EFCC Arraigns Two for Alleged N12 Million Fraud Using A.A. Rano’s Name

Two businessmen have been paraded in the Kano State High Court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly defrauding a businessman to the tune of N12 million. The duo of Sulaiman Inuwa Zakiru and Aliyu Ahmed were brought before the court on a charge of impersonating renowned oil magnate, Alhaji A.A. Rano. The suspects were brought to court by Justice Amina Adamu Aliyu on a two-count charge based on conspiracy and obtaining money by false pretences. As required by the EFCC, the defendants tricked the victim into believing that they spoke on behalf of A.A. Rano Oil and Gas Limited. Anthem claimed to inform the complainant Alhaji Rano would make a return visit and, at the earliest possible moment, contact him. Upper subsequently demanded money under false pretences subsequently arising in calls claiming it was from Alhaji Rano who offered him petroleum products worth N12 million. The businessman was told to invest the money in two accounts named “A.A Yansamary General Enterprise” and “Zahda General Enterprise,” which were supposedly owned by the accused. The businessman grew suspicious after the transaction when he met the real A.A Rano, who denied knowledge of the transaction. One of the charges reads: “That you, Sulaiman Inuwa Zakiru and Aliyu Ahmed, on or about April 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, conspired between yourselves to commit an offence, to wit: cheating by impersonation, contrary to Section 96(1) and punishable under Section 97(1) of the Penal Code Law.” The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. Prosecution lawyer, Zarami Mohammed, requested the court to remand the defendants in a correctional center and asked the court to fix a date for trial. Justice Aliyu subsequently granted the application and adjourned the case to May 22, 2025. The accused were ordered to be held in custody until the hearing commences. Related Posts Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Economic Plan to Halve Inflation by 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has outlined an ambitious economic agenda aimed at reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from the current 34.6% Read more Nigeria’s Path to Prosperity: Transforming Challenges Into Sustainable Success Over the past 14 years as the Founder of TEXEM, UK, and previously as a Director of Strategy in Cambridge, Read more Nigerian Equities Market Defies Economic Challenges, Posts Record N21.8 Trillion Gain in 2024 The Nigerian equities market demonstrated exceptional resilience in 2024, achieving a remarkable gain of N21.845 trillion despite economic headwinds such Read more 2024 Elections: A Mixed Bag of Milestones, Setbacks, and Electoral Integrity Challenges The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for Nigeria as it celebrated 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule. The electoral Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
VeryDarkMan Accuses EFCC of Extorting DJ Tunez and Terry Apala

Vocal critic VeryDarkMan has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of purportedly extorting renowned DJ Tunez, a close pal of Wizkid, and artiste Terry Apala. In an Instagram video, VeryDarkMan displayed an EFCC invitation letter with the recipient’s name censored. According to him, the anti-graft agency has now set its sights on celebrities, as he claimed that DJ Tunez and Terry Apala were invited and obeyed the invitation. According to him, upon arrival, their phones were taken away, and they were taken to various locations where each of them was allegedly made to pay between $5,000 and $6,000 to avoid ending up in a situation similar to Bobrisky’s latest arrest. The VeryDarkMan also accused the EFCC officials of power abuse and targeting young Nigerian celebrities. He even offered himself to be investigated. “EFCC is very corrupt. Corruption is entrenched, and most of them use their offices to harass young boys on the street to extort them. Now, they are in a hurry to go after celebrities,” he said. Related Posts Uriel was evicted, not Adekunle or Doyin. Ceec, Pere Pere Egbi and his colleague Ceec discuss how their money was on Adekunle or Doyin, but they did not anticipate Read more Ifu Ennada talks about social media trolls: “Trolls call me transgender” Ifu Ennada, a reality television personality, recently discussed her experiences with social media abusers. When discussing the daily messages she Read more Netizens ridicule Yul and Judy Austin over new post: “Happy, satisfied couple don’t need to post everyday to convince people they’re in love.” Yul and his second wife Judy Austin have once again attracted criticism for their persistent public display of affection. Since Read more ‘Yvonne Nelson’s claims of my affair with Tonto Dikeh almost lost me my relationship’ — Iyanya. Iyanya, a renowned Nigerian vocalist, discusses how the allegations made by his ex-girlfriend and Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson regarding his Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
Drama at Lagos Court as Gospel Executive Eezee Tee Allegedly Flees After Case Adjournment

A dramatic scene played out at the Federal High Court in Lagos on Thursday when gospel record executive Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, popularly known as Eezee Tee, allegedly bolted from the courthouse after his case with singer Mercy Chinwo was adjourned. The much-anticipated arraignment, which had drawn significant media attention, was postponed to May 14 by Justice Alexander Owoeye due to ongoing administrative formalities. As Eezee Tee stepped out of the courtroom, a swarm of journalists and media personnel were already stationed outside, cameras at the ready. But instead of stopping to address them, the music executive reportedly took off running—leaving reporters scrambling to catch up. A photo of his apparent escape quickly went viral, sparking a flood of reactions online. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has accused Eezee Tee of: Money laundering involving $340,000. Misappropriating Mercy Chinwo’s digital earnings and event revenues. Unilaterally altering their 2017 contract without her consent—an accusation he has vehemently denied, calling it “lies from the pit of hell.” During the hearing, both the prosecution (Bilikisu Buhari) and the defense (Chikaosolu Ojukwu) confirmed their readiness to proceed. However, the judge cited administrative delays as the reason for pushing the case forward. Following the courtroom spectacle, social media exploded with mixed reactions. Some users mocked Eezee Tee’s unexpected sprint, dubbing him the “fastest man alive,” while others questioned the credibility of the accusations against him. Related Posts Uriel was evicted, not Adekunle or Doyin. Ceec, Pere Pere Egbi and his colleague Ceec discuss how their money was on Adekunle or Doyin, but they did not anticipate Read more Ifu Ennada talks about social media trolls: “Trolls call me transgender” Ifu Ennada, a reality television personality, recently discussed her experiences with social media abusers. When discussing the daily messages she Read more Netizens ridicule Yul and Judy Austin over new post: “Happy, satisfied couple don’t need to post everyday to convince people they’re in love.” Yul and his second wife Judy Austin have once again attracted criticism for their persistent public display of affection. Since Read more ‘Yvonne Nelson’s claims of my affair with Tonto Dikeh almost lost me my relationship’ — Iyanya. Iyanya, a renowned Nigerian vocalist, discusses how the allegations made by his ex-girlfriend and Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson regarding his Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
EFCC Arraigns Jude Okoye Over Alleged $1 Million Theft in P-Square Royalties

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Jude Okoye, the former manager of the defunct music duo P-Square, on fresh charges of theft involving over $1 million and £34,000. The arraignment took place on Tuesday, March 4, at the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja. Okoye, who is also facing a separate seven-count charge before the Federal High Court, was granted bail on Monday in the sum of N100 million, with two sureties in like sum. According to the EFCC’s latest charges, filed under case number Ref/99260/2025, Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited, are accused of dishonestly converting funds meant for music royalties belonging to singer Peter Okoye. Prosecutor Mohammed Bashiru alleged that Okoye misappropriated: $767,544.15 paid by Lex Records Limited for digital distribution and publishing royalties £34,537.59 from the same source $133,566.49 from Kobalt Music $118,652.23 from Mtech Limited These transactions reportedly took place between 2016 and 2023. “These payments were meant for music royalties, but the defendant dishonestly converted them for his personal use, intending to permanently deprive Peter Okoye of his rightful earnings,” Bashiru told the court. The EFCC stated that these offenses violate Sections 278 and 285 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011. Okoye pleaded not guilty to all charges. His lawyer, Clement Onwuenwunor (SAN), informed the court that a bail application had already been filed on February 27, 2025. Related Posts Uriel was evicted, not Adekunle or Doyin. Ceec, Pere Pere Egbi and his colleague Ceec discuss how their money was on Adekunle or Doyin, but they did not anticipate Read more Ifu Ennada talks about social media trolls: “Trolls call me transgender” Ifu Ennada, a reality television personality, recently discussed her experiences with social media abusers. When discussing the daily messages she Read more Netizens ridicule Yul and Judy Austin over new post: “Happy, satisfied couple don’t need to post everyday to convince people they’re in love.” Yul and his second wife Judy Austin have once again attracted criticism for their persistent public display of affection. Since Read more ‘Yvonne Nelson’s claims of my affair with Tonto Dikeh almost lost me my relationship’ — Iyanya. Iyanya, a renowned Nigerian vocalist, discusses how the allegations made by his ex-girlfriend and Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson regarding his Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
VeryDarkMan Accuses EFCC of Plotting His Arrest Over Naira Abuse Allegations

Nigerian activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) has raised alarm over an alleged plan by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to frame and arrest him. In a video posted on his Instagram page, VDM claimed that he received insider information about a plot to target him due to his outspoken criticism of the EFCC and its chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede. According to VDM, a prominent lawyer and an influential social media personality recently visited the EFCC office in Abuja to present evidence against him. The supposed evidence includes a video of him spraying money at an event—an act that could be considered naira abuse, which is illegal in Nigeria. VDM further claimed that an EFCC officer confirmed he was on their watchlist, citing his frequent criticisms of the agency and its leadership. In his video, VDM directly called out the EFCC, saying: “EFCC Abuja, I heard you had two visitors today—one is an influencer, and the other, a very big lawyer. They came because of me, bringing clips of me spraying money, and told EFCC, ‘This is the opportunity to go after VeryDarkMan.’” “The officer they spoke to agreed, saying, ‘Yes, VeryDarkMan has been coming for us and talking rudely about our Oga.’ Now you people’s interests have aligned, and you are teaming up against me.” VDM’s allegations have sparked a wave of reactions online. While some of his supporters are calling for transparency, others are urging him to be cautious. @iamkenzy – “VDM, be careful. These people can do anything to silence you.” @officialjasmine – “If EFCC is truly planning this, then Nigeria is finished!” @bigbenz22 – “Bro, just get your legal team ready. You don talk too much about them, now them wan use you make example.” Related Posts Uriel was evicted, not Adekunle or Doyin. Ceec, Pere Pere Egbi and his colleague Ceec discuss how their money was on Adekunle or Doyin, but they did not anticipate Read more Ifu Ennada talks about social media trolls: “Trolls call me transgender” Ifu Ennada, a reality television personality, recently discussed her experiences with social media abusers. When discussing the daily messages she Read more Netizens ridicule Yul and Judy Austin over new post: “Happy, satisfied couple don’t need to post everyday to convince people they’re in love.” Yul and his second wife Judy Austin have once again attracted criticism for their persistent public display of affection. Since Read more ‘Yvonne Nelson’s claims of my affair with Tonto Dikeh almost lost me my relationship’ — Iyanya. Iyanya, a renowned Nigerian vocalist, discusses how the allegations made by his ex-girlfriend and Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson regarding his Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
Paul “Rudeboy” Okoye Stands by Brother Amid EFCC Money Laundering Charges

Singer Paul “Rudeboy” Okoye has publicly rallied behind his older brother Jude following his arraignment by Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on serious money laundering charges. Jude Okoye, alongside his company Northside Music Ltd, appeared before Justice Alexander Owoeye at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos yesterday. The music executive faces a seven-count charge of allegedly laundering N1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. In a show of solidarity, Paul took to social media declaring, “This too shall pass” and urging his brother to “stay strong.” His message carried a cryptic undertone as he added that “this was what someone wanted all along,” though he stopped short of naming the person he was referring to. The family drama appears to have deeper roots. Last year, Peter Okoye—Paul’s twin brother and former P-Square bandmate—revealed he had filed a petition with the EFCC after allegedly discovering Jude had established a “secret company” to divert funds from their joint business ventures. Jude firmly denied these allegations, maintaining that his company operated transparently. According to him, while the brothers share a joint company, they each maintain separate business entities—Peter with P-Classic and Paul with Rude Boy Record. Related Posts Uriel was evicted, not Adekunle or Doyin. Ceec, Pere Pere Egbi and his colleague Ceec discuss how their money was on Adekunle or Doyin, but they did not anticipate Read more Ifu Ennada talks about social media trolls: “Trolls call me transgender” Ifu Ennada, a reality television personality, recently discussed her experiences with social media abusers. When discussing the daily messages she Read more Netizens ridicule Yul and Judy Austin over new post: “Happy, satisfied couple don’t need to post everyday to convince people they’re in love.” Yul and his second wife Judy Austin have once again attracted criticism for their persistent public display of affection. Since Read more ‘Yvonne Nelson’s claims of my affair with Tonto Dikeh almost lost me my relationship’ — Iyanya. Iyanya, a renowned Nigerian vocalist, discusses how the allegations made by his ex-girlfriend and Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson regarding his Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
EFCC Presents First Witness in Yahaya Bello’s N80.2bn Fraud Trial

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday presented its first witness in the ongoing trial of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, over alleged N80.2 billion fraud. The trial, taking place before Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court in Abuja, involves a 19-count charge against Bello, including criminal breach of trust and money laundering. First Witness Testifies The EFCC’s first witness, Segun Joseph Adeleke, General Manager of EFAB Properties Limited, testified that in 2020, he was introduced to Shehu Bello, who expressed interest in purchasing a property valued at N550 million. Adeleke stated that Bello later requested a refund after discovering the property was under EFCC investigation. Under cross-examination by Yahaya Bello’s lead counsel, Joseph Bodunde Daudu (SAN), Adeleke admitted that Yahaya Bello was not present during the transactions and that his name did not appear in any of the documents. Second Witness from UBA Testifies The prosecution also called a second witness, Williams Abimbola, a compliance officer with United Bank for Africa (UBA). She presented financial documents, including: Kogi State Government House statement of account (2016–2024) Maselina Njoku’s account statement (2022) American International School account details (September 2020) Next Steps Despite objections from the defense about being caught off guard, the court admitted the financial records into evidence. The trial is set to continue on March 6 and 7, 2025. Related Posts Market offers rent-now, pay-later answer to tenants. Prospective renters in Nigeria can now breathe a sigh of relief as a rental solution that simplifies renting and facilitates Read more Rwanda retreat: Nigerian governments discuss complex issues. The Nigerian governors will attend and participate in a three-day leadership retreat in Kigali, Rwanda, designed to provide a platform Read more Shaibu: I support Obaseki and seek governorship. Philip Shaibu, the deputy governor of Edo State, has pledged to remain loyal to Edo State’s governor, Godwin Obaseki, despite Read more Citigroup expects more foreign investment in Nigeria and others despite FX turmoil. Citigroup Inc. has stated that Nigeria, Angola, and Kenya are among the African nations that are anticipated to attract more Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
EFCC Refunds Over $120K and N70M to Fraud Victims in the U.S., Spain, and Switzerland

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has successfully refunded a total of $120,548.43 and N70,602,841.46 to victims of fraud in the United States, Spain, and Switzerland. This refund is part of the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to combat economic and financial crimes. The recovered funds, which were obtained from fraudsters operating within Nigeria, were returned to the victims as part of the EFCC’s commitment to ensuring justice and providing restitution for those affected by fraudulent schemes. Reaffirming its dedication to tackling financial crimes, the anti-graft agency emphasized that its relentless pursuit of fraudsters and recovery of stolen assets enhances Nigeria’s credibility in the global fight against financial crimes. This latest recovery underscores the EFCC’s continued efforts to protect both local and international victims of fraud, reinforcing its position as a key institution in the battle against corruption. Related Posts Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Economic Plan to Halve Inflation by 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has outlined an ambitious economic agenda aimed at reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from the current 34.6% Read more Nigeria and the British Monarchy: A Legacy of Visits and Diplomatic Ties Throughout history, Nigeria has enjoyed a unique relationship with the British Monarchy, marked by mutual visits that reflect shared historical, Read more 2024 Elections: A Mixed Bag of Milestones, Setbacks, and Electoral Integrity Challenges The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for Nigeria as it celebrated 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule. The electoral Read more Kano State Opposes Tinubu’s Tax Reforms, Calls for Focus on Poverty and Insecurity The Kano State government has rejected the proposed tax reform bills by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing them as “ill-timed, Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
Music Producer EeZee Tee Vows to Prove Innocence Amid EFCC Fraud Case

Nigerian music producer Ezekiel Onyedikachi, popularly known as EeZee Tee, has reaffirmed his commitment to proving his innocence in the fraud case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). His lawyer, Dr. Monday Ubani (SAN), made this known during a court hearing at the Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday. During the proceedings, Ubani informed the court that he had filed two preliminary objections to the charges but decided to withdraw them. When Justice Alexander Owoeye inquired about the defendant’s whereabouts, Ubani explained that EeZee Tee had suffered a serious accident earlier that morning. However, he assured the court that his client would be present at the next hearing to formally enter his plea. The judge, however, ruled that the court could not entertain any objections until the defendant appeared in person, stating that the court had yet to assume jurisdiction over the matter. The prosecution, led by Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), criticized EeZee Tee’s repeated absence, calling it a “show of shame and outright disrespect for the court.” He further argued that if the defendant was truly unwell, there should be an affidavit to support the claim. Given EeZee Tee’s absence for the third time, Oyedepo urged the court to issue a bench warrant to ensure his appearance, emphasizing the need to uphold judicial integrity. Ubani opposed the request, promising to personally ensure his client’s presence at the next hearing. However, the prosecution insisted that legal enforcement was necessary. In a brief ruling, Justice Owoeye upheld the existing bench warrant, noting that it had not been revoked. The court ordered that EeZee Tee must appear for his arraignment on the next adjourned date, either voluntarily or under the enforcement of the warrant. Related Posts Uriel was evicted, not Adekunle or Doyin. Ceec, Pere Pere Egbi and his colleague Ceec discuss how their money was on Adekunle or Doyin, but they did not anticipate Read more Ifu Ennada talks about social media trolls: “Trolls call me transgender” Ifu Ennada, a reality television personality, recently discussed her experiences with social media abusers. When discussing the daily messages she Read more Netizens ridicule Yul and Judy Austin over new post: “Happy, satisfied couple don’t need to post everyday to convince people they’re in love.” Yul and his second wife Judy Austin have once again attracted criticism for their persistent public display of affection. Since Read more ‘Yvonne Nelson’s claims of my affair with Tonto Dikeh almost lost me my relationship’ — Iyanya. Iyanya, a renowned Nigerian vocalist, discusses how the allegations made by his ex-girlfriend and Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson regarding his Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
“Yahoo Boys Now Into Kidnapping, Ritual Killings” – EFCC Boss Raises Alarm

In a shocking revelation, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede has warned that Nigeria’s infamous internet fraudsters have graduated from online scams to more sinister crimes, including kidnapping and ritual murders. The disturbing disclosure came during a high-level meeting with Punch management at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. “What we’re dealing with isn’t just your typical internet fraud anymore,” Olukoyede said, painting a grim picture of how these criminals have evolved. “These Yahoo boys have ventured into kidnapping, banditry, and even ritual killings.” The EFCC boss revealed that cybercrime alone cost Nigeria a staggering $500 million last year. Despite facing criticism for targeting internet fraudsters, Olukoyede defended the commission’s approach, citing disturbing findings from recent investigations. “We’ve uncovered horrifying cases, including young women being used for rituals,” he said, his voice carrying a note of urgency. “If we don’t act now, we might not have a worthy generation to hand this country over to in the next decade.” The numbers tell their own story: over 11,000 petitions received, nearly 9,000 investigations conducted, and about 5,000 cases prosecuted in the past year alone. But perhaps more telling is Olukoyede’s commitment to cleaning house – he revealed that 27 EFCC staff members were dismissed over corruption allegations during the same period. “I’ve publicly challenged anyone to come forward with evidence that I’ve ever taken a bribe,” he stated firmly. “You can’t be fighting corruption while being corrupt yourself.” Looking to strengthen the fight against financial crime, Olukoyede called for a return to the investigative journalism of the early 2000s. “Before the EFCC existed, it was journalists who exposed many financial crimes. We need to revive that spirit of collaboration.” Michael Nzekwe, the EFCC Chairman’s Chief of Staff, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the media’s crucial role in public awareness. “This isn’t just about the EFCC – it’s about protecting Nigeria’s future,” he said, calling for more nuanced reporting of the commission’s work. Related Posts Market offers rent-now, pay-later answer to tenants. Prospective renters in Nigeria can now breathe a sigh of relief as a rental solution that simplifies renting and facilitates Read more Rwanda retreat: Nigerian governments discuss complex issues. The Nigerian governors will attend and participate in a three-day leadership retreat in Kigali, Rwanda, designed to provide a platform Read more Shaibu: I support Obaseki and seek governorship. Philip Shaibu, the deputy governor of Edo State, has pledged to remain loyal to Edo State’s governor, Godwin Obaseki, despite Read more Citigroup expects more foreign investment in Nigeria and others despite FX turmoil. Citigroup Inc. has stated that Nigeria, Angola, and Kenya are among the African nations that are anticipated to attract more Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.