Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;
1. The Obi/Datti Presidential Campaign Organisation disclosed spending over N744.5 million in litigation over the 2023 presidential election while receiving donations totaling N595.97 million from Nigerians. Aisha Yesufu, the Chairman of the Fundraising Team, emphasized accountability and transparency in expenditure. They supported over a hundred groups across Nigeria, engaged in media campaigns reaching over 11 million people, and distributed campaign materials worth N258.37 million. Additionally, they spent on media broadcasting, election promotion, polling unit agents, bank charges, administrative fees, legal expenses, and campaign activities.
2. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) re-arraigned Professor Uche Chigozie and three companies before a Federal High Court in Lagos for alleged money laundering totaling N1.47 billion. The companies involved are Visionary Integrated Consulting Ltd., Nemad Associates Ltd., and Revamp Global Enterprises. Chigozie pleaded not guilty to the charges which include conspiracy, fraud, stealing, and money laundering. The case, initially brought before Justice Nicholas Oweibo in August 2023, was transferred to Justice Isaac Dipeolu after Oweibo’s transfer. Chigozie’s defense counsel requested he continue on bail, which was granted with additional sureties. The trial was adjourned until March 13. Chigozie allegedly conspired with the other defendants to use funds belonging to the Maize Growers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria for illegal activities, including purchasing properties and land.
3. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) is contemplating relocating certain units to Lagos, according to a document dated February 14, 2024. The move aims to enhance service delivery, reduce operational costs, and optimize assets in Lagos. Departments are asked to identify units capable of operating independently with minimal supervision. Submissions are due by February 23, 2024. Dr. Kelechi Onyekachi Ofoegbu signed the memo on behalf of the Commission.
4. Vice President Kashim Shettima caused a stir during a meeting with President Bola Tinubu and state governors when he asked Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State to greet the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The meeting, attended by service chiefs, was called by Tinubu to address economic hardship and rising insecurity. Wike and Fubara have reportedly been in a silent feud over leadership in Rivers State, despite a peace deal brokered by Tinubu.
5. Jose Mourinho, speaking on Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel, shared his predictions for the Premier League and Champions League, favoring Manchester City and Liverpool domestically, and City or Real Madrid in Europe. He expressed a desire for Real Madrid’s success in the Champions League. Mourinho also discussed his recent departure from Roma, admitting it was emotionally challenging but a learning experience for the future.
6. Veteran broadcaster Mrs. Bimbo Oloyede is seeking public support to raise N100 million for cancer research and treatment as part of her 70th birthday celebration on March 15. The funds will provide equipment for public hospitals, allowing cancer patients without means to receive treatment in Nigeria. Oloyede, who has experienced cancer in her family, aims to give back to society by helping those in need. The initiative will be facilitated through the Lifeline Advocacy and Development Initiative, ensuring transparency and accountability. With Nigeria facing high cancer mortality rates, the campaign aims to alleviate the suffering of cancer patients through community support and fundraising efforts.
