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EFCC Arraigns CEO Over Alleged N16.8 Million Fraud in Enugu
By Francis Wilfred
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned the Chief Executive Officer of Ski Hi-Entertainment, Ifeanyichukwu Ogbu, before the Enugu State High Court over an alleged N16.8 million fraud involving the issuance of dud cheques. Ogbu was brought before Justice Vincent C. Ezeugwu of the Enugu State High Court sitting in Independence Layout, Enugu, on a three-count charge bordering on the issuance of dishonoured cheques amounting to N16,847,000.
According to the EFCC, the defendant allegedly issued cheques that were later returned unpaid due to insufficient funds in the account on which they were drawn. The anti-graft agency accused him of issuing the cheques with intent to defraud, an offence punishable under the Dishonoured Cheques (Offences) Act. One of the charges stated that Ogbu, trading under the name and style of Ski Hi-Entertainment, issued a Zenith Bank cheque dated August 9, 2024, in the sum of N5.53 million.
The commission alleged that when the cheque was presented for payment within the stipulated period, it was dishonoured because there were insufficient funds in the account. When the charges were read to him, Ogbu pleaded not guilty to all counts. Following the plea, counsel to the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE II) Michael Ikechukwu Ani, requested the court to fix a date for trial and remand the defendant in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service pending further proceedings.
However, defence counsel, Chikelu Anya, attempted to make an oral application for his client’s bail. The court declined to entertain the application, reminding counsel that it is a court of record and that such applications should be properly filed.Justice Ezeugwu subsequently adjourned the matter until July 16, 2026, for the hearing of the bail application. The court, however, released the defendant to his counsel with a directive that he must be produced in court on the next adjourned date.
The EFCC disclosed that the case stemmed from a petition by Oby Onwuakor, Sales and Front Office Manager of Ski Hi-Entertainment, acting on behalf of the company’s management. The petition alleged that Ogbu made accommodation reservations for members of three Nigerian Premier Football League clubs at a hotel.
According to the complainant, the teams accumulated bills totaling N17.42 million during their stay. Ogbu was said to have paid only N1 million and subsequently issued three cheques to settle the outstanding balance. The cheques were reportedly dishonoured upon presentation due to insufficient funds, prompting the petition and eventual investigation by the EFCC.
News
New NGO Launches in Uyo, Abuja, Makurdi to Drive Ethical Reorientation
By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
A new non-governmental organisation, the Social Engagement and Reorientation Initiative (SERI), has been officially launched in Akwa Ibom State, the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and Benue State, with a mission to promote ethical values, responsible citizenship, and attitudinal reorientation across Nigeria.
Speaking during the inauguration in Uyo on Monday, the Founder of SERI, Engr. Ekemini Amos, inducted more than 100 volunteers and described the event as a renewed call for young Nigerians to actively participate in nation-building through volunteerism.
Amos said although the organisation was established in 2019 to champion social, ethical, and attitudinal reform, its relaunch in Uyo, Abuja, and Makurdi marks a fresh commitment to addressing the country’s moral and social challenges.
According to him, the initiative was born out of a determination to confront the growing erosion of societal values.
“Our silence, our refusal to act in the face of eroding moral values, makes us complicit in the crisis. I did not come into this world to watch my nation decay. SERI was born out of that refusal,” he said.
The founder lamented the increasing prevalence of internet fraud, corruption, drug abuse, prostitution, reckless driving, environmental degradation, and other social vices, stressing that such behaviours should never become accepted as normal.
He said the organisation would focus on promoting integrity, civic responsibility, and ethical conduct through community engagement, mentorship programmes, and awareness campaigns targeted at schools, markets, and other public spaces.
“We will mentor young people and show them that there is dignity in hard work. We will remind Nigerians that a nation is built not only with infrastructure but also with character,” Amos stated.
He commended the volunteers and partners in Uyo, Abuja, and Makurdi for supporting the initiative, describing them as nation builders who had chosen action over indifference.
Delivering the keynote address titled “Building the Mindset of Nation Builders,” Dr. Reuben Etuk emphasised the importance of civic values and urged educational institutions to prioritise character development alongside academic excellence.
The event attracted several stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John; the Senior Special Assistant to the Akwa Ibom State Governor on Ethical Orientation, Dr. Osondu Ahirika; and the Senior Legislative Aide to the President of the Senate, Barr. Kemfon Neke, who also served as a lead discussant.
The organisation said it hopes to expand its activities nationwide as part of efforts to inspire positive behavioural change and strengthen civic responsibility among Nigerians.
News
ENGR. BELLO BABAYO BELLO FELICITATES VICE PRESIDENT KASHIM SHETTIMA ON RENOMINATION
Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, Executive Director (Networks) of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, on his renomination as the Vice Presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
In his message, Engr. Bello described the renomination as a beautiful affirmation of the Vice President’s enduring commitment to Nigeria’s unity, stability, and prosperity. He noted that Senator Shettima, himself a former Senator of the Federal Republic, has consistently embodied resilience, foresight, and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that continue to inspire confidence across the nation.
“This renomination is a shining testament to your unwavering dedication to the Nigerian people,” Engr. Bello stated. “It reflects the trust of the party and the citizens in your ability to guide our country toward greater progress, peace, and prosperity. Your leadership has been a beacon of hope, and this endorsement is richly deserved.”
Engr. Bello further emphasized that Senator Shettima’s political journey has been marked by courage and service. From his tenure as Governor of Borno State to his current role as Vice President, he has consistently championed initiatives that address national challenges, foster economic growth, and promote inclusive development.
As a leader in the power sector, Engr. Bello highlighted the importance of visionary leadership in driving infrastructure and energy reforms. He expressed confidence that Senator Shettima’s continued role in government will further strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to deliver reliable power, expand opportunities, and improve the quality of life for millions of citizens.
He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the Vice President wisdom, strength, and good health to continue serving the nation with distinction. “May Allah bless your efforts, guide your decisions, and grant you success as you carry forward the responsibility of leadership,” he added.
The message concluded with a reaffirmation of goodwill and support: “Congratulations once again, Your Excellency. We look forward to your continued contributions to the peace, progress, and prosperity of Nigeria.”
Signed:Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSEExecutive Director (Networks)Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC)
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Former Perm. Sec Ahmad Tijjani Abdullahi Commends Gov.Yusuf Over The Nomination Of Murtala Garo As Running Mate
By Jabiru Hassan
A former Permanent Secretary in Kano State, Malam Ahmad Tijjani Abdullahi, has commended His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, for nominating Hon. Murtala Sule Garo as his running mate for the 2027 general elections.
In a congratulatory message issued shortly after the announcement, Malam Ahmad Tijjani described the choice as “a bold and strategic decision” that reflects the Governor’s commitment to inclusive governance and the progress of Kano State.
According to him, “The nomination of His Excellency, Hon. Murtala Sule Garo as Deputy Governor is a clear demonstration that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is a true democrat whose policies and ideology are centered on the development of Kano State in this democratic dispensation..” He further stated: “I am confident that this partnership will bring real and positive changes to Kano politics.
Hon. Garo has the quality, experience, and determination to contribute his quota towards the progress of our dear state and its political landscape.” Malam Ahmad Tijjani expressed optimism that the people of Kano will continue to enjoy the dividends of democracy under the joint leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and Hon. Murtala Sule Garo.
He thanked the Governor for his visionary and people-oriented leadership, and congratulated Hon. Murtala Sule Garo on his nomination, praying that Allah grants them the wisdom and strength to deliver effective transformation for Kano State.
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