celebrity radar - gossips

Appeal On Abacha Loot: World Bank Seeks More Time To Give Details

Published

10 years ago

August 9, 2016

The World Bank has again asked for more time to release details on the spending of recovered loot by late General Sani Abacha. This followed the bank’s decision to refer “portion of appeal by Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) to the Bank Archives Unit for processing for public access.”

In a letter dated 8 August 2016 and sent to SERAP, the World Bank said, “In response to your request under AI4288, we would like to inform you that we are working on your request as referred to the Archives by the Access to Information Committee in its decision on the appeal and need additional time to provide a more comprehensive response. We regret any inconvenience for this delay.” This development was disclosed today in a statement by SERAP executive director Adetokunbo Mumuni. The World Bank’s request for more time followed the appeal SERAP lodged with the Bank on 5 February 2016 on the ground that the Bank’s decision on its initial request did not reveal “important portions of the information requested on how Abacha loot was spent.”

This is the second time the World Bank is asking for additional time to provide SERAP with details of spending of Abacha loot. It would be recalled that the bank in a letter dated 15 October 2015 and signed by Ann May of the Access to Information Team said that “In response to your request under AI3982, we would like to inform you that we are still considering your request and need additional time to provide you with a more comprehensive response.”

According to Mumuni, the Bank Access to Information Committee (AIC) in its Decision on appeal issued in Case number AI3982-A dated 29 April 2016 held that although the appeal by the organisation was not filed within 60 days of the Bank’s decision as required by its Access to Information Policy, SERAP appeal nonetheless “contains a request for additional information, not previously submitted by the requester, and which the Bank has neither considered nor denied. Accordingly, the AIC refers back to the Archives Unit this portion of the appeal for processing for public access.”

SERAP said: “The portion of the appeal which the Bank has now referred to its Archives Unit for public access include information on: evidence and list of the 23 projects allegedly completed with recovered Abacha loot, and whether the 23 projects where actually completed; and what became of the 2 abandoned projects; evidence and location of the 8 health centers built with recovered Abacha loot reviewed by the World Bank; and evidence and location of the 18 power projects confirmed by the World Bank.”

“Other aspects of the spending of Abacha loot the Bank referred to its Archives Unit for processing for public access are: information on: how the $50mn Abacha loot received before 2005 kept in the special account was spent; evidence and location of schools which benefited from the Universal Basic Education (UBE) program in the amount of NGN24.25bn; and evidence and location of the 13 road projects completed with the recovered Abacha loot, including the names of the 3 of the largest road and bridge projects in each geo-political zone.”

The World Bank AIC appeal decision reads in part: “Summary of Decision: The Access to Information Committee (“AIC’) found that the appeal is not properly before the AIC for consideration. The appeal in this case was filed 75 calendar days after the Bank’s initial decision. Under the Bank Policy on Access to Information, appeals to the AIC must be filed within 60 calendar days of the Bank’s decision.”

“Notwithstanding the above, the AIC found that the appeal contains a request for additional information, not previously submitted by the requester, and which the Bank has neither considered nor denied. Accordingly, the AIC refers back to the Archives Unit this portion of the appeal for processing for public access.”

“The Decision Facts: On September 21, 2015, the requester submitted a request (“Request”) for “documents relating to spending of recovered assets stolen by Late General Sani Abacha and the Bank’s role in the implementation of any projects funded by the recovered assets and any other on-going repatriation initiatives on Nigeria with which the Bank is engaged.” On November 25, 2015, the World Bank (“Bank”) responded to the Request by providing the requester with 11documents.

“On February 8, 2016, the secretariat to the Access to Information Committee received an application (“Application”) appealing the Bank’s decision. The Application challenges the Bank’s decision on both a “violation of policy” and “public interest” basis. The Application states, in relevant part, the following: [Intentionally omitted] is sending this Appeal to the AI Appeals Board against the World Bank decision dated 25 November 2015 to provide patently insufficient information on the spending of recovered stolen funds by the late General Sani Abacha.”

“We consider this a serious violation of the AI Policy, as it amounts to improper or unreasonable restriction of access to information.[…]Following receipt of several documents from the World Bank totalling over 700 pages on the Abacha loot, [intentionally omitted] commenced independent investigations and verification of some of the information supplied with appropriate agencies and institutions of government.”

“Findings and Related Decision: In reviewing the Application in accordance with the AI Policy, the AIC considered: (a) the Request; (b) the Application; (b) the date of the Bank’s initial decision; and (c) the date when the Application was filed before the AIC. In this case, the Bank’s response was issued on November 25, 2015. The Application was filed with the AIC on February 8, 2016, i.e., 75 calendar days after the Bank’s initial decision.”

“Under the Bank Policy: Access to Information, July 1, 2015, Catalogue No. EXC4.01-POL.01 (“AI Policy”), appeals to the AIC ‘must be filed (…) within 60 calendar days of the Bank’s decision to deny access to the requested information’ (see AI Policy, at Section III.C.8 (b) i). In view of this requirement, the Application is not properly before the AIC for consideration.”

“Notwithstanding the above, the AIC found that the Application contains a request for additional information, not previously submitted by the requester, and which the Bank has neither considered nor denied. Accordingly, the AIC refers back to the Archives Unit this portion of the Application for processing as a new request for public access.”

Source: Vanguard

celebrity radar - gossips

Powerful dignitaries, high net worth personalities storm Omorede Osifo’s diamond jubilee celebration in Marbella Spain

Published

2 days ago

May 13, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Powerful dignitaries, high net worth personalities storm Omorede Osifo’s diamond jubilee celebration in Marbella Spain

.. How she has attained so much professional, political heights at 60

The beautiful city of Marbella in Spain was thrown into a colorful and electrifying mood when one of Nigeria’s most celebrated, iconic political Lionesses, the debonair banker turned politician, Lady Omorede Osifo was serenaded with a sumptuous and deluxe 60th birthday gig.

The dynamic political empress and symbol of selfless service to humanity who served diligently and faithfully as the honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Edo State was flabbergasted by the amazing love shown to her by friends, family and well-wishers who thronged the alluringly beautiful hall to give her an indelible birthday celebration. The event tagged @omorede_osifo is now the talk of town as high networth dignitaries, celebrities from all walks of life and different parts of the world all made their presence significant for the celebrant to ruminate over in many years to come.

Lady Omorede Osifo is a quintessential democrat who committed much of her time and energy in serving the people. The birthday babe whose special day fell on 8th of May has come, saw and conquered in the so-called murky waters of Nigerian politics. She served perfectly as State Commissioner, Deputy National Treasurer of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC),

Special Adviser on Women Mobilization in Edo State and as a distinguished representative of her people.

As the celebration of the 60th birthday of this lady of glam, glitz and panache unfolded, it became clear that this gathering was not just a personal milestone for Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo but also a reaffirmation of commitment among political leaders to work together. The convergence of these key figures in the political arena serves as a reminder of the potential for collaborative efforts to foster progress and uplift the community.

Her birthday celebration was a testament to the strength of unity in political engagement, highlighting the significance of personal connections in the realm of governance.

As Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo embarks on another year, the expressions of support and solidarity from her fellow dignitaries promise a future filled with collaborative achievements and shared goals for the betterment of their constituents.

Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo is a fantastic leader who wants the best for her people. She is personally committed to the transformation of women and two girl child in Edo State and she has also been at the top echelon of her political party, the APC with her selfless efforts recognized and appreciated by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR as well as her superb democratic contributions to the growth and development of Edo State under the leadership of His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo who has overtime shown appreciation to her for being a dedicated and patriotic loyal daughter of Edo State. Even the Oba of Benin Kingdom bestowed on her the Prestigious Royal Beads which is given to Chiefs in recognition of her deep passion for the historical city of Benin.

This year, all road led to the serene city of Marbella, Spain for the celebration of her 60th birthday and a opportunity for her to appreciate her Creator, the Almighty God as well as every single individual that has played significant roles in her life.

Attaining the diamond age of 60 is never a child’s play, it’s a moment of sober reflection and commendation to God. We at Black Celebrity Magazine wish the indefatigable and indomitable Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo a very happy 60th birthday and many more years to live in perfect health and more success.

celebrity radar - gossips

Confusion, Panic As Reports Of Alexx Ekubo’s Death Rock Nollywood

Published

3 days ago

May 12, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Confusion, Panic As Reports Of Alexx Ekubo’s Death Rock Nollywood

The Nigerian entertainment industry was thrown into confusion and panic on Tuesday following viral reports alleging that popular Nollywood actor, Alexx Ekubo, had died at the age of 40.

The shocking claim, which spread rapidly across social media platforms and blogs, alleged that the actor died in Lagos after battling undisclosed health complications, sparking an outpouring of grief from stunned fans and colleagues.

As the rumours gained momentum online, several actors, movie producers and entertainment enthusiasts flooded Instagram and X with emotional reactions, describing the development as “heartbreaking,” “unbelievable” and “a dark day for Nollywood.”

Actor Godwin Nnadiekwe was among those who reacted emotionally, reportedly lamenting that the industry had lost “a rare soul” whose charisma and talent helped shape modern Nollywood.

Alexx Ekubo, widely admired for his stylish persona, romanti movie roles and strong social media influence, rose to prominence after emerging first runner-up at the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition before becoming one of Nollywood’s most sought-after actors.

The development also reignited conversations surrounding the actor’s prolonged absence from social media in recent months, which had earlier triggered concern among fans over his wellbeing.
Despite the widespread reports, confusion continued to trail the story as no official statement had been issued by the actor’s family, management or close associates confirming the alleged death as of press time.

The uncertainty surrounding the reports further fueled tension online, with many Nigerians demanding clarity while others urged the public against spreading unverified information.

celebrity radar - gossips

JOY AS SHEBABY SPARKS PREGNANCY SPECULATION YEARS AFTER MARRIAGE

Published

3 days ago

May 12, 2026

Sahara Weekly

JOY AS SHEBABY SPARKS PREGNANCY SPECULATION YEARS AFTER MARRIAGE

Popular Nigerian actress, singer and dancer, Seyi Ariyo, popularly known as Shebaby, has stirred reactions on social media following speculations that she is expecting a child years after getting married.

The development has generated excitement among fans and colleagues, especially on Instagram where many have continued to flood her page with congratulatory messages and prayers.

While some admirers celebrated the actress and prayed that her joy would be permanent, others pointed to a viral video currently making rounds online, where several entertainers, among them Oyita, a close friend, Tawa Ajisefinni, Seyi Ẹdun, Bukky Fagbuyi, and a host of others including Olú Maintain, were seen rejoicing and congratulating her.

Although Shebaby is already a mother with a grown daughter, the latest development has continued to attract attention within the entertainment industry and among her followers.

Before now, the London-based entertainer had built a strong reputation for herself in both music and acting. She has released several songs and also worked alongside notable Fuji star Wasiu Alabi Pasuma and other respected entertainers in the industry.

In the movie sector, Shebaby is also regarded as a household name. Sources close to the actress revealed that she is currently working on a new project titled Father Forgive Me.

Fans and colleagues have continued to pray for the actress, wishing her safe delivery and more happiness in her home.

#Shebaby #SeyiAriyo #EntertainmentNews #Nollywood #Pasuma #Olumaintain #CelebrityNews