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Valentine Oyemike Sues Police Over Alleged Rights Violations in Probe of Manager’s Death

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago05 mins

Abuja, Nigeria – May 8, 2025 — Valentine Oyemike, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and owner of Valchi VFK Oriental Service Ltd, has filed a fundamental human rights lawsuit against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and other parties over alleged unlawful actions taken during the investigation into the death of his employee, Fidelis Osaghae. Oyemike filed the suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja on behalf of himself and two employees — Owiku Tracy and Cyprian Saamoyal — citing violations of their constitutional rights. The respondents listed in the suit include IGP Kayode Egbetokun, the Deputy IGP at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja, Assistant Superintendent of Police Adelogba Femi, and Esther Osaghae, widow of the deceased. Manager’s Death Under Scrutiny Fidelis Osaghae, 33, was the branch manager of a restaurant and bar owned by Oyemike in Auchi, Edo State. He died on July 29, 2024, at the workplace under circumstances that remain unclear. According to his wife, Esther, Osaghae left home early that morning and never returned. Hours later, she was summoned to Favour Hospital, where she was taken to the mortuary and shown his lifeless body. Esther said she was told by Oyemike that her husband had consumed Sniper, a chemical substance commonly associated with suicide. However, she disputed the claim, saying her husband had no known history of depression and that the couple had just welcomed a baby two months prior. “I’m not saying Oyemike killed my husband,” she said. “But my husband died at his place of work with marks on his body. I just want to know the truth about his death.” Legal Demands In the suit, Oyemike is seeking: Autopsy Dispute and Fresh Probe Oyemike has maintained that the original autopsy confirmed Osaghae’s death was caused by ingestion of a toxic substance. However, human rights organizations, including the Akin Fadeyi Foundation (AFF), FIDA Nigeria, and Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA), have questioned the credibility of the report, citing inconsistencies such as unexplained marks on the body and bloodstains on the deceased’s clothing. Following public outcry, a coroner’s inquest ordered a fresh autopsy. Oyemike has challenged the order in court, asking that the original autopsy be upheld. The human rights groups have accused the APC chieftain of attempting to frustrate the investigation, arguing that a second autopsy is essential and lawful, even if it requires exhuming the body. The case is expected to proceed in the coming weeks as calls for justice and transparency continue to mount.

Tension in Imo: Gunmen Set Vehicles Ablaze, Abduct Passengers in String of Violent Attacks

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago04 mins

Tension gripped parts of Imo State on Thursday following a violent assault by unidentified gunmen who set fire to more than six vehicles—including trucks, buses, and private cars—along the busy Owerri–Okigwe Road. The attack occurred early in the morning at Umuna in the Onuimo Local Government Area. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers may have been enforcing a sit-at-home directive, though the exact motive behind the destruction remains unclear. “We saw them burning vehicles and shouting that people should obey the sit-at-home order,” said a resident of Umuna. The attack sparked widespread fear across neighboring local government areas, including Okigwe, Obowo, Isiala Mbano, and Ehime Mbano. Many motorists traveling toward Enugu State were forced to divert to alternate routes in search of safety. Viral videos shared on social media showed several trucks engulfed in flames along Umuna Road, with some nearby buildings also affected by the spreading fire. This attack comes just days after a separate incident involving suspected armed herders who reportedly abducted over 26 passengers along the Owerri–Aba Road. The kidnapping occurred on Tuesday evening, between 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area. Victims were allegedly dragged into a nearby forest. A local resident, speaking anonymously, confirmed that more than two buses were hijacked during the abduction. “Our people are now living in fear. Some of us have not gone to the farms since this happened,” the source said. Community leaders have called for urgent security interventions. “We need a strong security network to guard ourselves. This is getting out of hand. We must work closely with security agencies to find a lasting solution,” one leader stated. As of the time of this report, the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, had not responded to inquiries. However, a security source disclosed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the attackers. “We are closing in on them. But for now, not everything will be put out there for the media. You will hear positive results soon. Our men are already on the ground, doing the needful,” the source said. The atmosphere in the affected areas remains tense as residents and travelers await further updates from law enforcement agencies.

₦12.3bn Loan Dispute: Court Adjourns Otudeko’s Case to June 11 for Possible Settlement

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago03 mins

Loan Controversy: Court adjourns Otudeko, others’ case to June 11A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has adjourned the N12.3 billion loan controversy case involving the Chairman of Honeywell Group, Oba Otudeko, and three others, to June 11, 2025. Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke postponed the case to allow time for either a peaceful settlement or the formal arraignment of the suspects. The decision followed reports that negotiation are still ongoing between the parties involved for out-of-court settlement as advised by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who is trying to mediate. During Thursday’s hearing, Otudeko’s lawyer, Bode Olanipekun (SAN), told the court that negotiations for an out-of-court resolution were still in progress. Similarly, the lawyer for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Bilikisu Buhari, acknowledged the discussions but asked the court to set a new date for arraignment in case the negotiations fail. It will be recalled that at the last sitting of the court on March 17, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) had informed the judge that a meeting involving all counsel had been convened at the instance of the Attorney General of the Federation. He said that this was aimed at reaching a peaceful settlement of the case. Olanipekun had also stated that substantial progress was made, and the AGF directed all parties to refrain from actions that could jeopardize the resolution process, including filing further applications. The court will reconvene on June 11 to hear the outcome of the settlement talks or proceed with the arraignment if no agreement is reached.

VeryDarkMan Arrested in Abuja Over Complaint Against GTBank

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

According to Adeyanju, the unauthorized debits were labeled as loan repayments, despite his mother not having taken any loans. VDM’s public outcry on social media platforms, highlighting these discrepancies, is believed to have prompted GTBank to involve law enforcement. Adeyanju expressed his disapproval of the arrest, emphasizing that seeking accountability should not be criminalized. This is not the first time VDM has faced legal challenges due to his activism. In March 2025, an Abuja Chief Magistrate Court issued a bench warrant for his arrest over alleged defamation of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. VDM has consistently used his platform to spotlight issues of public interest, often leading to confrontations with authorities and institutions. The recent arrest has sparked discussions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the implications for freedom of expression and the right to demand transparency from financial institutions. As of now, GTBank has not released an official statement regarding the incident, and the Nigerian police have yet to provide details on the charges against VDM.

UK-Nigeria Partnership to Detect, Disrupt And Deter Fraud

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago18 mins

An agreement between the UK and Nigeria will help to better protect UK citizens from fraud as law enforcement collaboration is stepped up. The public will be better protected from fraud as law enforcement collaboration between the UK and Nigeria is stepped up under a new joint fraud action plan agreed between the two countries today. The partnership will provide increased protection for victims by focusing on earlier detection of threats, faster law enforcement intervention, and the disruption of cross-border criminal networks before they can cause harm. It will also support stronger systems to help prevent people from falling victim to fraud in the first place. Key elements of the joint action plan include: “information sharing and operational coordination, including the potential for joint law enforcement operations involving the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and Nigeria’s Office of the National Security Adviser. “Development and strengthening of national fraud strategies through the exchange of best practice, frameworks, and lessons learned, along with potential joint public awareness campaigns to deter fraudsters. “Exploration of collaboration between financial, online, and telecoms regulators and industry bodies in both countries to help close loopholes exploited by criminals. “Sharing insights on the misuse of financial systems, with the potential for joint studies and research into emerging threats. “Identifying training needs and delivering capacity-building initiatives, starting with targeted training for Nigerian prosecutors by the UK’s Serious Fraud Office, with further programmes planned, subject to funding. “70% of fraud cases involve an international element. Today’s agreement forms part of a wider effort to build a unified international response to fraud – an issue continuing to harm individuals, undermine economies, and threaten national security. The UK’s Minister for Fraud, Lord Hanson, has been in Abuja this week for meetings with Nigerian counterparts and other strategic partners. Lord Hanson, Nigeria’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) and agreed the action plan today, formalising a commitment to deeper collaboration. Minister for Fraud, Lord Hanson, said: “Fraud ruins lives. It strips people of their savings, their confidence, and their sense of security. The fact so many of these crimes now originate overseas makes our international partnerships more important than ever. “Our new agreement with Nigeria will help us better identify and stop fraud before it happens, crack down on criminals who exploit our systems, and ultimately protect the public from the devastating impact of fraud. “My meetings in Abuja have been hugely constructive, giving us the opportunity to align our efforts and take meaningful action to prevent further harm. I’m proud to have signed this agreement, which sets both our nations firmly on the path to a safer and more resilient future. “As one of the world’s largest and fastest growing economies, the UK and Nigeria recognise the shared threat fraud poses to their prosperity and long-term stability.” According to the Crime Survey for England and Wales, fraud is the most commonly-experienced crime in the UK, with more than 1 in 15 adults affected each year. In the year ending December 2024, an estimated 4.1 million incidents were recorded – almost 43% of all incidents recorded by the survey. The societal harm is also severe, with fraud against individuals in England and Wales alone estimated to cost £6.8 billion annually in 2019 to 2020. Beyond the financial damage, the emotional and psychological toll on victims is devastating. Many report lasting emotional harm, while increasingly sophisticated criminals are using emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to design realistic scams difficult to detect. Financially motivated sexual extortion (FMSE) is a particularly cruel form of exploitation, with many victims tragically taking their own lives due to these scams. The NCA is committed to raising awareness, providing targeted support to victims, and improving the investigation and prosecution of offenders, both in the UK and internationally. National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, said: “Building on the foundation of the past successes, we must confront crime with greater seriousness, deepen collaboration across all fronts; addressing enablers, supporting victims, and pursuing perpetrators, and sustain an unyielding commitment to protect our societies.” Deputy Director of Fraud at the NCA, Nick Sharpe, said: “Over 70% of fraud impacting the UK is estimated to originate overseas or have overseas links. “However, those same fraudsters often also target victims in their own country. “This memorandum of understanding with the Federal Republic of Nigeria underscores our shared commitment to tackling a threat that causes significant harm to citizens of both nations. “By sharing vital intelligence, conducting joint operations, and working to identify and address vulnerabilities, we will strengthen our collective response – ensuring that criminals are brought to justice, wherever they are.” In November 2024, the UK-Nigeria Fraud Dialogue was launched to further strengthen the 2 nations’ shared commitment to combating fraud. The dialogue serves as a forum for regular exchanges of views and ideas, bringing together representatives from cybersecurity, law enforcement, and policy institutions, and provides a platform to review progress under the MoU.

The federal government has raised alarm over the growing trafficking of Nigerian youths into forced cybercrime operations across West Africa. In a statement issued on Sunday, Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, disclosed that victims — including teenagers — are often deceived with fake promises of lucrative jobs abroad, particularly in cryptocurrency-related businesses. The government revealed that many of those trafficked end up trapped in “419 cyber-scam factories,” where they are forced under coercive and inhumane conditions to send fraudulent emails, texts, and calls targeting individuals worldwide. “Nigerians are advised to exercise caution by thoroughly verifying employment offers, especially those involving international travel, cryptocurrency operations, or promises of easy wealth,” the statement read. The federal government urged citizens to report suspicious activities to relevant authorities for prompt investigation and intervention. It also noted that Nigerian agencies are collaborating with regional partners and international law enforcement to dismantle these criminal networks. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians, pledging continued public awareness campaigns to combat emerging threats to the welfare and dignity of its citizens at home and abroad.

FG Raises Alarm: Traffickers Forcing Nigerian Youths into ‘419’ Cybercrime Rings

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

The federal government has raised alarm over the growing trafficking of Nigerian youths into forced cybercrime operations across West Africa. In a statement issued on Sunday, Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, disclosed that victims — including teenagers — are often deceived with fake promises of lucrative jobs abroad, particularly in cryptocurrency-related businesses. The government revealed that many of those trafficked end up trapped in “419 cyber-scam factories,” where they are forced under coercive and inhumane conditions to send fraudulent emails, texts, and calls targeting individuals worldwide. “Nigerians are advised to exercise caution by thoroughly verifying employment offers, especially those involving international travel, cryptocurrency operations, or promises of easy wealth,” the statement read. The federal government urged citizens to report suspicious activities to relevant authorities for prompt investigation and intervention. It also noted that Nigerian agencies are collaborating with regional partners and international law enforcement to dismantle these criminal networks. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians, pledging continued public awareness campaigns to combat emerging threats to the welfare and dignity of its citizens at home and abroad.

Court Sentences Husband of Late Gospel Singer Osinachi to Death by Hanging

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago22 mins

Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sitting at Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, husband of the late gospel singer Osinachi, to death by hanging, News360 Nigeria reports. The judgement, delivered today, comes after the court found him guilty of culpable homicide, which led to the singer’s death on April 8, 2022. The ruling followed a thorough trial in which the court held that the prosecution successfully established its case beyond reasonable doubt. Nwachukwu was arraigned on June 3, 2022, by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (OAGF) on behalf of the Federal Government. He faced a 23-count charge, including culpable homicide punishable by death, criminal intimidation, cruelty to children, spousal battery, and other related offences. During the proceedings, the prosecution presented 17 witnesses, including two of the couple’s children who testified as the fourth and fifth prosecution witnesses. In addition, 25 documentary exhibits were tendered before the court. Nwachukwu, on his part, testified in his own defence and called four additional witnesses while tendering four exhibits. Before the sentencing, the defendant’s counsel, Reginald Nwali, pleaded for leniency. However, prosecuting counsel, Mrs. Aderonke Imala, urged the court to uphold the law as prescribed. Justice Nwosu-Iheme thereafter handed Nwachukwu a death sentence by hanging on Count 1. The court also imposed two years imprisonment each on Counts 2, 3, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 18; six months imprisonment on Count 10; and three years on Count 11. Additionally, the defendant was fined N500,000 and N200,000 on Counts 6 and 7 respectively.

Killings in North Central: Govt has failed us –MBF

Boko Haram Attack Kills 14 in Borno State Several Others Missing

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago08 mins

At least 14 people have been killed and four others injured following a brutal attack by Boko Haram insurgents on three farming communities in the Gwoza area of Borno State on Saturday. Several residents remain unaccounted for as search efforts continue. According to Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the Nigerian Senate, the insurgents stormed the villages of Pulka, Bokko, and Kirawa at a time when displaced persons were beginning to resettle after years in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. “According to the local government chairman, the victims had gone to their farms to cut wood and clear land in preparation for farming when Boko Haram militants attacked and killed 14 people. Their funerals have already been conducted,” Senator Ndume said. He noted that the full extent of the attack is still being assessed, as military personnel were deployed to the area shortly after the incident.“So far, four people who sustained injuries have been taken to the hospital, and we are awaiting more detailed information,” he added. Ndume lamented that the attack occurred just as life was beginning to return to normal in the area, with government efforts aimed at facilitating the safe return of displaced communities. Warning Signs Ignored The senator also recalled that Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, had earlier issued a warning about the growing threat of Boko Haram in three key areas: the Timbuktu region of Lake Chad, the Mandara Mountains, and the Sambisa Forest in Gwoza. “I believe that if urgent action isn’t taken in these areas, Boko Haram will continue to grow stronger, just like what happened in Chad under the late President Idriss Déby,” Ndume warned. He further noted that recent crackdowns on Boko Haram by neighboring countries — Chad, Niger, and Cameroon — have pushed the insurgents to refocus their attacks on Nigerian soil, particularly targeting Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states. Ndume expressed grave concern over the evolving threat, stating that Boko Haram militants are now not only targeting farmers but also driving entire communities from their homes — citing recent cases in Sabongari, Wajir, and Dambuwa. “What I keep stressing is that this crisis can be brought to an end — but only if we take it seriously and act decisively,” he concluded.Boko Haram Attack Kills 14 in Borno State, Several Others Missing At least 14 people have been killed and four others injured following a brutal attack by Boko Haram insurgents on three farming communities in the Gwoza area of Borno State on Saturday. Several residents remain unaccounted for as search efforts continue. According to Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the Nigerian Senate, the insurgents stormed the villages of Pulka, Bokko, and Kirawa at a time when displaced persons were beginning to resettle after years in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. “According to the local government chairman, the victims had gone to their farms to cut wood and clear land in preparation for farming when Boko Haram militants attacked and killed 14 people. Their funerals have already been conducted,” Senator Ndume said. He noted that the full extent of the attack is still being assessed, as military personnel were deployed to the area shortly after the incident.“So far, four people who sustained injuries have been taken to the hospital, and we are awaiting more detailed information,” he added. Ndume lamented that the attack occurred just as life was beginning to return to normal in the area, with government efforts aimed at facilitating the safe return of displaced communities. Warning Signs Ignored The senator also recalled that Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, had earlier issued a warning about the growing threat of Boko Haram in three key areas: the Timbuktu region of Lake Chad, the Mandara Mountains, and the Sambisa Forest in Gwoza. “I believe that if urgent action isn’t taken in these areas, Boko Haram will continue to grow stronger, just like what happened in Chad under the late President Idriss Déby,” Ndume warned. He further noted that recent crackdowns on Boko Haram by neighboring countries — Chad, Niger, and Cameroon — have pushed the insurgents to refocus their attacks on Nigerian soil, particularly targeting Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states. Ndume expressed grave concern over the evolving threat, stating that Boko Haram militants are now not only targeting farmers but also driving entire communities from their homes — citing recent cases in Sabongari, Wajir, and Dambuwa. “What I keep stressing is that this crisis can be brought to an end — but only if we take it seriously and act decisively,” he concluded.