High Court Sets Date For Hearing In Alleged N19bn Fraud Case

High court sets date for hearing in alleged N19bn fraud case. A Federal High Court in Lagos has scheduled May 12, 2025, to determine the priority of applications in the N19 billion fraud case filed by the Attorney General of the Federation against a new-generation bank and three others.

The Federal Government has accused the bank, its Managing Director, Victor Ukutt, and Whoba Ugwunna Ogo of conspiracy, fraud, and money laundering, alleging they illegally converted funds from Woobs Resources Limited’s account between 2011 and 2023.

Defense counsel Femi Falana (SAN) filed a preliminary objection, but the prosecution insisted the defendants must be arraigned first.

Court

Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa directed both sides to submit arguments on which motion should be heard first.

Falana also opposed a bench warrant for Ogo, citing medical treatment abroad and questioning the court’s jurisdiction.

The defense argues the case stems from a shareholder dispute under appeal.

Lawmakers Reverse Decision On Bill To Remove VP, Governors’ Immunity

Lawmakers reverse decision on bill to remove VP, governors’ immunity. The House of Representatives on Thursday overturned its earlier decision on a bill seeking to revoke the immunity of the vice president, governors, and their deputies.

Lawmakers Reverse Decision

The reversal came after House Majority Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, moved a motion during plenary.

Additionally, the House rescinded its approval of a bill proposing the abolition of the death penalty.

Both bills had initially passed second reading on Wednesday.

More details to follow>>>

Eld-el-Fitr: Goverment Declares Monday, Tuesday As Public Holidays

Eld-el-Fitr: Goverment declares Monday, Tuesday as public holidays. The minister further expressed hope that Eid-el-Fitr would bring people together.

The federal government has declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, as public holidays in commemoration of this year’s Eid-el-Fitr.

The minister of interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the federal government.

The declaration was contained in a communiqué signed by the permanent secretary of the ministry of interior, Magdalene Ajani, on Wednesday.

Mr Tunji-Ojo congratulated Muslims on successfully completing Ramadan’s fasting period, encouraging them to continue embracing the values and virtues fostered during this holy month.

He urged them to “embrace the virtues of self-discipline, compassion, generosity, and peace, emphasising the importance of love, forgiveness, and solidarity in building a harmonious society.”

The minister further expressed hope that Eid-el-Fitr would bring people together, inspiring unity and cooperation across different religions and ethnic groups.

“As we celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, let us reflect on the lessons of Ramadan, embrace one another with love and forgiveness, and work together to build a more united and prosperous Nigeria,” Mr Tunji-Ojo said.

Pension

The statement continued, “Mr Tunji-Ojo also encouraged citizens to celebrate safely and responsibly while remembering the less privileged through acts of kindness and charity, in keeping with the true spirit of Ramadan and Eid.”

“On behalf of the federal government, he extended heartfelt Eid Mubarak wishes to all Muslim faithful and prayed that the blessings of the season bring happiness, success, and fulfillment to everyone.”