The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has raised the alarm over the activities of 58 illegal Ponzi scheme operators defrauding Nigerians under the guise of investment opportunities.

In a statement released on Tuesday by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the anti-graft agency disclosed that the companies are neither registered with the Central Bank of Nigeria nor the Securities and Exchange Commission, making their operations illegal.

Oyewale noted that the commission has taken legal action against many of the entities, leading to the conviction of five, while another five have pleaded guilty and are awaiting further judicial processes.

He added that other cases are still pending arraignment.

The statement read in part, “In line with its commitment to sanitising the financial space of the nation and providing the investing public with adequate and reliable information, the EFCC hereby alerts Nigerians to the operations of 58 companies posturing as investing entities but defrauding innocent citizens of their hard-earned money.”

According to Oyewale, some of the flagged companies include Wales Kingdom Capital, Bethseida Group of Companies, AQM Capital Limited, Titan Multibusiness Investment Limited, Brickwall Global Investment Limited, Farmforte Limited & Agro Partnership Tech and Green Eagles Agricbusiness Solution Limited among others.

The statement added, “Richfield Multiconcepts Limited, Forte Asset Management Limited, (Biss Networks Nigeria Limited, S Mobile Netzone Limited, Pristine Mobile Network), Letsfarm Integrated Services, Bara Finance & Investment Limited, Vicampro Farms Limited, Brooks Network Limited, Gas Station Supply Services Limited, Brass & Books Limited, (Annexation Biz Concept & Maitanbuwal Global Venturescrowdyvest Limited,) and Crowdyvest Limited,

“Others are: Jadek Agro Connect Limited, Adeeva Capital Limited, Oxford International Group and Oxford Gold Integrated, Skapomah Global Limited, MBA Trading & Capital Investment Limited, TRJ Company Limited, Farm4Me Agriculture Limited, Quintessential Investment Company, Adeprinz Global Enterprises, Rockstar Establishment Limited, SU.Global Investment, Citi Trust Funding PLC, Farm Buddy, Eatrich 369 Farms & Food, Globertrot Farmsponsors Nigeria Limited, Farm Sponsors Limited, Cititrust Credit Limited, Farmfunded Agroservices Limited, Adamakin Investment & Works Limited.

“The rest include: Cititrust Holding PLC, Green Eagles Agribusiness Solutions Limited, Chinmark Homes & Shelters Limited, Emerald Farms & Consultant Limited, Ovaioza Farm Produce Storage Limited, Farm 360 & Agriculture Company, Requid Technologies Limited, West Agro Agriculture & Food Processing Limited, NISL Ventures Limited & Estate of Laolu Martins, XY Connect Investment Limited, River Branch Unique Investment Limited, Hallmark Capital Limited, CJC Markets Limited, Crowd One Investment, Farmkart Foods Limited, KD Likemind Stakeholders Limited, Holibiz Finance Limited, Ifeanyi Okpe Oil & Gas Services, Servapps Nigeria Limited, Barrick Gold Mining Company and 360 Agric Partners Limited.”

Oyewale assured the public that the EFCC remained vigilant in monitoring and prosecuting fraudulent investment schemes, warning Nigerians to exercise caution before committing funds to any financial entity not duly registered with regulatory bodies.

“We urge the public to verify any investment opportunity with the CBN and SEC before engaging. The EFCC remains committed to safeguarding the public from predatory operators and ensuring a corruption-free economic environment,” the statement added.

He urged victims of fraudulent schemes to come forward with complaints and assured them that efforts were ongoing to recover funds where possible.

A former chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Barrister John Nwobodo, has stated that it will not be politically proper for the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, Peter Obi  to deputise a northern candidate in 2027.

Nwobodo, a former governorship candidate of the Accord Party in Enugu State stated this in an exclusive interview with LEADERSHIP in Enugu.

He said instead of deputising a northern candidate in 2027, Obi should forget any presidential ambition.

Nwobodo insisted Obi has really created an impact in Nigeria’s political landscape, saying he does not think the former presidential candidate is a desperate politician who will run for political office at all cost.

“I do not think that it would make political sense for Obi to deputise a Northern candidate in 2027 instead of doing that he should  not run.

“Mr. Obi has really created an impact in the political landscape of Nigeria. I do not think that he is a desperate politician who would run for a political office at all cost” Nwobodo stated.

He, however, warned that it will take extraordinary measures to defeat the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the presidential election in 2027.

Nwobodo said the APC is well entrenched in terms of membership and spread coupled with high network Nigerians in its fold.

“Without pandering to the political sentiments or emotions, it would take extraordinary measures to defeat APC in 2027. I say so because the party is well entrenched in terms of membership and spread coupled with high networth Nigerians in its fold.

“The problem of leadership in Nigeria is not one of the party nomenclature but a deep-rooted problem of lack of patriotism and the negative mindset of most politicians who see politics as a tool for aggrandizement of power and money.

“But returning to the question, I think the only kind of opposition that can wrestle power from the APC is the opposition that would field new breed promoted by an amalgamation or coalition of political parties and a well mobilized citizens. Any political arrangement that favours the old politicians would hit the rock.’ he stated.

Super Eagles Head Coach, Eric Chelle has officially announced his final roster of 23 players for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles selection reflects a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talents, aimed at securing Nigeria’s place in the upcoming World Cup.

The squad features goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali from Chippa United in South Africa and Kayode Bankole of Remo Stars. Both goalkeepers have demonstrated commendable skill and resilience in their respective leagues.

In defence, the roster includes seasoned players such as William Ekong, representing Al-Kholood FC in Saudi Arabia, along with Calvin Bassey from Fulham FC and Olaoluwa Aina of Nottingham Forest, both playing in the competitive English Premier League.

The squad also welcomes Bruno Onyemaechi from Olympiacos in Greece, Bright Osayi-Samuel of Fenerbahce in Turkey, and the Czech Republic-based defender Igoh Ogbu from SK Slavia Prague, who all contribute diverse experiences to the backline.

The midfield is fortified by prominent talents such as Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City and Alex Iwobi from Fulham FC, both known for their tactical intelligence and playmaking abilities.

They are joined by Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium), Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA), and Joseph Ayodele-Aribo of Southampton FC, adding depth and creativity to the midfield. Notably, home-based midfielder Papa Daniel Mustapha of Niger Tornadoes also makes the final squad, reflecting Chelle’s commitment to integrating local talent.

The attacking front boasts a formidable lineup featuring the likes of Victor Osimhen, currently playing for Galatasaray FC in Turkey, and Samuel Chukwueze of AC Milan in Italy, both of whom are pivotal in their clubs’ attacking strategies.

Also included are Ademola Lookman of Atalanta FC and Victor Boniface of Bayer Leverkusen in Germany, alongside Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France), Sadiq Umar of Valencia FC in Spain, and Tolu Arokodare from KRC Genk, Belgium.

The Super Eagles will face group C leaders Rwanda in a crucial match scheduled for Friday, March 21, in Kigali. This will be followed by a home game against the Zimbabwe Warriors at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, set for four days later. The Super Eagles aim to secure vital points in these encounters to enhance their chances of qualifying for the World Cup.

List Of 23 Super Eagles For Rwanda, Zimbabwe Games

Goalkeepers:
– Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)
– Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania)
– Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars)

Defenders:
– William Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia)
– Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey)
– Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece)
– Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England)
– Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)
– Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic)

Midfielders:
– Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)
– Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)
– Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA)
– Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England)
– Joseph Ayodele-Aribo (Southampton FC, England)
– Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes)

Forwards:
– Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)
– Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey)
– Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy)
– Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
– Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France)
– Sadiq Umar (Valencia FC, Spain)
– Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
– Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium)

The House of Representatives has instructed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to mandate internet service providers to block access to all websites that host pornographic and obscene content.

Naija News reports that the directive also mandates the NCC to compel all internet service providers to prevent access to such content without delay.

The motion, sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, an All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker from Katsina State, was debated and passed during Tuesday’s plenary session.

While presenting the motion, Tafoki highlighted that cyber pornography had become a growing global issue and that Nigeria had yet to take sufficient measures to address it.

He emphasized that Nigeria is a “highly religious country” where major faiths prohibit nudity and obscene content.

Tafoki further pointed out that several nations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East had enacted strict laws banning pornography.

Citing warnings from psychologists and sociologists, the lawmaker stressed the potential dangers of pornography, stating that it could lead to adultery, prostitution, and addiction.

“Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings on the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of viewing pornographic content,” he said.

Following a voice vote conducted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the motion received widespread support from lawmakers.

The House also instructed the NCC to impose penalties on any internet service provider that fails to comply with the directive.

The House of Representatives has directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to immediately halt the implementation of its newly introduced ATM transaction charges and the removal of free withdrawals for customers using other banks’ ATMs.

Naija News reports that this decision was reached on Tuesday after lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Marcus Onobun (PDP, Edo).

The House insisted that the policy be suspended until the relevant committees engage with the apex bank.

While presenting the motion, Onobun highlighted that the CBN recently amended its guidelines under Section 10.7 of the CBN Guide to Charges by Banks, Other Financial, and Non-Bank Financial Institutions.

He explained that the new policy increases ATM withdrawal fees and eliminates free withdrawals for customers using ATMs outside their bank, thereby adding to the financial burden of Nigerians.

According to him, Section 10.7 of the guide was last reviewed in 2019, reducing ATM withdrawal charges from ₦65 to ₦35 per transaction.

He stated, “According to this new policy, customers withdrawing from their bank’s ATMs will continue to enjoy free withdrawals. However, a fee of ₦100 per ₦20,000 withdrawal will be applied to customers from other banks transacting at ATMs within bank premises.”

He further noted, “Similarly, customers from other banks using ATMs located outside the bank’s premises, such as malls and marketplaces, will be charged ₦100 plus an additional ₦500 surcharge.”

Onobun expressed concern that Nigerians are already struggling with multiple economic challenges, including inflation, rising fuel prices, increased electricity tariffs, and excessive banking fees, all of which are reducing disposable income and negatively affecting citizens’ financial well-being.

He warned that “the imposition of additional ATM withdrawal charges will further discourage financial inclusion, especially for low-income earners, contradicting the CBN’s financial inclusion agenda.”

The lawmaker also pointed out that despite the banking sector recording substantial profits, consumers continue to face excessive charges without any significant improvement in service quality or banking infrastructure.

“The government’s role includes protecting citizens from exploitative financial practices that could worsen economic hardship,” he concluded.

The high-profile trial of Naomi Silekunola, former queen of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Ibadan-based Adigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun has taken an interesting turn, as the court adjourned proceedings for two weeks, placing the fate of the accused in limbo.

The trio stands accused in an 18-count charge brought by the Oyo State Government over the devastating stampede that claimed at least 35 children’s lives during an end-of-year party hosted by Silekunola on December 18, 2024.

On Monday, March 10 2025, at the Oyo State High Court, Ring Road, Ibadan, Chief Justice Ladiran Akintola halted proceedings, ruling that the accused must first address the emotional and financial toll on the victims’ families before the case can proceed.

The unexpected adjournment followed a request from the defendants, who sought time to facilitate compensation for the bereaved families and those injured.

Oyo State Government spokesperson, Abiodun Aikomo, confirmed that while the trial was set to begin, the defense requested a delay to settle with victims’ families.

Representing Silekunola, senior lawyer Musibau Adetunmbi (SAN) argued that postponement was necessary for an amicable resolution, revealed that negotiations were already in motion and expressed confidence that compensation would be completed within the given timeframe.

The case traces back to December 2024, when a children’s funfair took a tragic turn, ending in a deadly stampede at the venue’s parking lot.

Naomi,Oriyiomi and Fasasi seen in court on February 18, 2025, now face the weight of the law as they battle murder, manslaughter, conspiracy to commit criminal negligence, and multiple related charges under the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.

With the trial now stalled for two weeks, all eyes remain on the court’s next move.

The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Shehu Musa Gabam, has revealed that more prominent politicians are on the verge of joining the party, following the recent defection of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Gabam, speaking in an interview with Trust TV on Monday, said El-Rufai’s move had triggered a wave of interest from top politicians across party lines, particularly in Kaduna State.

While Gabam declined to reveal specific names, party insiders have hinted that former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, and ex-Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, are among those reportedly considering a move to the SDP.

El-Rufai had recently held closed-door meetings with Aregbesola and Pastor Tunde Bakare in Lagos, further fuelling speculation.

He had also visited former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, raising questions about broader political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

However, Fayemi has denied any plans to dump the APC.

In a statement on Tuesday, he said, “My attention has been drawn to a story circulating on several online platforms regarding my defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC). As I have had cause to state in the past, I am a card-carrying foundation member of the APC, and this position has not changed.”

He, however, criticized the APC’s internal democracy, stating, “While I have been at the vanguard of the demand for greater internal democracy and inclusion in the ruling party, I believe it is still not late for our party to change course and move towards greater inclusion and internal democracy.”

SDP Will Not Merge With Other Parties – Gabam

Meanwhile, Gabam reiterated that the ongoing wave of defections to the SDP is part of a broader push to redefine Nigeria’s democracy and ensure better governance for the people.

He dismissed suggestions that the SDP was planning a merger with other opposition parties, saying:

Gabam said, “The SDP is not in alignment with the proponents of a merger of political parties. It is a recipe for chaos. What we are doing is strengthening our structure at the grassroots level.”

He also clarified that El-Rufai’s defection is not necessarily tied to a presidential ambition, stating that all aspirants within the SDP must go through a transparent grassroots process before securing party endorsements.

“The party’s philosophy is entrenched in grassroots democratic participation. Every potential aspirant must go through the process from the grassroots level to prevent imposition,” he said.

The Pat Utomi-led National Consultative Front (NCFront) has welcomed Nasir El-Rufai back to the opposition, describing him as a strong and influential figure in the ongoing efforts to form a mega coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In its reaction, NCFront’s Director-General, Olawale Okunniyi, hailed El-Rufai’s political experience and coalition-building skills, particularly his role in the formation of the APC, as a valuable asset to the opposition’s strategy.

Former governor of Kaduna State, yesterday announced his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Speaking to Punch, Okunniyi highlighted El-Rufai’s negotiation abilities, northern political influence, and governance experience as critical factors in shaping the opposition’s game plan.

He said, “El-Rufai, coming from the North and being a former governor who previously collaborated with General Muhammadu Buhari, is a significant force. He cannot be underestimated.

“He has successfully built coalitions before, facilitated high-level discussions, and played a vital role in promoting an alternative political platform. His experience makes him a formidable and influential force.”

Opposition Plans To Finalize Coalition By July

Okunniyi revealed that ongoing discussions to select the coalition’s preferred political platform would be finalized by July.

He noted, “The SDP is one of the platforms under consideration, but discussions are still ongoing to determine the most viable option.”

He further stated that El-Rufai’s defection aligns with broader efforts to create a credible alternative to the ruling APC.

According to Okunniyi, “It appears that El-Rufai and others within the APC are working to establish their opposition platform, enabling them to actively engage in the ongoing consultations and discussions aimed at creating a mega coalition party to challenge the ruling party.”

National Political Summit Scheduled For July

Okunniyi disclosed that a national political summit for opposition stakeholders is scheduled for July, where a final decision on the coalition’s platform and structure will be made.

He said, “The decision will be made through a bottom-up approach, ensuring that the chosen party reflects the interests of all involved stakeholders.”

Okunniyi emphasized that the opposition coalition is expected to take shape in the coming months through extensive consultations and consensus-building.

“One certainty is that whichever platform is ultimately chosen must undergo rebranding and restructuring to accommodate the diverse interests involved in these negotiations,” he stated.

While forming a new political party remains an option, Okunniyi noted that the coalition could also adopt an existing opposition party, including Labour Party (LP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

He added that the success of this coalition depends on aligning with a credible opposition platform that reflects the interests of all stakeholders.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on political leaders across the country to channel more resources and policies toward the poor and vulnerable, emphasizing the need for selfless service.

Speaking at an Iftar gathering on Monday night in Abuja, Tinubu hosted governors, members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), Service Chiefs, and selected Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) at the State House.

Addressing his guests, Tinubu urged leaders to work in the interest of the people, stressing that leadership is a responsibility, not a privilege.

“I thank you all for responding to this invitation. You honoured it out of respect, not because you don’t have enough to eat or share,” he said, as quoted in a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.

Tinubu highlighted that government efforts are crucial in meeting citizens’ expectations, noting that economic and human development indicators have shown positive improvements.

The President credited economic reforms to the collective efforts of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and leaders at the subnational level.

“I recall in our first FEC meeting, I said we were going to work hard to fetch water from a dry well. We are still working hard to ensure that there is water to drink and that we spend money, not the people.

“You, the leaders at the subnational levels, are also doing all you can to spend money, not the people,” Tinubu stated.

He urged leaders to govern with posterity in mind, ensuring that history remembers them positively.

“Look at yourselves as navigators that will bring the country to the promised land. Standing here as President is a great honour, and you can’t trade it.

“Continue doing what you are doing. And do more for the people,” he added.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State,Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, commended Tinubu for his bold and decisive economic reforms.

Similarly, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, who led the Christian prayers, noted the significance of Muslims and Christians fasting simultaneously, calling it a sign of unity.

Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, acknowledged that the prices of goods and foodstuffs have been gradually decreasing, attributing it to Tinubu’s economic policies.

Fagbemi also noted that the reforms had positively impacted livelihoods, praising the President’s courage in implementing tough but necessary decisions.

Dignitaries present at the Iftar dinner include Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and Minister and cabinet members.

Among the state governors in attendance are Dr. Alex Otti of Abia State, Pastor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Hyacinth Alia of Benue , Babagana Zulum of Borno, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Monday Okpebholo of Edo, Muhammad Yahaya of Gombe, Umar Namadi of Jigawa and Uba Sani of Kaduna,

Others are Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano, Nasir Idris of Kebbi, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, Mohammed Bago of Niger, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, Duoye Diri of Bayelsa and Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State.

Also in attendance were heads of key government agencies: the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Professor Abdullahi Mukhtar Muhammad, the Acting Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, the Comptroller General of the Federal Fire Service, Jaji Abdulganiyu, and the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, Abba Kyari and the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Farouk Ahmed.