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Jumia of Fraud…how the e-commerce firm tricked investors, short-change IATA, CBN

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MTN fingered in fraud report


When a couple of weeks ago, Jumia made headlines by listing in the New York Stock Exchange, not a few people saw it as a big deal and a welcome development. But no sooner had the company sold itself as ‘Africa’s first unicorn’ to trade in the prestigious NYSE than the fraudulent claim of being an “African company” began to fall flat on its face.

Records submitted by the ecommerce firm indicated clearly it is a German company with corporate structure spread across different cities in Europe. Nevertheless, the firm rode on the controversy of its initial public offer (IPO) as the value of its share rose, but only for a short time.

Besides operating in Nigeria as a business against which a lot of infractions have been reported, the fraud that Jumia is has now assumed a global dimension. Moving from a frim with a lot of skeletons in its wardrobe in that it operates an online travel business without an online IATA licence which is one of the requirements for such operation, and also does not have CBN mobile money licence though it operates like one, the Jumia brand is deeply enmeshed in corporate fraud with dire consequences as the NYSE would launch into series of investigations to mete out the right treatment to the firm.

Citron Research, a US Based online investment Newsletter, has declared Jumia shares as “worthless” and that they had never “seen such an obvious fraud”. Jumia share price was down by over 18% as at closing of trading at the New York Stock Exchange. According to the report by Citron, Jumia forged its numbers ahead of filing documents for its listing in the US. Two of Jumia’s largest shareholders, MTN and Rocket Internet wanted to exit the company after it reported in 2018 that it has a year’s cash left. The company’s revenue also declined from $145million to $131million while adjusted EBITDA loss went from $161million to $150million. Jumia removed certain information and went ahead to distort the figures and facts in its investment memorandum with a view get its stock overpriced that its actual value.

Citron, in its 18 years of publishing said it “has never seen such an obvious fraud as Jumia.” Cited as material discrepancies deliberately made up by Jumia include: inflating active customer base (from 2.1 million in October 2018 to 2.7 million by April 2-19) and active merchant numbers (from 43,000 to 53,000 between same period) which represented 20% to 30% growth – a claim which Citron suggests cold not have been true.

It also claimed that “the most disturbing disclosure that Jumia removed from its F-1 filing was that 41% of orders were returned, not delivered, or cancelled. This was previously disclosed in the Company’s October 2018 confidential investor presentation,” implying that most of its orders were cancelled in 2018.

The damaging report is an absolute vote of no confidence in Jumia which it accused of corporate fraud. “When a company markets to investors ahead of its IPO and then a few months later omits material facts and makes material changes to its key financial metrics to make the business seem viable, this is securities fraud,” the report says

Culled from The Capital

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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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