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The Real Reasons Behind Udom Emmanuel’s EFCC Detention

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The Real Reasons Behind Udom Emmanuel’s EFCC Detention

The Real Reasons Behind Udom Emmanuel’s EFCC Detention

In a dramatic turn of events, former Akwa Ibom State governor Udom Emmanuel has been detained by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) amid allegations of large-scale financial misappropriation. Reports from News360 Nigeria indicate that the former governor is being questioned over the suspected mismanagement of public funds amounting to approximately N700 billion, sparking national outrage and heightened scrutiny.

A Call to Account: EFCC’s Investigation

Emmanuel, who served as governor from 2015 to 2023, was reportedly invited to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja at around 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Sources close to the case suggest that his detention is linked to an ongoing probe into money laundering, diversion of public funds, and other financial irregularities.

The investigation was prompted by a formal petition from the civil society group Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT), which has been pushing for greater financial accountability in Nigeria’s governance. According to NACAT’s petition, Emmanuel’s administration received a staggering N3 trillion from the Federation Account during his tenure. However, concerns arose over the application of these funds, with auditors identifying significant financial discrepancies.

Unsettling Financial Gaps

One of the most damning revelations in the ongoing investigation is the staggering N31 billion withdrawn from a single government account labeled “Office of the Governor” between 2019 and 2023. The sheer scale of these withdrawals has fueled speculation about unauthorized spending and possible fund embezzlement.

Further financial reviews indicate that, despite the substantial allocations from the Federation Account, Akwa Ibom State remains burdened with an outstanding debt profile of N500 billion. Additionally, numerous projects valued at N300 billion remain incomplete, raising serious questions about the disbursement of public funds under Emmanuel’s leadership.

EFCC’s Silence Amid Growing Controversy

Repeated attempts to reach the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, for comments on the matter have so far been unsuccessful. However, the commission’s latest move signifies a renewed effort to tackle corruption and ensure accountability among public officials, a stance that has been widely lauded by civil society groups and transparency advocates.

Political Implications and Legal Ramifications

Emmanuel’s detention could have far-reaching political and legal consequences, especially within Akwa Ibom’s political landscape. If found guilty of the financial misdeeds alleged against him, the former governor could face severe penalties, including asset forfeiture, disqualification from holding public office, and potential jail time.

Political analysts suggest that this case is a litmus test for Nigeria’s commitment to fighting corruption, particularly in the post-Buhari era. Many argue that while the EFCC’s actions are commendable, consistent legal follow-through is necessary to prevent similar cases from being swept under the rug.

What’s Next?

As investigations progress, Nigerians eagerly await further disclosures regarding Emmanuel’s alleged financial misconduct. Whether this case will result in a significant conviction or become another high-profile anti-corruption effort that fizzles out remains to be seen.

For now, the spotlight remains firmly on Udom Emmanuel, as the former governor faces what could be the biggest legal battle of his political career. The EFCC’s probe into his administration is expected to intensify in the coming weeks, potentially leading to more arrests and deeper revelations regarding Akwa Ibom’s financial management over the past eight years.

 

 

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Mercy Chinwo Slams N1.1 Billion Lawsuit Against Social Media Critic VeryDarkMan Over Defamation

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Mercy Chinwo Slams N1.1 Billion Lawsuit Against Social Media Critic VeryDarkMan Over Defamation

Mercy Chinwo Slams N1.1 Billion Lawsuit Against Social Media Critic VeryDarkMan Over Defamation

 

Renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo has taken decisive legal action against controversial social media commentator, VeryDarkMan (VDM), suing him for N1.1 billion over alleged defamation. The lawsuit, dated March 3, follows a series of Instagram posts in which VDM accused Chinwo of withholding earnings from her performances instead of remitting them to her former record label, EeZee Concept, owned by Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, popularly known as EeZee Tee.

VDM further alleged that Chinwo violated contractual agreements before parting ways with the label, claims that her legal team has strongly refuted. According to her lawyer, Pelumi Olajengbesi, VDM had no direct involvement in the dispute yet made “libelous, malicious, and damaging” statements that tarnished the singer’s reputation.

“The claimant avers that she has neither had any form of relationship with the defendant nor was the defendant involved in the issue between the claimant and EeZee Tee in any material particular,” the legal document states.

Chinwo is demanding N1 billion in general damages, N100 million in punitive and aggravated damages, and an additional N25 million to cover legal expenses. The lawsuit also calls for VDM to delete the alleged defamatory posts, issue a public apology, and publish retractions in four national newspapers for 14 consecutive days.

The legal battle stems from an ongoing dispute between Chinwo and her former label, EeZee Concept, over financial disagreements following her departure. Chinwo had previously accused EeZee Tee of mismanaging approximately $345,000 from her digital platforms and events without proper disclosure or remittance. While EeZee Tee has denied the allegations, he later called for an audit to address concerns of financial misconduct.

Amidst the controversy, a federal high court in Lagos upheld an arrest warrant against EeZee Tee on February 17, with the case adjourned until March 6. The escalating legal drama continues to unfold, drawing significant public attention to the gospel music industry and the contractual disputes between artists and their former labels.

As the legal proceedings move forward, industry watchers await the next developments in what has become a high-profile case of defamation, financial accountability, and artist-label relations.

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Senate Turmoil: Fasuyi’s Claims on Fayemi’s Petition Sparks Outrage

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Senate Turmoil: Fasuyi’s Claims on Fayemi’s Petition Sparks Outrage

Senate Drama Unfolds as Senator Cyril Fasuyi Announces Petition from Kayode Fayemi Against Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

In a dramatic turn of events at the Nigerian Senate plenary session, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, declared that former Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, intends to present a petition against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over allegations concerning the Ajaokuta Steel Company.

Senator Fasuyi, while making his statement, invoked Psalm 34:19, saying, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all.” He proceeded to announce that Fayemi would be officially submitting a petition to counter what he termed as a false accusation made by Senator Natasha, alleging that Fayemi sold the Ajaokuta Steel Mill during his tenure as Minister.

“Mr. Senate President, before I say what I want to say, I want to refer you to Psalms 34 line 19. My President, I want to bring up a case that happened when my former governor was ex-Minister of the Federal Republic. I want to say this: that my former governor is going to bring a petition on the allegation that Senator Natasha claimed he (Fayemi) sold Ajaokuta Steel Mill.”

Fasuyi further emphasized that as of today, Ajaokuta Steel remains the property of the Federal Government, dismissing any claims that Fayemi sold it while in office.

However, in a swift reaction, Fayemi’s media office categorically denied any plans to submit such a petition and rebuffed any claims of misconduct against him. A statement signed by Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, head of Fayemi’s media office, clarified the former minister’s position, accusing Senator Fasuyi of misrepresenting facts.

Fayemi Responds, Denies Petition Claims

The statement reads in part: “We have become aware of a statement made by Senator Cyril Fasuyi during today’s Senate plenary, in which he alleged that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had previously accused Dr. Kayode Fayemi of sexual harassment. We categorically state that this claim is entirely false. At no time has Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan—or anyone else, for that matter—ever accused Dr. Fayemi of such misconduct.”

It further clarified that the only interaction between Fayemi and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was during his tenure as Minister of Mines and Steel Development, where discussions strictly revolved around policy matters concerning the Ajaokuta Steel Company. The statement emphasized that while differences in opinions may have existed, there were no allegations of personal misconduct or wrongdoing against Fayemi.

The rebuttal also urged Senator Fasuyi to verify facts before making public statements, especially on issues that could potentially tarnish reputations. “We urge Senator Fasuyi to exercise greater diligence in verifying facts before making public statements, especially on sensitive matters that could damage reputations,” the statement read.

The controversy adds another layer to the ongoing debates around the fate of Ajaokuta Steel and the political undercurrents shaping discourse in Nigeria’s legislative chambers. It remains to be seen whether Senator Fasuyi will retract his statements or proceed with the alleged petition, despite Fayemi’s office distancing itself from the claims.

Signed
Mallam Ahmad Sajoh
Head, Fayemi Media Office, Abuja
March 5, 2025

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Daddy Freeze Sparks Controversy Over Sophia Egbueje’s Lamborghini Mileage

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Daddy Freeze Sparks Controversy Over Sophia Egbueje’s Lamborghini Mileage

Daddy Freeze Sparks Controversy Over Sophia Egbueje’s Lamborghini Mileage

Popular media personality, Daddy Freeze, has once again sparked reactions on social media after exposing the mileage of the newly acquired Lamborghini belonging to socialite Sophia Egbueje.

It would be recalled that Sophia had earlier revealed she purchased the luxury vehicle after Nigerian music star Burna Boy failed to fulfill his promise of gifting her one. She proudly shared images and videos of the car’s delivery on her Instagram page, drawing admiration and congratulatory messages from fans and followers.

However, in a surprising twist, Daddy Freeze took to social media to reveal that the car was not as ‘new’ as many believed. Sharing a snapshot of the vehicle’s dashboard, he disclosed that the odometer reading stood at 46,433 miles.

Mileage Controversy

For context, mileage on cars typically represents the total distance a vehicle has traveled since its purchase. It serves as an essential factor in assessing a car’s newness, overall condition, and market value.

Highlighting this, Daddy Freeze sarcastically congratulated Sophia while emphasizing the high mileage count. He wrote:

“Congratulations, our new Lambo has 46,433 miles 🙏 – 46,433 miles = 74,726.67 KM yaaay we are winning! 🥇”

Mixed Reactions Trail Daddy Freeze’s Post

As expected, the revelation sparked a flurry of reactions from social media users, with many divided in their opinions.

Some ridiculed Sophia over the mileage, suggesting that the car was far from being brand new, while others defended her, arguing that a Lamborghini remains a luxury vehicle regardless of its mileage.

Here are some notable reactions:

  • @adelakuntufayl: “Just like herself, the car has gone through a whole lot allegedly 😂😂😂”
  • @abk_sadiq01: “She get Lambo abi she no get?”
  • @plato_15: “😢 It was 0 miles but they drove it down from ‘the abroad.’ Hence the increase in mileage.”
  • @simeon_black: “It doesn’t change the fact that it’s a Lambo. Nothing wrong with the mileage. Make una rest abeg.”
  • @emeka.daniels: “No one is talking about better government practices, hike in prices of goods et al…”

Luxury or Not? The Mileage Debate

While some argue that mileage is an indicator of how ‘new’ or ‘used’ a vehicle is, others maintain that what truly matters is the car’s make and model.

Lamborghinis, being high-performance luxury cars, often retain significant value regardless of mileage, especially if well-maintained. Some have pointed out that high-mileage luxury cars are common, particularly when imported from abroad.

Despite the controversy, Sophia Egbueje has yet to directly respond to Daddy Freeze’s post or the debate surrounding her Lamborghini. However, her fans and supporters continue to celebrate her latest acquisition, regardless of the mileage discourse.

As the discussion rages on, one thing is certain: Daddy Freeze has once again managed to stir the pot and keep social media buzzing over celebrity lifestyles and luxury purchases.

 

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