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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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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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