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Bello Vs EFCC: Court to rule on admissibility of FCT Court judgment on school fees payment May 8

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Court rejects EFCC's request to arraign Yahaya Bello without his counsel, adjourns to Dec 13 Ex-Gov to remain in custody

Bello Vs EFCC: Court to rule on admissibility of FCT Court judgment on school fees payment May 8

 

The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed May 8 for ruling on the admissibility of a judgment of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in suit number FCT/HC/CV/2574/2023 between Mr Ali Bello and Incorporated Trustees of American International School.

 

The Defendant’s Counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, had, before proceeding on cross-examination of the EFCC’s third witness, Nicholas Ohehomon, from AISA, sought to tender the document, which had decided on the issue of payment of fees or refund in the ongoing case instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission against the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.

The Defence Counsel had also sought to tender the receipts of the recertification of the said documents.

But Pinherio, SAN, who had earlier examined the witness, objected, saying that the Prosecution had not yet closed its case.

He argued that the defendant could not tender documents at a time the prosecution was still proving its case, citing Section 232 of the Evidence Act.

Reacting, Daudu SAN said, “My lord, the admissibility of documents in criminal or civil cases is governed strictly and exclusively by the principles of relevance to the proceedings at hand.

“Once it is adjudged, we submit that the document is relevant, it becomes automatically admissible. That is what is contained in Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the Evidence Act, 2011.

“The question for your lordship is, is this document relevant and admissible in line with Section 4? The answer has been provided by my learned brother silk for the prosecution.

“He referred to the content of the judgment and read out a portion which says that a particular relief was refused and that the fee agreement was upheld in the same judgment.”

He said the public documents they sought to tender had AISA as a party and that, as far as the defendant was concerned, the witness was the sole witness of AISA in the matter.
The Defence Counsel added that the objection of the prosecution was speculative because “he does not know what we want to do with the record yet.”

“Because he (Pinhero SAN) is not comfortable with the document does not stop its admissibility,” he added.

Pinherio, however, urged the court to reject the document, arguing that the Defence Counsel had not demonstrated that it comes within the ambit of Section 232 of the Evidence Act.

Justice Emeka Nwite, therefore, held that a date would be given for ruling on the admissibility of the FCT High Court judgment.

He adjourned the case to May 8 and 9, for ruling on the admissibility and for continuation of trial.

Earlier, when trial resumed on Friday, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, asked the Registrar to give the witness, Nicholas Ohehomon, Exhibit 13P1.

The witness identified the exhibit as a telex from the bank sent to the school via email by Ali Bello.

The witness was also told to identify Exhibits 13P2 to 13P4 and she confirmed that they were transfers made by Forza Oil and Gas in favour of the respective children.

He identified Exhibit 13P5, a telex by Whales Oil and Gas to American International School as well as others.

During examination, EFCC Counsel asked the witness to tell the court in whose names four of the payment receipts were issued.

He said they were issued in the names of four children of the former governor, after being prompted by the Prosecution Counsel.

The Defence Counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, cut in, saying that the witness should read the names on the receipt.

“My lord, he (Pinhero, SAN) is demonstrating this document. The witness cannot import or infer into the Exhibit what is not there,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Defence Counsel could not proceed with his cross-examination because the Judge had to adjourn for ruling on the admissibility of an earlier judgment of the FCT High Court on the issue of payments of school fees.

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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