Crime
Again, EFCC set to arraign Yahaya Bello on fresh charges today
Barring any unforeseen circumstances, former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, is set to be arraigned today at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed 19-count charges of alleged money laundering against the former governor, who is expected to appear before Justice Emeka Nwite for his plea to be taken.
Initially scheduled for January 27, 2025, the arraignment date was moved forward following Bello’s recent appearance at the EFCC headquarters. Reliable sources confirmed that hearing notices have been served to the legal teams of both Bello and the EFCC to ensure a smooth process.
This will be the second time Bello faces trial by the EFCC. On November 27, he was arraigned at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on 16-count charges of alleged breach of trust. Bello pleaded not guilty and requested bail to prepare his defense.
Justice Maryann Anenih, who presided over the earlier case, adjourned ruling on the bail application to December 10, 2024. Meanwhile, the judge ordered Bello and his two co-defendants to remain in EFCC custody until the ruling.
Today’s arraignment marks another significant chapter in the ongoing legal proceedings against the former governor.
Crime
BREAKING: EFCC Declares Former Bayelsa State Governor, Timipre Sylva Wanted
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, wanted in connection with an alleged financial crime involving $14,859,257.
According to the EFCC, the funds were part of a contribution by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) to Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited for the construction of a refinery. Sylva, 61, from Brass Local Government Area in Bayelsa State, is accused of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of the funds.
The notice follows a warrant issued by the Lagos State High Court on November 6, 2025.
The EFCC has urged anyone with information on Sylva’s whereabouts to contact any of its offices across Nigeria, including Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt, and Abuja. Tips can also be sent via info@efcc.gov.ng or through the commission’s hotline: 08093322644.
The EFCC emphasized that information could also be reported to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
Crime
Federal lawmaker escapes assassination attempt
A member of the House of Representatives, Jafaru Mohammad Ali Damisa, narrowly escaped death on Tuesday after his convoy was ambushed by suspected terrorists in Niger State.
The attack occurred along the Lumma–Babanna road in Borgu Local Government Area while Damisa, who represents Borgu and Agwara Federal Constituency, was on his way to Babanna for an official engagement.
According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen—identified as “Lakurawa terrorists,” locally known as bandits—opened fire on the lawmaker’s convoy in a surprise afternoon attack.
Security operatives attached to the convoy responded immediately, resulting in a fierce gun battle. One soldier was reportedly killed, while several others sustained injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Some of Damisa’s political aides and supporters were also injured during the exchange.
Witnesses said the attackers fired relentlessly, riddling several vehicles with bullets before fleeing the scene. At least 11 vehicles were reportedly vandalised in the attack.
Despite the heavy assault, Damisa escaped unharmed. Security agencies are said to have launched a manhunt for the assailants in the area.
Crime
Police Confirm Abduction of Kebbi State Deputy Speaker
The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of the Deputy Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Hon. Samaila Bagudu, by gunmen suspected to be members of the Lakurawa terrorist group.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers invaded Bagudu Local Government Area, the hometown of the Deputy Speaker, on Friday. The assailants reportedly stormed the town in large numbers, firing sporadically to disperse residents before whisking away the lawmaker.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, the command said that a joint team of police tactical units, military personnel, and local vigilantes had been deployed to the area in pursuit of the kidnappers.
“The team is currently combing the surrounding forests with the aim of rescuing the Honourable member unhurt and apprehending the perpetrators,” the statement read.
The police urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid in the rescue operation.
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