By Adenike Lawal

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has suspended the arrest of Ezekiel Onyedikachi, manager of gospel artist Mercy Chinwo, amid allegations of $345,000 fraud.

Onyedikachi, accused of misappropriating funds from Chinwo’s royalties and event earnings, was charged on Friday through his lawyer, Monday Ubani (SAN).

The EFCC had previously obtained an arrest warrant from the Federal High Court in Lagos, alleging Onyedikachi diverted royalties meant for Chinwo.

However, Ubani argued that the EFCC misrepresented the case, framing a contractual dispute as a criminal matter.

He disclosed that Onyedikachi had filed a fundamental human rights suit to challenge the arrest and also raised preliminary objections to the fraud charges.

EFCC counsel Bilikisu Buhari informed Justice Alexander Owoeye that, despite the arrest order, it remained unexecuted.

She requested to serve the charges directly to Onyedikachi’s lawyer, which Ubani accepted, rendering the warrant unnecessary.

Justice Owoeye scheduled February 14 for Onyedikachi’s arraignment and the hearing of pending applications.

The case underscores the complexities of financial accountability and management in the entertainment industry.

By Patrick Idowu

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi), has announced plans to collaborate with the Benue Investment Property Company (BIPC), to secure 500 CNG-powered tricycles (keke), and buses for Benue State.

This was disclosed on Wednesday in Makurdi by PCNGi representatives Suleiman Olawole, Lara Obileye, and David Idokwo during a meeting with BIPC’s Group Managing Director, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, at the company’s headquarters.

According to the representatives, the initiative aims to promote cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions for transportation in the state, with a focus on providing cost-effective and reliable compressed natural gas refueling systems.

Dr. Asemakaha revealed that BIPC will enter a strategic partnership with PCNGi and AAZARAT Energy to establish a CNG station and conversion center in Benue.

He also allocated BIPC’s filling station near the corporate headquarters for the project, promising continued efforts to introduce innovations that will boost the state’s economy.

By Adenike Lawal

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has mourned the passing of former FCT Minister, Lt. General Jeremiah Useni, describing him as a towering figure in Nigeria’s history.

In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike praised Useni’s remarkable contributions to the development of the FCT during his tenure from 1993 to 1998.

Wike highlighted Useni’s extraordinary journey, from joining the Army at 14 to holding various prominent roles, including Military Governor of Bendel State, Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army, Senator representing Plateau South, and FCT Minister.

Affectionately known as “Jerry Boy,” Wike described Useni as a dedicated public servant and patriot whose impact will remain indelible, particularly among the Tarok people of Plateau State.

On behalf of himself and FCT residents, Wike extended condolences, honoring Useni as a distinguished leader, military officer, politician, and peacemaker.

“May his soul rest in peace,” Wike concluded.