Happy Valentine’s Day! In today’s trending news stories;
1. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has clarified that Daniel Bwala, who previously served as a spokesperson for his presidential campaign, was never his aide beyond that specific role. Atiku’s media office issued a statement emphasizing that Bwala’s association with Atiku was limited to his position as a campaign spokesperson from 2022 to early 2023. The statement aims to correct misconceptions regarding Bwala’s status as Atiku’s aide. Bwala’s recent meetings with President Bola Tinubu have sparked controversy, prompting him to inform Atiku about his decision before visiting Tinubu.
2. A Special Investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu to probe fraud in the Central Bank of Nigeria, led by Godwin Emefiele, has requested Interpol to issue a red notice for three Nigerians allegedly involved in a $6.23 million fraud scheme. The suspects, including a CBN staff member named Odoh Ocheme, are accused of conspiring to forge documents in the name of former President Muhammadu Buhari to steal funds from the CBN. The suspects are currently at large, and warrants for their arrest have been issued by the Federal High Court in Abuja. The charges against them include obtaining money by pretense and conspiracy to forge documents.
3. Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Boss Mustapha testified in court on Tuesday, asserting that the signature of former President Muhammadu Buhari was forged to authorize a $6.2 million cash withdrawal from the Central Bank of Nigeria’s vault. Mustapha, a prosecution witness for the EFCC in the ongoing trial of former CBN governor Godwin Emefiele for fraud and corruption, stated that neither he nor Buhari approved the withdrawal. He disputed documents claiming approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC), clarifying discrepancies regarding the meeting’s agenda and procedures. Mustapha emphasized that FEC decisions are not transmitted by letters and expressed skepticism about the authenticity of the documents presented in court.
4. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Victor Joseph, a former banker, and Ahmad Aliyu on money laundering charges amounting to N110 million. They allegedly transferred funds fraudulently from the National Assembly office account using fictitious instructions. The transactions involved multiple beneficiaries across three banks, with funds eventually returned to Joseph. Both defendants pleaded not guilty and were remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre pending a hearing for bail applications scheduled for February 27, 2024. This incident follows previous arrests for similar fraudulent activities involving former bankers.
5. A fire explosion at Agbado Road, Toyin Bus stop, Iju Ishaga, Lagos State, destroyed 18 shops but caused no reported casualties or injuries. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service swiftly responded, containing the fire and safeguarding nearby properties. The incident was triggered by the off-loading of gas cylinders, resulting in an accidental explosion. Despite extensive damage, the situation is now under control, with ongoing efforts to prevent further explosions and clean up the scene.
6. Sesko, a promising player likened to Erling Haaland, faced frustration as Real Madrid’s goalkeeper thwarted him, impacting Chelsea’s plans. Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga, currently on loan at Real Madrid, struggles to regain his place amid injuries. Lunin’s stellar performance further solidifies Kepa’s bench status. This poses a dilemma for Chelsea, diminishing Kepa’s transfer value, which they aimed to boost through the loan. With Kepa’s contract expiring in 2025, Chelsea faces pressure to offload him for a reasonable fee before he becomes a free agent.
7. President Bola Tinubu has awarded the Super Eagles team the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) national honor for their performance at AFCON 2023. Despite a 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast, Tinubu praised the team’s resilience and presented each player with the honor, along with a flat and land. At the presidential villa in Abuja, Tinubu welcomed the team, encouraging them not to be disheartened by the defeat. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to realizing dreams. Amid economic challenges, victory was hoped to lift spirits.
