The ruling was part of a unanimous judgment of the Appeal Court Justices, delivered by Hon Justice I.K. Amadi in the appeal filed by J.S.Okutepa, SAN on behalf of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, against the judgment of Justice Isah Abdullahi Jamil of the Kogi State High Court in the fundamental right case filed by Bello in February 2024 in relation to his prosecution by the Commission.
The Appeal Court Justices further held that the freeing of Yahaya Bello from EFCC’s prosecution by Justice Jamil of the Kogi State High Court “under the guise of enforcing his fundamental rights was “scandalous,” noting that “It is very clear that the purpose of the case instituted at the trial court was to shield the respondent Yahaya Bello from his criminal trial.”
Relying on the earlier ruling of the Appeal Court by Justice Oyewole in EFCC vs Yahaya Bello, CA/ABJ/CV/413/2024, the Justices reiterated that “no Court has the power to preclude a law enforcement agent from performing its statutory functions.”
In upholding EFCC’s application for the quashing of Justice Jamil’s fundamental rights shield on Yahaya Bello, the Justices agreed with the appeal of the Commission, stating that it is “meritorious and is therefore allowed.”
More importantly, the Justices drew authority from the provision of Section 396(2) of ACJA, and ordered Yahaya Bello to show up in court for his arraignment before any further action can be taken regarding his trial.
“In view of the provision of Section 396(2) of ACJA, the Respondent in this appeal; ALH. YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO is hereby ordered to appear for his arraignment in Charge No.: FHC/ABJ/CR/550/2022, FRN VS ALI BELLO & ANOR, before taking any other step in this matter,” the court ruled.
Yahaya Bello is facing prosecution by the EFCC alongside his nephew, Ali Bello, Dauda Suleiman and Abdulsalam Hudu on 19-count charges bordering on money laundering to the tune of N80,246,470,089.88k ( Eighty Billion, Two Hundred and Forty-six Million, Four Hundred and Seventy Thousand, Eighty-nine Naira and Eighty- eight kobo). He has consistently refused to take a plea before the court in spite of several attempts made by the EFCC to this effect.
Media & Publicity
August 20, 2024
EFCC Arraigns Man for Alleged N600m, $50,000.00 Investment Fraud in Lagos
The Lagos Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday, August 19, 2024, arraigned one Ayodele Toyosi for an alleged investment fraud before Justice A.M. Lawal of the Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja.
The defendant was arraigned alongside his companies, Reaprite Global Limited and Agrorite Limited, on an 11-count charge bordering on obtaining by false pretence and stealing to the tune of N600,150,000,00( Six Hundred Million, One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira only) and $50,000.00( Fifty Thousand United States Dollars).
Investigation revealed that the defendant allegedly defrauded a number of persons on the pretence that he had an interest-yielding investment in agricultural export.
One of the counts reads: “That you, Ayodele Toyosi, Reaprite Global Limited and Agrorite Limited, sometime in June 2023 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, dishonestly converted to your own use the aggregate sum of N200,000,000.00 (Two Hundred Million Naira only) belonging to one K. C. Akoson Investment Limited and Kenneth C. Maduakor by dishonestly representing to them that you will help them transfer the said money to their importers in China whereas you expended the money for your personal use and committed an offence contrary to Sections 278(1) (b) (f) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011.”
Another count reads: “That you, Ayodele Toyosi, Reaprite Global Limited and Agrorite Limited, sometime in June 2023 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, by false pretence and with intent to defraud, obtained the aggregate sum of N300,000,000.00 (Three Hundred Million Nara only), belonging to one K. C. Akoson Investment Limited and Kenneth C. Maduakor by dishonestly representing to them that you will help them transfer the said money to their importers in China, whereas you used the money to purchase a property known as Plot 17 Pinnock Beach Estate, Anyiran Town, Eti Osa Local Government Area, Lagos and committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1)(a) and punishable under Section 1(3) of the Advance fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.”
He pleaded “not guilty” to the offence.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, G. C Akaogu, prayed that the defendant be remanded in the EFCC custody for continuation of the investigations of other petitions pending against him.
Responding, the defence counsel, Olalekan Ojo, SAN, prayed the court to remand the defendant in the Ikoyi Correctional facility.
He also sought a date for the hearing of the bail application.
After listening to both counsel, Justice Lawal adjourned the matter till August 21, 2024 for the hearing of the bail application and also remanded the defendant in Ikoyi Correctional facility.
Media & Publicity
August 19, 2024
Omo-Agege Hails Asagba of Asaba-elect, Prof Azinge, Says He’s A Perfect Fit
Obarisi of Urhoboland and immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege says Professor Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, Senior Advocate Nigeria (SAN), is a perfect fit and traditionally endowed as Asagba of Asaba.
Senator Omo-Agege who lauded the choice of Prof. Azinge in a statement congratulating him and released Thursday, said it is a continuation of the established tradition of going for the best in Asaba kingdom.
“On behalf of my family and associates, I rejoice with you on your selection as the Asagba-designate. Your pedigree as a legal luminary has seen you reach the height of your career, as professor of law and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria,” Senator Omo-Agege said.
He noted that as director general of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, the Asagba-designate “charted the path for a new generation of top class legal minds in Nigeria. Even as a first class academic, you have remained a bastion of the customs and traditions of Asaba kingdom. Your emergence therefore, as Asagba of Asaba comes at a time when our cultural and traditional values need a revival and guidance that must be driven by the real custodians of these values as your exalted self.
“I congratulate you and the great and peace loving people of Asaba on the excellent choice. Your emergence bodes well not only for Asaba, but also Delta State. I wish you a long and prosperous reign in excellent health for the good of your people”, Omo-Agege said.
Sunny Areh
Media Adviser to Senator Ovie Omo-Agege
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF DIGITAL BRIDGE INSTITUTE AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS OF NIGCOMSAT
President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Mr. Daser David as the new President/Chief Executive Officer of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI).
Mr. David is an academic and industry expert with a deep understanding of digital technologies and educational leadership.
The President has also approved the appointment of Mr. Reuben Oshomah as Executive Director, Marketing, Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), and Mrs. Adama Kure, Executive Director, Finance and Administration, (NIGCOMSAT).
Mr. Oshomah has extensive experience in communications satellite marketing and strategic business development, while Mrs. Kure is a seasoned finance professional with a strong record in financial management and corporate governance.
The President expects the newly appointed officers to bring their wealth of experience and expertise to bear in driving the strategic vision for these institutions.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 20, 2024
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU CONDOLES WITH JIGAWA OVER FATAL FLOODING
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extends his profound condolences to the government and the people of Jigawa State over the recent flooding that has led to the loss of lives and displacement of many citizens.
The President also commiserates with the bereaved families and victims of the flooding, which has impacted about 14 local government areas and many households.
President Tinubu states that recurring environmental disasters underscore the urgency of sustaining measures to address climate change and its perils, as well as remove man-made elements to the challenge.
The President prays for the repose of the souls of the deceased and assures the people of Jigawa of his administration’s support at this difficult time.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 21, 2024
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES TAKEOVER AND CONVERSION OF DALHATU ARAF SPECIALIST HOSPITAL TO FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF LAFIA TEACHING HOSPITAL, NASARAWA
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the takeover and conversion of Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, to the Federal University of Lafia Teaching Hospital, Nasarawa, following a request by the Nasarawa State Government.
The conversion of the health facility to a federal teaching hospital will not only enhance the training of students in medical and allied sciences but also boost healthcare delivery in the state.
President Tinubu remains committed to ensuring the social welfare and healthcare security of Nigerians and will aggressively sustain his administration’s investment drive and efforts in the sector.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 21, 2024
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU REAPPOINTS CHIEF MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF AMINU KANO TEACHING HOSPITAL
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the reappointment of Professor Abdurrahman Abba Sheshe as the Chief Medical Director of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, for a second and final term of four years, with effect from December 5, 2023.
Professor Sheshe was first appointed as the Chief Medical Director of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital on December 6, 2019.
The President expects that with the renewal of Professor Sheshe’s appointment, he will re-dedicate himself to improving the standards of the hospital and ensuring the efficient delivery of qualitative services to citizens.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 21, 2024
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU REAPPOINTS CHIEF MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF ABUBAKAR TAFAWA BALEWA UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL, BAUCHl
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the reappointment of Professor Yusuf Jibrin Bara as Chief Medical Director of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, for a second and final term of four years.
The President’s approval follows an assessment of Professor Jibrin Bara’s performance in his first term in office.
The President anticipates that with the renewal of Professor Jibrin Bara’s appointment, he will consolidate on the achievements recorded in his first term in office.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 21, 2024
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS JUSTICE EMMANUEL OLAYINKA AYOOLA
President Bola Tinubu condoles with the Ayoola family of Ilesha, Osun State, over the passing of Justice Emmanuel Olayinka Ayoola, CON.
The late Ayoola was a retired justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Justice Ayoola had an illustrious career as a lawyer and judicial officer, serving as Justice of the Court of Appeal of the Gambia from 1980 to 1983; Chief Justice of the Gambia from 1983 to 1992; President of the Court of Appeals of Seychelles, and Justice of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria from 1992 to 1998.
President Tinubu mourns the late jurist, yet extols his dedication to the service of the nation, his renowned integrity, and courage to act in the interest of justice.
The President also commiserates with the associates of the deceased and members of the Nigerian judicial society over the loss.
President Tinubu states that Justice Ayoola will always be remembered for his rare principles, discipline, brilliance, and impeccable jurisprudential knowledge.
The President prays for the repose of the soul of the elder statesman and solace to his family.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 21, 2024
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS SOKOTO TRADITIONAL RULER, ALHAJI ISA BAWA
President Bola Tinubu strongly condemns the tragic circumstances leading to the passing of His Royal Highness, Alhaji Isa Bawa, the District Head of Gatawa District in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
President Tinubu describes the savage attack on the traditional ruler as deeply disturbing and a heinous act that will not go without a decisive response.
The President extends his profound condolences to the bereaved family, the Gobir Emirate, and the government of Sokoto State.
The President prays for the repose of the soul of the traditional ruler and comfort to his family at this difficult time.
President Tinubu assures Nigerians that his administration is aggressively removing threats to ensure the security of the nation and that these desperate acts of terror will be effectively countered.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 21, 2024
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES JUSTICE OLUKAYODE ARIWOOLA ON SUCCESSFUL PUBLIC SERVICE CAREER
President Bola Tinubu congratulates Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, as he retires as Chief Justice of Nigeria after a successful public service career.
Justice Ariwoola had served as Justice of the Court of Appeal in Kaduna, Enugu, and Lagos divisions before his elevation to the Supreme Court in 2011.
He was sworn in as Chief Justice of Nigeria in 2022 and had also served the nation in diverse capacities as a judicial officer.
President Tinubu commends the eminent jurist for his services to the nation, noting his impactful leadership of the judiciary and his efforts in enriching Nigerian jurisprudence, as well as in strengthening the fibre of the law.
The President thanks Justice Ariwoola and wishes him the very best for the future.
President Tinubu will swear in Justice Ariwoola’s successor at the State House Council Chambers on August 23, 2024.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 22, 2024
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS FLOATS SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT TO CHAMPION CITY’S RESILIENCE
- ‘This effort will shape the future of our State’ — Finnih
- Summit holds September
Lagos State Government has floated a new initiative that will advance its vision to create a resilient and sustainable approach towards realisation of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Office of Sustainable Development Goals (OSDG), on Thursday, launched Lagos Sustainability Summit — a yearly multidisciplinary forum designed to advance strategies and create actionable pathways to build a more equitable, inclusive and prosperous Lagos.
The Summit, coming up in the second week of September at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, is being organised in collaboration with Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSC) and Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA).
The event with the theme: “Building a Resilient and Sustainable Lagos”, will host a diverse range of stakeholders, including governmental bodies, private sector leaders, civil society organisations, and international partners, to share ideas, generate fresh insights and collaborate on innovative solutions to address critical sustainability challenges.
The summit is expected to chart a course for Lagos to emerge as a model for sustainable urban development anchored on social equity, economic prosperity and environmental stewardship.
Addressing journalists at a pre-event conference held Thursday, at Radisson Hotel in Ikeja, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Sustainable Development Goals, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, said the summit would bring fresh impetus to the State Government’s drive to strategically reposition Lagos towards advancing its vision of becoming a resilient and sustainable city.
Through the initiative, she said the Office of the Sustainable Development Goals would be championing ethical business practices that must have positive social impact, stressing that any effort aimed at achieving economic growth in the State must go hand in hand with moral and social responsibilities.
Finnih said the Lagos Sustainability Summit would serve as a call to action and a roadmap guiding the State Government’s efforts to forge a prosperous, equitable and environmentally sustainable city where citizens would have the opportunity to succeed.
She said: “As we stand at the forefront of a transformative journey, Lagos is launching a Sustainability Summit that stands as a testament to our collective resolve. The summit will focus on key areas that will demonstrate the Government’s commitment to sustainability, showcasing strategic initiatives and policies that reflect our dedication to sustainable development. Through the event, we will be fostering social cohesion by ensuring equitable participation of communities in sustainability efforts.
“We will be promoting ethical business practices that will enable positive social impacts, fair labour standards and community engagement initiatives that drive positive social impacts. The summit will enhance sustainable finance, while encouraging investments in projects that support the SDGs and integrate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria into financial decision-making. We seek to build resilient networks that support responsible waste management and local sourcing. and ethical labor practices.”
Finnih said human communities, more than ever, stood at crossroads, given the shift in global dynamics, impacts of climate change and technological advancement. This, she pointed out, had been making cities devising innovative ways to make their communities thrive in emerging competitive environments.
The Special Adviser said Lagos was faced with the choice to rise to the occasion in order not to be overwhelmed by global changes, creating a platform for innovation, adaptation and actions.
“The summit is not just about dialogues but about taking decisive actions that will shape the future of our city. This effort is not just for us, but for the children who will inherit this city and who will look to us, not just as leaders, but as guardians of their future. We would be worthy of their trust if we build a Lagos that is resilient, sustainable and above all, a city that is filled with hope,” Finnih said.
LASEPA General Manager, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, said the initiative was not only intended to enhance sustainable business practices, but also to champion protection of the environment for the wellbeing of the city’s inhabitants.
Ajayi said the future generations would be proud of the efforts being taken by the State Government to bequeath a sustainable city to them.
LSSC Director General, Mr. Lanre Mojola, said part of the State’s urbanisation vision was to build a city with robust occupational safety and health standards, noting that the summit would be a major step towards making Lagos a safe city.