Reports
PDP’ll Be Free Of Impunity If You Leave Now ―Spokesman To Makarfi, Ors
In this pulsating interview with Hon. Bernard Mikko the spokesman for Sen. Alimodu Sheriff-led People’s Democratic Party (PDP), he fires a huge shot at embattled factional chairman Sen. Makarfi and his backers threatening to register a new party ahead of 2019 general elections.
Uchechukwu Ugboaja in this exclusive interview seeks answers to why the PDP crisis persists despite efforts by former President Jonathan’s intervention, what will be left of Africa’s largest political party if it eventually splits and much more.
Excerpts
QUESTION: A lot of your party members and followers alike have claimed that your principal Sen. Alimodu Sheriff is simply playing the card of the ruling party as the lingering crisis seems to be in favour of the All Progressives Congress (APC). In fact many have claimed that he is actually a mole planted by the ruling APC to cause an internal implosion within the PDP. Don’t you see any sense in that view?
RESPONSE: That is absolutely preposterous. Are they referring to a Sen. Alimodu Sheriff who has initiated several moves with party Elders and strategic stakeholders (including Gen Gusau)and all the parties agreed to a political solution and to abide by the court of appeal judgement without further litigation. After the Makarfi group reneged on this understanding proceeded to the apex court, we accept the recommendations of the Peace & Reconciliation Committee chaired by Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State.
Loyal party members are committed to the ideal of the party and abide by philosophy, manifesto and ideology of the PDP. Any suggestion to the contrary is simply mischievous. Triggering the process of registration of new political association is an attempt to seek new window for political bargain and economic advantage.
QUESTION: But it was widely reported that Sen. Sheriff walked out on President Jonathan in the course of the meeting, how did that action help in the course of this reconciliation process?
RESPONSE: The former President (Jonathan) has not said Sen. Ali Modu Sheriff walked out on him. Remember that there were several issues preceding the meeting and when the concerned we’re not addressed some of the participants left, including Gov. Nyesom Wike and Sen Godswill Akpabio who left earlier than Sheriff. The Meeting brokered by fmr President Jonathan was to appraise the report of the Peace and Reconciliation Committee chaired by Gov. Dickson.
President Goodluck Jonathan assured us that it is only those that were on the list sent in by both groups will be allowed into the meeting, and we agreed. In fact he asked us to send our protocols to carry out the accreditation for these persons which we also did but to our amazement just an hour before the meeting commenced the whole gallery was filled up. I personally advised Sen. Alimodu Sheriff not to come anymore for the meeting because the conditions earlier agreed to had already been flouted, but Sheriff being a man of his words decided to go ahead to honour the Former President even though he had just flew in from Egypt hours before that meeting commenced.
How then can it be claimed that Sheriff walked out on Jonathan when before Sheriff left Sen. Goodswill Akpabio had left, Gov. Nyesom Wike also left long before the National Chairman left. So why is it only being reported that Sheriff walked out of the meeting and therefore doesn’t want any political solution to this matter option. In fact if there is anyone who wishes that these issues be resolved I can tell you it is Alimodu Sheriff the National Chairman who accepted to reconcile the issue despite President Jonathan’s failure to take full charge of the reconciliation process, because it was eventually high jacked by these same elements who do not wish the party well.
I’m sure you’re aware that we had already fully accepted the findings and recommendations of the Governor Dickson led reconciliation committee and the meeting with Jonathan was just a follow up to that, so what reasons would make Sheriff decide to scuttle the process along the way?
It was simply because Jonathan allowed these people to overshadow him. How can Gov. Fayose insist that Sen. Alimodu Sheriff must not be addressed as the National Chairman of the party at that meeting and President Jonathan who had earlier recognised him accordingly during in his opening statements, later reverse his position when confronted by Journalists. Although I would not want to join issues with the former President, but early indicates that he was not in charge of that process.
When this process began, Jonathan requested for 9 names from both Makarfi and Sheriff, however, Sheriff later discovered that 115 names was later submitted by the Makarfi Camp that was where Sheriff began to loose confidence in that process, but remember Sheriff was away in Egypt while Cairo was in London, it was I and Gulak that was doing the major work on ground. Eventually Sheriff was able to generate about 30 names despite pressure to generate 100 names to match the 115 names already submitted by Makarfi, because it was agreed that there was not going to be any votes, cheering/jeering, clapping and the sequence of the meeting was further agreed upon by both groups where Sheriff was to be given an opportunity to make a brief closing remark at the end of the event to thank everyone for honouring the invitation to come for this meeting. In fact we were assured that if we found any unaccredited person in the hall, that Sheriff has the right to walk away from the meeting.
QUESTION: But as it appears now there are claims that you are seriously supported by the APC led federal government to frustrate any attempt to resolve this imbroglio even beyond 2019, so their only option to challenge the APC is to leave you with the carcass of whatever may be left of the PDP and register a new party. What is your reaction Hon?
RESPONSE: If the other group and registering new party what is their business with the PDP again? I can confidently tell you that no such division or schism exists, dissidents are only at work for their selfish reasons.
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(DDM) – A dramatic scene unfolded in Aku community, Imo State, as a family burial turned chaotic over allegations of financial settlement demands by the deceased’s first son.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the first son, identified as Uzoma Nwawere, reportedly blocked the burial of his late mother, insisting that his married sisters and their husbands must “settle” him before interment could proceed.
The incident occurred at the family compound where a large crowd gathered for the ceremony, only for the event to descend into confusion.
Eyewitnesses said Uzoma argued that his late mother and sisters had allegedly disrespected him while she was alive, depriving him of the recognition traditionally accorded to a first son.
A retired police officer at the scene narrated in Igbo that the deceased’s husband, Godwin Nwawere, had passed away earlier, leaving behind Uzoma as the first son and several daughters now married into different families.
The officer alleged that Uzoma had lived in the family compound for years, claiming he was left to fend for himself “on credit” while his sisters enjoyed better treatment.
He accused the daughters of conspiring with their late mother to undermine Uzoma’s status as heir to the family property, a situation that allegedly fueled tensions even before her death.
Reports indicated that Uzoma insisted the burial could not hold in the family compound, which he now claims as inheritance, unless his in-laws complied with his demands for settlement.
A viral video from the scene showed mourners and family members exchanging heated words near a freshly dug grave as light rain drizzled over the area.
In the footage, relatives and sympathizers were seen pleading with Uzoma to allow the burial to proceed, but he reportedly stood his ground.
The argument quickly attracted onlookers, causing embarrassment for the family and disrupting what was expected to be a solemn ceremony.
Cultural analysts say disputes over inheritance and burial rites are common in parts of Igbo land, particularly when tensions exist between sons and married daughters.
They note that first sons traditionally hold significant authority in family affairs, including burial decisions, but such authority can spark conflicts when perceived to be misused.
Social media reactions to the incident have been mixed, with some condemning Uzoma’s action as insensitive, while others argue that cultural norms were ignored by the deceased’s daughters.
As of press time, it was unclear whether the burial was eventually completed or postponed, as efforts to reach the family for clarification were unsuccessful.
(DDM) – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of thirty-six suspected internet fraudsters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the operation was carried out by operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate of the anti-graft agency.
The sting operation reportedly took place on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at various locations within Port Harcourt.
According to EFCC officials, the arrests followed credible intelligence linking the suspects to widespread internet-related fraud.
Authorities disclosed that the crackdown was part of ongoing efforts to curb cybercrime in Nigeria’s southern region.
Recovered items from the suspects included exotic vehicles, a Q-link motorcycle, and several high-end mobile phones.
Laptop computers reportedly containing incriminating documents were also seized during the coordinated raid.
EFCC stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the scale of the fraudulent activities uncovered.
The suspects are expected to face charges in court as soon as preliminary investigations are concluded.
The anti-graft commission maintained that no one would be spared in its fight against cybercrime and financial malfeasance.
Background of EFCC’s operations
The EFCC has intensified its clampdown on internet fraud across Nigeria in recent years.
In 2024, the agency recorded multiple arrests in Lagos, Abuja, and Benin City as part of its cybercrime crackdown.
Cybercrime, popularly called “Yahoo Yahoo” in Nigeria, has continued to tarnish the nation’s international image.
According to law enforcement data, billions of naira are lost annually to internet scams originating from Nigeria.
Experts link the rise of internet fraud to unemployment, economic hardship, and greed among youths.
EFCC has repeatedly urged young Nigerians to explore legitimate sources of income rather than resort to fraudulent schemes.
Port Harcourt under spotlight
Port Harcourt, a major commercial hub in the Niger Delta, has seen a surge in cybercrime activities in recent years.
Authorities believe the city’s thriving nightlife and influx of oil wealth make it a hotspot for fraud syndicates.
Previous raids in 2023 and 2024 led to the arrest of over 150 suspects, with many facing prosecution.
The EFCC warned that more sting operations would follow as part of its ongoing anti-fraud campaign.
Conclusion
The latest arrests signal a renewed drive by the EFCC to dismantle cybercrime networks across Nigeria.
The agency has promised to release further updates as investigations progress and suspects face legal proceedings.
News
Anambra Govt Arrests, Beats Up 18 Journalists Monitoring Senatorial Bye-Election
By Chuks Collins, Awka
The Anambra State Government has reportedly arrested eighteen journalists, who were touring electoral Wards and communities of the 7 Councils that made up the Anambra South senatorial zone where the bye-elections were held on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
Our correspondent reported that the journalists were arrested and detained at gunpoint by the operatives of the Anambra State Vigilante Service, generally known as Udo-Gachi.
The journalists had gone to Nnewi, in Nnewi North, as well as Ukpor, Osumenyi, Ezinifite, Amichi and other communities in Nnewi South LGA of the State to monitor proceedings in the bye-elections.
The journalists, it was learnt, were rushing after the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship flag bearer, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, for his remarks on the day’s process after covering the day’s proceedings.
At a spot, described as Eke Orsumenyi, they were jolted when their vehicle was forcefully stopped.
They were, thereafter, detained for more than three hours, allegedly on the orders of the State ‘s Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Gilbert Ibezim, according to the security operatives.
“Journalists are the problem of Nigeria, they write whatever they like and deceive the people.
“We will deal with you people today,” an overzealous Udogachi operative threatened the journalists.
Some of the journalists and their cameramen were arrested and detained by the vigilante goons.
The journalists include correspondents of The Guardian, Daily Independent, Authority Newspaper, Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Arise TV, TVC, National Vision and National Daily newspapers.
The leader of the over one hundred vigilante operatives who kept surging in with about 20 vehicles said that the arrest was on the instruction of the Anambra State Deputy Governor.
As the altercations continued, the Deputy Governor, in company of Nnewi South LGA Mayor, arrived the scene and ordered a thorough search of the media practitioners.
Information of the development later got to the APC gubernatorial candidate in the November 8 Anambra State governorship election.
Prince Ukachukwu quickly arrived the scene and ensured that the detained journalists were released, insisting that they we’re merely doing their normal civic duties.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the collation of the bye-election in the seven local government areas that constitute the Anambra South senatorial zone.
(DDM) – Popular Nollywood actor Segun Remi, widely known by his stage name Chief Kanran, has passed away at the age of 72.
The news of his death was confirmed by celebrity journalist Seun Oloketuyi in an Instagram post on Friday morning, though details surrounding the cause of his passing have yet to be disclosed.
Chief Kanran was a celebrated figure in the Yoruba film industry, known for his distinctive style, sharp humor, and commanding presence that endeared him to audiences over several decades.
He was recognized for his memorable performances in numerous stage plays and films, often portraying authoritative and affluent characters, and was considered a household name in Nigerian cinema.
Segun Remi began his career in the arts in the mid-1970s and gained popularity with notable roles in Ola Rotimi’s play “Kurunmi,” and the Lagos Television drama “Aláàfin Kanran” in 1988.
His extensive filmography includes several acclaimed Yoruba films such as “Vigilante,” “Ose-Sango,” “Eri Okan,” “Itunnu,” and “Orire,” among others.
Despite his success, Chief Kanran faced significant personal challenges, including devastating fire incidents that destroyed his home, studio, and equipment, which left him struggling and at one point homeless.
His contributions to Nollywood have been widely celebrated, with colleagues and fans mourning the loss of a veteran actor who left an indelible mark on the Nigerian entertainment industry.
This news comes as the Nollywood community recently mourned other actors, adding to the list of notable film personalities who have passed away this year.
Chief Kanran’s legacy as a pioneer and beloved actor will continue to be remembered by fans and the wider film fraternity.
In a major crackdown on cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the convictions of three internet fraudsters following a sweeping operation at a hotel located within the precincts of the former President Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) complex in Abeokuta.
The operation, which initially saw 93 suspects apprehended, has shone a spotlight on the rising tide of cybercriminal activities in high-profile Nigerian locations, underscoring the agency’s commitment to combating financial crimes in the country’s digital age.
The suspects, Isaac Akinwale, Ibrahim Azeez Olatunji, and Habeeb Oladipupo Oshundairo, pleaded guilty to an array of charges linked to false pretence, identity theft, and illicit acquisition of funds, contravening provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and the EFCC Act, 2004.
Presiding over the proceedings as a vacation judge, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu handed down measured sentences designed both as punishment and deterrence, reflecting the seriousness with which the judiciary views such offences.
EFCC operative Umar Shuaibu revealed that Isaac Akinwale operated a celebrity scam on WhatsApp under female pseudonyms, defrauding a victim of $500.
The court accepted multiple exhibits tendered by prosecution counsel Franklin Ofoma, including a 2007 Toyota Camry, a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, and a N400,000 bank draft, as proceeds and instruments of crime.
Justice Dipeolu sentenced Akinwale to three months imprisonment or an alternative fine of N1million.
Olatunji, convicted for running a romance scam, was sentenced to one month imprisonment or a N500,000 fine.
Oshundairo, who posed as an expert in service certificates and tax preparation through a fraudulent Gmail account, was ordered to perform 30 days community service.
His punishment is publicly symbolic: he must carry a banner with the cautionary message, “Cybercrime Does Not Pay. Stay Away from Cybercrime”.
In a notable twist, fourth defendant Onunoye Fawas Olamilekan entered a not guilty plea to charges of impersonating a nurse on Facebook and controlling $50 acquired via fraudulent transactions.
His counsel disputed the validity of the charges under the Cybercrimes Act, prompting the court to remand him at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending further trial in October 2025.
The EFCC had flagged a total of 23 suspects for arraignment, but only four were accommodated by the court during its session, indicating broadening investigations and prosecutions may follow.
This operation marks one of the EFCC’s largest anti-fraud sweeps from a single Nigerian location in recent memory.
The prominence of the Obasanjo Presidential Library as the scene of the arrests dramatically heightened public awareness, raising questions about the security and due diligence in hospitality establishments across the country.
Nigerian authorities continue to escalate efforts against cybercriminals, aiming to assert the rule of law over digital spaces.
The EFCC, empowered by the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act and other statutes, urges citizens to remain vigilant online and to report suspicious activities.
With growing internet adoption in Nigeria, law enforcement faces an evolving battle against increasingly sophisticated scams, making deterrent convictions like these a critical step in restoring confidence in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
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