Africa
Praco MD: Lebanese money launderers used FCDA to demolish our estate

The Managing Director and Project Manager of Praco International Ltd., Dr. Chukwudubem Ezekwelu Esq., has revealed that the demolition of their estate under development was actually masterminded by some dubious Lebanese businessmen in Nigeria suspected for money laundering.
Dr. Ezekwelu made the revelation during a press conference today, March 28, 2024, at the Company HQ in Abuja.
He was referring to the incident that occurred on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, involving officials of Development Control of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
The said officials had defied a substantive court order and demolished a housing estate undergoing development.
What did Praco MD say?
While addressing journalists, Ezekwelu regretted the ‘willful damage and demolition of… Praco Housing Estate by men of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA)’.
He stated that Praco has all necessary required authentic and lawful title and approvals to develop the property.
He expressed worry and deep concern about “the ugly incident” despite concerted efforts to prevent ‘the unwarranted demolition of the property’.
According to him, FCDA officials defied a substantive court order to demolish an estate undergoing development.
The property, owned by Praco Ltd., is situated at Plot 581, No E27, Cadastral Zone, Kugbo with registration number FCDA/DC/BP/ASD/29163.

Praco International Managing Director and Project Manager, Chukwudubem Ezekwelu Esq.
How did it all start?
Ezekwelu recalled: “As early as 7.45am, the officials of FCT, alongside a retinue of security personnel drawn from the military, police and the National Security and DSS, NCS, Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), stormed the site with no less many heavy equipment like, excavators, bulldozers, etc.
“Efforts by the developers to stop the demolition citing a substantive order of an FCT High Court 44, Wuse Zone 2, presided over by Hon. Justice Eleojo Enenche, dated March 22, 2024, in Suit No FCT/HC/CV/1739/24 on Motion No M/5827/2024, were rebuffed and ignored.
“The court had granted us a restraining order following an ex parte motion in the suit filed by Engr. Success Obioma, Praco International Ltd, Psalm 127 Limited and Peace Be Still Ltd. against the FCT Minister, FCDA, Deed Registrar FCDA, Director of Urban/Regional Planning, Chairman AMMAC, the Director of Land Administration and six others.
“The plaintiffs had, through an affidavit deposed to by Simon Nnaemeka Nwani, prayed the court for an order of interim injunction restraining the “Defendants/Respondents by themselves or their servants, agents, privies, proxies or whosoever acting on their express or presume authority from further demolishing or destroying Claimants’ developments, which include, but not limited to infrastructure and house…
“Developments were put on the land by the Claimants after securing Defendants’ approval upon payments of necessary fees pending determination of the Motion on Notice for Interlocutory Injunction.”
What did the court rule?
Ezekwelu noted that the application was made by J. M. Matthew, counsel for the applicants, on behalf of Praco.
During the hearing, he stressed, Justice Enenche upheld the application and made an order of interim injunction.
The order restrained FCDA or anyone acting on its behalf from demolishing or destroying Praco’s developments.
Enenche also restrained them from invalidating, withdrawing or revoking Praco’s title to any of the properties.
The injunction will subsist pending the determination of the Motion on Notice for Interlocutory Injunction.
The court adjourned hearing on the Motion to April 9, indicating that the order subsists for initial period of 7 days.
According to Ezekwelu, FCDA security personnel prevented journalists from video recording or photographing of the demolition of Praco Housing Estate, which lasted for more than two hours.
He regretted that FCDA, which is a creation of the law, can trample on the order of court of competent jurisdiction.
What is FCDA’s interest?
Praco MD, during live interview, disclosed that some dubious Lebanese businessmen masterminded the demolition.
He noted that the suspected Lebanese money launderers used FCT Ministry to demolish the project.
Ezekwelu added: “A highly placed official in FCDA, who has interest in Sunrise Estate, was behind the serial attempts to cause a breach of the law.”
He also alleged that the Lebanese owners are selling Sunrise properties in foreign currencies, up to $750 million.
This, he said, is in itself an evidence of laundering Nigeria’s foreign currency reserves abroad.
When journalists at the demolition site, after hearing from Praco management, approached FDCA officials for their comments on the matter, they refused to talk to press, but rather, used police and Army officers to chase them away.
Watch video clip of the press conference, wherein Praco MD, Chukwudubem Ezekwelu, accused ‘Lebanese money launderers’ of using Wike to demolish their ongoing estate project, below:
Matters arising
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), it could be recalled, had on March 27, 2024, reported that the Nigerian Government, under the office of the FCT Ministry, ordered the demolition of multi-billion Naira Praco Estate located in Abuja.
The Developer disclosed that FCDA officials, acting on the orders of the FCT Minister, invaded the Praco project site with a detachment of over 300 security personnel including the Army, the Navy, the Police and many others, and destroyed the properties.
The said property, regardless, was registered with number: FCDA/DC/BP/ASD/29163 validly approved by the FCT authorities for development.
Africa
JUST IN: Burkina Faso Bans Bill Gates-Backed GMO Malaria Project

Burkina Faso’s military government has halted a malaria eradication project backed by billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates and his foundation.
The project, run by the research consortium Target Malaria, focused on releasing genetically modified mosquitoes into the environment to help eradicate malaria.
On Friday, authorities ordered Target Malaria to immediately suspend all operations in the West African nation.
The move marks yet another clash between the government and international non-governmental organizations, many of which have faced intense restrictions under military rule.
The decision sparked heated reactions from civil society groups. Opponents of the project argue that Burkina Faso should focus on safer and more traditional solutions rather than experimenting with controversial genetic technologies.
A spokesperson for a coalition campaigning against the project stated that citizens “deserve protection through proven health measures, not risky experiments.”
Target Malaria, however, defended its work.
The group insisted that since 2012, it has complied with Burkina Faso’s national laws and worked closely with local authorities.
It expressed readiness to cooperate further with the government despite the sudden suspension.
The project has faced criticism not only within Burkina Faso but also internationally.
It became the target of online disinformation campaigns that claimed the genetically modified mosquitoes posed unforeseen dangers to the ecosystem.
While the first release of such mosquitoes took place in 2019, the long-term effects remain under global scientific debate.
Burkina Faso, one of the ten countries most affected by malaria, recorded more than eight million cases in 2024 alone.
The disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the country, particularly among children under five.
Supporters of the Target Malaria initiative argue that innovation is crucial to ending this deadly cycle, but critics fear it could introduce new risks.
This ban comes amid wider tensions between the military rulers and international organizations.
Since seizing power nearly three years ago, Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s administration has increasingly tightened control over foreign-funded NGOs.
In recent months, the government revoked the licenses of at least 21 groups, accusing some of pushing foreign agendas and destabilizing national sovereignty.
Analysts see the latest crackdown as part of a broader trend. Burkina Faso’s rulers are distancing the country from Western-backed projects while strengthening ties with alternative global partners.
However, the sudden halt to malaria research may come at a cost, as the country continues to battle one of the world’s deadliest diseases.
For now, the future of genetically modified mosquito projects in Burkina Faso remains uncertain.
The debate highlights the sharp divide between innovation and caution, science and politics, as the country balances urgent health needs with national sovereignty concerns
Africa
Why Every Nigerian Should Learn Combat Skills — CDS

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has urged all Nigerians to acquire combat skills such as Karate, Taekwondo, and Judo to protect themselves in the face of increasing danger.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Thursday, August 21, General Musa likened learning martial arts to other essential survival skills, including driving and swimming.
“That one should be taken as learning driving, learning how to swim.
Whether we have war or not, it is a survival instinct,” he said.
He added that in Europe, swimming and basic security education are compulsory because citizens must understand and practice personal safety.
The defence chief emphasised that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) should incorporate unarmed combat training into its programme to prepare graduates for real-world threats.
He explained, “That’s what the NYSC is supposed to do, but the NYSC has been watered down to three weeks. Self-defence is very important.
Unarmed combat, swimming, driving these are critical aspects of human survival. We should never take them for granted because they prepare us for the future.”
General Musa further encouraged Nigerians to remain situationally aware of their environment, alerting authorities to any suspicious activities or individuals.
He said, “The world we are in now is dangerous. We have individuals who don’t mean people well. They kill for whatever reason.”
Highlighting evolving threats, General Musa disclosed that terrorists increasingly use gold to finance their operations.
He noted that complex international networks make it difficult to immediately expose or prosecute these financiers. “Gold is the main source.
They circulate it through various channels, including foreign links, which complicates intervention,” he explained.
General Musa acknowledged that bad roads and challenging terrains hinder rapid military response to attacks.
He said, “Many Nigerians expect immediate intervention from the Armed Forces without understanding the logistical challenges. By the time information reaches us, terrorists have already struck and vanished because they move more quickly in these regions.”
He added that improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the North-East further slow troop movement.
Regarding the Southeast, General Musa noted that the arrest of pro-Biafran agitator Simon Ekpa in Finland in November 2024 has improved security in the region.
He said, “Troops are actively pursuing Ekpa’s lieutenants in Imo, Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Abia states. We will continue operations until all threats are neutralised.”
The CDS also praised the synergy among the Nigerian Army, Air Force, and Navy, which led to the arrest of Ansaru terrorist leaders, describing it as a major success in the fight against terrorism.
General Musa concluded by announcing an African Chiefs of Defence Staff conference to foster continental collaboration and enhance regional security efforts.
Africa
‘Misplaced Priority’: Peter Obi Blasts FG’s ₦142bn Bus Terminal Project

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has slammed the Federal Government’s approval of ₦142 billion for the construction of bus terminals across Nigeria, describing it as a reckless misplacement of priorities.
Obi issued a statement on Friday, August 22, via his Official X formerly Twitter platform, warning that the project reflects poor leadership and lack of focus in managing Nigeria’s limited resources. He titled his statement, “₦142 Billion for Bus Terminals.”
According to him, the true test of leadership is how scarce resources are prioritized.
He stressed that investing such a huge amount in bus terminals while critical sectors like healthcare suffer shows a government that is out of touch with citizens’ realities.
Obi said: “The difference between success and failure in any nation is how leaders prioritise resources.
The decision to spend ₦142 billion on six bus terminals exposes a lack of competence and vision. It is a clear sign of poor leadership.”
The Federal Executive Council had recently approved the funds for the construction of one modern bus terminal in each of the six geopolitical zones.
The government described it as part of efforts to modernise transport infrastructure and improve mobility nationwide.
But Obi strongly disagreed. He compared the allocation to healthcare funding, pointing out that the combined budget for all teaching hospitals and federal psychiatric centres in Nigeria is less than ₦100 billion in the 2024 budget.
“This is disturbing,” Obi continued, “because health remains one of the most critical sectors of development. Yet it is underfunded and deteriorating rapidly.
The World Health Organization has reported that over 20 million Nigerians live with mental health conditions.
This is a tragic irony. How can the government ignore this crisis and focus on bus terminals?”
He argued that the health sector, alongside education and poverty reduction programs, deserves priority attention.
Obi insisted that until government spending reflects the real needs of Nigerians, the country will remain trapped in poor governance.
Many Nigerians have also taken to social media to express anger, echoing Obi’s concerns. Critics argue that the decision proves the Federal Government is disconnected from the economic struggles of ordinary citizens.
For Obi, the ₦142 billion project is not just a case of wrong timing.
He sees it as a clear example of governance failure and misplaced priorities.
Africa
Canada Announces Permanent Residence Lottery Results for Foreign Workers

Canada has carried out a new Express Entry lottery, inviting thousands of skilled workers to apply for permanent residency.
Financial Express report that the Announcement which came on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, marks one of the most significant rounds this year.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 4,200 candidates in the latest Express Entry draw.
The invitations were sent under the no-program-specified category, which means candidates from all economic immigration programs were considered.
To qualify, candidates needed a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of at least 507 points.
This cut-off is higher than several recent rounds, showing rising competition in Canada’s immigration pool.
Breakdown of Recent Express Entry Draws
The August 20 general draw came just a week after Canada held two smaller, targeted draws.
On August 14, 2025, IRCC issued 1,500 invitations in a Healthcare category-based draw, with a minimum CRS of 430.
On August 13, 2025, another STEM occupation draw invited 1,000 candidates, with a CRS cut-off of 481.
This means Canada has invited more than 6,700 candidates in August alone, highlighting its steady demand for skilled workers.
Why Express Entry Remains Key
The Express Entry system is Canada’s main pathway for skilled migration. It manages applications for three major programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Through this system, candidates are ranked by CRS points based on age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability. Higher scores improve the chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Impact of the Rising CRS
The 507-point cut-off has sparked concern among applicants.
Many worry that higher thresholds make it harder to qualify unless they boost their profiles with stronger English or French test results, higher education, or Canadian job offers.
Immigration experts note that Canada is prioritizing candidates who are more likely to integrate quickly into the economy.
With rising competition, applicants may need to explore provincial nomination programs (PNPs), which can add up to 600 extra CRS points.
Canada’s Immigration Targets
Despite higher CRS cut-offs, Canada’s immigration outlook remains ambitious.
The government has pledged to welcome 485,000 new permanent residents in 2024 and 500,000 in 2025.
Skilled workers make up a large share of this intake.
With labor shortages in sectors like healthcare, technology, and construction, Canada continues to use Express Entry to attract foreign talent.
What Applicants Should Do
Experts recommend that prospective migrants keep their profiles updated and monitor both general and category-based draws.
Targeted draws for healthcare, STEM, and trades occupations often have lower CRS cut-offs, giving candidates more opportunities.
For those struggling to meet the high CRS threshold, exploring study routes in Canada, provincial nominations, or job offers may increase chances.
The August 20 Express Entry draw shows Canada’s ongoing commitment to skilled immigration.
With over 4,200 invitations issued and CRS cut-offs climbing, the competition is intense.
However, the system continues to provide multiple entry points for determined applicants worldwide.
Africa
Japan Designates City as Hometown for Nigerians

The Japanese government has officially designated the city of Kisarazu as the hometown for Nigerians, marking a major step in strengthening cultural diplomacy and workforce collaboration between both nations.
The announcement was made during the ninth Tokyo International Conference for African Development (TICAD9) and confirmed by the Director of Information at Nigeria’s State House, Abiodun Oladunjoye.
According to the agreement, the Japanese government will introduce a special visa category for highly skilled and innovative young Nigerians who are willing to relocate to Kisarazu to live and work.
This initiative also extends to artisans and blue-collar workers from Nigeria who are ready to upskill and contribute to Japan’s economy.
At the same event, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) designated three other cities as hometowns for African nations:
Nagai in Yamagata Prefecture for Tanzania,
Sanjo in Niigata Prefecture for Ghana, and Imabari in Ehime Prefecture for Mozambique.
These hometown designations aim to foster manpower development, cultural exchanges, and economic partnerships that will benefit both Japan and the participating African countries.
Nigeria-Japan Partnership
Nigeria’s Charge d’Affaires and Acting Ambassador to Japan, Mrs. Florence Akinyemi Adeseke, received the certificate on behalf of Nigeria alongside Yoshikuni Watanabe, the Mayor of Kisarazu.
The ceremony highlighted the city’s longstanding relationship with Nigeria, as Kisarazu was the official host town for the Nigerian contingent during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where athletes trained and acclimatised before moving to the Olympic village.
Local Japanese authorities hope that designating Kisarazu as Nigerians’ hometown will boost the city’s population, enhance regional revitalisation, and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Japan’s Vision for Africa
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, in his address at TICAD9, announced $5.5 billion in new investments across Africa.
He stressed the importance of mutual understanding, local solutions, and collaborative development, focusing on three key areas:
Private sector-led sustainable growth,
Youth and women empowerment.
Prime Minister Ishiba also acknowledged Japan’s challenges with an ageing population and shrinking agricultural land, calling on African nations to support Japan while benefiting from expanded cultural and economic opportunities.
What This Means for Nigerians
For Nigerians, the recognition of Kisarazu as their official hometown in Japan provides more than symbolic value.
It creates new employment opportunities, encourages skills transfer, and opens a pathway for closer cultural integration between both nations.
This strategic move underscores Japan’s commitment to forging deeper ties with Africa, while offering Nigerians a platform to thrive abroad
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