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Banks Absolved Lagos Speaker, Obasa On Fraud Allegations

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Easter: Let God's unending love reign supreme - Obasa Urges Nigerians

Officials of Ecobank, Wema Bank and Polaris have absolved the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa of allegation of operating multiple bank accounts in the banks.

Some representatives of the banks spoke before the 9-man House Adhoc Committee on fact finding and investigation on the corruption allegations against Speaker Mudashiru Obasa being circulated on the social media on Friday.

The bank officials stated that it was not possible for an individual to operate multiple accounts with one Bank Verification Number (BVN).

The Committee is headed by Hon. Victor Akande (Ojo Constituency 1).

Present during the meeting were Hon. Rotimi Olowo, Hon. Yinka Ogundimu, Hon. Lukmon Olumoh and Hon. Mojisola Alli-Macaulay.

A Business Development Officer with Wema Bank, Mr. Adekunle Adeleke, said that the BVN server is not reserved with any bank, but the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

“Sahara Reporters stated the account number and other details in their reports, but they didn’t state the BVN. What Sahara Reporters wrote is not BVN. There are a lot of errors in their report.

“The BVN and the accounts stated in the story are not correct and they don’t belong to the Speaker of the Assembly.

“It is not possible for a BVN to have two dates of births. If they do so, it would be rejected in another bank, they would have to swear to an affidavit so that it would be the same.

“If it should be changed, it would be backed up by marriage certificate or sworn affidavit,” he stated.

Adeleke stressed that the companies stated by Sahara Reporters in their reports had no linkage with Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.

He added that the name, signature and other details in the story has no relationship with Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.

“You can write Wema Bank to confirm if the accounts mentioned by Sahara Reporters had any relationship with the Speaker.

“The computer system in the bank has a digital footprint that would show any visit to any account. It will show imprint of anyone that checks the account. You can request the details of all the checks, but we will need written request from the owner of the account.

“BVN is a different server, it does not belong to any bank. You cannot punch BVN and get any financial details. It is only the regulator or the anti-corrupion agency that can do so through the CBN,” he said.

Polaris Bank was represented by Mr. Charles Osho and Mr. Rotimi Omotayo, Chief Internal Auditor of the bank.

Mr. Omotayo said that only three of the 64 accounts credited to the Speaker by SaharaReporters were with Polaris Bank.

He revealed that two of the accounts belong to one Mr. Adebayo Adeyemi David, while one belongs to Mr. Ajayi Mudashiru Obasa.

“Mr. Adebayo Adeyemi David is different from Mr. Ajayi Mudashiru Obasa and there is no linkage between the two personalities.

“Rt. Hon. Ajayi Mudashiru Obasa has one account with our bank and the BVN quoted for Obasa is correct. The other person has a separate BVN for the two accounts.

“It is not possible to check someone’s account without authorisation. There is what we call system log. Whoever accesses an account is logged on the system and we can see whoever does that.

“We know those who access any account at any point in time. We can avail you of the information if you require it,” he said.

General Manager of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency (PPA), Mr. Onafowote Fatai Idowu, who was also invited by the Committee, revealed that the 40 Toyota Corolla back-up cars bought for the 8th Assembly were with the notice of his office and that the purchase followed the due process.

He said that Certificate of Compliance was issued for the procurement of the vehicles on 30th April, 2019.

“We were communicated and we responded for the process to continue and we approved the purchase of the vehicles.

“The purchase of the vehicles was approved by the Management Committee of the House, led by the Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and the relevant documents were provided.

“Members of the Committee were Hon. Wahab Olumuyiwa Jimoh, Hon. Rotimi Olowo, Hon. Dayo Saka-Fafunmi, and Hon. Setonji David. The purchase was budgeted for and It is in tandem with the appropriate Procurement Law,” he said.

The committee subsequently adjourned sitting to Saturday 6th June, 2020 at 10am.

Politics

2025: There’s Hope On The Horizon For Nigeria, Lagos – Sanwo-olu

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2025: There’s Hope On The Horizon For Nigeria, Lagos – Sanwo-Olu

 

 

By Ifeoma Ikem

 

 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has spread a message of hope and optimism for Nigeria and Lagos as the world celebrates Christmas.

 

 

Speaking at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu assured citizens that 2025 holds promise for a better future.

 

2025: There's Hope On The Horizon For Nigeria, Lagos - Sanwo-olu

 

The governor expressed gratitude to God for the country’s resilience despite its challenges. He commended residents for their faith in his administration, pledging to continue working towards a safe, secure, and prosperous Lagos.

 

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of living in peace and harmony, urging families and friends to support one another.

 

2025: There's Hope On The Horizon For Nigeria, Lagos - Sanwo-olu

 

“As a government, we’ll continue to provide enabling environment for growth and advancement, especially infrastructure development.

 

“Nigeria will be better eventually just like our President assured us in his media chat, and everyone will smile,” he added.

 

 

Meanwhile, the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Rt. Revd. Ifedola Senasu Okupevi appealed to the federal and state governments to alleviate the suffering of the masses.

 

He called for policy relaxation to bring peace and prosperity to the land.

 

According to Dr. Okupevi, the citizenry must jettison tribal sentiments and embrace unity, stressing that by so doing, “we will realize the country of our dreams.”

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Prince Adesegun Rallies Support For Senator Adeola’s Gubernatorial Bid

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Prince Adesegun Rallies Support For Senator Adeola’s Gubernatorial Bid …Donates 100 bags of rice , five million to ijebu North APC Leaders

Prince Adesegun Rallies Support For Senator Adeola’s Gubernatorial Bid

…Donates 100 bags of rice , five million to ijebu North APC Leaders

 

In a remarkable demonstration of his commitment to the welfare of party members and the development of Ijebu North Local Government, Prince Fatai Adesegun convened a strategic meeting with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the local government area.

Prince Adesegun Rallies Support For Senator Adeola’s Gubernatorial Bid
…Donates 100 bags of rice , five million to ijebu North APC Leaders

The meeting provided an opportunity for Prince Fatai to commend the APC leadership for their steadfastness and dedication to the party’s progress. He emphasized the importance of unity, grassroots mobilization, and proactive engagement to ensure the APC’s continued success in future elections.

 

As part of his goodwill gesture, the Ago Iwoye Prince donated 100 bags of rice and a sum of N5 million to support party members across Ijebu North. He further contributed N1 million toward the renovation of the APC Secretariat in the local government, underscoring his commitment to strengthening the party’s administrative structure.

 

In his remarks, Fatai Adesegun expressed his appreciation for the exemplary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun, and Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola YAYI. He commended Senator Adeola for his dedication to the welfare of the people and his visionary leadership.

 

Adesegun also used the occasion to rally support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola’s 2027 gubernatorial bid, describing it as the best path forward for Ogun State. He highlighted Senator Adeola’s wealth of experience and his relentless quest for massive development across the state.

“Senator Adeola has proven himself as a visionary leader with the experience and passion required to transform Ogun State. His gubernatorial ambition is a golden opportunity for us to secure a brighter future for our state,” Adesegun said.

The meeting witnessed the presence of notable APC leaders and stakeholders, including Hon. Mosun Oladipupo, the Ijebu North Local Government Chairman, who led the Local Government Secretary, other executives of the party, and all 11 Ward Chairmen. Chief Dele Mogaji, a two-time Vice Chairman of the Local Government, and Mrs. Bukky Onadeko, a frontline women leader in the Local Government, were also in attendance.

Party members expressed their gratitude to Adesegun for his generosity, foresight, and leadership, pledging their unwavering loyalty and commitment to the party’s vision and goals.

Adesegun’s actions and advocacy for a united front resonate as a call for collective responsibility, setting the stage for a prosperous future for Ijebu North and Ogun State under the APC banner.

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“‘Our Lives Matter’: Nigerians Demand Justice After Brutal Attack in Johannesburg”

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Nigerians in South Africa: Struggling for Justice Amid Violence and Xenophobia

Nigerians in South Africa: Struggling for Justice Amid Violence and Xenophobia

In a revealing interview with Biodun Busari, Frank Onyewekelu, President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa, sheds light on the challenges facing Nigerians in the country, from violent xenophobic attacks to systemic injustices. The recent killing of Julius Chukwunta, a Nigerian national, has reignited calls for diplomatic intervention and justice.

The Death of Julius Chukwunta

The tragic death of Julius Chukwunta unfolded in Midrand, Johannesburg, on December 7, 2024. According to Onyewekelu, Chukwunta was returning home with his South African partner, Miss Lumka, when an altercation occurred. After attempting to resolve a parking dispute with four individuals, Chukwunta was brutally attacked, sustaining fatal injuries.

“They inflicted heavy injuries on him by hitting a brick on his head, which led to a massive loss of blood,” Onyewekelu recounted. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Chukwunta succumbed to his injuries on December 10.

Legal Actions and Concerns Over Justice

Chukwunta’s partner reported the incident to the Midrand Police, leading to the arrest of the four suspects. However, Onyewekelu expressed disappointment in the judicial process after three of the suspects were granted bail for 10,000 rand each.

“The prosecutor had the right to oppose bail, especially when there is a risk of the suspects fleeing the country. Three of the attackers were Zimbabweans with South African residency, making them flight risks,” Onyewekelu explained.

The fourth suspect, yet to appoint a legal representative, is expected to apply for bail in the next hearing, scheduled for February 2025.

A Pattern of Violence and Neglect

Chukwunta’s death is not an isolated incident. Between November 2023 and December 2024, Onyewekelu reported 15 to 20 similar cases of Nigerians dying under questionable circumstances in South Africa.

“Many Nigerians have died in police custody or from brutal attacks, with little to no justice served,” he said. He cited incidents where Nigerians died during police raids or while in detention, often without explanations or follow-ups.

The Role of the Nigerian Government

Onyewekelu emphasized the need for stronger intervention from Nigerian authorities, urging the government to address these recurring issues diplomatically and publicly.

“We need more steps, such as media briefings, to make South Africans understand that Nigerian lives matter,” he stated. He also called for increased collaboration between the Nigerian consulate and South African authorities to ensure justice and prevent further incidents.

Debunking Stereotypes About Nigerians

Onyewekelu addressed the common misconception that Nigerians are taking jobs or resources from South Africans.

“Nigerians in South Africa are largely self-employed, running businesses and even employing South Africans,” he said. He also highlighted that accusations of Nigerians ‘stealing’ jobs are unfounded and often perpetuated by individuals unwilling to pursue legitimate work.

On relationships, he noted, “When love happens, it happens. Nigerian men are caring, and that’s why many South African women choose them.”

Efforts to Foster Safety and Awareness

The Nigerian Citizens Association organizes workshops, seminars, and town hall meetings to educate Nigerians on legal and cultural expectations in South Africa.

“We teach our people about the rule of law, documentation, and how to live legitimately. We want them to stay on the right side of the law,” Onyewekelu said.

The association also works closely with Nigerian cultural groups to disseminate information, ensuring unity and shared responsibility within the diaspora community.

A Plea for Justice and Peace

As the Nigerian community in South Africa continues to navigate a challenging environment, Onyewekelu’s message is clear: justice and fairness must prevail. He hopes for stronger diplomatic ties, increased awareness, and a commitment to protecting lives and fostering peace between Nigerians and South Africans.

“We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re asking for fairness and the right to live safely and thrive in a foreign land,” he concluded.

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