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‘How PDP Chairman, Uche Secondus received N250Milllion form Dasuki’ – EFCC Reveals

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The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Uche Secondus, allegedly received N250m from the Office of the National Security Adviser under the leadership of the embattled former NSA, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd.), an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s report has said.

The report, which was sighted by one of our correspondents, stated that Secondus allegedly received the money during the build-up to the 2015 general elections.

Secondus, who was the Deputy Chairman (South) of the PDP at the time, allegedly collected the money for ‘special duties.’

The report partly read, “Uche Secondus received N200m in cash from the ONSA with voucher 0244. His Special Adviser, one Chukwurah, signed for the money on his behalf on February 2, 2015. Earlier, he had collected N50m which was personally received by him on November 7, 2014.

“The funds were approved by Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd.) for unknown reasons but were merely referred to as ‘special duties.’”

The report also accused Secondus and erstwhile Chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, as well as the lawmaker representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, Senator Bassey Akpan, of receiving vehicles worth about N1.1bn from Babajide Omokore, an oil magnate standing trial before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

According to the report, the vehicles which ranged from Mercedes Benz luxury cars to campaign buses and trucks were bought with the proceeds of fraud.

The report added, “Adamu Mu’azu received vehicles worth N504, 500, 000 including a Benz G63 worth N45m between May and August 2014.

“Secondus received vehicles worth N310m. On June 28, 2013, he received a Benz G63 worth N36m; on April 8, 2014, he received two Toyota Hilux vehicles worth N14m. On July 8, 2014, he received 10 Hiace buses worth N90m while on November 13, 2014, he received 15 Hiace mid-roof buses worth N120m. He also received a N50m Range Rover Biography SUV.”

The report accused Senator Bassey Akpan of receiving vehicles worth N303m from Omokore while he was the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Finance as well as the Chairman of the Inter-ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee whose job was to ensure that government projects were completed using direct labour approach to save some money for the state.

Two of Omokore’s companies – Bay Atlantic Energy and Sahel Energy – were said to have received contracts from the committee headed by Akpan.

The report added, “Senator Bassey Akpan received a BMW X5 BP worth N50m; an Infinity QX56BP worth N45m; a Range Rover worth N40m; three Toyota Hiace buses worth N27m; two Toyota Hiace High-roof buses worth N16m, six Toyota Hilux D cabin vehicles worth N42m as well as other vehicles worth N83m.

“He received the vehicles from Omokore while heading a committee which was giving contracts to the same Omokore.

“He has been invited on several occasions but he has refused to show up. He was supposed to come to the EFCC office on Monday (yesterday) but he refused to come.”

But Secondus has described the claim by the anti-graft agency as a blackmail and a continuation of what he described as media trial.

He said there were plans to blackmail and discredit the main opposition party and its leadership.

He however said the plan would not work.

Secondus, who spoke through his media aide, Mr. Ike Abonyi, asked the agency or anyone with proof of the allegations to come to court.

Abonyi said, “Secondus is already in court on this matter and that is all. It is a continuation of media trial and blackmail.

“He has said he did not collect any money and he had challenged anyone with contrary proof to meet him in court and testify against him.

“There’s no need to be talking about a case pending in court in the newspapers. If the government has anything to say, they should file it before the court as demanded.”

Also speaking, Secondus told one of our correspondents that he knew that the government would not stop at anything to tarnish his image.

But he said that the move would fail.

He challenged the government to come out with the vouchers with which he was said to have signed, adding that such signature would also be subjected to forensic analysis.

He said, “I never collected any money from anywhere. I didn’t ask anyone to collect money for me as well and I didn’t sign any voucher to collect any money.

“It is pure blackmail which will never work. I have gone to court and I expect them to challenge me in court and come and testify against me.

“If they are cooking up anything, with the aim of blackmailing me, it will fail. I know that the task of uprooting this non-performing government would be horrendous. But God is always on the side of the people.”

Attempts to speak with Akpan proved abortive as he could not be reached for his reaction to the allegation as his telephone line indicated that it was off when it was called on Monday night. He had yet to reply a text message sent to him as of the time this report was filed.

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Ajadi Visits Ilaji Resort, Commends Sanusi’s Vision for Oyo’s Economic Growth

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Ajadi Visits Ilaji Resort, Commends Sanusi’s Vision for Oyo’s Economic Growth

The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has lauded the transformative impact of private-sector investment on the state’s economy, following a courtesy visit to Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort in Akanran, Ibadan.

Ajadi, who was warmly received on Sunday by the resort’s founder, Chief Dr Dotun Sanusi, described the facility as a symbol of what visionary leadership and indigenous enterprise can achieve in driving rural development, job creation, and tourism growth.

Speaking during the visit, Ajadi commended Sanusi’s commitment to Oyo State’s economic advancement, noting that Ilaji Resort stands as a model for sustainable development outside urban centres.

“What I have seen here today is not just a business venture, but a bold statement of belief in Oyo State’s potential,” Ajadi said. “Chief Sanusi has demonstrated that with vision, dedication, and strategic investment, we can transform our rural communities into thriving economic hubs. This aligns perfectly with my agenda to expand opportunities, empower our people, and sustain development across the state.”
[4/13, 6:34 PM] johnsonakinpelu: The PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised that his governorship ambition is rooted in supporting initiatives that promote local enterprise, tourism, and youth employment, adding that partnerships between government and private investors would be a priority if elected.

In his remarks, Sanusi, popularly known as Ilaji, expressed delight at hosting Ajadi and his entourage, describing the visit as encouraging for investors in the state.

“I am honoured to receive Ambassador Ajadi here at Ilaji Resort,” Sanusi said. “This project was born out of a desire to give back to society, create jobs for our youths, and showcase the rich cultural and tourism potential of Oyo State. When leaders recognise and support such efforts, it strengthens our resolve to do more.”

Sanusi further stressed the importance of continuity in governance and policies that encourage investment, noting that consistent support from government actors is crucial for long-term economic growth.

The visit also attracted notable political stakeholders, including the former Ona-Ara Local Government Chairman, Hon. Taiwo Oke, Hon. Bass Oloko, and Ajadi’s personal assistant, Kilamuwaye Badmus, among others.

Observers at the event described the meeting as a convergence of political leadership and entrepreneurial vision, highlighting the growing importance of collaboration in addressing developmental challenges in Oyo State.

Analysts see Ajadi’s visit to Ilaji Resort as part of his broader engagement with key stakeholders across sectors, as he continues to build momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship race.

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FOPCHEN Calls for Dialogue as Court Fixes May 28 for Continuation

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FOPCHEN Calls for Dialogue as Court Fixes May 28 for Continuation

OTA, OGUN STATE — Proceedings in a widely followed legal case resumed on March 24, 2026, at the High Court of Ogun State, Ota Division, ending with a fresh adjournment as the court fixed May 28, 2026, for continuation.

During the session, legal representatives for all parties restated their positions and addressed preliminary matters, laying the groundwork for more substantive arguments at the next hearing. Observers noted that the case continues to attract significant public attention due to its perceived implications for law, culture, and societal values.

The Foundation for the Protection of Cultural Heritage in Nigeria (FOPCHEN) used the occasion to reiterate its call for constructive national dialogue. The group emphasized that while the judicial process must be respected, broader societal engagement remains essential.

 

According to the organization, issues relating to values, responsibility, and cultural identity should not be confined solely to courtroom deliberations but should involve active participation from various sectors of society.
Legal analysts present at the proceedings described the matter as one with far-reaching implications, noting that arguments advanced in court could shape future interpretations surrounding sensitive cultural and moral questions.

 

The presiding judge subsequently adjourned the case to May 28, granting all parties time to refine their submissions and respond to issues raised during the hearing.

 

As anticipation builds ahead of the next court date, Nigerians across different sectors continue to monitor developments closely, keen to see how the judiciary navigates the delicate balance between constitutional rights and cultural expectations.

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CRG: Politicians Must Stop Witch-Hunting, Focus on Nation Building — Says NYSC Cleared Deputy Speaker Since 2023 

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CRG: Politicians Must Stop Witch-Hunting, Focus on Nation Building — Says NYSC Cleared Deputy Speaker Since 2023

By: Boye Ola 

 

The Centre for Responsible Governance (CRG) has called on political actors and interest groups to desist from what it described as needless witch-hunting of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, following renewed controversies surrounding his National Youth Service Corps records.

 

The organisation noted that the clarification by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) regarding the matter is not a recent development, as a formal verification letter had already been issued as far back as May 23, 2023.

 

 

The letter, referenced NYSC/CCD/VER/10/5.1/VOL1/02, had already addressed and cleared the questions surrounding the Deputy Speaker’s NYSC records.

Reacting to the renewed debate, the spokesman of the Centre,

 

Obande George, said it was troubling that issues which had already been clarified by a competent national institution were being resurrected for political purposes.

According to him, the time has come for political actors to move away from destructive engagements and concentrate on building the nation.

 

“It is important to note that the NYSC had already issued a verification letter dated May 23, 2023 addressing the matter.

Reopening issues that have already been clarified by a competent authority suggests that some individuals are more interested in political witch-hunting than in national progress,” George said.

 

The CRG stressed that democracy thrives when institutions are respected and their determinations are accepted in good faith rather than constantly questioned for political advantage.

George also commended the Deputy Speaker for demonstrating maturity and composure throughout the controversy, despite what he described as sustained provocations.

 

“Honourable Benjamin Kalu has shown remarkable calm and maturity in the face of intense public scrutiny and political provocation.

 

Instead of engaging in unnecessary public confrontation, he allowed institutions to speak through their records.”

 

The Centre warned that Nigeria’s political culture must evolve beyond constant character attacks and sensational allegations, which often distract public officials from their responsibilities.

 

According to the organisation, the country’s development requires constructive engagement among political actors rather than continuous attempts to discredit opponents.

 

“Nigeria cannot move forward if political energy is constantly spent on digging up allegations and amplifying rumours. Our leaders and political actors must redirect their focus to governance, policy and nation building.”

 

CRG therefore urged Nigerians to rely on verified information from credible institutions and avoid spreading speculative claims that could damage reputations or destabilise public discourse.

 

The organisation reiterated that respect for due process and institutional integrity remains essential for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

 

@The Centre for Responsible Governance, Email: [email protected], Instagram: crgngo6, Twitter: crgng06, Threads: crgngo6

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