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EXCLUSIVE: EFCC quizzes former Head of Service, Oronsaye over multi-billion naira corruption allegation

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A former Head of Service of the Federation, Steve Oronsanye, is currently being interrogated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, over allegations of corruption, according to a report from PREMIUM TIMES

The former HOS summoned Wednesday morning to the EFCC headquarters in Wuse 2, where he is being interrogated.

It is not clear as at the time of publishing this report whether Mr. Oronsaye would be allowed to go home after his interrogation or detained.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, confirmed that Mr. Oronsaye is with the anti-graft agency.

Mr. Oronsanye was appointed Head of the Civil Service of the Federation by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in June 2009 and retired in November 16, 2010.

However, in September 2014, the office of the Auditor General of the Federation released a damning report that indicted him of N123billion alleged fraud.

The 169-page report, titled “Special Audit of the Accounts of the Civil Pensions”, found Mr. Oronsaye guilty of allegedly presiding over the looting of the nation’s resources during his tenure.

The audit by the Auditor General arose from the work of a Special Audit Team constituted by the Federal Government in May 2011 to conduct a comprehensive examination of the accounts of the Civilian Pension Department domiciled in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.

The audit, which covered the period 2005 to 2010, uncovered monumental financial irregularities, opaque transactions, irregular and abnormal running costs, and outright stealing and kick-backs said to have reached its zenith during the 18 months that Mr. Oronsaye served as Head of Service.

The Auditor General’s office, insiders say, completed its assignment and submitted its report to government in 2012. But no action has been taken to bring all those indicted to book.

While allegations of massive corruption hung around his neck, Mr. Oronsaye remained very close to then President, Goodluck Jonathan.

He also continued to occupy some of the most important positions in the country. He is, for over 10 years now, chairman of the Presidential Committee on Financial Action Task Force [FATF] and was board member of both the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation [NNPC] and the Central Bank of Nigeria [CBN], the two public organisations widely considered the most lucrative in the country.

Even more scams

Investigation by this newspaper however suggested that there are some corruption fronts that both the Auditor General of the Federation and the EFCC are yet to cover.

For instance, highly placed sources at the presidency and the office of the Head of Service showed  documents detailing how Mr. Oronsaye, on June 30, 2010, transferred N113million from pension account No; 4501040012292 with Union Bank Plc to a Unity Bank account named Contingency.

The said Contingency account turned out to be a State House Account in the name of Principal Private Secretary to the President, which Mr. Oronsaye continued to operate many years after he was removed as private secretary to the president.

Further checks showed that a certain Shola Aiyedogbon withdrew substantial part of the illegally transferred funds for onward delivery to Mr. Oronsaye. It was only on January 27, 2011 that Unity Bank alerted the Permanent Secretary, State House, that Mr. Oronsaye was still operating the account before he finally let go.

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Sofela Salutes Workers, Calls Them Pillars of Ogun Central’s Progress

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Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

The Senatorial Aspirant for Ogun Central under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emmanuel Adebola Sofela, has extended warm felicitations to workers across the district in celebration of the 2026 International Workers’ Day.

In a goodwill message released to mark the global event, Sofela praised the resilience, diligence, and unwavering commitment of workers in Abeokuta South, Abeokuta North, Odeda, Obafemi-Owode, Ifo, and Ewekoro Local Government Areas, noting that their contributions remain central to the growth and development of Ogun Central and Nigeria at large.

Describing workers as the “engine room of progress,” Sofela acknowledged the sacrifices made daily by individuals in both the public and private sectors. He emphasized that from civil servants and entrepreneurs to artisans, traders, and professionals, every category of worker plays a vital role in sustaining the economy and strengthening the social fabric of the region.

“On this special occasion of International Workers’ Day, I celebrate the hardworking men and women across Ogun Central whose dedication and commitment continue to drive our collective progress,” the statement read. “Your efforts, whether seen or unseen, form the foundation upon which our communities thrive.”

Sofela highlighted the importance of recognizing and rewarding hard work, stressing that workers deserve not only commendation but also improved welfare, fair opportunities, and an enabling environment to maximize their potential. He called for renewed focus on policies that prioritize job creation, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.

The senatorial hopeful also paid special tribute to workers in essential services, including healthcare personnel, security operatives, teachers, and sanitation workers, who he said consistently demonstrate exceptional courage and responsibility, often under challenging conditions.

“You remain the backbone of our society, standing firm in service even in difficult times. Your dedication inspires hope and strengthens our resolve to build a better future,” he added.

Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Ogun Central, Sofela assured that his aspiration is driven by a desire to advocate for workers’ rights, promote inclusive growth, and support initiatives that will enhance productivity and improve living standards across the district.

As Workers’ Day is celebrated worldwide, his message resonates as both a tribute and a call to action—recognizing the invaluable role of workers while emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to uplift and empower them.

Across Ogun Central, the celebration served as a reminder that behind every achievement lies the dedication of hardworking individuals whose contributions continue to shape the present and secure the future.

Happy International Workers’ Day.

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Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM) Picks APC Senate Nomination Form for Ondo North

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Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), the Balogun of Ikare Land, has officially picked the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for the Ondo North Senatorial District ahead of the party’s primary election.

Chief ATM obtained the forms at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday, signaling his formal entry into the 2027 senatorial race. He was accompanied by party leaders, youth groups, and supporters from across the six local government areas of Ondo North.

Speaking shortly after picking the forms, Chief ATM said the move was in response to “persistent calls from traditional rulers, elders, women, and youths of Ondo North who desire effective and people-centered representation.”

“My aspiration is not about me. It is about restoring the voice of Ondo North, attracting federal presence, and creating jobs for our youth,” ATM stated. “With the support of our leaders and the grace of God, we are ready for the primary and the general election.”

Party faithful who thronged the secretariat described ATM as “the most prepared and acceptable aspirant,” citing his recent endorsements by former Deputy Governor Ali Olanusi, first-class traditional rulers, and the Ondo North Youth Alliance (ONYA).

Chief ATM reaffirmed his commitment to party unity and a clean, issue-based campaign. He called on delegates to prioritize competence and track record during the primaries.

The APC is expected to announce dates for screening and primary elections in the coming weeks.

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Olukare of Ikare, Oba Akadri Momoh, and Council Endorse Balogun ATM for Senate 2027

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His Royal Majesty, Oba Akadri Momoh, The Olukare of Ikare Land, alongside his Oba-in-Council of chiefs and elders, has endorsed Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), the Balogun of Ikare, for the Ondo North Senatorial seat in 2027.

The endorsement was announced on Monday at the Olukare’s Palace during Chief ATM’s courtesy visit. Oba Akadri Momoh described ATM as “a true son of Ikare” with the character and competence to represent Ondo North. “He respects tradition and has never turned his back on our people. He has our royal blessing,” the Olukare said.

Chiefs present echoed the monarch, citing ATM’s consistent support for education, healthcare, and empowerment in Akoko land as proof of his readiness.

Chief ATM thanked the Olukare and Council for the “sacred mandate,” pledging to make the welfare of Ikare and Ondo North his priority in the Senate. “In Abuja, the voice of Ikare will be loud, clear, and respected,” he said.

*Signed:*
ATM Campaign Media Team

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