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Presidential Jets: Ogun moves to vacate seizure order, faults fraudulent legal process by Zhongshan

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Confusion As Chinese firm targets Nigeria assets in eight countries

Presidential Jets: Ogun moves to vacate seizure order, faults fraudulent legal process by Zhongshan

 

 

The Ogun State Government on Thursday faulted the judicial process that led to the provisional attachment of three Nigerian government-owned aircraft in France by the Judicial Court of Paris on March 7th and August 2nd, 2024.

It would be recalled that a Chinese company, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd, had sought several orders from the court over an aborted underlying contract between the company and the Ogun State Government, which was initiated in 2007.

In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the Ogun State Government described the latest development as new antics by the Chinese company to appropriate Nigerian assets in foreign jurisdictions, as past efforts had continually failed.

The statement described the whole legal process as nothing but a total charade with fraudulent notions, adding that the company deliberately concealed the litigation from both the Nigerian government and Ogun State, as well as their legal counsels, before hurriedly securing orders of seizure.

It added that the company must have misled the Judicial Court of Paris regarding the use and nature of the assets it sought to attach and failed to make full disclosure to the court as required by law.

According to the statement, Ogun State, together with the Federal Government, had already taken immediate action to ensure that those provisional attachments are lifted quickly, even as it accused the company of reneging on the earlier discussion for an amicable resolution of the case.

It likened the case to that of P&ID, describing it as another unfortunate case of unscrupulous individuals masquerading as foreign investors with the sole aim of defrauding Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

The statement said: “On August 14, 2024, the attention of the Ogun State Government was drawn to the provisional attachment of three Nigerian government-owned aircraft in France by the Chinese company, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd. (Zhongshan). Ogun State also learned of two orders of the Judicial Court of Paris dated March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024, respectively, both obtained by Zhongshan without notice being duly given to the Federal Government of Nigeria, Ogun State, or their legal counsel.

“This is the latest in a series of ill-advised attempts by Zhongshan to attach Nigerian-owned assets in foreign jurisdictions, none of which have to date led to the recovery of any sums from Nigeria.

“Each of the three aircraft is used solely for sovereign purposes and as such are immune from attachment under international and French laws. In obtaining the provisional attachments, Zhongshan deliberately withheld information from the Federal Government of Nigeria, Ogun State, and their legal counsel.

“Just like the P&ID case, this is another unfortunate case of unscrupulous individuals masquerading as foreign investors with the sole aim of defrauding Ogun State and Nigeria.

“It should be recalled that the underlying contract between Ogun State and Zhongshan was executed in 2007, 12 years before the present administration, for the management of a free trade zone. The parties entered into a dispute in 2015 with arbitration commencing in 2016.

“By 2019, when the current State Administration took office, the hearing at the arbitration had been all but concluded. The Arbitral Panel awarded over 60 million USD against the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN), which was a co-defendant, when all Zhongshan had done was to build a perimeter fence around the free trade zone. Needless to say, this was a bad/unfair decision.

“The present State Administration could not, in all good conscience, allow such an unconscionable and baseless decision, which would dissipate the commonwealth of the good people of Ogun State, to stand.

“Accordingly, and based on erudite legal advice, this Administration resolved to resist the enforcement of the award. The resistance was successful in eight different jurisdictions. Currently, there are pending appeals against recognition orders issued in both the US and UK,” the statement read.

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Lagos Police Rescue 27 Foreigners from Alleged Kidnap, Arrest Couple for Online Vendor Abduction

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Lagos Police Rescue 27 Foreigners from Alleged Kidnap, Arrest Couple for Online Vendor Abduction

Lagos Police Rescue 27 Foreigners from Alleged Kidnap, Arrest Couple for Online Vendor Abduction

 

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have successfully rescued 27 foreigners who were allegedly kidnapped and confined in an apartment in the Isheri Oshun area of the state.

 

The command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday, revealing that the rescue operation was initiated following a distress call received by the Complaint Response Unit from one of the victims.

 

According to Hundeyin, the victim reported that she and several others were being held against their will and were not allowed to leave the apartment. Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the area was promptly contacted, leading to the swift intervention of the police.

 

“Somebody reached out to the Complaint Response Unit of the Lagos Police Command and complained that she had been kidnapped in an apartment and not allowed to leave. The CRU contacted the Divisional Police Officer covering the area, and upon getting to the apartment and breaking into it, a total number of 27 foreigners were found,” Hundeyin stated.

 

The rescued individuals comprised 18 males and nine females, with nationalities spanning Ghana and the Republic of Benin.

 

Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims had been lured into Nigeria under the false pretense of securing jobs. The police are currently investigating whether Lagos was their intended final destination or if they were being trafficked to another country.

 

“They are now safe and in our custody, while investigations continue to determine the full extent of the situation,” Hundeyin assured.

Couple Arrested for Kidnapping Online Vendor

In a related development, the Lagos State Police Command arrested a couple for allegedly kidnapping an online vendor who had gone to deliver a product in the Iyana Ishashi area of the state.

The incident was reported on Sunday by the victim, who recounted that she had been abducted upon attempting to make a delivery to a supposed customer.

“The victim received a request for a product and proceeded to the customer’s house in Iyana Ishashi. Upon arrival, the door was opened, and she was forcibly dragged inside by a man and a woman. The suspects were later identified as Emmanuel and Mazioma Okafor,” Hundeyin explained.

According to the police spokesperson, the suspects allegedly stripped the victim naked, assaulted her, and took explicit photographs. They then demanded a ransom of N2 million, threatening to leak the images if she failed to comply.

“She managed to pay N300,000 that day, which allowed her to regain her freedom. However, she was warned that if she did not pay the balance, her pictures would be released. The victim subsequently reported the incident to the police, leading to an immediate investigation,” Hundeyin said.

The couple was swiftly apprehended by the police, and an investigation is ongoing to ensure justice is served.

The Lagos State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding residents and urged members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

 

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Ariya Extra : Celebrating The Pioneering Voices of The Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria

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Ariya Extra : Celebrating The Pioneering Voices of The Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria

Ariya Extra : Celebrating The Pioneering Voices of The Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria

The Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria is proud to showcase some of its most outstanding members—talented artists who are redefining Nigeria’s musical landscape with passion and creativity.

Leading in Gospel music is Oluwayemisi Afonja Gbajoba, whose soul-stirring performances blend traditional Nigerian rhythms with modern gospel harmonies to inspire and uplift her audience.

 

In the realm of Islamic music, two remarkable voices stand out. Alhaja Raheemot Arike captivates with her spiritually uplifting vocals, while Alhaja Seidat Fatimo Aljafariyah brings a distinctive touch to her performances, resonating deeply with listeners and uniting communities through song.

 

The dynamic Fuji genre is brilliantly represented by Adepeju Aweni and Abebi Ayala. Both artists infuse their performances with vibrant energy and a deep commitment to preserving Fuji’s rich heritage, earning accolades from fans both locally and internationally.

 

Adding another unique sound to the mix is Queen Alimot Omowura, a standout in Apala music. Her expressive voice and engaging stage presence honor traditional Nigerian sounds while pushing creative boundaries.

Rounding out this impressive roster is Alhaja Azeezat Otibiya Reign, an Islamic singer whose harmonious blend of melody and spiritual depth continues to inspire audiences and elevate the art form.

This celebration would be incomplete without recognizing Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola (PQ1st), Omo Opeki, the esteemed President of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria. Her unwavering leadership and dedication have been instrumental in fostering unity and empowerment among female musicians.

 

We also acknowledge the contributions of Queen Ayotunde Balogun who is the life grand matron of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria, is another remarkable force in the industry, whose influence continues to elevate the status of women in Nigerian music.

 

Together, these artists embody the spirit of innovation and cultural pride that defines the Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria. Their diverse talents not only enrich their individual genres but also serve as a powerful testament to the club’s commitment to empowering female musicians and promoting Nigeria’s rich musical traditions on the global stage.

 

Stay tuned as we continue to share the inspiring journeys and groundbreaking performances of these pioneering voices.

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TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

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TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

 

 

 

 

In a powerful demonstration of humanitarian commitment, TM Foundation has embarked on a large-scale food distribution drive across Nigeria, alongside a crucial welfare initiative targeting young girls and students in Ogun State.

 

 

TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

 

This transformative outreach took place at Igbore High School, Ilugun High School, Unity High School, and Salai Abiola Comprehensive High School from March 5th to 9th, 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The initiative brought much-needed relief to hundreds of individuals facing economic hardship, reinforcing TM Foundation’s mission of compassion and community support.

 

 

 

Fighting Hunger: A Lifeline for Communities

 

TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

 

With Nigeria grappling with rising food insecurity, TM Foundation’s intervention comes at a critical time. The foundation is distributing essential food items to underprivileged families, ensuring that vulnerable communities receive vital nourishment. This initiative aims to alleviate hunger, bringing hope and sustenance to struggling households across the region.

 

 

Empowering Young Girls: Sanitary Pad Distribution

 

TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

 

Recognizing the urgent need to address menstrual hygiene challenges, TM Foundation has also launched a large-scale sanitary pad distribution campaign. Many young girls face difficulties accessing menstrual hygiene products, which can negatively impact their health, confidence, and education. By tackling period poverty, the foundation is fostering an environment where girls can focus on their studies without unnecessary obstacles.

 

 

Education for a Brighter Future: School Bag Donations

 

Furthering its commitment to empowering the next generation, TM Foundation has distributed school bags across four schools in Abeokuta. These essential supplies will provide students with the necessary resources to carry their educational materials, reinforcing the foundation’s dedication to fostering academic success and a brighter future for Nigerian youth.

 

 

A Call for Support and Solidarity

 

TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

 

As TM Foundation continues its impactful initiatives, it calls on individuals, organizations, and stakeholders to support this noble cause. The foundation’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian service is transforming lives, and this latest drive stands as a testament to its mission of spreading hope and relief.

 

 

 

According to the Founder and CEO, Olatunde Mukaila Lawal, “TM Foundation is committed to bringing relief and support to communities in Nigeria. Through food distribution, sanitary pad donations, and educational support, we aim to make a lasting difference.”

 

 

 

Stay tuned as TM Foundation continues to change lives—one meal, one school bag, and one act of kindness at a time.

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