By Adeyanju Esther

The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), on Monday arraigned a former Commissioner for Finance in the state, Ademola Banu, before Justice Evelyn Anyadike of the Federal High Court in Ilorin for corruption allegations.

Banu is facing charges of alleged money laundering and misappropriation of state funds totaling N1.22 billion during his tenure as commissioner for finance under the administration of Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, between May 2011 and May 2019.

The former commissioner was absent during his initial arraignment on February 23, prompting the court to issue a bench warrant against him. However, on the recent court date, both Banu and Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed were present.

During the court proceedings, Banu pleaded not guilty to the charges levelled against him. His legal counsel, Gboyega Oyewole, SAN, moved a motion for bail, citing Banu’s medical condition. The court granted him bail in the sum of N20 million with two sureties in like sum, who must possess landed property within the court’s jurisdiction. Additionally, Banu was required to deposit N5million as a bond into the litigation account of the Federal High Court.

Furthermore, the judge ordered Banu to surrender his international passport to the court and remain in the custody of the EFCC pending the fulfillment of his bail conditions.

The case has been adjourned to June 25 and 26, for trial, signifying a significant step forward in the fight against corruption in Kwara State.

In a tragic turn of events, a clash between members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, also known as Shiites, and the police in Kaduna State has resulted in the loss of lives and injuries.

The confrontation occurred as Shiite members gathered to observe the International Quds Day, a significant event in their calendar.

According to reports, tensions escalated when the police attempted to disperse the Shiite procession near the Katsina roundabout along Ahmadu Bello Way. The attempt to control the situation led to shots being fired, causing chaos and unrest among citizens and businesses in the area.

Professor Dauda Nalado, a member of the Islamic Movement, confirmed the death of at least four Shiite members and an unspecified number of injuries. He alleged that the police opened fire on the peaceful procession, triggering the violent clash.

The International Quds Day, established by the late global Islamic leader Imam Ruhullah Al-Musawi Al-Khomeini, aims to show solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine and condemn the actions of the Israeli government. The Shiite community, under the leadership of Ibraheem Ya’qoub El-Zakzaky, has been observing this day for decades in Nigeria.

This incident reignites tensions surrounding the Shiite movement’s support for the Palestinian cause, which has previously led to clashes and the infamous Zaria massacre in 2015.

By Adeyanju Esther

In a concerted effort to combat cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abuja Zonal Command, has made significant strides with the arrest of 13 individuals suspected of engaging in internet fraud.

The arrests took place in the Kubwa area of Abuja following actionable intelligence received by EFCC operatives.

According to reports, the suspects, consisting of 12 males and one female, were apprehended as part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on cybercriminal activities in the region.

The operation, which was meticulously planned and executed, targeted individuals believed to be involved in various forms of online-related crimes. During the raid, authorities seized a cache of electronic devices, including 12 phones and laptops, which are suspected to have been used in perpetrating fraudulent schemes.

 The recovery of these items serves as crucial evidence in the investigation process, shedding light on the extent of the suspects alleged involvement in internet fraud.

Speaking on the operation, a spokesperson for the EFCC emphasised the agency’s commitment to tackling cybercrime and safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s digital space.

The spokesperson reiterated the EFCC’s resolve to leave no stone unturned in its pursuit of justice and accountability for those involved in online-related offences. As investigations into the matter continue, the EFCC has announced its intention to charge the suspects to court upon the conclusion of inquiry.

This development underscores the agency’s proactive stance in combating cybercrime and sending a strong message to potential offenders that such illicit activities will not be tolerated.The EFCC has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious online activities to the appropriate authorities.

 By working together with law enforcement agencies, the public can play a pivotal role in curbing cybercrime and ensuring a safer digital environment for all.