Index to Nigerian Newspapers

A Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out one of nine counts of $1.6bn crude oil fraud against businessman Jide Omokore and five others. Justice Nnamdi Dimgba struck out the eighth count after hearing an application by former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, who alleged she was indicted without an opportunity to defend herself. The six defendants include Omokore, his companies Atlantic Energy Brass Development Limited and Atlantic Energy Drilling Concepts Limited. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had preferred nine counts of criminal diversion of about $1.6bn, alleged to be part of proceeds of sales of petroleum products belonging to the Federal Government. Alison-Madueke, currently in the UK, was not listed among the existing six defendants in the case to defend the charge.

 

 

 

Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has announced that the All Progressives Congress will lead evidence at the election petitions tribunal to show how the Peoples Democratic Party allegedly benefited from electoral fraud during the recent governorship poll. Oshiomhole defended the PDP's candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who was allegedly denied victory in the election, stating that he is not worth 50,000 votes. He expressed satisfaction with the APC's performance in the September 28 election and emphasized that the victory signaled the final political "funeral" of the PDP godfathers. Obaseki promised to run an all-inclusive government and commended the Islamic council for their support before and during the election. He also urged the governor-elect to be resolute in achieving his objectives and to be accessible to the citizens of the state. Obaseki's tenure will end on November 12.

Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has affirmed that his government has fully complied with the decisions of the South East Governors regarding the prohibition of activities of the Indigenous People Biafra. Obiano stated that there would be no hiding place for mischief makers and those who would distort the peace in the state. He urged the people of Anambra to be vigilant and prioritized the security and welfare of the area. The governor also stated that the government is firmly in support of the restructuring agenda announced by the Governors Forum and encourages Ndi Anambra to articulate their thoughts on this issue.