President Bola Tinubu has instructed security and law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), to enhance their efforts in targeting individuals who possess stolen vehicles.

The government has also stated that it will continue collaborating with international partners to ensure that cyber criminals and organized crime groups involved in transnational car thefts are stripped of the gains from their illegal activities.

In a statement from his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu emphasized that one of the most effective strategies for law enforcement is to eliminate the financial benefits that criminals gain from their unlawful actions.

He recognized the recent transfer of 53 vehicles and $180,300 from the EFCC to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) on behalf of two Canadian citizens who fell victim to cybercrimes committed by Nigerian nationals.

While expressing his worries about the role of transnational organized crime groups in exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria, President Tinubu praised the Commission for working with partners to provide a coordinated and professional response to this issue.

He also insisted that the value of seized and confiscated movable assets should be maintained for the benefit of the state, society, and victims, in accordance with current laws and international agreements.

The president firmly stated, “Nigeria will not be a destination for stolen vehicles or a refuge for illicit wealth from abroad.”

He emphasized that his administration is dedicated to addressing money laundering, cybercrime, and other financial offenses.

Additionally, the President instructed all relevant agencies, especially anti-corruption bodies, to safeguard Nigeria's economic and financial integrity from the infiltration of organized crime.

 

Freetown, Sierra Leone — In a significant development, renowned Nigerian televangelist, Apostle Johnson Suleman, was hosted by the President of Sierra Leone at the State House in Freetown. The two leaders engaged in a closed-door meeting that centered on driving technological advancement across Africa, marking a pivotal moment for the continent's future.

 

Apostle Suleman, known for his influential role in both religious and socio-economic spheres, was warmly received by the Sierra Leonean President. The discussions reportedly focused on leveraging technology to accelerate development in Africa, addressing critical areas such as education, healthcare, and economic growth.

 

*Watch Video*

 

 

This high-profile meeting underscores the growing recognition of technology as a catalyst for progress in Africa, and Apostle Suleman's advocacy for its widespread adoption is expected to have a lasting impact. The meeting also highlights the intersection of faith and leadership, as both parties explored ways to harness innovation for the betterment of the continent.

 

As the details of their discussions remain largely confidential, the anticipation around the outcomes of this meeting continues to build, with many looking forward to potential collaborations and initiatives that may emerge from this strategic dialogue. The world now watches as Africa takes another step towards embracing technology for a brighter future.

 

Benin City, Edo State — The political landscape in Edo State has taken a dramatic turn as Governor Godwin Obaseki faces sharp criticism for allegedly using N50 million of taxpayers’ money to pay women to protest against former Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole. The protests reportedly stem from Oshiomhole's reaction to comments made by the First Lady of Edo State, Mrs. Betty Obaseki.

 

Sir Matthew Osifo, a retired Permanent Secretary and Convener of Election Eyewitness Report, has expressed his deep displeasure with Governor Obaseki's actions. Osifo blamed the outgoing governor for failing to instill discipline in his wife, Mrs. Betty Obaseki, whose recent outburst has sparked controversy.

 

Osifo condemned Governor Obaseki for allegedly spending a substantial amount of public funds on organizing protests against Oshiomhole. He described the governor's actions as a desperate attempt to undermine his political opponents and called for an apology to Senator Monday Okpebholo, Comrade Oshiomhole, and the people of Edo State.

 

According to Osifo, the First Lady’s remarks have opened the floodgates for a campaign of calumny in Edo State. He noted that the governorship campaign had been progressing peacefully until Mrs. Obaseki’s inflammatory comments disrupted the political atmosphere.

 

Osifo urged Edo women to reject the alleged bribe and refrain from participating in what he termed a “shameful public spectacle.” He also criticized Mrs. Obaseki for insulting Senator Okpebholo by questioning his marital status—a claim she could not substantiate. 

 

“We know the rumors about Betty and Godwin Obaseki, but we chose not to air them. It's a shameful situation where Governor Obaseki has failed to manage his home properly,” Osifo stated. 

 

He defended Oshiomhole’s response to Mrs. Obaseki’s comments, arguing that the former governor was justified in defending his candidate. Osifo pointed out that those living in glass houses should not throw stones, emphasizing that Mrs. Obaseki’s attack on Okpebholo warranted Oshiomhole’s rebuttal.

 

Continuing, Osifo remarked on the First Lady’s behavior during the recent PDP campaign for Asue Ighodalo, where she publicly berated Senator Okpebholo. He lamented the lack of decorum, noting that it reflected poorly on the kind of household the Obasekis run.

 

Osifo also criticized those who suggested that Oshiomhole should have ignored the First Lady because she is a woman. He argued that such comments further demean women by excusing poor conduct based on gender.

 

He concluded by addressing the claims made against Betty Obaseki, suggesting that she lacks the compassion and enterprise expected of a First Lady. He also referenced past accusations that the Obaseki marriage is a contractual one, further fueling the controversy.

 

The political tension in Edo State continues to rise as the governorship election approaches, with these recent developments adding another layer of complexity to the already heated campaign season.