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Court Dismisses Emefiele’s Application Challenging Jurisdiction in $4.5bn Fraud Case

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Court Dismisses Emefiele's Application Challenging Jurisdiction in $4.5bn Fraud Case

Court Dismisses Emefiele’s Application Challenging Jurisdiction in $4.5bn Fraud Case

 

The Lagos State Special Offences Court has dismissed an application filed by the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the $4.5 billion and ₦2.8 billion fraud charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Delivering the ruling on Wednesday, Justice Rahman Oshodi affirmed the court’s jurisdiction to try Emefiele and his co-defendant, Henry Omoile. However, the judge struck out four of the 26 charges filed by the EFCC, citing a lack of jurisdiction over those counts.

Court Ruling

Justice Oshodi clarified the decision, stating:
“Allocation of foreign exchange without reason is not defined as an offence under any written law. The objection to counts one to four succeeds and is hereby struck out.”

Regarding the remaining counts, the judge ruled that the court had sufficient jurisdiction to proceed.
“The objection challenging the court’s territorial jurisdiction over counts eight to 26 fails and is hereby dismissed. The prosecution has established sufficient territorial nexus in this case,” he said.

The trial was subsequently adjourned to February 24 and 26, 2025, for continuation.

Background of the Case

The EFCC arraigned Emefiele on 26 charges, including abuse of office and illegal allocation of $4.5 billion and ₦2.8 billion. The allegations center on economic and financial crimes, which the EFCC asserts fall squarely within its jurisdiction.

At the last court hearing on December 12, 2024, Emefiele’s counsel, Mr. Olalekan Ojo (SAN), had argued that the Lagos Special Offences Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the case. He contended that the alleged offences were not recognized under Nigerian law and fell outside the territorial reach of the court.

Ojo further argued that the Lagos State House of Assembly does not have legislative authority over matters on the Exclusive Legislative List. As a result, Section 73 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State (2011), under which counts one to four were filed, could not be applied extraterritorially to the alleged offences committed by Emefiele.

EFCC’s Counterarguments

In response, EFCC counsel, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), maintained that the court had jurisdiction, emphasizing that the charges involved economic and financial crimes within Lagos State.

Oyedepo argued that evidence and witness testimonies indicated that the alleged offences occurred within Lagos, making it the appropriate venue for the trial. He further dismissed the objections raised by Emefiele’s legal team as lacking factual or evidential merit.

Timeline and Adjournments

The ruling on the jurisdictional challenge was initially scheduled for January 7, 2025, but was delayed until January 8, 2025. With the jurisdictional issue now resolved, the court has set the trial for continuation in late February.

Implications

The court’s decision marks a significant development in the high-profile case, paving the way for substantive hearings on the remaining charges. The EFCC’s prosecution team has expressed readiness to proceed, while Emefiele’s defense is expected to continue its legal battle.

The trial is closely watched, as it involves one of the most influential figures in Nigeria’s financial sector, with far-reaching implications for accountability and governance in the country.

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Pastor Peter Oyediran Achieves Remarkably: A Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University ~Oluwaseun Fabiyi

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Pastor Peter Oyediran Achieves Remarkably: A Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University
~Oluwaseun Fabiyi

 

Pastor Peter Oyediran is an American-based Nigerian-born pastor who serves as resident pastor at RCCG Jesus House Huntsville Alabama and graduated with honors as a Master of Science from Walden University on Friday, January 24th, 2025; he is a resilient and easygoing man of God

Having practiced as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for years and acquired a new degree, he has further solidified his professional standing

As an illustrious figure in Nigeria and America, Pastor Peter Oyediran is celebrated for his remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s development, peace, and the diaspora. His visionary leadership, established many decades ago, has made him a reference point amongst his contemporaries

His tireless endeavors within Christendom represented a crucial turning point in the evolution of his community and the parish, which he guided into an era of advancement

Pastor Peter’s developmental achievements transcended religion, as he also explored physical health and medical practice. He acknowledged the importance of education and economic empowerment and thus established a scholarship scheme and initiated a soft loan program to support women in petty trading.These initiatives established a foundation for sustained growth and improved livelihoods

Pastor Peter’s contributions are equally profound globally, and his pivotal role in Christendom is unmatched

The accomplishments of Pastor Peter continue to stand as a lasting testament to his dedication to progress and peace, leaving a lasting impact on his community, state, the African continent, and the world.

Warmest congratulations are in order for this exceptional and esteemed man of God.

Oluwaseun Fabiyi a seasoned journalist writes from Lagos

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Jailed for Snooping: Wife Faces Prison for Reading Husband’s WhatsApp Messages”

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Jailed for Snooping: Wife Faces Prison for Reading Husband’s WhatsApp Messages

Jailed for Snooping: Wife Faces Prison for Reading Husband’s WhatsApp Messages

 

In a case that has sparked heated debates, a young woman, Dumsile Dludlu, is set to serve up to three years in prison after being found guilty of breaching Swaziland’s strict Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act of 2022.

Dludlu was accused of unlawfully accessing her husband’s WhatsApp messages without his consent—a move that landed her in legal trouble under a law designed to protect individuals’ privacy in the digital age.

The Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act criminalizes any unauthorized access to a computer system or digital platform. Violations of this law carry harsh penalties, including fines of up to E500,000 (approximately R500,000) or imprisonment for up to five years.

Dludlu reportedly went through her husband, Samukeliso Matse’s, private WhatsApp conversations, prompting a domestic confrontation. During the altercation, Dludlu allegedly insulted her husband after uncovering messages that upset her.

“I did insult him, but it wasn’t as severe as what’s in the police statement,” Dludlu told the court, pleading not guilty to the charge of unauthorized access but admitting to the verbal altercation.

The case highlights the far-reaching consequences of the Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act, a law aimed at curbing unauthorized access to digital information. Critics argue that the law, though necessary to protect privacy, may be disproportionately punitive in domestic or minor disputes like this one.

The ruling has sparked a conversation about digital privacy and the boundaries of personal relationships in the digital age. Some have expressed support for the husband’s decision to pursue legal action, while others question whether such matters should be handled in court.

A New Era of Privacy

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting digital privacy, even in close relationships. As more countries adopt stringent cybersecurity laws, individuals are urged to be mindful of accessing someone else’s digital devices or accounts without permission.

Dludlu’s sentencing is expected to set a precedent for similar cases under Swaziland’s new cybercrime law, drawing attention to the balance between protecting privacy and navigating the complexities of personal relationships.

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The Heart’s GPS: Coping with the Emotional Effects of Distance By Femi Oyewale

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Love Across Miles: The Psychological Toll and Triumphs of Long-Distance Relationships

 

Long-distance relationships (LDRs) are a unique test of love, resilience, and patience, often stirring up a whirlwind of emotions. While they can strengthen bonds and build character, they also present a range of psychological challenges. Here’s a closer look at how LDRs impact individuals—both positively and negatively.

The Heart’s GPS: Coping with the Emotional Effects of Distance By Femi Oyewale

The Struggles of Distance

Being apart from a loved one can feel like an emotional labyrinth, with many grappling with:

  1. Loneliness and Isolation: The absence of physical closeness can intensify feelings of solitude, particularly during life’s challenges.
  2. Anxiety and Insecurity: Distance may fuel doubts about the relationship’s stability, leading to worries about infidelity or fading commitment.
  3. Communication Strain: Misunderstandings can easily arise through text or video calls, creating emotional tension.
  4. Emotional Highs and Lows: The anticipation of reunions juxtaposed with the sadness of goodbyes often leaves individuals on an emotional roller coaster.
  5. Depression: Prolonged loneliness and stress may lead to depressive symptoms, affecting overall mental health.
  6. Adapting to Change: Partners may grow apart as they experience personal changes and milestones without each other’s immediate presence.

Silver Linings of Separation

Despite its challenges, an LDR can nurture personal growth and strengthen relationships in surprising ways:

  1. Sharper Communication Skills: Distance encourages partners to express themselves more openly and articulate their feelings effectively.
  2. Deeper Emotional Bonds: Without physical proximity, couples often rely on meaningful conversations and shared emotional intimacy to stay connected.
  3. Fostering Independence: Time apart allows individuals to pursue personal interests, careers, and friendships, fostering a sense of self-reliance.
  4. Cherishing Togetherness: Reunions become cherished moments, helping couples appreciate their time together more deeply.
  5. Focused Goals: Many long-distance couples set clear goals—such as closing the gap geographically—giving their relationship direction and purpose.

Navigating the Distance

Ultimately, the psychological effects of long-distance relationships depend on the couple’s approach. Open communication, trust, and mutual commitment are the cornerstones of thriving despite the distance. While LDRs can be emotionally taxing, they also offer opportunities for growth, resilience, and deeper connection.

Whether miles apart or side by side, love endures when both partners remain dedicated to weathering the journey together.

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