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Fani-Kayode, Falae, Udenwa, others, in N3.15billion fraud

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Femi Fani Kayode

*$2.1b scam: ‎Court orders immediate release of Dasuki’s ex-aide

Mr. Fani-Kayode was the chief beneficiary of a N3.145billion fraud perpetrated by then ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the build up to the last presidential election, investigators at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, revealed to an online newspaper today.

The anti-graft agency said they have uncovered evidence showing how prominent politicians, mostly from the PDP, allegedly shared N3.145billion in 2014/2015.

The revelation came in a day that a Federal Capital Territory High Court in Jabi, Abuja ordered the EFCC and the Nigerian Army, to immediately release Col. Nicholas Ashinze, a former aide to the immediate past National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd)

Justice Yusuf Halilu gave the order in his judgment in a suit filed by Ashinze for the enforcement of his fundamental human rights to personal liberty. Ashinze had been in detention since December 23, 2015, in relation to the ongoing investigation into alleged diversion of funds meant for arms procurement under the past administration. 

Named in the alleged loot are a former aviation minister and director of media for the Goodluck Jonathan Campaign organization, Femi Fani-kayode; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and leader of the Social Democratic Party, Olu Falae; a former finance minister, Nenadi Usman; a former Imo state governor, Achike Udenwa; former minister of state for foreign affairs, Viola Onwuliri and politician Okey Ezenwa

A source at the anti-graft agency told PREMIUM TIMES the money was paid by the Central Bank Nigeria into the account of the Ministry of External Affairs Library, from where it was moved into the account of a private firm, Joint Trust Dimension Nigeria Limited.

“It was from the Joint Dimension’s account with Zenith Bank that the money was shared to various individuals and organizations for purposes that are not stated,” the source said.

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The sources described Mr. Fani-Kayode was the chief beneficiary of the disbursement as he allegedly received a whooping N840million, paid in three tranches into his Zenith Bank, Maitama branch, with number 1004735721.

The first tranche of payment involving N350million allegedly hit the account on February 19, 2015.

Another N250milion was also said to have been paid into the account on February 19, 2015 while N240million moved into the account a month later, precisely on March 19, 2015.

The source disclosed that the balance on this account as at December 31, 2015 was N189, 402.72.

Next to Fani-Kayode in the pecking order of alleged beneficiaries was Goodluck Support Group which allegedly received N320million. The group was headed by Rufai Alkali, a professor and then special adviser on political matters to Mr. Jonathan

Mr Falae, investigators said, received N100m through Marreco Limited, a company whose he chairs.

The fund was credited into the company’s United Bank for Africa Plc account No. 1000627022 on March 25, 2014.

Both Achike Udenwa and Viola Onwuliri got N350million in two tranches. The first tranche of N150million was paid into their joint account with Zenith bank on January 13, 2015.

The second tranche of N200miilion has credited into their account with Diamond bank.

Nenadi Usman allegedly received N36.9million through her Zenith Bank account no. 1000158311. Her branch of Zenith Bank is located at 7 Kachia Road, Kaduna.

Coming at the rear is Okey Ezenwa who also pocketed N100million.

The sources disclosed that detectives are working to determine the real motive for the distribution of the funds.

“But as things stand, the fact that most of the payments were made in the weeks preceding the last presidential elections leaves very little to the imagination,” an investigator said.

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When contacted by PREMIUM TIMES, Mr. Fani-Kayode said the funds were paid into his account by Nenadi Usman, who was the director of finance of the Goodluck Jonathan campaign.

The campaign asked me to open an account for my campaign directorate, which I did,” Mr. Fani-Kayode said. “They then paid the money in for the assignment I was given. I asked them where they money came from. They said it was private contribution for the Jonathan campaign. I believed them, and I had no way of knowing exactly where the money came from.

“As far as I’m concerned, it was campaign funds, and the money was used for the purpose for which it was meant. And we accounted for it to the man who gave us a job to do, President Jonathan.”

Meanwhile, Justice Halilu ruled on Monday that Ashinze’s detention for over three months without trial, was “‎illegal, wrongful, unlawful and constituted a blatant violation of the fundamental rights of the applicant”.

The judge also ordered the immediate release of documents and items the anti-graft agency seized from the house of the applicant.

He ruled that although, fundamental human rights enforcement proceedings were not meant to be an escape route for suspects of crimes, they were to help in containing the excesses of government agencies.

Justice Halilu, however, refused to grant a perpetual injunction restraining the EFCC and other respondents from further arresting the applicant. The judge also refused to grant the N500m sought by Ashinze as compensation for his unlawful detention.

He ruled, “The EFCC is a creation of the ‎law. The court will not allow it to act as if it is above the law. It is remarkable to note that the motto of the EFCC is that nobody is above the law, yet they are acting as if they are above the law.

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“The EFCC Act is not superior to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The respondents in this matter have not behaved as if we are in a civilised society. They have behaved as if we are in a military dictatorship ‎where they arrest and release persons at will.

“The respondents, I must be bold to say- the EFCC and the Army- have behaved like illiterate.” The judge held that by virtue of  section 36 of the 1999 constitution, as amended, an accused person was deemed innocent until proven guilty in a competent court of law.

Justice Halilu also asked, “Why has the 1st respondent kept the applicant without bringing him to court? Why was the applicant, being a serving military officer, who could be easily reached, not granted administrative bail? Or is it that the applicant has been found guilty and already serving his jail term?

He added, “Nobody should be subjected to the whims and caprices of the EFCC. The essence of the rule of law and constitutional provisions is to ensure a just balance between the ruler and the ruled, between the powerful and the weak.

“Though the EFCC has the responsibility to investigate financial crime, it must however conduct its operations in accordance with the rule of law.

“The court is empowered to guard against i‎mproper use of power by any member of the society or agency, EFCC inclusive.

“The detention of the applicant, for all intent and purposes, is not just unfair but unfortunate.”

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Celebrity/Entertainment

How Nigerian TikToker Geh Geh Made ₦45 Million in One Night

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A Nigerian TikTok sensation known as “Geh Geh” has stunned the internet after pulling in over $30,000 from a single live session that attracted more than 177,000 viewers.

The young entertainer, who calls his platform the “University of Wisdom and Understanding,” has quickly built a cult following with his raw and unfiltered lectures about women, money, and survival in Nigeria.

During the live broadcast on Thursday, August 21, viewers showered him with virtual gifts that he later calculated to be worth over $30,000.

The milestone instantly pushed him into the spotlight as one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising online personalities.

 

Reacting in disbelief after the stream, Geh Geh said:

“More than 177,000 people watch my lectures today. Jesus! University of wisdom and understanding, the only university where once you graduate, woman go fear to ask you for money.”

 

Despite not having a formal education, Geh Geh proudly calls himself “the first illiterate to find a university in the history of Nigeria.” In a video after the viral live, he reminded fans of his humble background:

“I no be graduate too, but by the grace of God, I don find school. I be orphan, but now Nigerians don show me love.”

 

The TikTok star admitted he was overwhelmed by the generosity of his supporters.

“See gift I made over… more gift when they give me today is worth about $30,000. I no go take this love for granted, because I no really do anything for am.”

 

His rise has been hailed as proof of how social media is transforming lives in Nigeria. With no degree, no rich background, and no industry connection, Geh Geh has managed to build a fanbase that now calls themselves “students” of his unusual university.

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Still, his controversial views on women and relationships continue to spark heated debates. While some dismiss his advice as reckless, others insist his boldness speaks directly to Nigeria’s frustrated youth.

 

Reflecting on his sudden fame, Geh Geh compared himself to great thinkers:

“If Nigeria be country wey value great people, by now them suppose dey compare people like me with Aristotle, Wole Soyinka, Einstein… but I thank God say people dey see my head and my own difference.”

From an orphan with no prospects to a viral star earning in dollars, Geh Geh’s story has become one of digital empowerment.

His journey shows how platforms like TikTok are creating new forms of fame, money, and influence for Nigerians especially those once written off by society.

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Celebrity/Entertainment

Big Brain Naija Reality Show Set to Launch in Nigeria – What to Expect

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Nigeria is set to welcome a new kind of reality TV show, Big Brain Naija (#BB9JA), which the organisers describe as a platform designed to discover, celebrate, and showcase the country’s brightest minds.

Diaspora Digital Media gathered that the show, powered by Big Brain Productions in collaboration with DAAR Communications Plc, will officially debut in October.

According to the organisers, it will air on Africa Independent Television (AIT) and will be staged in the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at the official signing of the partnership agreement in Abuja, Chief Executive Officer of Big Brain Productions, Mr. Kel Ameobi, explained that the initiative seeks to balance entertainment with innovation.

He stressed that the show would focus on creativity, ideas, and problem-solving rather than the usual theatrics and controversies that dominate popular reality shows in Nigeria.

“Big Brain Naija was created with a simple but powerful vision: to build a platform where intelligence meets entertainment,” Ameobi said.

He added that Nigerian youths have often been denied opportunities to showcase their ingenuity on the big stage, while entertainment spaces tend to reward superficial content.

He continued: “For too long, we’ve seen platforms celebrate emptiness and drama, while the brightest among us have no avenue to shine.

Big Brain Naija is not a show of noise but a stage for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. We want to celebrate ideas, not controversies.”

Joining him, Chief Executive Officer of DAAR Communications Plc, Mr. Marcel Anyalechi, praised the project as a refreshing departure from the norm.

He noted that DAAR Communications would fully support the show across all its media platforms.

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“This project blends innovation and creativity, and we believe it will bring real impact to the entertainment industry.

We are excited to partner with Big Brain Productions to showcase Nigerian talent not just to Africa but to the world,” Anyalechi said.

Adding to the details, Chief Operating Officer of Big Brain Naija, Mr. Ossai Ilome, explained that the first season will feature 37 contestants representing all 36 states and the FCT.

To make the competition even more unique, the show will introduce AI-powered judges, making it the first reality TV show in Africa to integrate artificial intelligence at such a scale.

Ilome revealed that the winner of the maiden season will walk away with a grand prize of N30 million and a brand-new car.

He emphasized that beyond entertainment, the project aims to reinforce Nigeria’s global image as a nation of intelligent and industrious people.

“The time has come to showcase Nigerians as visionary and exceptional people. While the show will retain the entertaining aspect of reality TV, its heart lies in celebrating intellect, ideas, and innovation,” Ilome said.

The organisers expressed optimism that Big Brain Naija would not only captivate audiences but also inspire young Nigerians to dream bigger and push creative boundaries.

With its unique blend of entertainment, innovation, and national representation, the show aims to become a defining moment for the Nigerian entertainment industry when it premieres in October.

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Popular Skit Maker Dies in Lagos

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dead body

The Lakowe community in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State was thrown into panic last week after a skit maker and hairstylist, simply identified as Austin, was brutally murdered by suspected cultists.

Diaspora Digital Media gathered that the incident, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, August 14, 2025, left residents in shock as the victim’s mutilated body was discovered with deep machete cuts.

Witnesses said the attackers severed one of his hands during the gruesome killing.

According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants stormed the area at dawn in search of Austin.

Upon locating his residence, they allegedly dragged him out of his apartment before hacking him to death in front of horrified neighbors.

A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity told PUNCH Metro:

“There was commotion early Thursday morning, but nobody knew what was happening.

Later, we found Austin’s corpse with machete wounds, and one of his hands cut off. That was when we realized the noise we heard was linked to the attack.”

Shockingly, friends and neighbors revealed that Austin may have anticipated his death.

A close acquaintance disclosed that the deceased posted a cryptic farewell message on his WhatsApp status just a day before the attack.

“Austin was a well-known hairstylist and also created comedy skits online. People close to him said he sensed danger and left a post hinting that something bad was about to happen,” a resident explained.

Videos shared with reporters showed his lifeless body lying on the ground with sympathizers gathered around, mourning the tragic loss.

When contacted, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, did not answer calls placed to his phone. A text message sent to him also went unanswered as of the time of filing this report.

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The killing comes just days after Lagos police confirmed the arrest of six suspected cultists in connection with the violent murder of another man, identified as Kamoru, alias Keeper, in the Ebute Meta area.

In a statement released in mid-July, Hundeyin disclosed that the suspects — Raphael Ashim (30), Wasiu Kareem (33), Sadiq Olabisi (40), Olamilekan Oluwatosin (27), Olalekan Olugbodi (54), and Ibrahim Oladimeji (22) — were apprehended by detectives attached to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit during an intelligence-led operation in Surulere.

Police said the suspects were involved in multiple cult clashes across Lagos, which have claimed several lives, including that of Kamoru.

Cult-related violence has been on the rise in Lagos communities, with gangs clashing over territorial control, drug turf wars, and political influence.

Many residents have repeatedly called on the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to curb the menace.

Austin’s killing has once again highlighted the growing insecurity in Lagos suburbs, especially in fast-developing areas like Ibeju-Lekki, where rapid urbanization has also attracted cult activity.

For residents of Lakowe, the incident has created fear and uncertainty. Some expressed concern that young men in the area are being lured into cult groups due to unemployment, peer pressure, and lack of opportunities.

Community leaders are now urging the Lagos State Police Command to launch a thorough investigation and bring Austin’s killers to justice.

Many fear that without swift action, cult-related killings could escalate and spread further across Ibeju-Lekki and surrounding communities.

As of press time, security presence in Lakowe has been increased, but residents remain on edge, mourning the loss of a popular young hairstylist and entertainer whose life was cut short by suspected cultists.

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JUST IN: Tears as Nollywood legend Fabian Adibe passes away sadly

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(DDM) – The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Nollywood actor Fabian Adibe.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the veteran performer, widely known for his role in the classic adaptation of Things Fall Apart, passed away in the early hours of Wednesday.

According to reports, Adibe died at 2:30 a.m., a development confirmed by celebrity journalist Seun Oloketuyi via his Instagram handle.

The news has triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans, and stakeholders within the entertainment sector.

Fabian Adibe was celebrated as one of Nollywood’s foundational actors who helped shape the industry’s storytelling tradition.

His role in Things Fall Apart and several other Nollywood classics remains etched in the memories of movie lovers across generations.

Industry insiders described him as an actor who brought authenticity, depth, and emotion to every character he portrayed.

His passing marks another painful loss for Nollywood, which has lost several veterans in recent years.

Fabian Adibe’s contribution to Nollywood

Adibe began his acting career during Nigeria’s formative film years, appearing in stage productions before transitioning to television and home videos.

He was known for his ability to interpret roles rooted in traditional culture and African history.

His performances helped establish Nollywood as a hub of African cinematic expression.

Things Fall Apart, adapted from Chinua Achebe’s iconic novel, remains one of his most enduring legacies.

Critics hailed his performance for capturing the emotional weight and historical depth of the story.

Tributes pour in

Since the announcement of his passing, social media has been flooded with condolences and emotional messages.

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Actors, filmmakers, and fans alike have celebrated his life and legacy.

Seun Oloketuyi, who confirmed the news, described Adibe as “a pioneer and a legend whose absence will be deeply felt.”

Others praised his mentorship of younger actors and his commitment to professionalism throughout his career.

Nollywood’s recent losses

Adibe’s death adds to a growing list of Nollywood veterans who have passed away in the past two years.

The industry has lost icons like Saint Obi, Mr. Ibu (John Okafor), and Don Brymo, sparking concerns about the preservation of Nollywood’s history.

Film historians have called for more archival work to document the contributions of early actors like Adibe.

Final farewell

While funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, colleagues are expected to hold memorial events in his honour.

Fans have taken to social media with messages such as, “Rest in peace, Fabian Adibe. Nollywood will never forget you.”

 

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Why single mothers can’t raise boys into proper men — Jim Iyke

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Jim Iyke

Nollywood actor Jim Iyke has sparked heated debate with his recent comments on parenting, asserting that a single mother cannot raise a boy into a “proper man” without the involvement of a male figure.

Speaking during an interview on Okay 101.7 FM in Accra, Ghana, Iyke emphasized the importance of male influence in shaping boys into responsible and disciplined men, while acknowledging the critical nurturing role women play in child-rearing.

“A woman can’t raise a man. You can’t, you’re not built for it. A single mother cannot raise a man properly,” Iyke declared. He added that the presence of a trusted male figure—whether a brother, father, or mentor—is essential. “There has to be a male presence in it [raising a boy child],” he insisted.

According to Iyke, women are naturally inclined to nurture and love, but he argued that this alone is insufficient for instilling discipline and resilience in boys.

“What you’re going to raise is a very weak man. He is going to be everything like the men that left you. You need somebody who would discipline him, tell him ‘No’ as often as possible, and put him in the grind,” he explained.

To illustrate his point, Iyke shared a personal anecdote about his four-year-old son during a family holiday in the south of France.

When his son was bullied by other kids during a football game, Iyke deliberately refused to intervene, instructing his wife to step back as well.

He described the moment as a “conversation between two men,” explaining that the experience taught his son resilience.

“He went back, fought for his ball, and came out stronger. I’ve never been more proud of him,” Iyke recounted, adding that this underscored his belief in the value of a father figure in a boy’s development.

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Iyke’s comments have since gone viral, igniting passionate discussions across social media. While some agree with his perspective on the importance of male influence, others have criticized his stance, emphasizing the strength and success many single mothers have demonstrated in raising well-rounded men.

 

 

 

 

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