Four Suspended Police Officers to Stand Trial for N43m Theft

The Nigeria Police Force has suspended four officers accused of stealing N43.16 million from a total of N74.95 million seized during an unauthorised operation at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The police also refuted allegations that Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun was shielding a cartel involved in smuggling questionable new banknotes from the Central Bank of Nigeria.

The suspended officers, DSP Peter Ejike, Inspector Ekende Edwin, Inspector Esther Okafor, and Sergeant Talabi Kayode, were attached to the Zone 7 Headquarters. They allegedly arrested Andrew Ejah, an employee of FATFAD Cargo Nigeria Limited, in August 2023 while he was transporting cash on behalf of clients.

Investigations revealed that while the officers reported recovering N31.79 million, they concealed N43.16 million. After the money’s owners filed a petition, the case was transferred to the IGP Monitoring Unit for further investigation.

Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Wednesday, disclosed that the officers attempted to cover up their actions by manipulating evidence and spreading false claims.

“Upon being contacted by the money’s alleged owners, the officers claimed they had recovered only N31,790,000 and demanded a percentage of the money to suppress the investigation. Outraged by their actions, the owners petitioned the Force Headquarters, leading to the recovery of N31,790,000 from the officers, who insisted it was the total amount seized from Ejah,” Adejobi stated.

Further investigations uncovered that the officers had taken photos of the suspect and the seized cash during the arrest but later claimed the phone used for the documentation was damaged and lost. Forensic evidence revealed that they conspired to steal N43.16 million, which was hidden outside the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Adejobi added, “These officers resorted to spreading false narratives and misinformation to divert attention from their misconduct. The officers have been found guilty of serious offences, including tampering with evidence, abuse of office, corrupt practices, and engaging in unauthorised duties. They are suspended pending prosecution following legal and administrative procedures.”

He also condemned attempts to implicate the IGP in the scandal, describing the claims as “sponsored misinformation.”

“The false narrative being circulated is a deliberate attempt by mischief-makers to divert attention from the officers’ crimes and tarnish the IGP’s reputation. We urge the public and media to refrain from spreading such unfounded allegations, which undermine public trust and detract from ongoing police reforms aimed at eradicating unprofessional conduct,” Adejobi concluded.

The case highlights the Nigerian Police Force’s commitment to rooting out corruption within its ranks while maintaining accountability.

Couple Sentenced to 16 Years for Fraud

A Lagos State High Court in Ikeja has convicted and sentenced a couple, Harry Uyanwanne and Oluwakemi Odemuyiwa (also known as Kristein Uyanwanne), alongside Temple International Church, for fraud. The ruling was handed down on Wednesday by Justice Mojisola Dada, who found the defendants guilty of multiple charges.

In addition to the prison sentences, the court ordered that Temple International Church be deregistered and shut down for using the church and the name of God to deceive and defraud people.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had filed seven charges against the accused, including theft, fraudulent conversion, false representation, and other related offences.

When the couple was arraigned by the EFCC on February 25, 2020, they pleaded not guilty, prompting the start of a trial. The prosecution, led by Mr. Babatunde Sonoiki, presented five witnesses, while the defence called two witnesses.

Justice Dada concluded that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, leading to the couple’s conviction.

Harry Uyanwanne was sentenced to three years in prison on count one, while he received a seven-year sentence on counts two to six. Oluwakemi Odemuyiwa (a.k.a. Kristein Uyanwanne) was sentenced to three years on count one. Both were acquitted on the seventh count.

Uyanwanne received an additional 10-year sentence, while Odemuyiwa was handed a six-year term. The court ordered that both sentences be served concurrently.

In addition to their sentences, the judge mandated the couple to return N31 million to the complainant within 60 days.

The EFCC had accused the defendants of unlawfully converting N10 million in March 2016, which belonged to the late Mrs. Janet Adeola Odemuyiwa. The couple allegedly sold a property—Plot 32, Block 9, Magodo Residential Scheme 1, Ikeja Local Government—worth N42 million to Mr. Kingsley Atere, falsely claiming that Uyanwanne was authorized by the legitimate owner to sell the property.

The charges against the couple contravened Section 1(2) and (3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act No. 14 of 2006, as well as Sections 278 and 285(1) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria No. 11, 2011.

*Nigerians and Africans in Texas & Across the U.S. Urged to Support Bishop Paul Vincent’s Senate Campaign For 2026!*

Bishop (Col.) Paul N. Vincent, a renowned community leader, military chaplain, broadcaster, and author, has announced his candidacy for the United States Senate to represent Texas. Running as a Republican, Bishop Vincent is calling on Nigerians, Africans, and the broader immigrant community across Texas and the United States to rally behind his campaign, offering their support, advocacy, and votes as he aims to make history in the Senate.

Bishop Vincent, the President/CEO of Persistence Works TV Network and Publisher of Persistence Works Magazine, is a celebrated immigrant success story. From humble beginnings in Nigeria to a distinguished career in the U.S., he has become a symbol of hard work, resilience, and faith. His campaign embodies these values, with a platform centered on defending the U.S. Constitution, safeguarding religious liberty, protecting the Second Amendment, and championing military and veteran welfare.

“As an immigrant who has lived the American dream, I am committed to ensuring others have the same opportunities,” said Bishop Vincent. “My journey reflects the limitless possibilities available in this great nation, and I want to give back by serving Texans in the Senate.”

Bishop Vincent’s military career spans 16 years, during which he served as a chaplain in the U.S. Army Reserve and on active duty. He has earned numerous military honors, including the Army Commendation Medal, and made headlines for baptizing 55 U.S. soldiers in the River Jordan during a deployment.

His achievements extend beyond the military. Bishop Vincent has written 20 inspirational books, established a global TV network that reaches over 200 million viewers, and spearheaded numerous charitable initiatives supporting communities in need. He is also a highly educated leader with five advanced degrees, including an Executive Master’s in Public Administration from Golden Gate University.

Bishop Vincent’s campaign has struck a chord within the immigrant community, particularly among Nigerians and Africans, who see his candidacy as a testament to their contributions and potential in the U.S. Many community leaders are calling on Nigerians and Africans in Texas and across the nation to mobilize and support his campaign.

“This is a pivotal moment for Nigerians and Africans in the U.S.,” said one supporter. “Bishop Vincent’s candidacy isn’t just about representation; it’s about giving a voice to our values and aspirations on a national stage. We must campaign, donate, and vote to ensure his victory.”

Bishop Vincent’s wife, Rev. Edith Vincent, and their daughter Sharon are also actively involved in the campaign, inspiring others with their story of perseverance and faith. The Vincent family, based in El Paso, Texas, is a shining example of what is possible with determination and divine guidance.

Nigerians and Africans in the U.S. are encouraged to take an active role in the campaign, whether by volunteering, spreading the word, or donating. Bishop Vincent’s Senate run is a call to action for the entire immigrant community to unite and make their voices heard in the U.S. political landscape.

For more information or to join the campaign, visit [Campaign Website Link].

Let us come together to support Bishop Paul Vincent and ensure his victory in this historic race for the U.S. Senate.

https://bishopvincentforsenate.nationbuilder.com