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Hostile Takeover: A Failed Plot to Seize Control of the ILÉ IYÁN Brand”

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A FAILED ATTEMPT TO HIJACK THE ILÉ IYÁN BRAND

Hostile Takeover: A Failed Plot to Seize Control of the ILÉ IYÁN Brand”

 

Under the leadership of Sheriff Sanni, aka Sannikayz, ILÉ IYÁN has become an iconic brand, captivating over 12 million social media engagements worldwide and achieving remarkable growth in revenue and brand equity. This brand, recognized both locally and internationally, has served distinguished clientele, including high-net-worth individuals, government officials, corporate organizations, and A-list celebrities in entertainment. With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Sannikayz has built ILÉ IYÁN into a thriving, well-respected establishment promoting the Arts, Culture and Tourism in Nigeria and also celebrated for its excellence and integrity locally and Internationally.

 

Yet, in a desperate bid to silence the truth and stifle justice, brand hijackers and their paid voices have spun a web of falsehoods against Sannikayz, distorting the narrative in the public eye.

**False Claims of a Six-Month Rift with Initial Co-Founder**
The rumor mills claim that Sannikayz’s relationship with his initial investor soured within six months, suggesting a pattern of untrustworthiness with investors. In truth, this investor contributed N5M and has always maintained a warm, respectful relationship with Sannikayz till date. They both hold each other in high regard, and the surrender of shares was carried out through mutual agreement.

**Myth of Sannikayz Seeking Investment from Olasunkanmi Mustapha, aka Musty**
It is a blatant falsehood to claim that Sannikayz approached Musty for investment. In reality, Musty—through his staff Princess Michelle, a long-time customer—persistently pursued Sannikayz, keen on investing in ILÉ IYÁN’s expansion. Initially, Sannikayz was hesitant to allow Musty’s involvement, but Musty persisted, using unsolicited gifts to Sannikayz’s relatives as a ruse to appear trustworthy. This facade masked his true intent: an attempt to hijack a thriving business built on years of Sannikayz’s hard work.

 

**Inflated Claims of Musty’s Hospitality Credentials**
Musty’s narrative of 20 years of hospitality experience lacks any tangible proof. The restaurant he previously managed in Ikeja ended abruptly, leaving no credible brand or legacy in its wake. Unlike industry leaders with notable projects, Musty has no significant presence in the hospitality world. Hijacking ILÉ IYÁN appears to be his opportunistic plan to build a fictitious reputation on the back of another’s accomplishments.

 

**Unjust Share Allocation for Musty**
At the time of Musty’s entry, ILÉ IYÁN had evolved into a household name for premium pounded yam, with substantial brand value. Based on this valuation, Musty’s investment should have earned him a mere 20% share, yet Sannikayz generously granted him 30%, believing in Musty’s supposedly genuine intentions.

**Concealed Financial Gains and Exploitation of Resources**
Since his initial investment, Musty has received substantial returns: in December 2023, ILÉ IYÁN paid him N2,020,306 in profit from just the Lekki branch, followed by a total of N14,964,291 in March 2024 from both branches. Yet, Musty’s family which includes his wife Abiola Mustapha, his brother Pelumi Mustapha, his wife’s Niece and close associates Ayoola Ajuwon, Jaiyeola Ayoola-Ajuwon were placed on inflated salaries for minimal work, costing the business N4,710,000 monthly even Musty (the investor ) was earning N1,000,000 monthly. They disregarded corporate governance and fostered nepotism, placing two couples on the management team—decisions that disrespected ILÉ IYÁN’s established culture and principles.
Total payments made to investor from profit sharing and Management fees is over N30M which is close to 40% of his initial investment of N80,000,000.

**Harming ILÉ IYÁN’s Reputation**
Under Musty’s management, the Ikeja branch saw a downturn, with complaints piling up. One manager, Emmanuel Oluwabusayo, hired by Musty’s wife, even assaulted a female employee, resulting in a public scandal on a human rights blog. Despite Sannikayz’s pleas to dismiss the manager, Musty’s team retained him, prioritizing profit over integrity and brand reputation. This situation compelled Sannikayz to halt ILÉ IYÁN’s Canada expansion and return to Nigeria to address these crises.

 

**Exploitation of ILÉ IYÁN’s Brand Name**
Behind closed doors, Musty and his wife falsely presented themselves as owners of ILÉ IYÁN, and even attempted to position the brand as a subsidiary of Musty’s company. When asked to sign a shareholder agreement, Musty refused and instead led armed men to shut down ILÉ IYÁN’s Ikeja GRA branch, assaulting staff and deleting CCTV footage. Some of the staff were administered Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD ) first aid and also one Emily Balogun also reported to be Injured by one of the armed men. She was also reported to suffer a neck injury during this tragic event. The Founder, Sannikayz filed a Petition against Musty at the Office of The Commissioner for Police, Lagos State Command. He later went ahead to establish a replica company, “ILÉ IYÁN by PODS,” hoping to erase the original brand and replace it with his counterfeit venture.

**Increased Costs and Employee Exploitation**
Between February and April 2024, ILÉ IYÁN was unknowingly paying salaries to Musty’s staff under the guise of management fees. These individuals increased operational costs, engaged in dubious procurement practices, and disrespected employee rights, especially targeting individuals they deemed “poor” or “female”—values antithetical to ILÉ IYÁN’s founding principles of respect and inclusivity.

 

Food Handlers Test and Staff Hygiene.

As part of ILÉ IYÁN’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of food safety and customer service, all staff members are required to complete a Food Handlers Test and attend Customer Service Training periodically.
These claims are false accusations in a-bid to tarnish the ILÉ IYÁN’S brand reputation.

**The Myth of “Japa” to Canada**
It’s either ignorance or calculated malice to claim that Sannikayz abandoned ILÉ IYÁN for Canada. In fact, the plan for an international presence was mutually agreed upon to reach the Nigerian diaspora, beginning with Canada. During this official trip, Sannikayz remained in close contact with Musty, discussing registration and market strategies for the Canadian outlet.
Sannikayz also frequents Nigeria to monitor closely the growth and development of the ILÉ IYÁN Nigeria brand. This is also not limited to the his attendance at the GTbank Food and Drinks Event 2024 and other Hospitality related activities ultimately for the overall progress of the Company.

**Baseless Claims of Unpaid Debts**
Musty’s accusations of unpaid debts are not only false but an attempt to manipulate public sentiment. Outside his initial investment, no additional funds were extended by Musty’s company.

**False Allegations of Lavish Lifestyle**
In today’s social media era, Sannikayz’s lifestyle is anything but secretive. Claims of excessive spending are baseless, without any proof to support them. Sannikayz is a seasoned and prudent entrepreneur whose dedication to his business has always taken precedence.

 

**Musty’s Attempt to Wipe Out ILÉ IYÁN’s Legacy**
In a final move to erase Sannikayz’s legacy, Musty’s company filed a petition to dissolve ILÉ IYÁN. Yet, when confronted by Sannikayz’s legal team, Musty’s lawyers began to foot-drag with the court even awarding costs against them for time-wasting. His plan to hijack the brand through family appointments, staff mismanagement, and frivolous lawsuits fell apart, underscoring that one cannot steal another’s hard-earned success and prosper.

The ILÉ IYÁN NIGERIA brand has also made Legal action against Musty and his entities at the State and Federal High Courts for breach of contract, trust and agreement and passing off.

 

There are also numerous reports from other Founders who have suffered similar exploitation at the hands of Musty. His reputation for using police intimidation and scare tactics to coerce young Nigerian entrepreneurs into surrendering their businesses has left a trail of victims. This alarming trend, and the story of ILÉ IYÁN’s attempted hijacking, serves as a rallying call to protect Nigerian entrepreneurs from malicious individuals like Musty.

 

 

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NEW BPP DG COMMITS TO EFFICIENCY AND STAFF WELFARE FOR IMPACTFUL SERVICE DELIVERY

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NEW BPP DG COMMITS TO EFFICIENCY AND STAFF WELFARE FOR IMPACTFUL SERVICE DELIVERY*

*_…begins review of bureau processes to enhance government procurement systems_*

The Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr Adebowale Adedokun, has outlined his vision to drive efficiency, enhance staff welfare, and reinforce the Bureau’s regulatory mandate in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope mandate and his commitment to improving Nigeria’s economy. This was made known during an interactive session with staff of the Bureau at the State House Banquet Hall on November 20, 2024. Dr Adedokun emphasised the urgency of delivering results as well as improving trust in the government procurement system to support President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, declaring, “Let us work together to get value for money for Nigeria’s developmental processes and achieve President Tinubu’s mandate of making Nigeria’s economy better.”

Furthermore, in a bid to strengthen operational efficiency, the DG also announced key reforms, including introducing Service Level Agreements for the bureau’s processes ensuring that letters are treated within 3 (three) days, and ensuring reports are completed within 14 (fourteen) days. He also highlighted plans to secure a sustainable budget that would improve the working environment and provide better welfare for staff.

Dr Adedokun firmly stated the Bureau’s resolve to uphold its regulatory integrity under his watch. He warned that officers are prohibited from visiting Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) unless on official assignments stressing the need for officers of the Bureau to stay above board. He further declared that contractors are no longer allowed within the Bureau’s premises to ensure that officers can perform their duties without undue interference and influence.

Calling for a collaborative approach, the DG urged staff to embody the Bureau’s regulatory values by adhering to procurement guidelines, avoiding delays, and striving for excellence. “As a regulator, you must be seen to be guided by the procurement process,” he stated. He assured the team of an open-door policy, encouraging innovative ideas that could propel the Bureau to greater heights.

The session also featured a visit from former DG, Engr. Emeka Ezeh, OFR, FNSE, who led the Bureau from 2009 to 2016. Engr. Ezeh commended President Tinubu for appointing Dr Adedokun and urged staff to provide their full support to the new leadership. He encouraged staff to focus on leaving a legacy of excellence, saying, “Work in a way that you will be celebrated wherever you go in life.”

Senior Directors, including Engr. Nasir Bello and Engr. Isaiah Yesufu reiterated the importance of supporting the DG’s vision while emphasizing adherence to the Bureau’s operational guidelines. Staff also welcomed the session, sharing their perspectives on improving the Bureau’s operations and pledging their support for the new leadership.

In a related development, Dr Adedokun sought collaboration with the Presidential Office of Digital Engagement and Strategy (PODES) led by its Head, Mr O’tega Ogra, who is also the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital/New Media, during a courtesy visit to his office on November 21, 2024. The DG emphasized the need to enhance the Bureau’s public engagement and visibility in line with the all-of-government communications approach being espoused by the PODES.

Mr Ogra congratulated Dr Adedokun on his appointment and highlighted the key role BPP plays in advancing Nigeria’s development agenda. O’tega further expressed his commitment to collaborating with the Bureau in amplifying its communication efforts and ensuring Nigerians understand and appreciate its critical role in national governance.

Dr Adedokun’s leadership marks a new chapter for the Bureau of Public Procurement, focused on accountability, efficiency, and impactful service delivery. His vision aligns seamlessly with the Federal Government’s goals of economic transformation and sustainable development as well as President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.

Janet McDickson
Director, Information & Public Relations/Head, Media-BPP

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Abducted Rivers bizman rescued, suspected robber arrested

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Abducted Rivers bizman rescued, suspected robber arrested

 

The Rivers State Police Command said its men rescued a businessman identified as Julius Madabuchi, who was kidnapped by a four-man gang at a filling station in the Oyigbo Local Government Area of the state.

The police said the man was abducted when the miscreants who were driving in a Black Toyota car stormed the area and started shooting discriminately before executing their plan.

The rescue of the man, the police said, followed a distress call sent to the command control room about the activities of the hoodlums on November 17 and immediately mobilised operatives to the scene, saying the abductors engaged the police in a shootout.

The spokesperson for the state police command, Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, on Wednesday.

 

The statement reads, “On the 17th of November, 2014, at about 2023hrs, operatives of the command received a distress call from the Room indicating that a gang of armed men numbering about four operating in a Black colour Toyota Corolla car shot sporadically and kidnapped one Madabuchi Julius at Sabbath Filling Station, Oyigbo.

“Operatives were swiftly mobilised to the scene and the hoodlums on sighting the police operatives drove off, but they were given a hot chase by the operatives and subsequently intercepted along Egbu Street, Oyigbo and a gun duel ensued between the operatives and the hoodlums.

“The hoodlums could not withstand the police’s superior firepower and eventually abandoned the victim and their operational vehicle with registration number RIVERS PHC 938 AH and escaped. The victim was rescued unhurt and the vehicle recovered. He has since reunited with his family.”

 

The state police image maker however said an investigation is ongoing while concerted efforts are being intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang and recover their operational weapons.

In a related development, Iringe-Koko said the following day, precisely on Monday, operatives of the command acted on credible information, coordinated a covert operation at the St Lorinta Street, Oyigbo and arrested one Gabriel Morris, aged 25, at Mercy Ground in Kom-Kom, Oyigbo LGA of the State.

The state police spokesperson stated, “During interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of a syndicate that had been terrorising Oyigbo and its environs in recent times.

 

Iringe-Koko, a Superintendent of Police, listed items recovered from the suspect including one locally made pistol and a quantity of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp.

She added, “Investigation is ongoing, while concerted efforts are intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate.

“This successful operation further demonstrates the effectiveness of the Rivers State Police Command in combating kidnapping and all other forms of crime in the state.”

 

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Celebrate Your Wins, No Matter How Small-Prudent Ludidi

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Those who wronged you may never say "I'm sorry" - Prudent Ludidi

Celebrate Your Wins, No Matter How Small-Prudent Ludidi

 

Today, I want to talk about something incredibly important, yet often overlooked: celebrating our wins. Yes, you heard that right – celebrating our wins, no matter how small.

We live in a world that constantly pushes us to achieve more, be more, and do more. We’re always striving for the next goal, the next milestone, the next achievement. And while ambition is great, it’s equally important to acknowledge and celebrate the small victories along the way.

Think about it. How often do you achieve something amazing, only to dismiss it as “not a big deal” or “just part of your job”? How often do you downplay your successes or attribute them to luck rather than your hard work and dedication?

Here’s the thing: every win, no matter how small, is worth celebrating. Every achievement, no matter how insignificant it may seem, is a testament to your strength, resilience, and determination.

Celebrating your wins does several things. Firstly, it boosts your confidence and self-esteem. When you acknowledge your achievements, you remind yourself of your capabilities and potential.

Secondly, celebrating your wins helps you stay motivated and focused. By recognizing your progress, you’re more likely to stay committed to your goals and keep pushing forward.

Thirdly, celebrating your wins fosters a positive mindset. When you focus on what you’ve achieved, rather than dwelling on what’s still to be done, you cultivate gratitude, happiness, and contentment.

So, how can you start celebrating your wins?

Start small. Write down three things you’ve accomplished each day before bed. Share your achievements with a friend or family member. Treat yourself to something special.

Celebrate the tiny victories: finishing a difficult project, trying a new recipe, or simply making it through a tough day.

Celebrate the milestones: landing a new job, running a marathon, or graduating from college.

And celebrate the moments in between: learning a new skill, making a new connection, or taking a much-needed break.

Remember, celebrating your wins isn’t about being arrogant or boastful. It’s about acknowledging your hard work and dedication. It’s about recognizing your worth and value.

Don’t wait until you’ve achieved something “big” to celebrate. Celebrate every win, no matter how small. Celebrate every achievement, no matter how insignificant it may seem.

You are worthy of recognition. You are worthy of celebration. And you are worthy of acknowledging your own strength and resilience!

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