society

US-based Nigerian may get 20-year jail term

Published

1 month ago

November 29, 2024

US-based Nigerian may get 20-year jail term

A United States of America-based Nigerian, Samson Omoniyi, who was arrested alongside eight others for alleged money laundering and fraud, may be sentenced to 20 years imprisonment if found guilty by the US authority.

This was contained in a press statement signed by the Office of the Public Affairs of the US Department of Justice late Wednesday.

The statement noted that Omoniyi, alongside his accomplices, were indicted on Tuesday on allegations bordering conspiracy to engage in money laundering following their arrest across three jurisdictions in the US.

It further indicated that the defendants, who remained innocent until proved guilty by the court, operated a money laundering organisation to launder proceeds of fraud running into millions of US dollars, which were allegedly obtained from defrauding several citizens.

The statement read, “An indictment was unsealed yesterday (Tuesday) in Nashville, Tennessee. It charges nine members of a multi-state money laundering organisation with laundering millions of dollars derived from internet fraud, including business email compromise schemes. The nine defendants were arrested in a coordinated takedown across three jurisdictions.

“According to court documents, Samson A. Omoniyi, 43, of Houston; Misha L. Cooper, 50, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; Robert A. Cooper, 66 of Murfreesboro; Carlesha L. Perry, 36, of Houston; Whitney D. Bardley, 30 of Florissant, Missouri; Lauren O. Guidry, 32 of Houston; Caira Y. Osby, 44 of Houston; Dazai S. Harris, 34 of Murfreesboro; and Edward D. Peebles, 35, of Murfreesboro, were charged with conspiracy to engage in money laundering.

“As alleged in the indictment, the defendants were members of a long-running money laundering organisation operating since approximately November 2016 in and around Tennessee, Texas, and across the country.”

The statement further stressed that the defendants used the structured organisation as a guise to launder the proceeds of their fraud and to enrich members of the syndicate.

“The conspirators allegedly structured the organisation so that recruiters or ‘herders’ recruited and directed participants or ‘money mules’ to launder money obtained from Internet frauds that targeted businesses and individuals in the United States and abroad.

“The defendants allegedly used sham and front companies to conceal the fraud proceeds and enrich the conspiracy members. The conspiracy allegedly agreed to launder more than $20 million in fraud proceeds,” it stated.

According to the statement, each of the defendants could be sentenced to 20 years imprisonment by the provision of the US Sentencing Guidelines as a maximum penalty for their offence.

“The defendants each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison if convicted. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

“An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law,” the statement concluded.”

Reportedly, on Tuesday two Nigerians, Anthony Ibekie and Samuel Aniukwu, were sentenced by a US federal jury to 30 years combined jail term for defrauding some US citizens of $3,500,000.

According to the US Justice Department, the duo had deceived their victims by telling them that they had received substantial inheritances that required some money to claim.

The duo was said to have requested their victims to send some amounts of money with a promise to refund them once the inheritances were claimed.

It was also noted that the duo carried out romance scams by establishing romantic relationships with their victims and demanding that they send money after they had built trust in their victims.

society

President Tinubu Visits Enugu, Pledges Support for Regional Development

Published

4 hours ago

January 5, 2025

Sahara Weekly

From Homeowners to Squatters: Displacement Woes of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway

Commends Governor Mbah’s Leadership, Reaffirms Commitment to Eastern Rail and Anambra Basin Projects

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu paid an official visit to Enugu State, marking his first engagement of the year. During his visit, he inaugurated several key projects completed by the administration of Governor Peter Mbah. The President expressed his gratitude to the Enugu State government, the leaders, and the people of the South East for their warm reception.

President Tinubu praised Governor Mbah for his remarkable leadership, citing visible improvements in infrastructure, security, education, and healthcare within the state. He noted that the state’s developmental strides under Governor Mbah’s administration are commendable and serve as a model for regional progress.

Commitment to Key Federal Projects

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to regional development, President Tinubu highlighted two major projects of strategic importance to the South East and beyond:

The President assured that his government remains committed to completing the Eastern rail line, which connects Port Harcourt to Maiduguri. The project is expected to enhance trade, mobility, and economic integration across the South-East, South-South, and North-East regions.

Acknowledging the economic potential of the Anambra Basin, which is considered rich in oil and gas resources, President Tinubu pledged federal support to maximize its exploration and development. This, he said, would create job opportunities, boost the local economy, and contribute to Nigeria’s energy sector.

In his address, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of national unity, urging Nigerians to work together to build a prosperous future. He described the nation as “one family held by a single umbilical cord” and encouraged all citizens to collaborate in developing a better Nigeria.

The President’s visit to Enugu reaffirms his administration’s commitment to inclusive development across all regions of Nigeria. His pledges regarding infrastructure and economic projects signal a renewed focus on addressing key regional challenges while fostering national unity.

The visit was well-received, with stakeholders and citizens expressing optimism that the federal government’s promises will translate into tangible progress for the South East.

society

King Dokubo-Asari sends New year Goodwill message to Kalabaris worldwide: Urges Elites to come home To invest and youths to shun cultism and violence

Published

1 day ago

January 4, 2025

Sahara Weekly

King Dokubo-Asari sends New year Goodwill message to Kalabaris worldwide: Urges Elites to come home To invest and youths to shun cultism and violence

Da-Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source (Elem Kalabari), Dabaye Amakiri 1, has issued a heartfelt new year goodwill message to monarchs, chiefs, elites, and the masses of the Kalabari kingdom and kalabaris in the diaspora.

In his new year message, he emphasizes the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence among brethren in all Kalabari communities, stressing that this is crucial for development and progress.

Dokubo-Asari, known for his tireless efforts in fighting for resource control, oppression, and environmental conservation in the Niger Delta, urges youths to shun cultism and violent associations that harm others. Instead, he encourages them to embrace peaceful and constructive endeavors that promote the well-being of the community.

Furthermore, he calls upon the professional class, elites, and the rich, both in the diaspora and in Nigeria, to return home and invest in Kalabari. “Our people need to come back home to build houses here instead of buying land in other communities,”

He implores. “I urge my fellow Kalabari brothers and sisters worldwide to set up businesses here that will boost the economy of the Kalabari Kingdom and provide jobs for our people. Our region is rich in oil and gas with opportunities Marine transportation. There are huge possibilities in Agriculture and tourism development and many other avenues for viable investments.”

Dokubo-Asari’s commitment to the unity and development of the Kalabari kingdom is evident in his personal life.

In 2017, he made the bold decision to move from Port Harcourt to Obuama, selling off all his landed property and investing in Obuama. His investments have contributed significantly to the growth and transformation of Obuama into a vibrant and diverse community.

He added,
” As Amanyanabo of The Source,(Elem Kalabari) I recommit myself to the promotion, preservation and growth of everything that has to do with Kalabari like I have done for over 20 years.”

As the newly installed Amanyanabo of The Source (Elem Kalabari), Dokubo-Asari is poised to build upon his legacy, fostering growth, development, and prosperity for the Kalabari kingdom. His leadership and vision will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the region, cementing his place as a revered figure in the annals of Kalabari history.

society

Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited hosted its annual New Year celebration

Published

3 days ago

January 3, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited hosted its annual New Year celebration

The Bullion New Year 2025 Get-Together Funfair,” on January 1, 2025, at Bullion Park, Torotoro Quarters, Oloke-Ibafo, Ogun State. The event brought together music lovers, staff, and notable personalities to celebrate the new year in grand style.

Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, the CEO of Bullion Records and the chief host of the event, is a seasoned entrepreneur, philanthropist, and advocate for youth empowerment.

A man of many achievements, Ajadi is well-known for his efforts to create platforms for young talents in the entertainment industry while also supporting various initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and social development in Nigeria. His vision for a brighter Nigeria has been a consistent theme in his work, both as a business leader and a public figure.

Renowned musicians graced the stage, offering thrilling performances that captivated the audience. Fuji maestro Taye Currency, popularly known as Apesin 1, headlined the event alongside Afrobeat legend Abolore Adegbola Akande, better known as 9ice.

Juju music was well-represented by the iconic Otunba Femi Fadipe, aka Femolancaster, and rising star Olajide Temitope, known as Tope Indomie.

Afrobeat enthusiasts were treated to electrifying performances by Olawale Faye, also known as Thazest, and Bullion Records’ newly signed fast-rising artiste, Abdul Rahman Yusuf, popularly called Harcher.

Adding humor and flair to the event were comedians and MCs, including MC Kirikiri, MC Odada, MC Baba Labule, and MC Oba Theatre.

The vibrant atmosphere was further enhanced by music from international DJ Preddy from Germany and DJ Que, who kept attendees on their feet with the latest hits.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Ajadi emphasized the essence of the annual celebration. “This event is our way of celebrating with our friends, fans, relatives, and staff as we step into the new year in good health.

It is also a moment to inspire hope among Nigerians, especially the youths, during these challenging economic times. The future of Nigeria is bright, and we are committed to playing our part in making it better,” Ajadi said.

Reflecting on the significance of the funfair, he highlighted the role of the entertainment industry in uniting Nigerians and fostering optimism.

“Music is a universal language, and events like this remind us of the strength in our diversity.

As we celebrate, we also reaffirm our commitment to supporting young talents and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria,” he added.

Prominent attendees included Kenny Ogungbe, CEO of Kennis Music; Barrister Femi John Aina, the Ogun State NNPP chairman; Mr. Olanrewaju Samuel Omojola popularly known as Latop; Hon. Kilamuwaye Badmus, Financial Director of Bullion Records; and Mr. Elegbede Femi Ajibola, Entertainment Director of Bullion Records. Also present were key officials from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), such as Alhaja Shakirat Arowolo, Ogun State Secretary; Comrade Olayemi Olowu Omokehinde, Ogun State Public Relations Officer; Hon. Omokehinde Teluwo, Ogun Central Senatorial Candidate in the 2023 elections; and Hon. Atele Jeremiah Nunayon, Ogun West Senatorial Chairman.

The event was hailed as a resounding success, with attendees commending Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited for its dedication to bringing joy and hope to Nigerians. With the vibrant start to the year, the company reaffirmed its position as a leader in entertainment and corporate social responsibility. T.hrilling performances that captivated the audience.