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Alleged N110bn fraud: Yahaya Bello to appear in court today

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Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, is currently being detained at the holding facilities of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in Abuja.

Bello, who was declared wanted by the anti-graft agency in April over an alleged N110bn fraud, was finally grilled after all efforts to have him arrested and stand trial proved abortive.

Since filing the charges against the former Kogi governor, the commission has not been able to bring him to court for arraignment.

The commission had initially filed 19 charges against Bello, along with his nephews Ali Bello, Dauda Suliman and Abdulsalam Hudu for money laundering offences amounting to over N80bn.

But the charges were reduced to 16 on September 25, with the total sum allegedly laundered rising to over N110bn.

He, alongside other defendants, was alleged to have bought a total of 12 houses in various locations in Abuja with the money.

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The offences, the EFCC said, were contrary to Section 311 of Penal Code Law Cap 89 Laws of Northern Nigeria, 1963 and Punishable under Section 312 of the same Law.

To stop his arraignment, Bello had filed an application before Justice Emeka Nwite, which the judge rejected on July 17.

Displeased with the ruling, Bello approached the Court of Appeal but was overruled.

A three-member panel led by Hamma Barka on August 20 dismissed the appeals filed by Bello and ordered him to surrender himself for trial.

He was also unsuccessful with his move for the transfer of his trial from the Abuja division of the Federal High Court to the Lokoja division.

Also, efforts by the commission to arrest Bello were allegedly prevented by his successor, Usman Ododo.

In April, Ododo reportedly facilitated Bello’s escape from EFCC operatives during a raid on his residence in Abuja.

In April, the EFCC had declared Bello wanted after he reportedly shunned a series of invitations and resisted arrest.

EFCC officials had stormed Bello’s residence in Abuja to arrest him, but there was a stalemate.

After hours of being unable to secure their mission, the security operatives reinforced with backup support from the Police and Department of State Services.

They were planning to forcefully arrest Bello when Governor Ododo, Bello’s successor, arrived at the scene.

Ododo, who drove into Bello’s compound, departed after a while.

However, as he was leaving, reports filtered in that Bello was in his vehicle, forcing security operatives, who had been on standby for hours, to allegedly open fire.

Also, in September, Bello reportedly evaded arrest by the anti-graft agency with the assistance of his successor, Ododo.

The September incident was after Bello and Ododo went to the EFCC headquarters.

While the media team of the former Kogi State governor insisted that he was at the facility of the EFCC, the anti-graft agency’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, insisted that Bello remained wanted.

But Bello’s team, led by its Director, Ohiare Michael, said Bello was at the EFCC office alongside his successor, Usman Ododo, but was not interrogated by the commission and was told he could leave.

“Earlier today (September 18), we reported the voluntary visit of former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission office to honour the Commission’s invitation.

“In the statement, we reiterated the former Governor’s great respect for the rule of law and constituted authority and stressed that all the while, he only sought the enforcement of his fundamental rights to ensure due process,” the statement partly read.

At the last hearing on November 14, the EFCC had sought for adjournment till November 27 in the fresh case it instituted against Bello, saying that the 30 days window was still running for the summons earlier issued.

Justice Maryanne Anenih of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, sitting in Maitama, Abuja, had issued a public summons on October 3, requiring the former governor to appear before the court to face a fresh 16-count charge brought against him and two others by the EFCC.

In the case marked FCT/HC/CR/778/24, the former governor was accused of criminal breach of trust involving the sum of N110,446,470,089, among other charges, alongside Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu.

Bello was ordered to appear before the court on October 24, but he failed to. The court subsequently extended the summons to November 14.

At the last adjourned date in the matter before Justice Anenih, Bello was given till November 27 or would be arraigned in absentia.

The court issued a public summon for Bello to appear before it to answer the 16 new charges pending against him.

Justice Anenih issued the summons after the EFCC filed an application claiming inability to serve Bello with the charge filed on September 24.

EFCC counsel Jamiu Agoro informed the court that the 30-day duration of the public summons issued against the former governor would lapse on November 17. He clarified that the summons was still valid.

Agoro argued that it would be inappropriate to take the plea of the defendants while the summons remained in effect. He added that the former governor was expected to appear at the next adjourned date, failing which the prosecution would take appropriate action.

Agoro also requested the court to extend the time within which Bello must appear and to issue an order for the hearing notice to be pasted at his last known address, Number 9, Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

Justice Anenih subsequently adjourned the case to November 27 (today).

On Tuesday, multiple EFCC sources told The PUNCH that Bello had been arrested by the anti-graft agency in Abuja.

One of the sources, a top EFCC official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not permitted to speak on the issue, said the Chief Security Officer of the commission arrested Bello.

“He was arrested by our CSO. He was taken in around 12:59 pm. He later brought three of his lawyers,” the source said.

The source added that Bello was interrogated by investigators on the allegations against him for hours.

“He is being held at our detention facility after he was interrogated over the allegations against him for hours. The interrogation will still continue.”

Meanwhile, it was learnt that barring any unforeseen circumstances, the EFCC would arraign the former Kogi governor on Wednesday (today).

Another top source in the commission told our correspondent, “Definitely he will be at the FCT High Court tomorrow (today). Having evaded proceedings since the commencement of his trial, his arrest has presented us an opportunity to finally arraign him. I can assure you that he will have his day in court on Wednesday (today).”

EFCC’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, could not be reached as of the time of filing this report.

Also, the Director of Yahaya Bello’s media office, Michael Ohaire, did not pick up several calls to his number and was yet to respond to the message sent to his line as of the time of filing this report. (PUNCH)

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Terror attack rumour: UNN beefs up security on Nsukka Campus, bans okada riders

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The management of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has assured staff, students and parents of adequate security on campus, dismissing as false and unsubstantiated reports circulating on social media about an alleged impending terrorist attack and mass abduction of students.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Public Relations Officer of the university, Mr. Inya Agha Egwu, the institution said there was no credible security intelligence or verified threat supporting the claims contained in the viral social media post.

The university, however, disclosed that it had adopted additional precautionary measures to further strengthen security across the Nsukka campus.

According to the statement, personnel of the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Army have been deployed to strategic entry points within the university to complement the efforts of the institution’s security unit.

Management also announced the temporary closure of some access gates to the campus to enhance monitoring and regulation of movement into and out of the university.

As part of the new security measures, motorcycle operations within the campus have been suspended with immediate effect. Only motorcycles belonging to authorised security personnel will be allowed beyond the university gates.

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Staff members who use motorcycles for transportation have been advised to park them at designated locations outside the campus before proceeding to their offices.

The university urged members of the academic community to remain calm and continue their normal activities without fear, stressing that there was no known security threat to the institution.

It also cautioned against the spread of unverified information capable of causing unnecessary panic and anxiety among students, staff and the general public.
While reiterating its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for teaching, learning and research, the management encouraged students and staff to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movement or activity to the University Security Department or relevant security agencies.

“Security is a collective responsibility, and the cooperation of all staff, students and stakeholders is essential in maintaining the peaceful and secure environment for which the University of Nigeria is known,” the statement said.

The university further advised the public to treat anonymous social media posts and unverified online messages with caution, particularly those containing sensational claims intended to generate fear and uncertainty.

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How police rescued Adelabu’s sister and her twin sons in kidnappers’ den (Video)

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The rescued victims
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A video circulating online has shown the moment operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) rescued the abducted sister of the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, from suspected kidnappers in Oyo State.

The footage captured heavily armed operatives storming a suspected hideout where the victims were allegedly being held after spending several days in captivity.

In the video, a suspected kidnapper was seen attempting to evade arrest by hiding inside the ceiling of the building.

However, police operatives discovered his location during the raid and brought him down before securing the premises.

It was gathered that during the operation, two suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded during a gun battle with security personnel, while several others escaped with gunshot

The victims were subsequently rescued unharmed and evacuated from the scene.

Police confirm rescue operation

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Confirming the development, the Force Public Relations Officer, DSP Anthony Placid, said the victims were rescued during a coordinated operation by the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT).

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In a statement issued late Saturday, Placid said the rescue followed days of intensive intelligence gathering and surveillance.

“The Nigeria Police Force announces the successful rescue of Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, who were abducted on June 3, 2026, in Ibadan, Oyo State,” he said.

According to the police spokesperson, the operation took place at about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 6.

“The hostages were rescued during a coordinated operation by the Force Intelligence Department Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) in Ibadan at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026.”

Placid explained that the victims were kidnapped while Mrs. Adegoke was driving her children to school on the morning of June 3.

“Mrs. Adegoke and her children were abducted while she was driving them to school at about 7:30 a.m. on June 3, 2026.”

Two suspects killed, Rifles recovered

The police said intelligence-driven operations enabled investigators to track the movements of the kidnappers and locate their hideout.

“The rescue was achieved through sustained intelligence gathering, surveillance, and tactical operations. These efforts enabled investigators to track the kidnappers’ movements, resulting in a confrontation with FID-IRT operatives.”

During the confrontation, two suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded.

“During the confrontation, two suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded and two rifles were recovered. The victims were rescued unharmed and are now in safe custody, receiving medical care and support.”

The police added that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other members of the kidnapping syndicate who fled during the operation.

“Security operatives have intensified efforts in the area to apprehend fleeing members of the kidnapping syndicate. Preliminary intelligence indicates that some suspects escaped with gunshot injuries. Operations are ongoing to track, arrest, and bring all involved to justice.”

Family Thanks Tinubu, Makinde, Security Agencies

Meanwhile, the family of Chief Adebayo Adelabu confirmed the safe rescue of the victims and expressed gratitude to Nigerians, security agencies, and government officials for their support throughout the ordeal.

In a statement signed by Adelabu’s media aide, Comrade Femi Awogboro, the family described the rescue as a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated security efforts.

“We are delighted to announce that the victims have been rescued safely and are in good condition.”

“This outcome is a testament to the power of collective action, unwavering commitment, and the resilience of our security institutions when adequately supported by citizens and government at all levels.”

The family also thanked President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Oyo State Police Command, and other stakeholders for their intervention.

Rescue Comes Amid Security Concerns in Oyo

The successful operation comes at a time of heightened security concerns in Oyo State following the abduction of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

About 39 pupils and seven teachers were kidnapped during attacks on schools in the area on May 15, sparking public outrage and protests by education stakeholders and civil society groups.

While celebrating the release of Adelabu’s sister and her children, the family said its thoughts remained with other victims still being held captive across the country.

“This experience has once again demonstrated that insecurity is a challenge that transcends partisan politics, ethnicity, religion and social status. Together, we can build a nation where every citizen feels safe, protected and free to pursue legitimate aspirations without fear.”

The police have assured residents that operations are continuing to dismantle the remaining members of the kidnapping network and bring all those involved to justice.

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ESUT lecturer breaks down in tears as students surprise her with gifts (Video)

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The students with the female lecturer
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An emotional moment unfolded at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) when a female lecturer was brought to tears after her students surprised her with gifts in appreciation of her dedication and impact on their academic journey.

The surprise took place during a lecture session as students presented the lecturer with several gifts, including wrappers, packs of bottled water, a black handbag, household items and other wrapped presents.

Overwhelmed by the gesture, the lecturer became emotional as the students celebrated and applauded her for the positive role she has played in their lives.

Reacting one @nwaeze5056 said, “That’s my lecturer y’all ❤️❤️🤭…the best mother to us ..so kind and looking out for us..she deserves moreeee good things❤️.”

ekeneudemadu wrote, “This method of appreciation is therapeutic and relieving. 👏.”

ak_aifyscollection remarked, “I bought my lecturer a Gold chain n pendant the day I graduated n she cried heavily!! That woman really helped me in life though she later died a yr after we graduated !May her soul continue to rest in peace amen !!!i missed my final day exam n it was her course,that woman gave me a “B” n said her mind told her that I was under an attack for me to wake up n not rember it was my final day exams😭😭😭😭😭I cried heavily that day.”

 

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mumboiz1 noted, “Her children must be proud of her, unlike those Mamas wey dey follow Tinubu dey campaign.. 😀.”

 

abikefabricsng added. “She is indeed a good mother. She still dips her hand in the purse to give them money . God bless her good heart.”

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