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Fidelis Oditah’s commercialized outbursts against EFCC, corruption fighting back

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*Fidelis Oditah’s commercialized outbursts against EFCC, corruption fighting back*

*By Kehinde Osifisan

The recent virulent outbursts on a national television Programme by a UK-based Nigeria lawyer, Professor
Fidelis Oditah, calls for serious concern as it was nothing short of corruption fighting back.

One is taken aback that Professor Oditah, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), though far from home, could go on a national television’s live programme to display or feign such lack of knowledge about the EFCC’s Establishment Act, operations and recent sterling accomplishments of the Commission, especially under the current, widely acclaimed, leadership of Ola Olukoyede as Chairman.

The unrestrained attacks on the EFCC by the professor and his startling comments trivialising the issue of corruption and the unrelenting efforts and commendable achievements of the Commission in the last one year, leaves much to be desired.
One cannot accept that the professor, though foreign based, is unaware of the developments and achievements of the EFCC in the last one year, even in this age of the internet.

Rather, one suspects that corruption is fighting back. Having failed to rubbish the EFCC and its Chairman, through simulated attacks by its local recruits, Nigeria’s politically exposed persons undergoing corruption trials, might have chosen to ‘boost’ its well oiled propaganda machine by recruiting foreign based “opinion experts”.

Ironically, the Director of Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, Christopher Wray, from the United Kingdom, where Oditah has long been ensconced, paid historic visit to the EFCC headquarters, commending the Commission on the feat attained in the fight against corruption and financial crimes and seeking more collaboration with the EFCC in their shared mandate of fighting corruption and financial crimes across the borders. The visit was the first of its kind Olin the annals of the EFCC.

Wray expressed confidence and appreciation to the Commission for its professional handling of transnational economic and financial crimes, especially cybercrimes and sextortion; and pledged stronger cooperation with the Commission.

The renewed attraction of foreign law enforcement/anticorruption agencies to the EFCC under Olukoyede has been unprecedented and strongly anchors on the new face of the fight against economic and financial crimes. The new professional approach of the Commission resonates well with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), leading to positives outcomes and result-oriented synergies.

Also, on September 6, 2024, the EFCC boss handed over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) the sum of $180,300 (about N310,000,000 – million here hundred and ten million naira) and 53 vehicles worth hundreds of millions of naira; being assets recovered for Canadian victims of Nigerian fraudsters.
Representing the Canadian authorities and the RCMP at the handover ceremony were Robert Aboumitri, First Secretary, Deputy High Commission of Canada and Nasser Salihou, Liaison Officer and Programme Manager, RCM.

The EFCC has also been making exploits with the Spanish Police. On September 20, 2024, Olukoyede handed over €5,100 (Five Thousand, One Hundred Euros – N9.5M, Nine million, five hundred thousand naira) proceeds of crime to the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Juan Ignacio Sell, being the sum recovered from a Nigerian romance fraudster for Heinz Burchard Einhaus Uchtmann, a Spanish victim, by the EFCC in collaboration with the Spanish Police.

It can therefore be discerningly deduced that Oditah’s vituperations were not only out of touch with realities on ground concerning the EFCC, but also, most probably, stemmed from the spurs of the political clique that is seriously unhappy with EFCC, as it continues to touch and puts on trial, the hitherto “untouchables” and “sacred cows”.

As the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, puts it: “There is no denying the fact that the respected professor goofed in all his comments about the EFCC and his views are not reflective of the realities on ground concerning the anti- corruption fight of the government.”

However, it is good and reassuring to note that Ola Olukoyede remains unperturbed, undeterred and undaunted in his commitment to delivering the constitutional mandate of the EFCC. As he declared in a charge to the EFCC operatives after mandating all of them to declare their assets for verification: “Don’t be tired. They will call us names. They will abuse us. But we will remain on our feet and pursue the mandate that was given to us by the (EFCC) Act. We will fight this war. I assure you that there will be be light at the end of the tunnel. We will win at last. Nigeria will win.”

Osifisan, a Social Policy Advocate, is the Programme Coordinator at the Abuja-based Journalists Against Corruption (JAC) and sent this via [email protected]

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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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