Criticism Trails Access Bank CEO’s £15m London Mansion Purchase.

The purchase of a £15 million mansion by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Access Bank Plc, Roosevelt Ogbonna, in London’s upscale Hampstead area, known as Billionaires’ Row, has sparked strong reactions from civil society organisations and shareholders alike.

The property, reportedly acquired in August, features luxury amenities including a spa and entertainment suite, and was listed for £15 million by 2021.

Bloomberg reported that Ogbonna, who has been the boss of Nigeria’s largest bank by assets for over three years, purchased the sprawling mansion in August, according to a UK filing.

Transparency International Nigeria and other civil society groups have expressed serious concerns, suggesting that such high-value acquisitions by bank executives may be linked to money laundering by public officials using bankers and legal professionals as fronts.

The head of Transparency International Nigeria, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, said, “The issue is that he should declare his assets and taxes to the government and explain how he got the money. We have tried to encourage the UK to extend this new law on unexplained wealth. If he is a public officer, he must indicate how he got the money. Politicians now understand that under UK law, they cannot loot money, buy houses, and avoid declaring how the money was made. So, they are using lawyers and bankers to do this.

“Unfortunately, some lawyers and bankers are now serving as gateways for looted funds, helping public officers hide money in properties under the guise of private ownership.

“There is a need for the Federal Inland Revenue to investigate why he has not declared taxes amounting to the kind of money he has sent abroad.

“He must explain how he made that money. The unexplained wealth law should not apply only to public officials. It should also apply to those holding or transferring public officials’ money under false pretence, claiming it as their own when it is not.

Brent Crude trades near $67 as naira strengthens to N1,499/$ .

Petrol import cost hits N870/litre, diesel N999 as downstream market faces FX, crude volatility

Nigeria’s fuel import costs are climbing again as Brent crude trades near $67.44 per barrel and the naira firmed to N1,499/$, according to the latest Energy bulletin of the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) Competency Centre.

The report showed that despite the local currency’s modest appreciation, the Import Parity Price (IPP) of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) rose to N870.06/litre at the NPSC/ASPAM Jetty in Apapa, above its 30-day average of N848.77/litre. Automotive Gas Oil (AGO or diesel) climbed to N999.80/litre, compared to an average of N969.09/litre, while Aviation Turbine Kerosene (ATK) increased to N980.75/litre against N905.40/litre.

According to MEMAN, the international petroleum market is being shaped by shifting supply and demand dynamics.

“U.S. crude inventories fell sharply by about 9.3 million barrels to roughly 415.4 million barrels, as net imports hit a record low due to a surge in exports.”

Gasoline stocks also declined by around 2.3 million barrels, tightening supply, while distillate inventories rose by about 4 million barrels, highlighting weaker demand in that segment,” the bulletin noted.

Alongside Brent, WTI crude traded at $63.24 per barrel, while Nigeria’s Bonny Light closed at $68.56. MEMAN added that prices eased slightly as markets weighed the U.S. inventory drawdown against the Federal Reserve’s 25-basis-point rate cut. “Geopolitical risks persist, particularly from Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil infrastructure, while OPEC+ confirms plans to raise output by 137,000 barrels per day starting in October as it continues to unwind earlier production cuts,” it said.

On the domestic front, the association highlighted that the naira recorded steady appreciation in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) during the first half of September. It highlighted that the naira appreciated from N1,526/$ at the start of September to N1,498.98/$ by September 18, representing a gain of 1.8 per cent. The currency peaked at N1,484.14/$ on September 16 before settling slightly weaker. The association cautioned that “given that import parity costs remain inherently sensitive to these dynamics, they are expected to experience multiple intra-day fluctuations.”

The bulletin also listed Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s latest ex-depot prices: AGO at $717.50/MT (N960.00/litre), ATK at $766.25/MT (N995.48/litre), while PMS was left “on hold.” Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) was posted at N715,000/MT.

Police Nab Fake Operatives Using Car Jack as Gun to Rob SUVs in Lagos Estates.

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 46-year-old Jude Onouha, the mastermind behind a criminal gang notorious for invading upscale estates and stripping high-end SUVs.

The syndicate, masquerading as security operatives, used fake uniforms and a cleverly modified Mercedes-Benz car jack resembling a firearm to deceive estate guards and gain access to gated communities.

Once inside, the gang targeted luxury vehicles such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Highlander, Lexus 650, and Mercedes-Benz models, stripping them of valuable components like brainboxes, wiring systems, and side mirrors.

Police recovered the modified car jack and a “Special Force” branded face cap used in the ruse.

Onouha has confessed and is aiding detectives in tracking down other gang members.

Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, called on estate residents and security managers to verify the identities of anyone claiming to be a security operative before granting entry.

He emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and collaboration with Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to prevent such crimes.

Police Bust Car Theft Syndicate, Recover Repainted Toyota Camry Sold For N4m And Arrest Buyer In Ondo.

According to the PPRO, the car was later recovered after it had been repainted from golden to blue and hidden in the apartment of one Michael Olamilekan.
Car Theft Syndicate
Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have busted a car theft syndicate notorious for breaking into compounds and stealing vehicles in Akure, the state capital.

The spokesperson of the command, Olayinka Ayanlade, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday, September 12, 2025 said operatives recovered a Toyota ‘Muscle’ Camry stolen from one Madam Akomolafe Bolanle in Akure.

According to the PPRO, the car was later recovered after it had been repainted from golden to blue and hidden in the apartment of one Michael Olamilekan.

Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed that he bought the vehicle from one Adewumi (surname unknown), now at large, at the rate of N4 million.

"The Ondo State Police Command, under the proactive leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, PSC+, MNIPS, and in line with the policing vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has once again recorded a major breakthrough in its relentless fight against crime in the State,” the statement read.

"On the 18th day of July, 2025, at about 4:00 a.m., a case of criminal conspiracy, housebreaking, and stealing was reported at Osi Area, Akure.

"According to the complainant, Madam Akomolafe Bolanle ‘f’, some unknown persons unlawfully gained access into her apartment, which had no burglary proof, stole the key to her Toyota Camry (Muzzle, Golden Colour, 2010 Model, Unregistered), and carted away the said vehicle along with other valuable items.

"Following diligent investigation and intelligence-led policing, operatives of the Command Surveillance Team, acting on credible information, successfully recovered the vehicle on the 7th of September, 2025, in Owo, where it had been repainted from its original golden colour to blue and concealed in the apartment of one Fagbote Micheal Olamilekan ‘m’.

“Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed that he bought the vehicle from one Adewumi (surname unknown), now at large, at the rate of N4 million, despite the vehicle having been previously purchased by the rightful owner on 26th December, 2024, at the rate of N10 million.”

BREAKING: El-Rufai Petitions Police Service Commission, Demands Probe Into Kaduna Police Over Invitation For Questioning

Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has petitioned the Police Service Commission (PSC), accusing the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna and some officers of “unprofessional conduct, abuse of office, and serial violations of the Police Act 2020 and regulations.”

In a petition dated September 8, 2025, and addressed to the PSC Chairman, El-Rufai demanded an immediate, impartial, and exhaustive investigation into what he described as unlawful and unconstitutional actions by the Kaduna police authorities.

“I am writing as a citizen of Nigeria and former governor of Kaduna State to lodge this complaint and demand an investigation. This will assist the Commission in discharging its constitutional functions under the law,” El-Rufai stated.

He noted that his concerns went beyond personal grievances, stressing that his petition was about protecting the future of policing in Nigeria.

“I submit this petition with a profound sense of responsibility as a citizen who has served at national and subnational levels. My motivation is concern for the Nigerian Police Force, which remains the primary law enforcement institution despite its challenges,” he added.

The former governor urged the PSC to act decisively in enforcing accountability and discipline within the Force, insisting that public trust in the police depends on strict adherence to professionalism and ethics.

The development comes days after the Kaduna State Police Command invited El-Rufai and several members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for questioning over allegations of criminal conspiracy, incitement, mischief, and causing grievous hurt.

A letter dated September 4, 2025, signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police (CID), Uzainu Abdullahi, had directed the ADC chairman in Kaduna to produce El-Rufai and six others at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) on September 8.

Those invited include:

Bashir Sa’idu

Jafaru Sani

Ubaidullah Mohammed (“30”)

Nasiru Maikano

Aminu Abita

Ahmed Rufa’i Hussaini (“Mikiya”)

Last week, SaharaReporters reported that security operatives sealed off the ADC state office in Kaduna, just hours before a scheduled solidarity visit by the party’s Northwest leadership. The office closure followed an attack on ADC members by suspected political thugs a week earlier.

Newsbrief: Meta Shuts Seven Million WhatsApp Accounts Linked to Scammers

Meta has shut down nearly seven million WhatsApp accounts tied to scam operations in the first half of 2025. The fraudulent accounts, often linked to organized gangs, were traced to schemes ranging from fake cryptocurrency investments to pyramid scams.

WhatsApp said most of the accounts originated in Southeast Asia and were disabled before being fully deployed. In one case, Meta and OpenAI disrupted a Cambodia-based scam that used ChatGPT to generate phishing messages.

The platform has also introduced new “safety overviews” to alert users when added to suspicious group chats, offering scam detection tips and quick exit options.

By Channels Television | Updated August 5, 2025

#WhatsAppScams #Meta #CyberFraud #DigitalSafety

BREAKING: PSC Promotes 952 ASPs To DSPs, Drops 179 Retired, Deceased Officers

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the promotion of 952 Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) to Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs).

The decision was made during the first plenary meeting of the 6th Board of the Commission at its headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.

However, the promotion of 176 retired officers and three deceased officers was declined.

PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), cautioned the newly promoted officers to uphold professionalism, discipline, and due process, warning against diversionary or unauthorized actions within the Force.

He assured that the Commission remains committed to protecting officers’ career progression.

Notable names among the promoted include Maidawa Yakubu, Edwin Thomas, Chagga Yakubu, Grace Okon, Fidelis Offorbuike, Elvina Ochia Chukwu (FCID Lagos), Ndidiamaka Onwude (Ebonyi), Rosemary Obianuju Egbo (Delta), Uya Bassey Johnson (Abia), Deborah Danjuma (SPU Abuja), Kudirat Elegba (SPU Lagos), and Ukpabio Ayi Akiba (Rivers).

The list has been formally forwarded to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for implementation.

#BreakingNews #PSC #NigeriaPolice #PolicePromotion #ASPsToDSPs

Police Promotions Spark Outrage as Humanitarian Officer Overlooked

The Nigeria Police Force faces criticism after sidelining DSP Faith Okwuego, known for paying exam fees, hospital bills, and supporting schools, while fast-tracking promotions for officers linked to IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

Sources allege Bukola Kuti, the IGP’s close associate, rose to Assistant Commissioner of Police in just 10 years, while Yemisi Ademosu, reportedly his former orderly, was promoted without taking mandatory exams.

Police insiders say a controversial list of 37 handpicked officers has fueled tensions within the Police Service Commission (PSC). Meanwhile, Okwuego’s humanitarian acts remain unrecognized despite public praise, raising questions about favoritism and transparency in police promotions.

#PoliceReform #Nigeria #Justice #Accountability

Controversy Trails Fast-Track Promotion of Female Officer Allegedly Linked to IGP

A storm of controversy has erupted in the Nigeria Police Force over the rapid promotion of Bukola Kuti, Principal Staff Officer to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. Kuti reportedly rose to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) just 10 years after joining the force—an unusually swift advancement far ahead of her peers.

Sources within the force allege that Kuti’s rise is linked to her close personal relationship with the IGP and note that she only spent six months as a Chief Superintendent before being promoted. Her elevation, along with 36 others, was reportedly approved by the Police Service Commission (PSC) but remains publicly unannounced amid internal backlash and concerns of ethnic bias.

Insiders claim Kuti is not involved in core policing duties and instead handles domestic and catering services for the IGP. Another female officer, Yemisi, allegedly accompanies the IGP on trips and was also promoted despite limited field duties.

The promotion list, said to heavily favor Yoruba officers—30 out of 37—has ignited accusations of regional favoritism. Several officers on the list are reportedly close to Egbetokun, further fueling the perception of preferential treatment.

The development has left many demoralized within the force, as calls grow for transparency and merit-based advancement.

#PolicePromotionScandal #IGPControversy #NigeriaPolice #EthnicBiasInNPF

Brief: CAC To Delist 100,000 Dormant Companies, Issues 90-Day Ultimatum.
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has announced plans to delist 100,000 companies over prolonged inactivity and failure to meet statutory obligations under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020.

According to a public notice, affected companies have either not operated for at least a decade or failed to file annual returns and disclose Persons with Significant Control (PSC). CAC has given a 90-day deadline to comply or face delisting.

The commission says the cleanup aims to promote corporate transparency and compliance, aligning with anti-money laundering regulations. Companies struck off the register will be deemed dissolved and barred from operating unless restored by court order.
#CAC #CorporateAffairsCommission #CAMA2020 #NigeriaBusiness #DormantCompanies

Brief: IGP Egbetokun’s Special Promotion List Sparks Tension Over Alleged Favouritism

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has submitted a list of over 30 senior officers—reportedly loyal to him—to the Police Service Commission (PSC) for special promotion, SaharaReporters has learned.

Among those nominated is Force PRO, Muyiwa Adejobi, recommended for promotion to Deputy Commissioner of Police. Others include his Principal Staff Officer, Ahmed Lateef, and aides believed to be close allies.

The move has triggered controversy within the force, with critics accusing Egbetokun of ethnic favouritism and a “provincial management style” that allegedly benefits mostly Yoruba officers.

The PSC is reviewing the list amid concerns over internal division. Meanwhile, promotions recently approved by the commission include 12 new AIGs, 16 Commissioners of Police, and over 200 officers across various ranks and special units.

Separately, former IGP Usman Alkali Baba criticised the current IGP’s handling of police welfare, especially the contributory pension scheme, describing it as a failure. He also questioned Egbetokun’s experience in police administration, claiming he has not sought input from predecessors.

Rivers Police Arrest Two Notorious Cultists Linked to Gruesome K!llings in Port Harcourt.

Five persons, including a commercial cab driver who was hit by a stray bullet, lost their lives during the clashes between rival cults in the area.

Two notorious cultists linked with the recent gang war and k!llings in the Dionu axis of Port Harcourt have been arrested.

This is according to the Rivers State Police Command.

Recall that about five persons, including a commercial cab driver who was hit by a stray bullet, lost their lives during the clashes between rival cults in the area.

The spokesperson of the command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, who disclosed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, July 15, 2025 said the deployment of special unit operatives yielded results with the arrest of a suspect identified as Diseye Ukulu, with the assistance of a local vigilante group.

“In compliance with the directives of the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, to rid the State of criminal networks, the Command has recorded a significant breakthrough with the arrest of Diseye Ukulu, a 36-year-old male from Bayelsa State, but resident at No 25 Nnewi Street, Diobu, Port Harcourt,” the statement read.

"On 9th. of July, 2025, at about 1820hrs, a combined team of Police Operatives from the Special Operations and Intelligence Team (SOIT), Hawk Tactical Squad, and Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU), Port Harcourt, in collaboration with Diobu local vigilante group members, apprehended the suspect.

"The operation was intelligence-driven, focusing on inter-confraternity rivalries between the D12 and BS secret cult groups, both affiliated with the notorious and dreaded Deygbam cult group, which has been linked to recent gruesome k!llings in the Diobu axis of Port- Harcourt.

"Following Ukulu's confession, the operatives swiftly mobilized to the residence of Achionu Solomon Chukwuma, 'm' aka Solex and recovered the following exhibits, one Scorpion VZ61 submachine gun, fabricated English-made Beretta pistol, 20 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition, 2 rounds of 9mm live ammunition and one pair of screwdriver (sunglasses).

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"The suspect and exhibits are currently in police custody. A thorough and discreet investigation is ongoing, and efforts are being made to apprehend other members of the cult group.

“The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, has reaffirmed the Command's unwavering commitment to bringing all perpetrators of crime in the State to justice. He urges residents to provide useful and timely information to the Police to enable them to make more exploits.”