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OGHA 2027: Okiki Olundegun Dismisses Smear Campaign, Reaffirms Commitment to Ado-Odo/Ota Constituency 1

Politics

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June 17, 2025

Okiki Olundegun has consistently demonstrated integrity, capacity, and a passion for grassroots development throughout his political and professional journey

OGHA 2027: Okiki Olundegun Dismisses Smear Campaign, Reaffirms Commitment to Ado-Odo/Ota Constituency 1

The campaign team of Okiki Olundegun, a leading aspirant for the Ogun State House of Assembly representing Ado-Odo/Ota State Constituency 1, has denounced a recent publication accusing the candidate of being unfit for public office, labeling the report as “baseless and politically motivated.”

The statement, signed by the Campaign Media Team and dated June 17, 2025, was issued in response to an article titled “Why Okiki Olundegun Should Not Be Trusted As Lawmaker From Ado-Odo/Ota State Constituency – Investigation”, allegedly authored by Mr. Malik Ibitoye.

Describing the article as a “smear campaign,” the team said the publication is “nothing but a baseless, politically-motivated attack aimed at maligning the person and character of Mr. Okiki Olundegun.”

“This desperate attempt to mislead the public only reflects the fear of certain individuals who recognize Mr. Olundegun’s rising popularity, his competence, and his unwavering commitment to serve the good people of Ado-Odo/Ota,” the statement reads.

They asserted that Okiki Olundegun has consistently demonstrated integrity, capacity, and a passion for grassroots development throughout his political and professional journey.

According to the statement, “His long-standing engagement with the community, active participation in youth empowerment, education, health initiatives, and infrastructure advocacy are well documented and deeply appreciated by numerous constituents.”

Reacting to the use of unnamed sources in the publication, the campaign team said: “It is unfortunate that anonymous sources and politically compromised voices have chosen to distort facts to serve their narrow interests.”

“We challenge Mr. Malik or any group of persons with genuine concerns to come forward with verifiable evidence rather than hide behind anonymity and unfounded claims,” the statement added.

Olundegun’s team reiterated that he remains undeterred and is focused on providing “purposeful, people-centered representation anchored on transparency, accountability, and inclusive development.”

They concluded by calling on the media and public to be vigilant as the 2027 elections approach, urging voters to assess candidates based on proven records rather than politically orchestrated attacks.

“The people of Ado-Odo/Ota deserve leaders who are focused on solutions, not individuals who engage in divisive politics of character assassination,” the team stated. Read More

Of Political Judases and Hidden Hands: Exposing Dapo Abiodun’s Media Aide Ghost War | By Ayo Mojoyin

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June 17, 2025

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Why hide behind pen names and shadow identities to spew venom against Senator Gbenga Daniel and other perceived opponents?

Of Political Judases and Hidden Hands: Exposing Dapo Abiodun’s Media Aide Ghost War | By Ayo Mojoyin

In the unfolding political theatre of Ogun State, one thing has become abundantly clear; fear is the fuel driving the attacks from the Governor Dapo Abiodun’s camp.

And nowhere is this more glaring than in the now-infamous piece titled “The Onslaught on Dapo Abiodun by Political Judases”, credited to one Funmi Branco; a name that, as insiders have revealed, is nothing more than a pseudonym for Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Media to the outgoing governor.

Let’s be clear. This is not just another political spat.

This is a desperate attempt by a drowning administration to rewrite history, deflect responsibility, and paint its critics as traitors; all while hiding behind false identities.

Cowardice of a Pseudonym

First, to the identity crisis.

The name “Funmi Branco” does not belong to any known journalist or analyst of note.

Multiple sources close to the governor’s communications team confirm that Akinmade has been operating a network of pseudonyms; including this latest one, to defend his principal while evading public accountability.

If the outgoing governor’s performance truly speaks for itself, why does his own media adviser lack the courage to stand by his words?

Why hide behind pen names and shadow identities to spew venom against Senator Gbenga Daniel and other perceived opponents?

The truth is simple; Akinmade doesn’t believe in the man he serves enough to put his own name. That is not loyalty but cowardice.

The Lies They Tell

The Branco/Akinmade essay drips with the bitterness of a crumbling political empire.

It accuses Otunba Daniel’s loyalists of orchestrating a smear campaign against the outgoing governor, calling them “political Judases.” Yet it is Akinmade and his ilk that are truly guilty of betrayal; betrayal of truth, betrayal of public trust, and betrayal of the most basic principles of transparency.

In a pathetic attempt at revisionist history, the piece claims that OGD, as he is fondly called, had no role in Abiodun’s 2019 victory.

It tries to rewrite the facts, conveniently ignoring OGD’s symbolic gesture of raising Abiodun’s hand just days before the election; a unifying act that helped calm tensions and consolidate votes in Ogun East.

They want us to forget that Dapo Abiodun was surrounded by internal enemies within his party and needed every ounce of political goodwill he could muster, including Otunba Daniel’s.

Real History, Not Propaganda

Let’s go back.

In 2002, Abiodun and Otunba Daniel were both vying for the Peoples Democratic Party’s gubernatorial ticket. When OGD emerged as the party’s choice, he settled Abiodun with chairman of Ogun State Oil & Gas Committee, where he derived tremendous advantage to develop his fuel station business.

So many things happened then; but that’s a story for another day.

Fast-forward to 2019.

Otunba Gbenga Daniel had just concluded his service as PDP’s presidential campaign coordinator. Yes, he joined the APC shortly before the elections; a most welcome tactical move as he returns to his political base as a progressive, but his influence in Ogun East played a quiet, stabilizing role.

For outgoing Abiodun to now sponsor attacks against Otunba Daniel is not just disingenuous; it is disgraceful.

And what of Daniel’s so-called entitlement?

Akinmade wants us to believe that Otunba Gbenga Daniel wants to rule from the shadows. But it was Abiodun who freely appointed OGD’s associates into key positions; Hon. Lai Taiwo, Otunba Fatai Sowemimo, Akeem Adesina, Princess Ogunde, and more.

If these men and women are now seen as threats, it says more about Abiodun’s insecurity than Daniel’s ambition.

Or those he appointed with subtle threats that they must distance themselves from OGD. How many of such are still with him. Is Otunba Fatai Sowemimo still with him?

Did they not part ways because the experienced politician choose to align with Otunba Gbenga Daniel? Time will tell.

The Real Political Judas

It is also laughable that Akinmade, under his ghost name, would accuse OGD of betrayal.

This from the same government that benefited from Otunba Daniel’s support, only to later refuse to support his senatorial ambition until pressured by traditional rulers.

Now, the outgoing governor’s team, afraid that Abiodun may want to vie for the senate seat in 2027, are confused on how to prepare the grounds for him.

The Branco piece betrays this fear openly, suggesting that the governor harbours “burning ambition” for the senate.

Beyond OGD: A Trail of Bitterness

But Otunba Daniel is not the only one in the governor’s crosshairs.

Why was Abiodun at war over the appointment of Minister Ishaq Salako? Simply because he was perceived to be OGD’s person.

All Hail the Spendthrift Outgoing Governor

The earlier Abiodun’s handlers accept that their boss is now the outgoing governor, the better for them. Because what Ogun State needs is not ghostwritten arrogance; it needs reflection, honesty, and humility.

Eleyi of Ogun State, no amount of pseudonyms or media ambushes will save you from the reckoning of 2027. You cannot deceive all the people all the time; and certainly not when your own team has already started the countdown to your exit.

You betrayed Otunba Daniel. You’ve abandoned Yayi. You’ve disrespected Amosun. And now, even your commissioners are watching the clock. The silent majority within your administration know the truth: the governor is dancing alone, and the music is almost over.

So go ahead, outgoing Governor Abiodun. Wear the finest agbada. Take a few more private jets. Spin a few more ghostwritten tales. But remember this:

History does not remember the loudest voices; it remembers the boldest truths.

And the truth is, you are now the spendthrift, isolated, and fast-fading outgoing governor of Ogun State. Read More

Rep Tunji Akinosi Tasks Journalists on Ethics, Reveals ₦1bn Constituency Intervention Plan

Politics

Lukman Omikunle

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June 17, 2025

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Rep Tunji Akinosi Tasks Journalists on Ethics, Reveals ₦1bn Constituency Intervention Plan

“We had to prioritise within the available resources. While we continue to lobby for more funding for road infrastructure”

Hon. Tunji Akinosi, member, Federal House of Representatives

By Lukman Omikunle

Rep Tunji Akinosi Tasks Journalists on Ethics, Reveals ₦1bn Constituency Intervention Plan

Federal lawmaker representing Ado-Odo/Otta Federal Constituency, Hon. Tunji Akinosi, has called on journalists to uphold truth and professionalism in their reportage, stressing the need for balance, accuracy, and ethical standards in an era where social media misinformation is on the rise.

Akinosi made the appeal on Monday during a courtesy visit by the Ado-Odo/Ota chapter of the Independent Online Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, at his constituency office in Ota. The visit is part of the chapel’s ongoing familiarisation tour to stakeholders across Ogun West Senatorial District.

Led by its Chairman, Comrade Kayode Taiwo, the delegation reiterated their commitment to responsible journalism and expressed their desire to collaborate with all stakeholders to promote developmental reporting.

Taiwo decried the growing menace of unregulated online platforms posing as news media, stating: “There’s a big difference between trained journalists and individuals who hide behind social media handles to mislead the public. These bloggers, many of whom failed in other professions, have sadly eroded public trust and misinformed the society.”

He assured the lawmaker that the union is here to stay,“We will be fair to all, but we will do our job professionally and without bias.”

In response, Hon. Akinosi welcomed the initiative and emphasised the importance of grassroots media in nation-building.

Hon. Akinosi 5th from left flanked by members of Ado-Odo/Ota chapter of the Independent Online Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council

He said, “True development starts with local synergy. With your presence here, I believe constituents will get to hear the true stories of our work at the National Assembly.”

However, he strongly urged journalists to avoid sensationalism and to always verify facts before publication.

“There was a time I was falsely accused by a blogger over an incident with a street hawker. The story was entirely fabricated for traffic. That’s not journalism—it’s cyberbullying,” he recounted.

“I’m not against criticism. But let it be factual. Journalists must ask questions, verify stories from all sides before publishing. A good reputation, built over decades, shouldn’t be destroyed by one careless post,” he said

He also warned that new laws on cyberbullying are now in effect, with stiff penalties for defamation and character assassination.

“There are legal consequences for digital defamation. People need to understand that freedom of expression comes with responsibility,” the federal lawmaker stated.

On constituency development, Hon. Akinosi provided updates on ongoing efforts to address critical infrastructure challenges, particularly road repairs and education.

“Ado-Odo/Otta is one of the largest federal constituencies in the country. About 80% of its roads fall under federal jurisdiction, making it difficult for state or local authorities to handle alone.”

While acknowledging the long-standing issues around federal roads such as the Ota-Idiroko expressway, he explained why efforts have shifted to other urgent needs within the limits of federal allocations.

He revealed that the zonal intervention fund for Ado-Odo/Otta has now increased to ₦1 billion, allocated as follows: ₦700 million assigned for rehabilitation and upgrade of public schools, ₦200 million for solar-powered street lighting across dark spots and ₦100 million to support agriculture and boost local food production.

He said, “We had to prioritise within the available resources. While we continue to lobby for more funding for road infrastructure, we are also addressing key sectors like education, safety, and food security.”

Hon. Akinosi assured constituents that advocacy efforts for full rehabilitation of major federal roads remain ongoing, with positive responses already being received from relevant ministries and agencies.

“We’re pushing hard for more interventions. With sustained effort, the roads will eventually receive more attention they deserve from both the federal and state governments,” the federal lawmaker said

The visit concluded with mutual assurances of collaboration between the lawmaker and the NUJ Independent Online Chapel to foster transparency, accountability, and community development through credible journalism. Read More

Dangote Refinery Rolls Out Transport-Free Deliveries of PMS, Diesel, Aviation Fuel Nationwide

Lukman Omikunle

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June 16, 2025

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“It will break the monopoly of powerful middlemen, including tanker drivers, who have in the past even held the NNPCL and others to ransom”

Dangote Refinery Rolls Out Transport-Free Deliveries of PMS, Diesel, Aviation Fuel Nationwide

…Analysts say the initiative will reduce inflation and create jobs

A recent initiative by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which includes the distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel to marketers, petrol dealers, manufacturers, telecommunications companies, the aviation sector, and other large-scale users across the country, with free logistics support to enhance the distribution network, has the potential to reduce inflation, create employment opportunities, and lower the prices of petroleum products.

Experts said that the refinery’s decision to deploy 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers could also dismantle the monopoly held by intermediaries and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Dr Abimbola Oyarinu, a university lecturer and public affairs analyst, stated that if properly implemented, the policy could significantly weaken the grip of middlemen within the oil supply chain. He pointed out that these intermediaries, including tanker drivers, have, in the past, held the nation to ransom, and the new policy could enable the Dangote Refinery to overcome this longstanding challenge.

However, he emphasised that Nigerians will primarily judge the policy based on its impact on fuel prices and its effect on inflation.

“It will break the monopoly of powerful middlemen, including tanker drivers, who have in the past even held the NNPCL and others to ransom. However, what Nigerians care most about is how it affects them. Let’s wait and see its impact at the pump. If it leads to a decrease in pump prices, it will also help reduce inflation since fuel prices and the exchange rate are two major drivers of inflation in Nigeria,” he said.

Another analyst, Ibukun Phillips, described the move as a “revolution” that will reshape Nigeria’s energy landscape and redefine energy accessibility across the country.

“The benefits are enormous. Logistics account for between 10% and 30% of fuel costs, so removing this burden will naturally lead to a drop in pump prices. Moreover, it will ensure that rural and underserved communities have better access to petroleum products. Many Nigerians are unaware that rural dwellers often pay more for fuel than those in urban areas, despite earning significantly less. This initiative could revive moribund filling stations in these communities and offer wide-reaching benefits,” she explained.

She also noted that the project will generate employment, with at least 8,000 drivers expected to be recruited by the Dangote Refinery to launch the initiative. Read More

Tochi Wigwe Shines Again: A Daughter’s Resilience, A Legacy Renewed…

People

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June 16, 2025

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Tochi is channeling her energy into purpose-driven work that continues her father’s legacy…

Tochi Wigwe Shines Again: A Daughter’s Resilience, A Legacy Renewed…

In a story of strength, healing, and heart, Otutochi “Tochi” Wigwe — daughter of the late banking titan and philanthropist Herbert Wigwe — is stepping back into the spotlight, not with sorrow, but with a radiant smile that speaks volumes.

Emerging from the devastating loss of her beloved family, Tochi is reclaiming her joy with grace and quiet strength. Her smile, say those close to her, now carries the warmth of a survivor and the spark of a woman determined to live fully — and meaningfully.

Armed with academic brilliance — a Master’s in Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management from Imperial College Business School and a Bachelor’s in Social & Cultural Analysis from New York University (NYU) — Tochi is channeling her energy into purpose-driven work that continues her father’s legacy.

“She’s determined to honour her father’s legacy,” a close family friend shared. “Otutochi is not just surviving; she’s thriving.”

Through the HOW Foundation, the philanthropic brainchild of her late father, Tochi has taken up the torch — working quietly but powerfully to uplift communities and inspire the next generation of changemakers.

Recently marking a new personal milestone, Tochi celebrated her birthday surrounded by love, laughter, and renewed purpose. Friends describe her presence as “magnetic” and her spirit as “unbreakable.” Her story is no longer just one of loss, but one of remarkable rebirth.

From grief to grace, Tochi Wigwe is a symbol of hope — a daughter rising from heartbreak to carry forward a legacy of impact, armed with compassion, intellect, and an unstoppable spirit.

One smile at a time, she’s lighting the path forward — for herself and for others. Read More

NDLEA Intercepts Opioids Worth Over N1.1 Billion Naira in Rivers

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June 16, 2025

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The agency discovered drug consignments hidden in the luggage of the suspect during baggage scanning on the tarmac

NDLEA Intercepts Opioids Worth Over N1.1 Billion Naira in Rivers

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have intercepted a shipment of 157,800 bottles of codeine-based syrup worth over N1.1 billion naira in street value.

The spokesman for the agency, Femi Babafemi, in a statement on Sunday said the shipment was intercepted during a joint examination of a watch-listed container with men of the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies.

The statement read in part, “At the Port Harcourt Ports in Onne, Rivers state, NDLEA operatives on Friday 13th June intercepted a shipment of 157,800 bottles of codeine-based syrup worth over N1.1 billion naira in street value, during a joint examination of a watch-listed container with men of Customs Service and other security agencies.

The NDLEA also said three suspects were arrested when its operatives raided a warehouse in Obereakai, in the Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, where a total of 2,687kg skunk, a strain of cannabis, was recovered.

Similarly, NDLEA officers acting on credible intelligence on the same day in Bauchi state, arrested the duo of “Iriemi Imonikhe, 49, and Sa’idu Ladan, 30,” along Bauchi -Jos Road after 195 blocks of skunk weighing 287kg were discovered in their Toyota Camry car marked AKL 201 GG.

The statement added, “While 14 jumbo sacks of skunk weighing 560kg were recovered from a wooden boat at Oniru beach in Lagos by operatives of the Marine Command of NDLEA on Thursday, June 12, officers of the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport, Maiduguri, same day arrested two businessmen: Ishaku Abdullahi, 30; and Buba Usman, 32, at the arrival hall of the domestic wing of the airport with various quantities of ecstasy pills and skunk packaged in fanciful wraps labelled as ‘Lychee’ and ‘Porro Legal’.

“Similarly, NDLEA operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Ikeja Lagos in the early hours of Saturday, June 14 intercepted an Italy-bound passenger Edobor Ambrose Ali on an Air France flight.”

The agency also said its officers, in collaboration with the aviation security of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), discovered drug consignments hidden in the luggage of the suspect during baggage scanning on the tarmac.

“The suspect was thereafter brought down from the aircraft for baggage identification after which a thorough search of the bag led to the discovery of 14,410 pills of tramadol 225mg and 200mg concealed in winter jackets.

In his statement, Ebodor said he lives in Italy where he was hired and sent on the all-expense paid trip to Nigeria to courier the drug consignments to Milan, Italy for a fee of 2000 Euros,” the statement read. Read More

Shocking! How Lagos Airport Customs Officers Allegedly Robbed US Returnee of N1m, Demand Daughter’s Gift

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June 16, 2025

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Shocking! How Lagos Airport Customs Officers Allegedly Robbed US Returnee of N1m, Demand Daughter’s Gift

Left feeling unsafe and exhausted after a 17-hour flight from Houston, Adhekegba reluctantly paid N1 million

Adhekegba Oke’s flight ticket – Source: FIJ

Shocking! How Lagos Airport Customs Officers Allegedly Robbed US Returnee of N1m, Demand Daughter’s Gift

Two Customs officers at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, have come under fire after allegedly extorting a Nigerian returnee, Mr. Oke Adhekegba, of N1 million and brazenly demanding a pair of sandals meant for his daughter.

According to a report by Foundation for Investigative Journalism, the disturbing incident occurred on May 16 when Adhekegba, who flew in from the United States aboard a British Airways flight, landed at MMIA with five suitcases containing personal effects, including clothes and gifts for family members.

Recounting the harrowing experience, Adhekegba identified the officers as “Adebayo” and “Ugboma,” both attached to the Nigeria Customs Service at the airport. According to him, the duo flagged his luggage for “customs clearance” and initially demanded a staggering N5 million under the guise of revenue payment.

“They tossed me around until about 9pm, making threats and insisting I pay,” he said. “I had thought they would provide a government account number, but no — it was a female PoS merchant they brought. The merchant, whom I am convinced is their accomplice, gave me a PalmPay account number 9551197XXX under the name Shaaibu Rabiu.”

Left feeling unsafe and exhausted after a 17-hour flight from Houston, Adhekegba reluctantly paid N1 million.

A copy of the transaction receipt Source: FIJ

“I had nothing incriminating on me or in my luggage,” he said. “They claimed I had five pairs of shoes and that one of my bags was worth $5,000 — but the price tag on it clearly read $106. It was pure robbery.”

Shockingly, Adhekegba said the ordeal didn’t end there.

“After robbing me, Officer Adebayo still had the effrontery to ask for a pair of sandals I bought for my daughter,” he added. “Some people told me this is the order of the day. They harass people like this daily. It needs to stop.”

The FIJ report on the incident also disclosed that efforts to reach Comptroller Effiong Harrison, who heads the Customs command at the airport, yielded no response. Similarly, the Customs spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, failed to answer calls or respond to text messages seeking clarification or comment.

This incident highlights a broader culture of impunity and corruption among airport officials, a reality previously confirmed by Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). In December, Kuku revealed that some senior security officials at the airport benefit from extortion proceeds.

“I’ve heard Customs and AVSEC officers say they don’t receive pensions — so extortion is their fallback. This has to stop,” she said. “If your organisation is caught, then it means you as a leader have failed.”

Similarly, the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), in its latest report, named the Nigeria Customs Service as one of the most inefficient agencies, citing rent-seeking behaviour and lack of disciplinary action against erring staff.

As Adhekegba’s case gains public attention, calls are growing louder for accountability, reform, and the protection of travelers from institutionalised extortion. Read More

Fidelity Bank ED, Kevin Ugwuoke Assumes Office as New President Of Chartered Risk Managers Association

Banking

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June 16, 2025

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His leadership promises a reform-focused era anchored on policy advocacy, ethical standards, and digital innovation…

Fidelity Bank ED, Kevin Ugwuoke Assumes Office as New President Of Chartered Risk Managers Association

Kevin Ugwuoke, Executive Director and Chief Risk Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, has formally assumed office as President of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI).

His leadership promises a reform-focused era anchored on policy advocacy, ethical standards, and digital innovation to deepen risk governance across sectors in the country.

Speaking during the presidential handover ceremony in Lagos over the weekend, Ugwuoke — who also doubles as acting President of the Federation of African Risk Management Associations (FARMA) — described his election as “a call to action.”

He pledged to reposition CRMI as a thought leader and institutional partner in shaping the future of risk management in Nigeria’s national development.

“Our mission is more than just certification; it’s about strengthening the culture of risk governance across sectors. We will collaborate with regulators, raise awareness, and provide practical tools to help organizations embed risk discipline at all levels.”

Ugwuoke outlined a five-pronged strategy to guide his administration: strengthening professional education and certification; deepening policy and regulatory engagement; accelerating digital transformation; integrating ESG and climate risk into corporate strategies; and mentoring the next generation of risk practitioners.

He explained that CRMI will align its initiatives with key policy institutions — including the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, the National Assembly, and sub-national governments — to help embed robust risk frameworks into economic development plans.

“We must integrate risk thinking into how we plan, govern, and invest. We will advocate for more inclusive regulations to empower small and medium enterprises, improve macroeconomic stability, and foster institutional resilience.”

Ugwuoke also announced plans to revise the Institute’s curriculum, introduce specialized certifications to reflect emerging risks, and implement a new National Risk Observatory to provide real-time risk data to both the public and private sectors.

“Digital innovation will be central to how CRMI operates going forward. We are automating our backend, delivering more virtual training, and employing technology to scale our impact across the country and beyond.”

In his remarks, the outgoing President of CRMI, Ezekiel Oseni, challenged the new leadership to consolidate on the achievements made under his tenure — from securing chartered status and strengthening partnerships to gaining greater international recognition — and take the Institute to the next level.

Also speaking on the occasion, Chukwuma Nweke, deputy managing director of United Bank for Africa (UBA), delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, described Ugwuoke as a worthy successor. “As Professor Oseni hands over the baton to Kevin Ugwuoke — a well-respected leader in the risk management ecosystem — we are assured CRMI is poised for greater achievements under his watch.”

Nweke stressed that growing economic uncertainties — from inflation and exchange rate volatility to growing debt — underscore the need for a more strategic view of risk. “Risk must be recognized not as a compliance obligation or a cost center but as a key enabler of resiliency and growth. Institutions that embed risk into their strategies will absorb shocks more effectively, unlock value, and inspire investor confidence.”

As part of the day’s ceremonies, 11 distinguished practitioners were conferred with the Fellow of Chartered Risk Manager (FCRMI) award, while 21 new members were formally inducted as Chartered Risk Managers (CRM). Furthermore, a new Governing Council was inaugurated to oversee the affairs of the Institute for the 2025–2027 term, marking a decisive step forward in institutional renewal and policy direction. Read More

“This Horror Must Not Be Ignored” — Saraki Condemns Yelewata Massacre, Demands Urgent Security Overhaul

Politics

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June 15, 2025

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He said, “This heinous act cannot go unanswered. The perpetrators must be swiftly identified, apprehended, and prosecuted”

“This Horror Must Not Be Ignored” — Saraki Condemns Yelewata Massacre, Demands Urgent Security Overhaul

Former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki has condemned the horrifying massacre that left over 200 people dead in Yelewata, Benue State, describing it as a “tragic, terrifying, and unacceptable” act of violence that underscores the worsening insecurity in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

In a solemn statement issued on Sunday, Saraki expressed outrage over the coordinated night attack in which victims—mostly Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)—were reportedly ambushed, butchered, and burned alive by unknown assailants. He described the scale of the violence as one of the worst in recent memory.

“The cruellest detail is that the majority of the victims were Internally Displaced Persons,” Saraki said. “They had already fled their ancestral homes, seeking refuge, only for that terror to hunt them down in a place of supposed safety.”

He further revealed that a second wave of violence claimed the lives of some security personnel who responded to the scene, deepening the scale of the tragedy.

Calling the incident a national tragedy that demands immediate and decisive action, Saraki urged Nigeria’s security agencies to re-evaluate their strategy in the Benue-Nasarawa corridor and the wider North Central region.

“This heinous act cannot go unanswered. The perpetrators must be swiftly identified, apprehended, and prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” he stated.

Saraki also extended condolences to Governor Hyacinth Alia, the people of Benue State, and families of the victims, noting: “My thoughts are with the families of the victims and the entire Benue community. May they find strength and justice in the face of this devastating tragedy.”

The Yelewata massacre, now regarded as one of the deadliest attacks in the region in recent years, has reignited national concern over Nigeria’s fragile security architecture and the plight of displaced communities living under constant threat. Read More

Royal Glamour in Warri: Olota, Ex-Gov. Okowa, Dignitaries Grace Adaobi and Tuokpe’s Grand Wedding

News

Lukman Omikunle

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June 15, 2025

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Royal Glamour in Warri: Olota, Ex-Gov. Okowa, Dignitaries Grace Adaobi and Tuokpe’s Grand Wedding

The wedding was a stunning showcase of traditional attire, music, and rituals — reinforcing the significance of cultural preservation in today’s Nigeria

Royal Glamour in Warri: Olota, Ex-Gov. Okowa, Dignitaries Grace Adaobi and Tuokpe’s Grand Wedding

By Lukman Omikunle

Warri, Delta State – June 15, 2025

It was a regal affair in Warri over the weekend as Nigeria’s high society turned out in grand style to celebrate the traditional wedding of Adaobi and Tuokpe — a union that blended love, culture, and heritage in spectacular fashion.

The colourful ceremony, held at the prestigious Monarchy Hall on Saturday, June 14, 2025, drew a distinguished gathering of royals, statesmen, and cultural icons from across the country.

Chairing the event was the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, who welcomed a royal delegation led by His Majesty, Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, Ph.D., the Olota of Otta, Aworiland.

As royal father of the day, the Olota offered warm prayers for the newlyweds, wishing them a life filled with peace, prosperity, and shared joy.

He praised the collaborative spirit displayed by both families and extended royal greetings to the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, along with the Nwabuoku and Daibo-Emiko royal families for what he described as a “truly magnificent cultural celebration.”

“This is a powerful reminder of the beauty of our traditions,” the monarch remarked. “It is heartening to witness such unity, elegance, and honour paid to our rich heritage.”

The wedding was a stunning showcase of traditional attire, music, and rituals — reinforcing the significance of cultural preservation in today’s Nigeria.

Among other dignitaries present was Chief Raymond Okikiolu Fadayiro, the Baamolu of Otta, and several traditional rulers and high chiefs from Warri and beyond.

Photos from the event have since gone viral on social media, capturing the vibrant colours, elegance, and the timeless cultural splendor that defined the day. Read More