While acknowledging growing media interest and public scrutiny of the initiative, CBIAMEC clarified that its position is not one of opposition but of constructive engagement.
“We had a fruitful interface with the Director General of ECN where detailed clarifications were provided on procurement procedures, project scope, and transparency mechanisms. The Commission assured us that all steps are being taken in line with the Public Procurement Act, including competitive bidding and regular performance audits.” Agbonkpolor added.
The group pledged to serve as an independent watchdog, monitoring the implementation to ensure the solar intervention truly benefits the people and delivers value for every kobo spent. “We will be vigilant, objective, and fact-driven in our oversight role.”
Meanwhile the Committee also raised concerns over what it described as “media trials” that could derail public trust and investment in renewable energy projects. It urged journalists to uphold ethical standards, verify information, and avoid sensationalism that may hinder national progress.
“We are not calling for silence, we are calling for responsibility. The media has a powerful role to play in this transition, not as saboteurs, but as storytellers of change and partners in development.” he restated.
The briefing concluded with a five-point call to action, encouraging households to explore solar home systems, innovators to invest in green technology, communities to support mini-grid projects, policymakers to prioritize renewable energy in national planning, and the media to amplify success stories in the sector.
- …Sets the stage for a future of more possibilities
Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has officially marked the incredible milestone of its 80th anniversary on Friday, May 2nd, 2025.
Celebrated as Nigeria’s oldest indigenous bank, Wema Bank was founded on May 2nd, 1945, as Agbonmagbe Bank Limited; an institution that has now evolved from a single-branch operation aimed at empowering indigenous Nigerians into a formidable force that continues to blaze the trail in Nigeria’s banking and financial industry.
From bridging gaps in access to finance for underserved Nigerians to empowering businesses with insightful financial solutions and support, providing a platform for other industries to thrive and proactively delivering financial solutions tailored to the needs of every Nigerian, Wema Bank has built a legacy of impact for 8 decades. With millions of customers and global presence via 150+ branches and the ALAT App, Wema Bank continues to set the pace in customer-centric innovation and impactful banking.
Extending heartfelt gratitude to the Bank’s stakeholders, Moruf Oseni, the MD/CEO of Wema Bank reiterated the Bank’s commitment to continue going above and beyond in service of its customers in the decades to come. According to him, “Wema at 80 is a milestone that extends deeply into the very roots of the industry, the people and the nation. This is an 80-year-old bank that began to set the pace for indigenous businesses in the depths of colonial rule and has remained resolute in carrying on that mission since 1945, showing the world that ‘Nigerian-owned’ can last, and institutions can be agents of transformation in their own capacity. It’s a journey I am deeply proud of and I cannot celebrate alone”.
“I take this moment to express my sincerest gratitude to every person and institution that has played a part in Wema Bank’s success story. From our customers to shareholders, investors, partners to employees past and present, and every other stakeholder whose efforts run in the veins of this great Bank. We are Wema and I take this moment, on behalf of the Board and Management of the Bank, to reiterate our lifelong commitment to you. Wema Bank is built to last, Wema Bank is built for you and Wema Bank will never relent in delivering optimum value to you. It has been 80 years of impact, and as we look ahead to a future of limitless possibilities, our promise to you remains the same. We Are With You, All The Way!”, Oseni concluded.
Wema Bank’s 80th anniversary has taken the world by storm, with a major highlight being the Wema at 80 Gala Night scheduled to hold in Lagos at 6 p.m. on Friday May 2nd, 2025. Headlined by Afrobeats stars Davido and Wande Coal, Fuji legend Ayuba, vocal sensation Yinka Davies, 9ice and a star-studded lineup of celebrities, dignitaries and stakeholders; the night promises to be one for the books, convening 8 decades of generations in a glamorous ceremony themed ‘Timeless Elegance’.
Anyone can be a part of the Wema at 80 Gala Night by tuning in live at 7 p.m. to the Bank’s YouTube Channel as well as select national TV stations.
The Africa Trade Consortium, a premier platform for promoting intra-African trade, is set to host its 5th edition of the “Tea Break Edition” on May 14th, 2024, at the Grand Pela Hotel, Durimi, Abuja. This annual event, organized by PR Times Africa Media Ltd, aims to boost trade relations within the continent and explore new business opportunities.
*Key Highlights of the Event:*
– *Date:* May 14th, 2024
– *Time:* 10:00 am
– *Venue:* Grand Pela Hotel, Durimi, Abuja
– *Theme:* “Tea Break Edition”
– *Objective:* To promote intra-African trade, strengthen economic cooperation, and unlock new trade opportunities in the tea industry and related sectors.
*This Year’s Focus:*
The 5th edition of the “Tea Break Edition” will bring together top decision-makers, businessmen and women, and diplomats from diverse regions of the continent to discuss the tea industry as a business opportunity and explore related trade prospects. The event will also address key challenges facing trade within the continent, including trade barriers, border challenges, security, and weather-related issues.
*Quotes from the Organizers:*
“The Africa Trade Consortium is committed to fostering economic growth and development within the continent by promoting trade and investment,” said the Lead Consultant of PR Times Africa Media Ltd and Convener of the Africa Trade Consortium. “We believe that the tea industry has immense potential for growth and we look forward to exploring new trade opportunities with our partners from across Africa.”
*About the Africa Trade Consortium:*
The Africa Trade Consortium is a trade initiative launched in Abuja, Nigeria in 2022. Its primary objective is to promote trade between Nigeria and other African countries, fostering economic cooperation and collaboration among nations on the continent. The consortium brings together stakeholders from various sectors, including government, private enterprise, and civil society, to facilitate dialogue and collaboration.
For more information, please visit (link unavailable) or call +234802422404.
CSOs Back Nigeria’s Clean Energy Push, Applaud ECN’s Commitment
Wema Bank Celebrates 80 Years of Impact
