Saturday 17 May 2014
Nigerian Soldiers reluctant to fight
oldiers reluctant to fight – US GeneralMay 17, 2014by Kunle Falayi with agency report123 CommentsNigerian soldiers| credits: File copyThe United States has said that the Nigerian military is becoming afraid of engaging the Boko Haram insurgents.Testifying on Thursday before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the US Air Force Chief of staff, Gen. Mark Welsh III, said, “We’re now looking at a military force that is, quite frankly, becoming afraid toeven engage. The United States doesn’t have the capacity, the capability to go rescue every kidnapped person around the world.”TheNew York Timesreported that the US might choose to minimise its involvement in the search for the over 200 schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram due to doubts over Nigeria’s military capabilities.Saturday PUNCHlearnt that the US had questioned the ability of the Nigerian military to rescue the girls even with international help.The Pentagon’s Principal Director for African Affairs, Alice Friend, also said, “The Nigerian military has the same challenges with corruption that every other institution in Nigeria does. Much of the funding that goes to the Nigerian military is skimmed off the top, ifyou will.”US officials have also said that its involvement had also been made difficult because Nigerian officials ignored past warnings to soften brutal tactics that only fuelled the Boko Haram’s insurgency.At Thursday’s Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, officials condemned the kidnappings and committed American aid to help rescue the girls. But they also expressed frustration at Nigeria’s political and military leaders for failing to heed Washington’s warnings about the extremist group.“We have been urging Nigeria to reform its approach to Boko Haram,” Principal Deputy Assistant Secretaryof State for African Affairs, Robert Jackson, said.He added, “From our own difficult experiences in Afghanistan and Iraq, we know that turning the tide ofan insurgency requires more than force. The state must demonstrate to its citizens that it can protect them and offer them opportunity. When soldiers destroy towns, kill civilians and detain innocent people with impunity, mistrust takes root.”A retired Head of the US military’s Africa Command, Gen. Carter Ham, said, “My sense is that US Government will remain in a supporting role to Nigeria. I do not think the U.S.G. will seek unilateral action.”The size of the Sambisa Forest is also believed to make the search for the girls difficult.“We are basically searching for these girls in an area that’s roughly the size of West Virginia, so it’s a tough challenge, to be sure,” state Department spokesman, Marie Harf, said on Thursday.Copyright PUNCH.All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.Contact:editor@punchng.comMake N250,000 Every Month fro
Nigerian Soldiers reluctant to fight
oldiers reluctant to fight – US GeneralMay 17, 2014by Kunle Falayi with agency report123 CommentsNigerian soldiers| credits: File copyThe United States has said that the Nigerian military is becoming afraid of engaging the Boko Haram insurgents.Testifying on Thursday before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the US Air Force Chief of staff, Gen. Mark Welsh III, said, “We’re now looking at a military force that is, quite frankly, becoming afraid toeven engage. The United States doesn’t have the capacity, the capability to go rescue every kidnapped person around the world.”TheNew York Timesreported that the US might choose to minimise its involvement in the search for the over 200 schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram due to doubts over Nigeria’s military capabilities.Saturday PUNCHlearnt that the US had questioned the ability of the Nigerian military to rescue the girls even with international help.The Pentagon’s Principal Director for African Affairs, Alice Friend, also said, “The Nigerian military has the same challenges with corruption that every other institution in Nigeria does. Much of the funding that goes to the Nigerian military is skimmed off the top, ifyou will.”US officials have also said that its involvement had also been made difficult because Nigerian officials ignored past warnings to soften brutal tactics that only fuelled the Boko Haram’s insurgency.At Thursday’s Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, officials condemned the kidnappings and committed American aid to help rescue the girls. But they also expressed frustration at Nigeria’s political and military leaders for failing to heed Washington’s warnings about the extremist group.“We have been urging Nigeria to reform its approach to Boko Haram,” Principal Deputy Assistant Secretaryof State for African Affairs, Robert Jackson, said.He added, “From our own difficult experiences in Afghanistan and Iraq, we know that turning the tide ofan insurgency requires more than force. The state must demonstrate to its citizens that it can protect them and offer them opportunity. When soldiers destroy towns, kill civilians and detain innocent people with impunity, mistrust takes root.”A retired Head of the US military’s Africa Command, Gen. Carter Ham, said, “My sense is that US Government will remain in a supporting role to Nigeria. I do not think the U.S.G. will seek unilateral action.”The size of the Sambisa Forest is also believed to make the search for the girls difficult.“We are basically searching for these girls in an area that’s roughly the size of West Virginia, so it’s a tough challenge, to be sure,” state Department spokesman, Marie Harf, said on Thursday.Copyright PUNCH.All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.Contact:editor@punchng.comMake N250,000 Every Month fro
Wednesday 26 March 2014
Court declares FRSC’s new number plates illegal Ben Ezeamalu - 6 hours agoNATIONAL, NEWS T
Court declares FRSC’s new number plates illegal
Ben Ezeamalu - 6 hours agoNATIONAL, NEWS
The threat by the respondent to impound vehicles and arrest motorists who failed to comply with the October 1 deadline, is illegal, the court ruled.
The new number plates introduced by the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, is unconstitutional, a Federal High Court in Lagos said on Wednesday.
Delivering judgment in a suit filed by Emmanuel Ofoegbu, a lawyer, against the FRSC, the judge said that it was unlawful for the commission to impose the new number plates on Nigerians, where no existing law permitted it.
“The issue of redesigning new number plates by the respondent, is not covered under the provisions of any law in Nigeria,” said James Tsoho, the judge.
“The respondent (FRSC) cannot force Nigerians to acquire new plate numbers by impounding cars, without the backing of any legislation to that effect.
“I hold that the act of the respondent amounts to an arbitrary use of power, and is therefore illegal and unconstitutional.
“Judgment is therefore entered in favour of the plaintiff, and all the reliefs sought is hereby granted, I so hold,” the judge added.
Mr. Ofoegbu filed the suit on September 30, 2013, through a Human Rights Activists, Ogedi Ogu, challenging the power of the FRSC to impound vehicles of motorists who failed to acquire the new numbers.
Mr. Ofoegbu had sought a declaration that the threat by the FRSC to impound vehicles of motorists, who failed to acquire the new number plates, was invalid and unconstitutional.
In his statement of facts, the plaintiff averred that the old plate numbers were issued under the provisions of the National Road Traffic Regulations (NRTR) 2004.
He averred that the NRTR 2004, is a subsidiary legislation made under the FRSC Act, Laws of the Federation as revised in 2004.
According to the plaintiff, the NRTR 2012, in Regulations 230 (2), provides that “the revocation of the 2004 Regulations, shall not affect anything done, or purported to be done pursuant to that Regulation”
Mr. Ofoegbu stated that there is no law made in accordance with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which prohibits the use of the old plate numbers, or declares its use as an offence.
He also said that the threat by the respondent to impound vehicles and arrest motorists who failed to comply with the October 1 deadline, was a gross violation of the provisions of 36 (12) of the constitution which guarantees the rights of individuals.
He, therefore, urged the court to declare as unlawful, the threat by the respondent, to arrest motorists using the old plate numbers, because there is no law validly made in accordance with the constitution, prohibiting its user.
The applicant had also sought an order of injunction restraining the defendants from impounding vehicles or otherwise arresting or harassing motorists who failed to acquire the new plate number.
Ben Ezeamalu - 6 hours agoNATIONAL, NEWS
The threat by the respondent to impound vehicles and arrest motorists who failed to comply with the October 1 deadline, is illegal, the court ruled.
The new number plates introduced by the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, is unconstitutional, a Federal High Court in Lagos said on Wednesday.
Delivering judgment in a suit filed by Emmanuel Ofoegbu, a lawyer, against the FRSC, the judge said that it was unlawful for the commission to impose the new number plates on Nigerians, where no existing law permitted it.
“The issue of redesigning new number plates by the respondent, is not covered under the provisions of any law in Nigeria,” said James Tsoho, the judge.
“The respondent (FRSC) cannot force Nigerians to acquire new plate numbers by impounding cars, without the backing of any legislation to that effect.
“I hold that the act of the respondent amounts to an arbitrary use of power, and is therefore illegal and unconstitutional.
“Judgment is therefore entered in favour of the plaintiff, and all the reliefs sought is hereby granted, I so hold,” the judge added.
Mr. Ofoegbu filed the suit on September 30, 2013, through a Human Rights Activists, Ogedi Ogu, challenging the power of the FRSC to impound vehicles of motorists who failed to acquire the new numbers.
Mr. Ofoegbu had sought a declaration that the threat by the FRSC to impound vehicles of motorists, who failed to acquire the new number plates, was invalid and unconstitutional.
In his statement of facts, the plaintiff averred that the old plate numbers were issued under the provisions of the National Road Traffic Regulations (NRTR) 2004.
He averred that the NRTR 2004, is a subsidiary legislation made under the FRSC Act, Laws of the Federation as revised in 2004.
According to the plaintiff, the NRTR 2012, in Regulations 230 (2), provides that “the revocation of the 2004 Regulations, shall not affect anything done, or purported to be done pursuant to that Regulation”
Mr. Ofoegbu stated that there is no law made in accordance with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which prohibits the use of the old plate numbers, or declares its use as an offence.
He also said that the threat by the respondent to impound vehicles and arrest motorists who failed to comply with the October 1 deadline, was a gross violation of the provisions of 36 (12) of the constitution which guarantees the rights of individuals.
He, therefore, urged the court to declare as unlawful, the threat by the respondent, to arrest motorists using the old plate numbers, because there is no law validly made in accordance with the constitution, prohibiting its user.
The applicant had also sought an order of injunction restraining the defendants from impounding vehicles or otherwise arresting or harassing motorists who failed to acquire the new plate number.
Tension In Anambra State House Of Assembly As Members Battle To Replace The Speaker
All is not well with the Speaker, Anambra state House of
Assembly, Hon. Mrs. Chinwe Clara Nwaebili, as her colleagues prepare to
replace her.
Why? Is it because of her gender? No! That isn't the reason. The battle may not be unconnected with power rotation.
The Lawmakers have resolved to shortchange Speaker Nwaebili because the state Governor, Chief Willie Obiano who took over the mantle of leadership last week Monday is from her Zone. The speaker hails from Ogbaru local government area which incidentally falls at Anambra-North senatorial zone. Governor Obiano also hails from the zone. He is from Anambra East council area.
Similarly, APGA Party chairman, Chief Mike Kwento, Secretary to the state Government Sir Oseloka Obaze among others are also from the North, while the Chief Judge is from the Central, only Anambra South seemed to be mute in the state governmental affairs.
Recalled that Anambra state joined the leagues of people clamouring for power rotation despite been dominated by one ethnic nationality and language (Igbo). This began since the Former Governor, Chief Peter Obi called for Governorship position to be reserved for the North due to their inability to produce same since inception of the state.
www.okechukwuonuegbu.blogspot.com reliably gathered that members of the state House of Assembly from the South Senatorial district of the state are now scheming to take over the position of the speakership as they currently lack slot in the government.
According to our source, members of the House of Assembly from the South senatorial district held a meeting shortly after the change of leadership in the state last week and resolved that a prominent female lawmaker from the south zone should replace Mrs. Chinwe Nwebili as the speaker of the House.
Our source said 'yes, they can't take everything. The governor is from Anambra North zone, the deputy governor in from Anambra central zone. The Secretary to the state Government (SSG) is from Anambra North zone. And the south zone is with nothing. We can't be slaves in our land.
'So when next the House reconvenes we shall make our case to the House and ensure we change the leadership of the House to reflect the reality on ground'.
Reminded that at a time, former governor Obi and former speaker of the House of Assembly, Chief Anayo Nnebe were from the same Central senatorial zone, the lawmaker who would not want to be named now, said' that was then'.
He contended that Governor Obiano got mass support during his electioneering based on equity that the North senatorial zone should produce the next governor this time since they had not since the creation of the state in 1991.
He said 'he who goes to equity must go with clean hands. The south senatorial district should hold a major position in this state in this dispensation. That is what equity is all about.'
It was gathered that because of this development, the Anambra state House of Assembly has not been able to sit for upward of a month now apparently to avoid a crisis session.
But when contacted on phone, the press secretary to the speaker, Mr. Fidelis Nwakwesili, denied any plot to remove the speaker.
He said the House has not been able to sit because the generator that supplies electricity to the House broke down, adding that they would resume sitting as soon as possible; but information at our disposal says stakeholders in the state have waded into the matter with a view to ensuring that the proper thing is done.
Why? Is it because of her gender? No! That isn't the reason. The battle may not be unconnected with power rotation.
The Lawmakers have resolved to shortchange Speaker Nwaebili because the state Governor, Chief Willie Obiano who took over the mantle of leadership last week Monday is from her Zone. The speaker hails from Ogbaru local government area which incidentally falls at Anambra-North senatorial zone. Governor Obiano also hails from the zone. He is from Anambra East council area.
Similarly, APGA Party chairman, Chief Mike Kwento, Secretary to the state Government Sir Oseloka Obaze among others are also from the North, while the Chief Judge is from the Central, only Anambra South seemed to be mute in the state governmental affairs.
Recalled that Anambra state joined the leagues of people clamouring for power rotation despite been dominated by one ethnic nationality and language (Igbo). This began since the Former Governor, Chief Peter Obi called for Governorship position to be reserved for the North due to their inability to produce same since inception of the state.
www.okechukwuonuegbu.blogspot.com reliably gathered that members of the state House of Assembly from the South Senatorial district of the state are now scheming to take over the position of the speakership as they currently lack slot in the government.
According to our source, members of the House of Assembly from the South senatorial district held a meeting shortly after the change of leadership in the state last week and resolved that a prominent female lawmaker from the south zone should replace Mrs. Chinwe Nwebili as the speaker of the House.
Our source said 'yes, they can't take everything. The governor is from Anambra North zone, the deputy governor in from Anambra central zone. The Secretary to the state Government (SSG) is from Anambra North zone. And the south zone is with nothing. We can't be slaves in our land.
'So when next the House reconvenes we shall make our case to the House and ensure we change the leadership of the House to reflect the reality on ground'.
Reminded that at a time, former governor Obi and former speaker of the House of Assembly, Chief Anayo Nnebe were from the same Central senatorial zone, the lawmaker who would not want to be named now, said' that was then'.
He contended that Governor Obiano got mass support during his electioneering based on equity that the North senatorial zone should produce the next governor this time since they had not since the creation of the state in 1991.
He said 'he who goes to equity must go with clean hands. The south senatorial district should hold a major position in this state in this dispensation. That is what equity is all about.'
It was gathered that because of this development, the Anambra state House of Assembly has not been able to sit for upward of a month now apparently to avoid a crisis session.
But when contacted on phone, the press secretary to the speaker, Mr. Fidelis Nwakwesili, denied any plot to remove the speaker.
He said the House has not been able to sit because the generator that supplies electricity to the House broke down, adding that they would resume sitting as soon as possible; but information at our disposal says stakeholders in the state have waded into the matter with a view to ensuring that the proper thing is done.
Relief As Court Restrains EFCC, ICPC , Others From Arresting Justice Olotu
Temporary relief has come for embattled former Solicitor General and
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Edo State, Justice Gladys
Olotu, who is also a former Chief Registrar, High Court Directorate, Edo
State Judiciary as well as former Secretary, Edo State Judicial Service
Commission.
This is as a Federal High Court on Tuesday restrained the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) , the Director State Security Service (SSS), the Inspector General of Police, IGP and the Code of Conduct Bureau, CCB and others from arresting and detaining the embattled Judge who was recently sacked by NJC for gross misconduct.
Justice Adeniyi Ademola granted the order of injunction pending the determination of the suit Justice Olotu instituted challenging her forceful retirement from service by NJC.
After her sack, the embattled Judge had dragged NJC to the Abuja court, seeking a judicial review of her suspension, following which the court asked the parties to maintain the status quo.
She later approached the court for an order restraining the EFCC, ICPC, SSS, the Inspector General of Police, IGP and the Code of Conduct Bureau, CCB and others from arresting and detaining her pending the determination of the suit she instituted challenging her forceful retirement from service.
Justice Olotu, whose compulsory retirement from office for gross misconduct alongside an Abuja High Court judge, Justice U.
A Inyang, was announced by NJC on February 26, was soon invited by the EFCC and was grilled over some landed properties allegedly belonging to her The embattled Judge was recommended for compulsory retirement from office pursuant to the 'Findings' by the Council on the allegations contained in the petitions written against the judge wherein she was alleged to have failed to deliver judgment in a matter, only to deliver same in Suit No.
FHC/UY/250/2003, 18 months after the final address by all the counsel in the suit, contrary to the constitutional provisions that judgments should be delivered within a period of 90 days.
She was said, among other allegations, to have admitted before the Fact Finding Committee of the council that investigated the allegations that she forgot she had a pending ruling to deliver in an application for joinder.
In a motion exparte filed on her behalf by Mr.
Okey Obikeze before Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court, Abuja, she prayed the court to make an order directing the EFCC, ICPC, IGP, CCB as well as other defendants in the suit, to stay all actions or matters relating to or connected with the fact of the case, particularly, inviting, interrogating, harassing, arresting and detaining her, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.
Other defendants in the suit are Centre for Network Against Corruption, an NGO which had petitioned the anti graft agency alleging financial improprieties against Olotu, the Attorney General of the Federation, the NJC, Hon Justice S.
M.
A Belgore, Chief Gabriel Igbenedion, Ponticelli Nigeria Limited, Stolt Offshore Services S.
A, The Vessel M.
V Theo, the Owners of The Vessel M.
V Theo, Elf Nigeria Petroleum Ltd, ABC Maritime AG, The Vessel M.
V Lara and The Vessel M.
V Krysia.
Justice Olotu also sought leave of the court to serve court documents relating to the suit on Stolt Offshore Services S.
A out of jurisdiction at the company's headquarters in Middlesex, England, as well as to serve Vessel M.
V Theo, the Owners of The Vessel M.
V Theo, Elf Nigeria Petroleum Ltd, ABC Maritime AG, The Vessel M.
V Lara and The Vessel M.
V Krysia, in Switzerland where they are domiciled.
She also sought leave of court to serve court papers on Chief Gabriel Igbinedion at Maitama District Abuja home .
In her supporting affidavit, Justice Olotu averred that she had been receiving numerous threats of arrest and detention at the instance of the respondents and that already the EFCC had on March 18 , interrogated her from 10 am to 4pm at its office in Abuja and thereafter directed her to return on Tuesday, April 1.
She also stated that upon leaving the office of the anti graft agency, the agents of the other defendants started trailing her for the purpose of arresting and detaining her and that she could now hardly stay in her house for fear of the respondents.
Olotu further averred that it is very difficult to escape from them in the face of their numerical strength, awesome powers and connections as she pleaded with the court to grant her application which, she noted, would better serve the interest of justice.
Justice Ademola after hearing the motion, granted all the reliefs sought by Justice Olotu and adjourned further hearing on the substantive matter to April 2.
This is as a Federal High Court on Tuesday restrained the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) , the Director State Security Service (SSS), the Inspector General of Police, IGP and the Code of Conduct Bureau, CCB and others from arresting and detaining the embattled Judge who was recently sacked by NJC for gross misconduct.
Justice Adeniyi Ademola granted the order of injunction pending the determination of the suit Justice Olotu instituted challenging her forceful retirement from service by NJC.
After her sack, the embattled Judge had dragged NJC to the Abuja court, seeking a judicial review of her suspension, following which the court asked the parties to maintain the status quo.
She later approached the court for an order restraining the EFCC, ICPC, SSS, the Inspector General of Police, IGP and the Code of Conduct Bureau, CCB and others from arresting and detaining her pending the determination of the suit she instituted challenging her forceful retirement from service.
Justice Olotu, whose compulsory retirement from office for gross misconduct alongside an Abuja High Court judge, Justice U.
A Inyang, was announced by NJC on February 26, was soon invited by the EFCC and was grilled over some landed properties allegedly belonging to her The embattled Judge was recommended for compulsory retirement from office pursuant to the 'Findings' by the Council on the allegations contained in the petitions written against the judge wherein she was alleged to have failed to deliver judgment in a matter, only to deliver same in Suit No.
FHC/UY/250/2003, 18 months after the final address by all the counsel in the suit, contrary to the constitutional provisions that judgments should be delivered within a period of 90 days.
She was said, among other allegations, to have admitted before the Fact Finding Committee of the council that investigated the allegations that she forgot she had a pending ruling to deliver in an application for joinder.
In a motion exparte filed on her behalf by Mr.
Okey Obikeze before Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court, Abuja, she prayed the court to make an order directing the EFCC, ICPC, IGP, CCB as well as other defendants in the suit, to stay all actions or matters relating to or connected with the fact of the case, particularly, inviting, interrogating, harassing, arresting and detaining her, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.
Other defendants in the suit are Centre for Network Against Corruption, an NGO which had petitioned the anti graft agency alleging financial improprieties against Olotu, the Attorney General of the Federation, the NJC, Hon Justice S.
M.
A Belgore, Chief Gabriel Igbenedion, Ponticelli Nigeria Limited, Stolt Offshore Services S.
A, The Vessel M.
V Theo, the Owners of The Vessel M.
V Theo, Elf Nigeria Petroleum Ltd, ABC Maritime AG, The Vessel M.
V Lara and The Vessel M.
V Krysia.
Justice Olotu also sought leave of the court to serve court documents relating to the suit on Stolt Offshore Services S.
A out of jurisdiction at the company's headquarters in Middlesex, England, as well as to serve Vessel M.
V Theo, the Owners of The Vessel M.
V Theo, Elf Nigeria Petroleum Ltd, ABC Maritime AG, The Vessel M.
V Lara and The Vessel M.
V Krysia, in Switzerland where they are domiciled.
She also sought leave of court to serve court papers on Chief Gabriel Igbinedion at Maitama District Abuja home .
In her supporting affidavit, Justice Olotu averred that she had been receiving numerous threats of arrest and detention at the instance of the respondents and that already the EFCC had on March 18 , interrogated her from 10 am to 4pm at its office in Abuja and thereafter directed her to return on Tuesday, April 1.
She also stated that upon leaving the office of the anti graft agency, the agents of the other defendants started trailing her for the purpose of arresting and detaining her and that she could now hardly stay in her house for fear of the respondents.
Olotu further averred that it is very difficult to escape from them in the face of their numerical strength, awesome powers and connections as she pleaded with the court to grant her application which, she noted, would better serve the interest of justice.
Justice Ademola after hearing the motion, granted all the reliefs sought by Justice Olotu and adjourned further hearing on the substantive matter to April 2.
Tuesday 25 March 2014
Saraki Wanted For Alleged Money Laundering
The Special Fraud Unit (SFU) of the Nigeria Police may soon declare
former Governor Bukola Saraki wanted over what it called fresh facts
that confirmed that several millions of dollars were allegedly laundered
illegally into his private accounts.
In a counter affidavit deposed to by Jonah Wutu, a police officer attached to the Legal/Prosecution Section of the Force CID in Abuja, the police said that 'background investigation has shown that applicant (Bukola Saraki), Peter Osagiede, Sunday Iboroh, Kennedy Izuagbe, Toy in Pinhero, applicant's wife (Toyin Saraki) and so many companies were involved in laundering several and various sums of money in the excess of four billion naira.'
The police counter affidavit is in response to an affidavit earlier deposed to by Saraki and some of his hirelings who are asking the court to stop police from arresting or prosecuting him for alleged fraudulent conversion of public funds while in office.
The Police had on February 19, 2014 invited Saraki in connection with cases of 'conspiracy and money laundering.' The police letter has reference number CR.3000/X/SFU/ADM/BFC/Vol.17/2014.
Rather than honour the invitation, the former governor rushed to the court praying it to stop the police from arresting or prosecuting him in relation to the matter.
But in a counter affidavit dated March 12, the police urged the court to dismiss Saraki's application for enforcement of his fundamental right, insisting that the police - as a creation of the law - has every right to call in anyone for questioning.
The Police insisted that it has hard facts on how several millions of foreign currencies were allegedly wired into Saraki's domiciliary and Nigerian Naira accounts.
The police also accuse Saraki of using fictitious names to launder several million of dollars into the accounts of some companies owned by him.
'There are several unusual cash inflows into the dollar domiciliary account of Carlislie Properties and Investment Ltd by Polybags Industry (Nig) Ltd.,' according to the police affidavit.
It added that PolyBags industry made payments of between US$4,500 and US$10,000 eight (8) separate times on 24th August, 2010 amounting to $78,000.
Curiously, the police said, 'Polybags Industry NIg. has denied ever making such payments', raising suspicion that the name polybag was probably used as a fictitious name to launder the money.
Police said different individuals linked to Saraki, including one Abdul Adama, lodged unusually huge sums of money into his naira and dollar accounts. One of such accounts is identified as 003497479.
Police listed some of the transactions as follows :'On the 10th of May 2009, 18 separate lodgments of $10,000 were made by the said Abdul Adama, who also used the fictitious name of Garba Dare to make some of these lodgments the same date! It totalled US$180,000.00 in one day!
'There was also an unusual single inflow on 12th February, 2010 of the sum of $120,000 which was immediately converted to pound sterling and wired overseas through the applicant (Saraki)'s Pound Sterling Account.
'There was unusual single cash inflow on 15th February, 2010 of the sum of $US1,000,000.00 in one day! Same was also converted to pound sterling and wired overseas through British Pound Sterling account No. 441/441953/3/1/0.
'The converted dollars to pounds sterling ended up in the purchase of a real property in the United Kingdom.'
The Police also said there are 'so many other unusual heavy inflows into the applicant (Saraki)'s account that were usually wired overseas to fund applicant's American Express Card No. 374588216 836009.'
'All these lodgments made in favour of the applicants have necessitated his invitation,' the affidavit added.
All the money laundering were allegedly done through the defunct Intercontinental Bank - which collapse is partly being blamed on Saraki's clandestine takeover of the institution through his friend and suspended CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi.
Insisting that 'no criminal wants to be exposed' and that (Saraki) is trying frantically to stop the police from investigating him',the police urged the court to disregard Saraki's application for enforcement of his fundamental human rights.
Justice R.A. Muhammed of Court 7 (Abuja) will hear the matter on April 8.
In a counter affidavit deposed to by Jonah Wutu, a police officer attached to the Legal/Prosecution Section of the Force CID in Abuja, the police said that 'background investigation has shown that applicant (Bukola Saraki), Peter Osagiede, Sunday Iboroh, Kennedy Izuagbe, Toy in Pinhero, applicant's wife (Toyin Saraki) and so many companies were involved in laundering several and various sums of money in the excess of four billion naira.'
The police counter affidavit is in response to an affidavit earlier deposed to by Saraki and some of his hirelings who are asking the court to stop police from arresting or prosecuting him for alleged fraudulent conversion of public funds while in office.
The Police had on February 19, 2014 invited Saraki in connection with cases of 'conspiracy and money laundering.' The police letter has reference number CR.3000/X/SFU/ADM/BFC/Vol.17/2014.
Rather than honour the invitation, the former governor rushed to the court praying it to stop the police from arresting or prosecuting him in relation to the matter.
But in a counter affidavit dated March 12, the police urged the court to dismiss Saraki's application for enforcement of his fundamental right, insisting that the police - as a creation of the law - has every right to call in anyone for questioning.
The Police insisted that it has hard facts on how several millions of foreign currencies were allegedly wired into Saraki's domiciliary and Nigerian Naira accounts.
The police also accuse Saraki of using fictitious names to launder several million of dollars into the accounts of some companies owned by him.
'There are several unusual cash inflows into the dollar domiciliary account of Carlislie Properties and Investment Ltd by Polybags Industry (Nig) Ltd.,' according to the police affidavit.
It added that PolyBags industry made payments of between US$4,500 and US$10,000 eight (8) separate times on 24th August, 2010 amounting to $78,000.
Curiously, the police said, 'Polybags Industry NIg. has denied ever making such payments', raising suspicion that the name polybag was probably used as a fictitious name to launder the money.
Police said different individuals linked to Saraki, including one Abdul Adama, lodged unusually huge sums of money into his naira and dollar accounts. One of such accounts is identified as 003497479.
Police listed some of the transactions as follows :'On the 10th of May 2009, 18 separate lodgments of $10,000 were made by the said Abdul Adama, who also used the fictitious name of Garba Dare to make some of these lodgments the same date! It totalled US$180,000.00 in one day!
'There was also an unusual single inflow on 12th February, 2010 of the sum of $120,000 which was immediately converted to pound sterling and wired overseas through the applicant (Saraki)'s Pound Sterling Account.
'There was unusual single cash inflow on 15th February, 2010 of the sum of $US1,000,000.00 in one day! Same was also converted to pound sterling and wired overseas through British Pound Sterling account No. 441/441953/3/1/0.
'The converted dollars to pounds sterling ended up in the purchase of a real property in the United Kingdom.'
The Police also said there are 'so many other unusual heavy inflows into the applicant (Saraki)'s account that were usually wired overseas to fund applicant's American Express Card No. 374588216 836009.'
'All these lodgments made in favour of the applicants have necessitated his invitation,' the affidavit added.
All the money laundering were allegedly done through the defunct Intercontinental Bank - which collapse is partly being blamed on Saraki's clandestine takeover of the institution through his friend and suspended CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi.
Insisting that 'no criminal wants to be exposed' and that (Saraki) is trying frantically to stop the police from investigating him',the police urged the court to disregard Saraki's application for enforcement of his fundamental human rights.
Justice R.A. Muhammed of Court 7 (Abuja) will hear the matter on April 8.
Shekau, Boko Haram Leader Vows to Bomb University of Maiduguri in new Video Message
Leader of the Boko Haram Militant sect Abubaka Shekau has advised
authorities of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) to Shut down the
School or face deadly attack from his members.
Speaking in Hausa and Kanuri Languages and translated in English in a
new Video the Boko Haram Leader said western education will be vehemently
resisted by his group.
'And for your information, western education is forbidden. University is
forbidden, you should vacate university! You should leave university, I
hate university. You should quit university, I hate it, bastard.
'Western education is totally forbidden. Girls, you should return to your
homes. In Islam it is allowed to take infidel women as slaves and in due
course we will start taking women away and sell in the market.' Shekau
said.
He continued 'We give thanks to Allah. This the opening of my speech
regarding the battle that happened in Maiduguri, the military barracks
called Giwa Barracks. It has now turned to Pig Barracks or Dog Barracks or
Rat Barracks.
'We carried out the attacks in Maiduguri. This is a message from the
leader of Jama'atu Ahlissunah Lidda'awati Wal Jihad. We carried out the
attacks in Maiduguri as we were responsible for the other attacks being
carried out all over. The Giwa Barracks attack is worth narrating.
'Allah killed his enemies in Giwa Barracks. We launched the Maiduguri
attacks and killed infidels in Giwa Barracks.
'I will devote half of my speech to the issue of Civilian JTF. Your name
is not Civilian JTF but Civilian Trouble.
'You either flee, take up arms, join the army or policewhat I'm telling
you is that I have started a war against you. It is now that I have
started war against you. It has just begun
'There are only two groups of people in the world. There are either those
with us or those on the other side, which I'll kill once I spot them. This
is my only focus now.
'This is Shekau speaking. It is now that you will really know Shekau. You
don't know my madness, right? It is now that you will see. By Allah, I
will slaughter you. I'm not happy if I don't slit your throats. I'll
slaughter you, I'll slaughter you, I'll slaughter you.
'Allah said I should kill you wherever I see you. I call this speech Black
Book. I call on all my brethren wherever you are, to rise and take up arms
and start killing the vagabond. Killings, killings, killings! Now our
religion is killings, killings, killings!
'You should kill and slaughter but don't eat them. You should spare the
old, women, the lunatic, and the repentant.
'This is the message, it is a chaotic one, a messy one. It is Shekau
speaking.
'And we kill you in numbers, idiot. Who did you arrest? You claim you
arrested our brethren in the Giwa Barracks attack, you only succeeded in
arresting innocent civilians in the city, placing tyres on their necks and
setting them alight.
'By Allah, I will kill you. killing is my job. Let's kill them all, we'd
rather leave this world. Let the whole world perish! May Allah curse you!
'Oh! Allah, they are your servants but are they assisting (Goodluck)
Jonathan, they are your servants who pray but are jesting with the Koran,
they are your servants but are assisting Clinton and Obama.
'Allah gave us the courage to break into Giwa Barracks (where) we killed
and we burnt. We rescued over 2,000 of our brethren, and most of them
Commanders!One of them even took up a gun and started fighting there.
They all got away.
'Glory be to Allah. The world has changed! Work has started.
'We carried out the Maiduguri attack. And those you killed included
freed detainees who were not our members but ordinary people who on
being freed headed to town, think they were safe. They were dressed in
shorts and when you encountered them you mistook them for us and killed
them. This was what really happened.
'We rescued all of our brethren, we gave them clothing, shelter, vehicles,
food and all they needed.Our brethren are in good state, we thank God.
'You are in serious disaster in Nigeria. You call your self Biafra and
have carved out your own country, right? This is funny. You should lower
your flag because we are not the only ones we are fighting, not just Cross
Rivers, we are enemies to anyone that does not accept Islam in the whole
world.
'Don't think we are northerners, because you are giving the whole thing a
distorted interpretation. Let me make it crystal clear to you because you
are taking a lot pains making analyses in the newspapersa and the radio.
'We are not fighting the north, we are fighting the world. And you will
see us fighting the world. This is our job.
'We will kill all your (Muslim) clerics. I killed Albani and it was
splashed all over the newspapers. I'll kill them all. Who was Albani, he
was nothing. I'll kill all of them. I'll spare none but who follow Allah
and the Prophet. Whoever follows Jews and the west is my enemy.
'My brethren wherever you are, in Abuja, Lagos, or the south, wherever you
are, commence attacks. Even as an individual, take up your sabre and
slaughter anyone in his sleep you come across.
'My brethren, take up knives and start slaughtering people. Just pick up
your knife and break into homes and kill.
'You are talking about Jonathan, let Obama relocate to Nigeria and take
charge'.
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