Why We Dropped Money Laundering Charges Against Bobrisky-EFCC

Mohammed Shosanya

A prosecutor with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC  Bilikisu Bala, has told a Joint Committee of the House of Representatives investigating allegations of corruption against some officers of the Commission, and the Nigeria Correctional Service that charges of money laundering dropped in the trial of Idris Okuneye (a.k.a Bobrisky) were lawful and in compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, ACJA.

Bala,head of the prosecution team that handled the trial of Okuneye pointed out to the Committee that the charges were dropped based on the disclosure of the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering, SCUML, that Okunenye’s firm, Bob Express, was not a Designated Non Financial Institution, Business and Profession, DNFIBP, and could not be prosecuted for flouting provisions of the Money Laundering Prevention & Prohibition Act, 2022.

“We initially raised six count charges bordering on Naira Abuse and Money Laundering against Okuneye based on his confessional statement that his firm, Bob Express, was not registered with SCUML and was not rendering returns to it. Counts 1-4 were on Naira Abuse while counts five and six were on money laundering. Okuneye’s confession that he didn’t register his firm, Bob Express with SCUML and not rendering returns to it informed the money laundering charges initially included in the six count charges.

” However, when we wrote to SCUML on the status of the firm,  the Unit responded that it was not a Designated Non-Financial Institution, Business and Profession, DNFIBP.  We cannot lawfully sustain the charges in all sincerity. We, therefore dropped them and relied on the four counts on Naira mutilation to which Okuneye had pleaded guilty”, she said.

She punctured claims of financial inducement in dropping charges maintaining that no such thing happened.

 “There is simply no basis for that. The Administration of Criminal Justice Act, ACJA, allows amendment of charges. It is a professional practice. It is laughable for anyone to attribute our decision to monetary issues. Why did we write to SCUML if we didn’t want to include the charges? We wrote to be lawfully guided and when the Unit responded that the firm had not breached any law,  on what basis should we have retained the money laundering charges?”,she said.

Bala,who appeared before the Committee on Monday with top management staff of the EFCC, charged the Committee to critically look into all the issues raised against the EFCC and make public its findings  in the interest of justice.

Chief of Staff to the EFCC’s Chairman, Commander of the EFCC, CE Michael Nzekwe who stood for the Chairman, Ola Olukoyede restated the seriousness the Commission attached to integrity of its staff.

“We viewed the allegation of bribery against our officers seriously. Integrity is one of our core values. This is why we are here to place all the facts involved in the trial of Okuneye in the public domain”, he said.

Nigeria@64:IBEDC Urges Customers To Stop Stealing Energy

Mohammed Shosanya
Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC),has implored its customers to shun acts of energy theft, including meter tampering and illegal connections.
Acting Managing Director, Engr. Francis Agoha,made the appeal in a statement to mark Nigeria’s 64th years of attainment of Independence.
He said:“Energy theft is not only a crime, punishable by law and attracts a jail time of up to 3years, but it also negatively impacts the quality of service for all customers. It is a disservice to the nation”.
He further warned that tampering with electrical installations poses significant safety risks, including severe injuries or fatalities.
Customers,he said,are urged to report any cases of energy theft or suspicious activities to IBEDC to ensure the continued safety and reliability of electricity distribution in their communities.
He congratulated all Nigerians,the company’s customers, and the general public on the celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary.
He emphasized IBEDC’s unwavering dedication to the nation’s growth and development.
 “As we celebrate Nigeria’s independence, it is vital to uphold the principles of integrity, hard work, and patriotism. Electricity is the backbone of any nation’s economy, and IBEDC remains committed to powering Nigeria’s progress by delivering services that enhance lives and support economic growth,” Engr. Agoha remarked.
While the nation celebrates,the company assured  its customers that our technical teams are ready to address any faults or issues that may arise during the holiday.
He added:”We encourage customers to utilize our convenient payment channels to ensure uninterrupted service. These include the IBEDCPAY app (available on Android and iOS), as well as IRecharge, Quickteller, Payarena, Jumia, Watu, Buypower, and ATMs. IBEDC offices will be open during the public holiday from 9 AM – 3 PM for payment and vending services. For any inquiries, customers can reach out via email at customercare@ibedc.com or call our Customer Care Line at 07001239999″.
FG Considers License Waivers For Community Cinemas Investors

 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

 

The Federal government is considering license waivers for investors keen on setting up cottage or community cenemas are now to get license waivers.

 

 

 

 

 

This was revealed by the Honorable Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Bar. Hanatu Musa Musawa, saying that the policy proposal has been approved.

 

 

 

 

 

The minister spoke through Dr. Husseini Shaibu, Executive Director, ED, of the National Film and Video Censors Board, NFVCB, recently in Lafia, Nassarawa state during a meeting with stakeholders.

 

 

 

 

He said the waiver approval is in line with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s agenda on improving the playing field where people and particularly companies operate.

 

 

 

 

He also stated that waiver approval aligns with the ministers’ agenda of providing incentives needed to encourage investment in the creative industry, improve revenue generation for government and the filmmakers, as well as create jobs for youths across the country.

 

 

 

 

Husseini explained that the Minister has been working tirelessly to reposition Nigeria as Africa’s creative capital and a global creative hub.

 

 

 

 

He noted that the decision to grant a licensing waiver would have a huge multiplier effect in the bottom rung of the cinema exhibitor pyramid.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“This and other incentives, the Minister has promised will no doubt fuel the expansion of Cinema screens and promote wider screening of Nollywood films at the local box office,” Hussein said adding that following the approval by the Minister, the Board has granted a provisional approval to an investor to test run a community cinema project for a period of twelve months.

 

 

 

 

 

He noted that following favorable results of that experience, the Board had to make recommendations to the Honorable Minister to grant waivers to stakeholders to open up the film exhibition space, especially for local content.

 

 

 

 

 

Husseini recalled that the issue came up informally during the recently concluded Morality and Ethics in Film Production round-table with stakeholders in Lagos.

 

 

 

 

 

He had advocated to stakeholders to consider the establishment of Community Cinemas as a low hanging fruit to bring cinemagoers in communities, towns, and villages back to the big screen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Citing instances in other climes like India, where there are community cinemas standing side by side with the established cinemas, Husseini noted that operators of community Cinema can collaborate with the established cinema owners to bring a distinct cinematic experience to cinema enthusiasts.

 

 

 

 

Husseini said that it was after the Board aggregated all the demands and requests that the Board sought the consent of the Honorable Minister for a waiver to revive the sector, and the request was granted same day.

 

 

 

 

 

Husseini noted that the gesture by the Honorable Minister would no doubt stimulate the film industry by incentivising cinema companies.

 

 

 

 

 

He also hinted that the Board had also sent a proposal to the Honorable Minister for a reduction in the exhibition and distribution license fees payable by operators to further open up the space.

 

 

 

 

Husseini described these policies as smart strategic decisions by the Honorable Minister to reignite and stimulate investment in the sector.

 

 

 

 

He noted that the Honorable Minister has been supportive of the Board, stressing that the management has received her blessings to rejig the sector and undertake a number of reforms.

 

 

 

 

One of the reforms that the board has already started implementing is the reduction in classification time for film and video works.

 

 

 

 

“We have already reduced duration or what they call the come back time for film classification to a maximum of 48 hours for full feature films and same day classification for dramatized short content (skits) and musical videos.

 

 

 

 

“We have also introduced online submissions to make things easier for filmmakers and content creators,” he said.

 

 

 

 

Husseini added that the board will continue to engage filmmakers and content creators on the need for them to submit their films and video works for classification before exhibition either on the traditional or digital platforms.

Olowookere Names Nigerian U-17 Women’s Squad For FIFA World Cup

     Mohammed Shosanya
Head Coach Bankole Olowookere,has unveiled his squad for this year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup finals,billed to kick off on October 16 in the Dominican Republic.
The roster includes standout players Taiwo Afolabi, along with forwards Harmony Chidi and Peace Effiong.
Chidi scored 13 goals during the qualifying series, contributing significantly to the team’s impressive total of 25 goals.
The 2022 bronze medallists in India demonstrated their prowess by overcoming formidable opponents, including the Central African Republic, Burkina Faso, and Liberia, in the qualifiers.
Taiwo Afolabi will man the midfield, supported by Faridat Abdulwahab, Shakirat Moshood, and Ayomide Rotimi. In goal, first-choice goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma will be pushed to excel by her backups, Sylvia Echefu and Elizabeth Boniface.
Defensive duties will be led by Taiwo Adegoke, while Harmony Chidi spearheads the attacking front alongside Peace Effiong and four other talented forwards.
Nigeria has been drawn in Group A alongside host nation the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and New Zealand.
The team is scheduled to depart Nigeria for a two-week training camp in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic, on Tuesday, October 1.
They will open their World Cup campaign against New Zealand on October 16 at 4 PM Nigerian time.
Squad Details:
Goalkeepers
– Christiana Uzoma (Edo Queens)
– Elizabeth Boniface (Sunshine Queens)
– Sylvia Echefu (Confluence Queens)
Defenders
– Prisca Nwachukwu (Imo Strikers)
– Jumai Adebayo (Naija Ratels)
– Taiwo Adegoke (Remo Stars Ladies)
– Rokibat Azeez (New Generation Academy)
– Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies)
– Vivian Ekezie (Heartland Queens)
– Ololade Isiaka (Abia Angels)
Midfielders
– Taiwo Afolabi (Delta Queens)
– Faridat Abdulwahab (Nasarawa Amazons)
– Shakirat Moshood (Bayelsa Queens)
– Muinat Rotimi (Nakamura Football Academy)
Forwards
– Oghenemairo Obruthe (City Sports)
– Harmony Chidi (Imo Strikers)
– Kudirat Arogundade (Green Foot)
– Ramotalahi Kareem (Honey Badgers)
– Aishat Animashaun (Naija Ratels)
– Peace Effiong (Rivers Angels)
– Blessing Ifitezue (Delta Queens)
Groupings
Group A
Dominican Republic, Ecuador, New Zealand, Nigeria
Group B
Spain, USA, Korea Republic, Colombia
     Group C
 Korea DPR, Mexico, Kenya, England
         Group D
Japan, Poland, Brazil, Zambia

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

 

 

Head Coach Bankole Olowookere,has unveiled his squad for this year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup finals,billed to kick off on October 16 in the Dominican Republic.

 

 

 

 

 

The roster includes standout players Taiwo Afolabi, along with forwards Harmony Chidi and Peace Effiong.

 

 

 

 

Chidi scored 13 goals during the qualifying series, contributing significantly to the team’s impressive total of 25 goals.

 

 

 

 

 

The 2022 bronze medallists in India demonstrated their prowess by overcoming formidable opponents, including the Central African Republic, Burkina Faso, and Liberia, in the qualifiers.

 

 

 

 

Taiwo Afolabi will man the midfield, supported by Faridat Abdulwahab, Shakirat Moshood, and Ayomide Rotimi. In goal, first-choice goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma will be pushed to excel by her backups, Sylvia Echefu and Elizabeth Boniface.

 

 

 

 

Defensive duties will be led by Taiwo Adegoke, while Harmony Chidi spearheads the attacking front alongside Peace Effiong and four other talented forwards.

 

 

 

Nigeria has been drawn in Group A alongside host nation the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and New Zealand.

 

 

 

The team is scheduled to depart Nigeria for a two-week training camp in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic, on Tuesday, October 1.

 

 

They will open their World Cup campaign against New Zealand on October 16 at 4 PM Nigerian time.

 

Squad Details:

Goalkeepers

– Christiana Uzoma (Edo Queens)
– Elizabeth Boniface (Sunshine Queens)
– Sylvia Echefu (Confluence Queens)

 

Defenders

– Prisca Nwachukwu (Imo Strikers)
– Jumai Adebayo (Naija Ratels)
– Taiwo Adegoke (Remo Stars Ladies)
– Rokibat Azeez (New Generation Academy)
– Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies)
– Vivian Ekezie (Heartland Queens)
– Ololade Isiaka (Abia Angels)

Midfielders

– Taiwo Afolabi (Delta Queens)
– Faridat Abdulwahab (Nasarawa Amazons)
– Shakirat Moshood (Bayelsa Queens)
– Muinat Rotimi (Nakamura Football Academy)

 

Forwards

– Oghenemairo Obruthe (City Sports)
– Harmony Chidi (Imo Strikers)
– Kudirat Arogundade (Green Foot)
– Ramotalahi Kareem (Honey Badgers)
– Aishat Animashaun (Naija Ratels)
– Peace Effiong (Rivers Angels)
– Blessing Ifitezue (Delta Queens)

Groupings

Group A

Dominican Republic, Ecuador, New Zealand, Nigeria

 

Group B

 

Spain, USA, Korea Republic, Colombia

 

  Group C

 

Olowookere Names Nigerian U-17 Women’s Squad For FIFA World Cup

 

BBBC Suspends Anthony Joshua

    Mohammed Shosanya
Former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has been handed a 28-day boxing ban following his knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in London last Saturday.
The British Boxing Board of Control issued the suspension, a standard procedure for fighters who suffer a TKO or KO, as outlined by the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports.
“AJ has been banned for just under a month by the British Boxing Board of Control. According to the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports, it is not unusual for a fighter to receive a medical suspension after suffering a TKO or KO loss,” reported Mirror UK.
Joshua had a challenging night, hitting the canvas three times before Dubois, also known as ‘DDD’, delivered a decisive right hand in Round 5.
This marks Joshua’s fourth career defeat, following his shocking loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019 and two defeats to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022.
While the ban is not expected to disrupt Joshua’s immediate plans—given that no future fights have been scheduled—it has sparked speculation about his boxing future.
Former boxer Carl Froch has voiced concerns about Joshua’s recent performance and his trajectory in the sport.
“Anthony Joshua got absolutely battered from pillar to post. He lacked ambition, self-belief, and confidence. His recovery abilities are poor; he looked exhausted,” Froch remarked on his YouTube channel.
Froch further questioned Joshua’s commitment to boxing, stating, “I doubt Anthony Joshua’s desire to remain in the ring. I don’t think AJ wants it anymore; he shouldn’t be boxing. That performance was weak.”
 Joshua expressed his determination to reclaim the world title, asserting that retirement is not on his agenda.
In a video statement on his X page, Joshua thanked his supporters, saying, “We came up short, but we need to focus on the positives. That is the mindset we must adopt—a positive one.
“Look at what we’ve achieved in the last 11 years; it’s phenomenal, and I want to thank every single one of you who has been with me. This rollercoaster journey isn’t over yet.”
NDDC Says 3.2 Million Youths Register For  Project HOPE Phase One

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

 

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, says it has registered 3.2 million youths in its Holistic Opportunities Programmes for Engagement, Project HOPE, since the first phase of the programme was launched on July 4, 2023.

 

 

This was announced by the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, during the launching of the second phase at the Rivers State Information, Communication and Technology, ICT, Centre in Port Harcourt.

 

 

He said that Project HOPE, was conceived out of the necessity to address the pressing challenges facing the youths, especially in the area of employment and the lack of opportunities for meaningful engagement.

 

 

Dr. Ogbuku,in a statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs, noted that the first phase entailed designing and deploying a digital platform for data collection, analysis and creating a parameter for the programme implementation.

 

 

 

He declared: “The second phase is the implementation phase of eight meticulously designed programmes aimed at creating jobs and empowering our youth across various sectors such as agriculture and technology.

 

 

 

 

“The success of Project HOPE requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. I extend an open invitation to government entities, private sector players, international partners, community leaders, and non-governmental organisations to join us in this noble venture.

 

 

 

He advised Niger Delta youths to embrace the opportunities with zeal and determination, noting: “You are the architects of your destiny and the catalysts for regional transformation.”

 

 

 

Ogbuku said: “Over the years what has been happening is that because of political interests, people are given slots to nominate participants for empowerment programmes and most of these participants never had passion for these training programmes.

 

 

“After the training programmes, you see people selling off the starter-packs and other equipment that were given to them after the training.

 

 

“In this case, we believe that once we pick you from the data based on your area of interest and passion, you are going to excel from there. And since you are in our data base, we will also have our monitoring process to track your performance.”

 

 

 

In his address, the NDDC Executive Director, Project, Sir Victor Antai, said that Project HOPE was more than just a project, stating: “It is a beacon of optimism and a catalyst for change. conceived under the insightful leadership of our Managing Director. This initiative aims to harness the potential of our youth and provide them with viable avenues for self-actualization and economic empowerment.’

 

 

 

 

“The second phase we are launching today focuses on the implementation of eight strategic programmes, including Agriculture, Entrepreneurship, and Technology (Mili-Tech). Apart from technology, the Project HOPE aims to cover other key areas, such as music and arts, entrepreneurial development, marine and internship.”

 

 

 

Our emphasis on technology, particularly the “Mili-Tech” programme, represents a significant shift. By equipping our youth with modern technological skills, we are positioning them to compete globally and drive innovation within our region.

 

 

 

Antai observed: “In a rapidly digitalizing world, transitioning from militancy to technology is imperative. We are equipping our youth with skills in structured cabling, data analysis, animation, and software development, thereby opening doors to global opportunities.”

 

 

 

He said that the success of Project HOPE depends on collaboration. He, therefore urged government agencies, private sector partners, non-governmental organizations, community leaders, and the youths to wholeheartedly embrace the initiative.

 

 

 

In his goodwill message, the Rivers State Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr. Chisom Wali commended the NDDC for taking the initiative to partner with the Rivers State Government noting that the efforts of the Commission bode well for the future of youths in the Niger Delta region.

 

 

 

 

Also speaking, the resource person for Project HOPE, Ambassador Blessing Fubara, affirmed that the second phase of the programme would commence with eight quick impact action specimens, noting that the time had come for a serious development model to kick-off in the Niger Delta region.

NESG Speaks On 30th Economic Confab

      Mohammed Shosanya
The 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES #30), will focus on fostering inclusive development, aimed at addressing the socio-economic challenges, improve economic competitiveness, and identify pragmatic policies for inclusive growth and development.
Acting Head,Strategic Communication & Advocacy, Nigerian Economic Summit Group(NESG),Ayanyinka Ayantinka said in a statement on Sunday.
According to her,distributing the benefits of economic growth equitably across all segments of society is essential to achieving sustainable development.
She explained that,inclusive development should focus on diversifying the economy, creating jobs, and fostering inclusive growth that promotes social inclusion and provides targeted intervention for vulnerable groups.
She added:”Inclusive Development,” which is a sub-theme of NES#30, would  take centre stage, during the Summit slated for October 14th–16th, at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.
“The Summit will prioritise collaborative approaches among stakeholders to ensure stability and progress for all Nigerians.Inclusive development is at the heart of this year’s Summit theme.
“By leveraging the diverse talents and skills of its population, Nigeria can drive innovation and economic diversification. Investing in inclusive growth strategies is crucial for building resilient economies, attracting investments, and ensuring sustainable development that uplifts every citizen.
“This approach addresses economic disparities, enhances social cohesion, and reduces poverty by providing marginalized communities with access to education, healthcare, and employment.”
She disclosed how the first Nigerian Economic Summit was convened  in 1993, adding that it “marked a watershed moment in Nigeria’s economic history.”
“Convened against a backdrop of prolonged economic challenges, it signaled a profound shift from a predominantly state-led economic model to a dynamic, private sector-driven economy.
“This transition was not merely about changing economic policies but represented a significant shift in the philosophy guiding Nigeria’s development path.
“For decades after independence, Nigeria’s economy was characterised by a government monopoly in business and industry.
“State-owned enterprises (SOEs) dominated the landscape, supported by substantial public investments intended to spur economic growth.
“The inaugural Nigerian Economic Summit in 1993 was instrumental in advocating for a more private sector-led approach, setting the stage for significant economic reforms.”
She further explained that the NES #30 would provide a platform for meaningful deliberations, as stakeholders would be engaged in “critical discourse to ddress current socioeconomic challenges to ensure stability;explore strategies to improve economic competitiveness;identify pragmatic policies and actions for inclusive growth and development; and Prioritise collaborative approaches between stakeholders for progress.
She said:”The Summit will also spotlight Nigeria’s significance in driving the continent’s transformation through institutions, investment, integration, industry growth, and innovation.
Under the theme “Collaborative Action for Growth, Competitiveness, and Stability,” NES #30 aims to mobilise leaders towards creating shared opportunities for present and future generations,she said.
She said,the Summit will emphasise the importance of achieving Africa’s aspirations in a new global context through bold ideas and actions, supported by strong leadership at the industry, national, regional, and global levels.
She added:”As Nigeria and Africa navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the lessons learned and the foundations laid through the Summits are more relevant than ever.
“NES #30 represents a crucial moment for reflecting on our progress and setting a course for a future characterised by inclusive growth, economic resilience, and shared prosperity.”

 

Refinery:Participants Throng Dangote Pavilion At Trade Fair

Mohammed Shosanya
Participants at this year’s Abuja International Trade Fair(AITF) have been thronging the pavilion of the Dangote Group to make inquiries about the company, and its state-of-the-art oil refinery, which recently commenced the discharge of petroleum products.
The Group is one of the major sponsors of the 19th Trade Fair organised by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry(ACCI).
Many of the participants were seen milling around the company’s other business units, which include: Dangote Fertiliser, Dangote Sugar, NASCON(Dangote Salt), and Dangote Cement.
A block Moulder, Peter Ibrahim, said: “I am here at the Dangote booth to find out what business and job opportunities are available at the Dangote Refinery. We know  the company must have created several opportunities.”
A cement dealer, Sale Sagir, said: “Let me be honest. I came to this Trade Fair because of Dangote Group. I sell cement, but now I have come to find out what it takes to be a distributed of other products, especially the Dangote Petroleum products.”
Speaking at the company’s Special Day, Senior Adviser to the Group President on Special Projects and Strategic Relations, Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman, said the Dangote Group has contributed to growing the Nigerian economy through transportation, trade financing and taxation.
She said: “Furthermore, during the construction of the Dangote Refinery, we had to construct a jetty in Lekki Free Zone to handle our bulk cargoes (including ne of the two largest cranes in the world), that we imported during the construction stage.”
“Today, we are exporting our products to a number of African countries through the same port. We also plan to ease the pressure on the roads from the Refinery by transporting finished petroleum products to other ports by along the Nigerian coast by sea, for further distribution to the hinterland.”
She said  the company is also investing in Compressed Natural Gas(CNG).
“In an effort to reduce our carbon footprint and also reduce costs, over the past decade, we have converted about a third of our fleet so far. This is an ongoing process, till we convert the entire fleet,” she said.
She added that the company is investing hugely in the agricultural subsector of the economy, assuring that the company’s products will soon hit the market.
Speaking earlier at the Special Day, President of the ACCI, Chief Emeka Obegolu, described the Dangote Group as the engine-room for Nigeria’s industrilization.
Chief Obegolu, who was represented by Aisha Ado Abdullahi, ACCI Vice President Legal, commended the company for what he said was an “unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s development”.
He added: “The taxes paid by the Group have contributed significantly to national revenue, funding infrastructure projects, and social programs that benefit millions of Nigerians”.
Alao Akala:Court Summons Ex-Oyo First Lady,Others Over Late Husband’s Estate

 

 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

An Oyo state high in Ibadan,has summoned a former first lady of Oyo state, Kemi Alao-Akala to appear before it within 30 days of service of a writ of summons ordered on her and her co-defendant in a suit filed before the court for allegedly obtaining a letter of administration over the estate of late husband, former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala without the consent of the claimant.

 

 

 

The order was sequel to grant of an ex-parte motion, on an order of substituted service brought before it by Dipo Olasope (SAN), counsel to the claimant, Toyin Alao-Aderinto, against Kemi Alao-Akala and Olamide Alabi, over the mismanagement of the estate of late Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala by the defendants and their privies.

 

 

 

 

The late Alao-Akala was governor of oyo state between 2007 – 2011 and died intestate.

 

 

 

 

 

The suit marked I/443/2024 is challenging the actions of the defendants, Kemi Alao-Akala and Olamide Alabi, who have been accused of allegedly obtaining a letter of administration from the Oyo state high court on the 6th of October, 2022, in connection with late Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala’s estate, mismanaging the deceased’s assets and properties and further excluding the claimant/applicant from benefitting from the distribution of the assests of the estate of late Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala, the claimant’s father.

 

 

 

 

 

The first daughter of the deceased Alao-Akala, Oluwatoyin Alao-Aderinto is seeking the leave of court, to declare as illegal, null and void, a letter of administration illegally obtained by the duo of Kemi Alao-Akala and Olamide Alabi from the registry of the Oyo state high court and to also grant an order of perpetual injunction, restraining the defendants, including Kemi Alao-Akala and Olamide Alabi, by themselves, agents or privies or whomsoever is claiming through them, from continuing to sell or dispose any asset (real or personal), belonging to the late former governor of Oyo state, Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala.

 

 

 

 

 

Toyin Alao-Aderinto,in a letter dated 16th August, 2023, signed by Dipo Olasope SAN., principal partner, Dipo Olasope and co., and addressed to the duo of Kemi Alao-Akala and Olamide Akala, had stated that the “Letter of Administration over the estate of the Late Alao-Akala was illegally obtained by the duo of Kemi and Olamide to the exclusion of Toyin, being the first child and who by law should be one of the administrators, except she decline to act”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

While Toyin, who is the first child of late Alao-Akala has been sidelined in the scheme of things, Olamide, her mother and two other siblings, including Olamiju Alao-Akala, who is a serving House of Reps member, Kemi, who was first lady during the tenure of Alao-Akala as Governor and her son, Olamikunle, are working in unison to appropriate the estate of the deceased among the six of them, thereby excluding other legitimate children of Alao-Akala from benefiting from the estate of their late father, according to the letter from the law firm of Dipo Olasope and co.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The letter also revealed that the defendants, Kemi Alao-Akala and Olamide Alao, after approaching the probate registry of the Oyo state high court, Ring Road, Ibadan to process the illegal Letter of Administration, without the consent of the Toyin who is the first child of the family, dealt wrongly and illegally with the assets of the deceased Alao-Akala.

 

 

 

 

 

A 21 days notice was issued to the defendants to amend the letter of Administration to accommodate Toyin and correct other anomalies therein, while another seven days notice was issued as required by law before the claimant approached the court to seek legal redress.

 

 

 

 

 

That the claimant, being the First Biological daughter of late Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala (deceased), is entitled to inherit and have equal share (if not more), in the estate of late Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala, who died intestate on the 12th of January, 2022.

 

 

 

 

A declaration that the defendants have no right whatsoever, to deny the claimant of her bon-fide right(s), interest and entitlement to the estate of late Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala.

 

 

 

A declaration that the letter of administration granted to the defendants by the Oyo state high court on the 6th day of October, 2022, in connection with late Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala’s estate was fraudulently and illegally obtained and therefore, illegal, null and void, among other reliefs sought from the court.