Tinubu orders crackdown on Cybercriminals, Transnational car thieves 

Nigeria will continue to work with its international partners to ensure that cyber criminals and organised crime groups involved in transnational car thefts are deprived of the benefits of their illegal activities.  To this end, President Bola Tinubu has directed 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 intensify efforts in cracking down on individuals in possession of and trafficking in stolen vehicles.  The President noted that one of the most effective tools available to law enforcement agencies is depriving criminals of the proceeds from their illicit activities.   He acknowledged the recent handover of 53 vehicles and $180,300 by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), on behalf of two Canadian citizens who were victims of cybercrimes perpetrated by Nigerian nationals.  While expressing concern over the involvement of transnational organised criminal groups in exporting stolen vehicles to Nigeria, President Tinubu commends the Commission for collaborating with partners to ensure a coordinated and professional repose to this menace.   The President further directed all relevant agencies, particularly the anti-corruption agencies, to protect Nigeria’s economic and financial integrity from organised crime infiltration.   He also demanded that the value of seized and confiscated moveable assets be preserved for the state, society, and victims in line with existing legislation and international conventions.   The president strongly affirmed, “Nigeria is not a destination for stolen vehicles and a haven for illicit wealth from foreign countries. ”  President Tinubu affirmed that his administration remains committed to tackling money laundering, cybercrime, and other financial crimes. 

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NDLEA intercepts N14.9bn opioids, arrests octogenarian, community leader’s wives, son

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have intercepted a total of Twenty- Fivr Million (25,000,000.00) pills of tapentadol, an opioid three times stronger than tramadol and Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand (350,000) bottles of codeine- based syrup at the Tincan port complex in Lagos.  The seizure were made on Tuesday 17th and Friday 20th September 2024 from three containers which had been on the watchlist of the Agency following processed intelligence. As a result, the NDLEA had requested for 100% joint examination of the shipments with men of the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies. The 25 million pills of tapentadol have an estimated street value of Thirteen Billion Seven Hundred and Twenty-Five Million Naira (N13,725,000, 000.00) while the codeine consignment us an estimated street value of Two Billion Four Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N2,450,000,000.00), bringing the total value of the seizures to Fourteen Billion Nine Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N14,950,000,000.00).  The tapentadol consignment packed in 500cartons was discovered in one of the containers on Tuesday 17th September while another container examined same day contained 175,000 bottles of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine packed in 875cartons. The third container containing 175,000 bottles of CSC cough syrup with codeine was examined on Friday 20th September.  Meanwhile, operatives of the Lagos State Strategic Command of the Agency on Friday 29th September arrested an 89-year old grandfather, Oba Aremu Shojobi with 14 kilograms of cannabis at his home in Iyana Ioaja area of the state. In his statement, the Octogenarian claimed he has been in the business of selling illicit drugs for 25 years. He further claimed he get his supplies from Benin Republic, and sells to his customers from his residence between 7am and 10pm every day.  In the same vein, NDLEA operatives in Lagos on Wednesday, 18th September raided the two homes of a community leader and Sarkin Yama of Badagry Weat LCDA, Alhaji Bashir Mohammed Taobalinga, where a total of 226kg of cannabis was recovered from his two wives and son.  Though Alhaji Talba is currently at Lege, a search of his house in Ashoka area of Seme Badagry led to recovery of 93 compressed blocks of cannabis saliva weighing 57.6kg from his first wife, Asma’u Bashiru, 35, and son, Sadat Bashiru, 22, while ano the search of his house at Aketegbi area of Seme Badagry led to the seizure of 302 compressed blocks of cannabis weighing 168.6kg from his second wife Hausa Bashiru, 42. 

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Tinubu pens to First Lady on her 64th birthday

President Bola Tinubu penned an emotional message to the First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on her 64th birthday.  Tinubu expressed his goodwill message on his official X handle.  The elated Nigerian president wrote; “My Dearest Oluremi, “On this beautiful day, as we celebrate your 64th birthday, my heart is full of gratitude and love for the incredible woman you are. Since we began this journey together, you have been my rock, confidante, greatest supporter, and the love of my life. Every step of the way, you have shown unwavering strength, grace, and love to me, our family, and our beloved nation, Nigeria. “You are the heart of our home, the light guiding me through the most challenging days, and the embodiment of kindness and wisdom. Your compassion, generosity, and dedication inspire millions of Nigerians and me, especially our young women, who look up to you as their First Lady. “On your special day, I want to take a moment to tell you how truly blessed I feel to walk this path beside you. Your love sustains me, wisdom guides me, and strength lifts me. I could not ask for a better partner to share the triumphs and trials of life. “As you turn 64, I wish you nothing but boundless joy, peace, and happiness. May this year unfold with blessings, laughter, and cherished moments you so richly deserve. I look forward to all the moments we will create together in the years to come. “With all my love and appreciation, now and always, “Yours Bola.”

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Edo election: IG orders movement restrictions

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered comprehensive security measures to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process during the upcoming Edo off-cycle election scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024. In preparation for the election, the IGP has ordered the restriction of all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day. Exceptions will be made for essential services, including accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders. To maintain the integrity of the electoral process, the IGP has implemented a ban on all security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs to polling booths and collation centres. Unauthorized security personnel and quasi-security outfits are prohibited from operating during the election, and the use of sirens by unauthorized vehicles is strictly forbidden to ensure a calm environment for voters. Furthermore, the IGP has mandated that special attention be afforded to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, aged, and those with mobility challenges, ensuring that polling stations in both urban and rural settings are accessible to all. Egbetokun, through the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) for Edo Gubernatorial Election, DIG Frank Emeka Mba, mni, has appealed to citizens to refrain from making prank calls to control room and designated help numbers, highlighting that text messages are more effective for operational purposes. The designated election lines for inquiries and reporting are: DIG Election DIG Frank Mba, mni; 07025000383 and AIG Election AIG Benneth Igwe, mni; 09085000029, while the general control room numbers are 08077773721 and 08037646272. The already activated joint control room is manned by police and relevant agencies engaged in the electoral process. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or incidents that may jeopardize the integrity of the electoral process or cause disorderliness in any part of the state.  The Inspector-General of Police underscored the necessity of adhering to these directives to avert any undue interference and intimidation during the election. Political parties, candidates, and their supporters are urged to conduct themselves responsibly and in compliance with electoral laws, as any violations or attempts to disrupt the electoral process will be met with the full extent of the law. The IGP reaffirmed that the dedication of the Nigeria Police Force to promoting a safe and democratic environment. Through collaborative efforts, we can guarantee that the forthcoming elections in Edo, specifically and the future, are held fairly and peacefully.

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EFCC arrests 29 Suspected Internet  fraudsters in Abuja

Operatives of the Abuja Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,  on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 arrested 29 suspected internet fraudsters. They were arrested at several locations in the Gwagwalada area of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT following credible intelligence about their suspected involvement in internet fraud.  32 phones of different types were recovered  from them. The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

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Shettima to represent Tinubu at 79th UN General Assembly 

President Bola Tinubu will not attend the 79th United Nations General Assembly session in New York this year. The President, according to a statement signed by Special Adviser  on Information & Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, has thus directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation. President Tinubu, who returned to the country last Sunday after his trip to China and the United Kingdom, wants to focus on domestic issues and address some of the country’s challenges, especially after the recent devastating flooding. At UNGA 79, Vice President Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement to the General Assembly, attend important sideline events, and hold bilateral meetings. The high-level General Debate, with the theme “Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations,” will run from Tuesday, September 24, through Saturday, September 28, 2024.

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Nigeria partners US to enhance Press Freedom, fight fake news

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said that his ministry is collaborating closely with the United States government to promote and strengthen press freedom in Nigeria. Idris stated this in an interview with newsmen shortly after he met with the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Richard Mills in his office on Wednesday. “The ambassador talked about some issues that he thinks we need to address, to improve in the area of press freedom and we have also given him assurance on what we are doing and he recognises the fact that we are doing a great job in ensuring that Nigerian press is not just free but also one of the freest around the world. I know there are some challenges here and there and we are working on those areas to ensure that all of us enjoy what is called press freedom, which is an important part of any viable democracy,” he said. The Minister emphasized the Tinubu administration’s high priority on press freedom and assured the government’s commitment to further enhancing media freedom in the country. He said they also discussed how to forge a common front in the fight against misinformation and disinformation in the country. “He talked about misinformation, disinformation, fake news, and all that stuff, and we discussed that. We all believe collectively that there’s no way you can build a virile society when you promote fake news and don’t take the issue of misinformation and disinformation seriously,” he said. In his remarks, Ambassador Mills said his meeting with the Minister is to discuss ways of strengthening the existing relationship between the US government and the Ministry, especially regarding press freedom and journalists’ rights. He recognized the effort of the Minister in championing the cause of press freedom and journalists’ rights in Nigeria. The US Envoy, who acknowledged the huge challenge posed by disinformation, especially in democracies around the world, said they have also shared thoughts and ideas with the minister on how to tackle the challenge.

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Yahaya Bello not in our custody -EFCC 

The Economic and Financial Commission has refuted media claims that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello is in the commission’s custody.  The Head, Media and Publicity of Commission, Dele Oyewale made the rebuttal in a statement on Wednesday.  “Media reports today (Wednesday) that a former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello is in the holding facility of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is incorrect.  “Bello, already declared wanted by the Commission for alleged N80.2billion money laundering charges, remains wanted with a subsisting warrant for his arrest,” the statement read. 

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