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The EFCC has arraigned Lexicon Media CEO Alex Ologbosele and two others for alleged N459 million fraud. Court adjourns bail ruling till May 2, 2025.

EFCC Arraigns Lexicon Media CEO for Alleged N459m Fraud, Court Remands Defendants in Kuje Prison

 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Osabohem Alex Ologbosele, the Chief Executive Officer of Lexicon Multiconcept Media Limited, alongside his company and staff member Augustine Osas Iyoha, before Justice E. Akpan of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

The three defendants face a six-count amended charge bordering on fraud, obtaining money under false pretense, and money laundering amounting to ₦459,050,000.

During the court session, EFCC counsel O.S. Ujam requested the court to substitute the initial charges filed on March 7, 2025, with an amended charge dated March 10, 2025, which the judge approved.

 

Details of the charges:

Count One: Ologbosele allegedly took possession of ₦340 million, transferred from the account of one Hope Onome Ogholemu, knowing the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity.

Count Two: Lexicon Multiconcept Media allegedly received ₦16 million from Ologbosele’s Kuda Bank account into its Moniepoint account, also suspected to be laundered funds.

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All defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Following the plea, Ujam requested an adjournment to allow the prosecution time to call witnesses. However, the defense counsel, Samuel Ogala, appealed for bail for all defendants, citing applications filed in March 2025.

Ujam opposed the bail, presenting a 17-paragraph affidavit detailing how the first defendant was arrested in November 2023, but failed to report back to the EFCC for several months until February 5, 2025, describing him as a flight risk.

Justice Akpan, after hearing both parties, adjourned the case to May 2, 2025, for a ruling on the bail applications and ordered the remand of all defendants in Kuje Correctional Facility.

President Tinubu declares “enough is enough” on killings in Nigeria, orders total security overhaul and collaboration with governors to restore peace.

Tinubu Orders Security Overhaul: ‘Enough is Enough,’ President Tells NSA, Service Chiefs

 

President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern directive to Nigeria’s security agencies, demanding an immediate and comprehensive overhaul of the country’s security strategy. In strong terms, the President declared “enough is enough” in response to recent killings across Borno, Benue, Plateau, and Kwara states.

The marching order was delivered during a high-level security meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday. The session was attended by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, alongside the heads of the armed forces, police, and intelligence services. Details of the meeting were shared via a statement by the President’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.

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Speaking to State House Correspondents after the meeting, Ribadu revealed that President Tinubu demanded a new, coordinated approach to national security, emphasizing grassroots collaboration.

“Mr. President gave us the opportunity to provide a full update. It was a very lengthy and detailed session,” Ribadu said. “He directed us to intensify efforts and to work more closely with local communities, local governments, and state governors.”

Ribadu stressed that Tinubu remained actively engaged with security developments even while on official visits abroad, including trips to Paris and London, during which he continued issuing instructions to security operatives.

“The President was visibly concerned. He said clearly ‘enough is enough.’ His directive is for us to restore peace and stability, no matter what it takes,” Ribadu said.

Security agencies have now been tasked with implementing new strategies at every level, including reinforcing coordination at the community level where many of the recent conflicts have flared.

This renewed commitment underscores Tinubu’s resolve to end Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges and safeguard citizens in every part of the country.

EFCC obtains court order to arrest six CBEX promoters over alleged $1bn crypto fraud. Platform blocked withdrawals after luring investors with fake returns.

BREAKING: EFCC Secures Court Order to Arrest CBEX Crypto Fraud Suspects Over Alleged $1 Billion Scam

 

A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) the authority to arrest and detain six promoters of Crypto Bridge Exchange (CBEX) over an alleged $1 billion cryptocurrency investment fraud.

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Justice Emeka Nwite issued the order on Thursday following an ex parte application filed by EFCC counsel Fadila Yusuf. The suspects are to remain in EFCC custody pending the conclusion of investigations and possible prosecution.

The individuals named in the arrest warrant include Adefowora Abiodun Olanipekun, Adefowora Oluwanisola, Emmanuel Uko, Seyi Oloyede, Avwerosuo Otorudo, and Chukwuebuka Ehirim. They are accused of operating CBEX through ST Technologies International Limited, a platform allegedly designed to exploit investors with promises of unrealistic 100% returns on crypto assets.

According to the EFCC, unsuspecting victims were encouraged to convert their digital currencies into stablecoins (USDT) and transfer them into wallets controlled by the suspects. Once over $1 billion had been collected, the platform became inaccessible, and investors were blocked from making withdrawals.

The anti-graft agency further disclosed that CBEX was never registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a key indicator that the operation was fraudulent from the outset.

The EFCC said the arrests are crucial to unraveling the full extent of the scam and securing justice for affected investors.

Senator Kawu Sumaila of Kano South has officially left the NNPP for the APC, ending weeks of speculation. He says his priority is serving his constituents better.

Kawu Sumaila Confirms Defection from NNPP to APC, Cites Constituents’ Welfare

Senator Kawu Sumaila, who represents the Kano South Senatorial District, has officially confirmed his defection from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The announcement, made through a statement posted on his official Facebook page on Wednesday, puts an end to growing speculation surrounding his political future.

Sumaila explained that his decision was driven by a deep commitment to the welfare of his constituents, which he described as his “first and most important priority.”

Suspected Locals Ambush Herders in Plateau: One Missing, Livestock Killed

“Yes, it is true the rumours regarding my defection are accurate,” the senator wrote. “All politics is local, and my primary concern has always been, and remains, the welfare of my immediate constituency. I am resolutely determined to advance the lives of my people, ensuring their needs are met and their future is secured.”

His move has sparked fresh speculation about the possible return of Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and former NNPP presidential candidate, to the APC.

Sumaila’s defection also follows a wave of high-profile political realignments, including the reported defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former PDP vice presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire PDP structure in Delta State to the ruling party.

These shifts are seen as signs of intensified political maneuvering ahead of future elections.

A herder is missing after suspected locals ambushed herders in Plateau’s Shen Mountain area. Livestock killed as police launch search and investigation.

Suspected Locals Ambush Herders in Plateau: One Missing, Livestock Killed

Authorities in Plateau State have confirmed an early morning ambush on herders in the Shen Mountain area, leading to the death of several animals and the disappearance of one herder.

According to the police, the attack occurred around 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday, when suspected local residents intercepted the herders as they moved their cattle through the mountainous terrain.

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The assailants reportedly killed two cows and three rams during the incident. One herder has been declared missing, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.

Upon receiving a distress call at about 7:30 a.m., the Divisional Police Officer in Bukuru deployed a patrol unit to the scene to prevent further violence and secure the area.

A search operation is currently underway for the missing individual, and a full investigation has been launched to identify those responsible for the ambush.

The Plateau State Police Command is urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing investigations, stressing the importance of community collaboration to maintain peace in the region.

Lagos State enforces a pregnancy ban for 2025 Hajj pilgrims, citing serious health risks. Advanced screenings and medical checks introduced to ensure compliance.

Lagos Bans Pregnant Women from 2025 Hajj Over Health and Safety Concerns

The Lagos State Government has announced a ban on pregnant women participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, citing significant health and safety concerns associated with the physically demanding journey.

Speaking in Badagry, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, confirmed that the decision aligns with a directive from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). He stressed that the pilgrimage conditions can pose serious risks to the health of expectant mothers and their unborn children.

Ramadan midnight prayer nafilah

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also weighed in, urging that only individuals deemed medically fit should embark on the spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia. To enforce this new policy, the state has introduced rigorous health screening protocols, including the deployment of mobile diagnostic vans capable of detecting pregnancies and other medical conditions.

This move is part of a broader strategy to ensure the safety of all pilgrims and minimize emergency health incidents during the Hajj. The Lagos State Government emphasized its commitment to safeguarding lives while supporting citizens in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Discover the major highlights from Minister Bayo Adelabu’s presentation on Nigeria Power Sector Reforms 2025—from market revenue growth to clean energy investments and national grid upgrades.

Nigeria Power Sector Reforms 2025: Minister Adelabu Outlines Bold New Roadmap at Press Briefing

At the 6th edition of the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series, held in Abuja on April 17, 2025, the Honorable Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, presented a sweeping update on the transformative strides in Nigeria’s energy sector. Hosted by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the event spotlighted key milestones and future plans under the current administration.

 

Fiscal and Policy Reforms

Minister Adelabu revealed three landmark blueprints: the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP), the Nigeria Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), and the Nigeria Power Sector Compact—frameworks designed to reshape the nation’s electricity landscape into a resilient and sustainable system.

He also announced the unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, separating it into Nigeria Independent Service Operators (NISO) and Transmission Service Providers (TSP). This reform is aimed at boosting transparency, governance, and investor confidence.

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A highlight was the N700 billion increase in market revenue, thanks to cost-reflective tariffs for Band A customers. This move helped reduce the electricity subsidy shortfall by N1 trillion from a projected N3 trillion to N1.94 trillion in 2024.

Further decentralization of the power sector is underway, with 11 states now having regulatory authority after the signing of the Electricity (Amendment) Act 2024 by President Tinubu.

The government also launched a Power Sector Debt Reduction Initiative, targeting the settlement of N2 trillion of the N4 trillion owed to GenCos by the end of 2025.

Minister Adelabu emphasized regulatory accountability, revealing that DisCos were fined over N600 million for various consumer violations, particularly overbilling.

 

Multilateral Investment & Electrification Access

In a bold move toward universal energy access, 75 million Nigerians are expected to gain electricity within five years, thanks to the $30 billion Mission 300 a joint initiative with the World Bank and AfDB.

The newly launched DARES project, a $750 million World Bank-funded program, aims to deliver solar energy to 17.5 million Nigerians through mini-grids, standalone systems, and technical support.

 

Energy Generation and Hydropower Projects

On March 2, 2025, Nigeria exceeded the 6,000MW power generation mark for the first time, reaching a historic 128,370MWh daily energy output two days later. Since Q3 2023, daily generation has grown by 1,600MW a 40% increase.

To harness hydropower potential, infrastructure upgrades are underway at Zungeru and Kashimbilla plants, while the long-stalled Kaduna Thermal Power Plant is being fast-tracked for completion by year-end.

A $500 million SPIN project, signed with the World Bank, will advance hydropower and irrigation, while studies are ongoing to tap wind and hydro resources along Nigeria’s major highway corridors.

 

Transmission and Grid Expansion

The national grid now boasts an operational capacity of 8,900MW, bolstered by 70 new transformers and major funding from the World Bank and AfDB.

N25 billion has been allocated in the 2025 budget for completing key transmission projects. The Presidential Power Initiative (Siemens Project) added 700MW during its pilot and is now moving into Phase 1, targeting a 7,000MW capacity increase.

Plans are also progressing to regionalize the national grid with Eastern and Western supergrids, to improve reliability and performance.

 

Distribution & Metering

The government has launched a Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI) to deploy 10 million smart meters by 2030. A Special Purpose Vehicle will deliver 1.1 million meters in 2025 and 2 million yearly thereafter.

Through the DISREP project, 1.3 million additional meters will be deployed by year-end, with 75,000 meters already delivered in April and 200,000 more expected in May. Meter test stations in Kano and Benin City are nearing full operation.

 

Renewables & Clean Energy Projects

The Energizing Education Programme has completed its first two phases, powering 37 federal universities and 7 teaching hospitals with 32MW of renewable energy.

New solar mini-grids have been launched in Plateau, Cross River, Niger, and Osun States, benefiting thousands of households.

Plans are underway for 100MW modular solar plants in all 19 Northern states, and a private-sector-led solar project targeting 1,000MW is in progress.

Additionally, the Ministry is planning a 1,000MW hydropower plant in Makurdi, further diversifying Nigeria’s renewable energy sources.

Minna Airport’s inaugural commercial flight marks a new era for North Central Nigeria. Discover how the newly revamped Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport is reshaping regional air travel.

Historic Takeoff: Minna Airport Launches First Commercial Flight After Major Upgrade

Today marked a remarkable milestone in Nigeria’s aviation history as the first commercial flight took off from the newly upgraded Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna. This historic journey to Abuja symbolizes not just a successful test flight, but a transformative leap forward for air travel in the North Central region.

NAF Restores Hope in Zamfara: Air Force Delivers on Promises to Dangebe Community

In a strategic move, it was also announced that Minna Airport has been officially designated as the alternative airport to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. This development is expected to ease air traffic and improve connectivity to the nation’s capital.

 

The rehabilitation of the airport was carried out under the leadership of the Bago administration, with its commissioning proudly performed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2024. The relaunch of commercial services today stands as a powerful testament to Governor Umar Bago’s vision for infrastructure development and President Tinubu’s strong backing of bold, subnational projects.

 

This achievement promises immense economic and logistical benefits for Niger State and the broader North Central zone, opening doors to greater mobility, tourism, and investment opportunities.

 

Prominent figures who witnessed this landmark event included former Niger State Governor Dr. Babangida Aliyu; the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi; and Overland Airways CEO, Mr. Edward Boyo.

 

The Nigerian Air Force fulfills promises to victims of Dangebe airstrike offering financial aid, rebuilding homes, and providing clean water in Zamfara.

 

NAF Restores Hope in Zamfara: Air Force Delivers on Promises to Dangebe Community

 

In a remarkable demonstration of accountability and compassion, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully fulfilled all commitments made to the victims of the tragic airstrike in Dangebe Village, Zamfara State.

Following the unfortunate incident on January 11, 2025, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, promptly visited the affected area. During his visit, he extended sincere condolences and assured residents of comprehensive, meaningful support.

Emerging Terrorist Group ‘Mahmuda’ Escalates Attacks in Kwara and Niger States

Today, those promises have become reality.

Full financial compensation has been provided to all affected families.

The damaged building has been fully reconstructed.

Two new motorcycles were donated to replace those destroyed.

A brand-new borehole has been drilled in nearby Kambarawa Village, granting access to clean water for hundreds.

 

These measures are part of the

NAF’s broader commitment to transparency,

 

A new terror group, Mahmuda, is intensifying attacks in Kwara and Niger States, raising security concerns despite official denial of its existence.

 

New Terrorist Group ‘Mahmuda’ Intensifies Violence Across Kwara and Niger States

A newly emerged armed group known as Mahmuda is rapidly intensifying violent attacks across various communities in Kwara and Niger States, raising major concerns about national security and intelligence lapses.

Residents in Baruten and Kaiama Local Government Areas of Kwara, and Borgu in Niger State, reported coordinated assaults by suspected Mahmuda fighters, resulting in multiple fatalities including four Fulani men, a vigilante, and a teenage boy who was struck by a stray bullet.

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The group reportedly struck trading spots and villages including Kemaanji, Nuku, Baabete, Tenebo, and Nanu, in what locals believe to be reprisal attacks against communities perceived to be collaborating with security forces. A similar attack in Kaiama reportedly claimed the life of another vigilante on the same day.

Despite public outcry and growing concerns, the Kwara State Police Command has denied both the existence of the Mahmuda group and claims that 15 vigilantes were killed in recent attacks. However, eyewitness accounts and local leaders offer a starkly different narrative.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq visited Kaiama alongside top military and intelligence officials, describing the situation as a coordinated reprisal by “non-state actors” against local vigilantes. He assured residents that efforts are underway to stabilize the region, particularly around Kainji Lake National Park, where Mahmuda is believed to have established a stronghold.

 

Origins of Mahmuda

The Mahmuda group is believed to have originated from Mokwa in Niger State, gradually establishing its presence in Kainji Lake National Park. According to residents, the group began as a religious movement offering sermons, which later evolved into a violent faction that recruits teenagers as fighters and informants. Some reports suggest that Mahmuda is a breakaway faction of Boko Haram with ideological links to extremist cells in Niger and Benin Republics.

 

Security Expert Reactions

Intelligence experts warn that Mahmuda’s growing influence reflects deeper gaps in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts. Critics question why intelligence agencies failed to detect the group’s emergence, calling for a strategic overhaul, including forest guard deployment and community-based intelligence.

Retired officials from the DSS and police have advised the federal government to form a national security committee composed of both serving and retired intelligence experts to develop a long-term strategy. They also highlight the need for socioeconomic investment in vulnerable communities to curb terrorist recruitment.

 

A Growing List of Threats

Nigeria is currently contending with at least five organized terrorist groups:

Boko Haram

ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province)

Lakurawa

Ansaru

Mahmuda

Each group poses a unique threat and requires tailored counter-insurgency strategies. Security analysts warn that unless immediate action is taken, the Mahmuda group could expand its footprint, threatening regional stability and deepening the security crisis in Nigeria.