The Court Sets May 2025 as the Deadline for Finland's Prosecution of Simon Ekpa for Terrorism.

A Finnish court has established May 2025 as the deadline for prosecutors to file charges against Simon Ekpa, who has declared himself the Prime Minister of Biafra and is facing accusations related to terrorism. Mikko Laaksonen, Senior Detective Superintendent at Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation, announced this timeline on Tuesday, indicating that Ekpa’s case is advancing in the Päijät-Häme District Court. Ekpa, who claims the title of “Prime Minister” of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, was apprehended last week along with four other individuals on suspicions of terrorism-related crimes, which include inciting violence and financing terrorism. Finnish authorities have alleged that Ekpa used social media platforms to incite violence against civilians and government officials in Nigeria’s South-East region. As reported by the local media outlet Yle, Ekpa has been detained on charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. In a related announcement, Finland’s Central Criminal Police revealed that the other individuals in custody are accused of providing financial support for terrorist activities, thereby increasing the scrutiny surrounding Ekpa’s alleged actions. Detective Laaksonen confirmed that the investigation is ongoing but refrained from providing additional details. When inquired about the timeline for Simon Ekpa’s court proceedings, he remarked, “Due to the ongoing investigation, no further information can be disclosed. The district court has set May 2025 for the prosecution to potentially present charges.” Laaksonen also noted that both Ekpa and the Finnish authorities have the option to request a re-evaluation of the case after a two-week period. “In standard remand situations, a re-evaluation hearing can take place no sooner than two weeks from the last hearing, provided that the involved parties make such a request,” he clarified. Officials have chosen not to provide further details regarding the extent of this collaboration. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) remarked, “International cooperation is integral to the investigation given the case's nature, but additional comments cannot be offered at this time.” Ekpa, a Finnish national of Nigerian heritage, gained notoriety for promoting a boycott of Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, which led to violent enforcement measures and assaults on local residents. He was apprehended in February 2023 for inciting violence and issuing sit-at-home directives in Nigeria’s South-East, prompting international petitions that called for intervention from Finnish and Nigerian authorities, as well as the European Union. In light of Ekpa’s actions, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Finnish Ambassador Leena Pylvanainen to seek Finland’s cooperation. Recently, the District Court of Päijät-Häme in Finland ordered Ekpa’s detention on suspicions of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. He faces charges of incitement, while his associates are implicated in financing terrorism.

The EFCC is Likely to Arrest Kwankwaso as it Investigates NNPP Campaign Funds.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly commenced an investigation into the campaign financing of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). This action follows the recent detention of Ifeanyi Okowa, the former governor of Delta State and vice presidential candidate for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 general elections, on charges of mismanagement of campaign funds. The current inquiry into the NNPP is said to be focusing on the party’s presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, with sources indicating that this may be an effort to diminish his political standing in anticipation of the 2027 elections. According to a source who spoke to Daily Nigerian, “The EFCC has been instructed to promptly initiate a case against the national leader of NNPP, either to summon him or to conduct a raid to address allegations of mismanagement of the 2023 campaign funds, which were raised by certain disgruntled members who have since been expelled from the party.” In June, Justice Yusuf Ubale Mohammed of the Kano State High Court issued a ruling prohibiting the EFCC from taking any action against Kwankwaso concerning these allegations. Nevertheless, sources indicate that the anti-corruption agency may choose to overlook this ruling due to purported “pressure from higher authorities.” The renewed investigation appears to be linked to Kwankwaso’s recent remarks, which were interpreted as critical of President Tinubu’s alleged aspirations in the northern region. During a speech at the convocation ceremony of Skyline University in Kano, Mr. Kwankwaso commented on supposed efforts to exert control over the area, stating, “Lagos would not permit Kano to select its own emir.” Additionally, observers have noted the increasing political influence of the NNPP leader, particularly highlighted during his daughter’s recent wedding in Kano, which drew a considerable number of opposition leaders who remained in the city for over 48 hours, engaging in extensive discussions with Mr. Kwankwaso.

Police Recover a Phony Presidential Plate Number and Arrest Chinedu Ngwaka for Alleged N320 Million Fraud.

The operatives of the Special Investigations Team affiliated with the Force Criminal Investigations Department Annex in Lagos State have apprehended one Chinedu Ngwaka for his alleged participation in a fraudulent operation amounting to N320 million. Ngwaka, who claims to be a Bureau De Change operator, is also accused of utilizing a counterfeit Presidency number plate on his Toyota Hilux vehicle, as well as a forged Identity Card allegedly issued by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment. This information was revealed in a statement released on Wednesday by the Public Relations Officer of the FCID Annex, Lagos State. The statement included, “On September 9, 2024, the Nigeria Police Force received a petition directed to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police at the FCID Annex, Lagos, from Chinedu Laz and Partners (Deo Gratia Chambers) on behalf of Mr. Tochukwu Unachukwu, the Managing Director of Casco Electronics Company Limited, alleging that Chinedu Ernest Ngwaka and his wife, Janet Onyekachi Ngwaka, were involved in a fraudulent scheme totaling N320 million. “Following the receipt of the petition, detectives from the Special Investigations Team of the anti-fraud Section at the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) Annex, Lagos, promptly initiated an intelligence-driven investigation. The team examined pertinent banking records and obtained an arrest warrant, which resulted in the capture of Chinedu Ernest Ngwaka, who claims to be a Licensed Bureau De Change (BDC) operator. “Further inquiries revealed that between March and May 2024, Mr. Unachukwu transferred a total of N320 million to Ngwaka and his wife through their company accounts, Edunaco Multiple Resources Limited and Bright Janes World, for the purchase of USD 200,000 intended to facilitate the supply of goods from China. “However, additional intelligence uncovered fraudulent documents, including a telex confirmation from Zenith Bank, which falsely indicated the completion of transactions in two installments of USD 100,000. The Chinese suppliers confirmed that no such funds were received.” During the operation, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) seized a black 2024 Toyota Hilux that bore a counterfeit Presidency number plate (02B679FG) from the suspect, Ngwaka. He falsely represented himself as operating under the name ‘Phobia BDC Ltd.’ However, inquiries with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) revealed that he had no affiliation with the company and that its license had been revoked earlier in the year. Aminat indicated that the police operatives had also received additional petitions against Ngwaka, including claims from Mr. Moses Chizoba Enechukwu and Chinedu Nwaforcha, who are seeking the recovery of ₦1 billion and ₦840 million, respectively. Upon the completion of the investigation, Ngwaka and his accomplices will face charges in court for prosecution. The Assistant Inspector-General of the Force CID Annex Lagos has urged the public to remain alert and report any similar fraudulent activities to the appropriate authorities. Citizens are also cautioned that those engaged in such illegal activities will be subject to the full extent of the law.

Alhassan Yahaya is Elected as the New National President of the NUJ.

Alhassan Yahaya has been elected as the new National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). He achieved victory in the election with a total of 436 votes, surpassing Dele Atunbi, the former National Treasurer, who received 97 votes, and Garba Muhammad, who garnered 39 votes. A total of 602 delegates from the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory, convened in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, to elect the new leadership of the NUJ. The newly elected officials will serve a term of three years, during which they will guide the union's activities. Yahaya's election signifies a new era for the NUJ, and he is anticipated to focus on enhancing the welfare of journalists while upholding the standards of quality journalism. Prior to his election as NUJ President, Yahaya held the position of National Deputy President of the Union. Comrade Christopher Isiguzo, the outgoing National President of the NUJ, previously assured a seamless transition of power, emphasizing that he would refrain from interfering with the new administration.

UCL: As Real Madrid Falls 2-0 to Liverpool, Sutton Hits at Mbappe.

Former Premier League forward Chris Sutton has expressed his disappointment with Kylian Mbappe following Real Madrid's 2-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League on Wednesday evening. Mbappe failed to convert a penalty in the second half while Liverpool was ahead 1-0. Despite Mohamed Salah also missing a penalty, Liverpool extended their lead with a header from Cody Gakpo following a corner kick. In his remarks on BBC Radio 5 Live after the match, Sutton criticized Mbappe, who is facing challenges in his inaugural season with the LaLiga side. "Currently, there appears to be a deficiency in Kylian Mbappe's performance at Real Madrid, which poses a significant dilemma for Carlo Ancelotti," Sutton stated. "Let’s be clear. He had a poor performance tonight. He missed the penalty and was far from his best. His arrival was expected to elevate the team's performance."

Tax Reform Bills Sent to the Senate for Second Reading by the Presidency

On Thursday, the Senate approved four tax bills for a second reading via voice votes. The bills that advanced to the second reading include a proposal to establish the Joint Revenue Board, the Tax Appeal Tribunal, and the Office of the Tax Ombud, all part of President Tinubu’s extensive tax reform initiative. This legislation aims to harmonize, coordinate, and address disputes related to revenue administration in Nigeria. It is important to note that President Tinubu submitted these four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for review on October 3. This initiative has sparked controversy, particularly among Northern governors and other stakeholders who have expressed opposition to the tax reforms. In response to these concerns, the Presidency clarified that the bills are not aimed at any specific region but are intended to foster national development. During the session, lawmakers engaged in discussions regarding the fundamental principles of the tax reform bills. Previously, the Senate had convened in a closed-door meeting to review the four bills submitted by President Tinubu on September 3, 2024, following the recommendations of the Tax Reforms Committee led by Taiwo Oyedele. While the reforms have been widely recognized as essential for revamping Nigeria’s tax system and alleviating the tax burden on citizens, Senator Ali Ndume raised concerns about the timing and certain aspects of the legislation. He proposed that, with appropriate amendments, the reforms could be passed “in less than 24 hours” if they were withdrawn and reintroduced. Conversely, the Chief Whip firmly disagreed with this perspective, underscoring the necessity of progressing the bill to the public hearing phase. “The bill should successfully complete the second reading and undergo a comprehensive review during the public hearing. Subsequently, it can be examined clause by clause,” he stated. Senator Ali Ndume, the sole dissenting voice, remarked, “Reforms are essential; I do not oppose any reforms. My concern lies with the timing, particularly in the current context of Nigeria, as I wish to echo what Senator Seraike has articulated.” One will attend the public hearing regarding the issue of derivation, as it is necessary to amend the Constitution before certain proposals within the Bill can be implemented. "This Bill ought to be retracted; we should refine it and present it after securing the support of the Governors, Traditional Rulers, and the NEC. "Upon reviewing the Bill, I noted that it encompasses numerous aspects, particularly concerning VAT and Derivation. It is essential to engage in negotiations prior to establishing a definitive stance. "While it may appear appealing, it might not be as beneficial as it seems. If the tax burden is shifted to the manufacturer, they will inevitably pass it on to the consumer. "The Bill proposes a reduction from 30% to 25%, which implies that an individual in Nnewi, who is no longer generating substantial revenue, is being taxed at the same rate as someone who is not actively engaged in any productive activity."

Between 2023 and 2024, the UK Government Received Almost N68 Billion in Visa Fees From Nigerians, Despite the Country's Highest Rejection Rate.

The British government generated over N68 billion from processing visas for Nigerian citizens between June 2023 and June 2024. Marc Owen, the director of visa, status, and information services at UK Visas and Immigration, reported that during this timeframe, at least 225,000 visa applications from Nigeria were processed. Owen made these remarks at the inauguration of Africa's largest UK visa application centre (VAC) in Lagos. "From June 2023 to June 2024, we processed more than 225,000 UK visas for Nigerian nationals across various categories. This new partnership underscores our ongoing commitment to making our visa services accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of all applicants," the British High Commission in Lagos cited Owen as stating. "I am pleased to be here in person to commemorate this significant occasion with our customers and partners." While Owen did not indicate whether specific visa categories received a higher volume of applications, it is noted that a standard six-month UK visitor visa costs $150. This implies that the UK earned over $34 million from the 225,000 Nigerian applicants, which translates to approximately N68 billion. It is important to note that visa application fees are non-refundable, even in cases where the application is unsuccessful. In addition to this substantial revenue from Nigerian applicants, earlier this year, data from the British government revealed that Nigeria was among five countries experiencing an increase in study visa rejection rates during the latter half of 2023. In the fourth quarter of 2022, one in 31 applications from Nigeria was rejected, whereas in the fourth quarter of 2023, the rejection rate rose to approximately one in eight. Vietnam, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia also faced elevated visa rejection rates, though to a lesser extent. India was the only nation where the number of declined applications exceeded that of Nigeria. The data indicated that visa issuances to Nigerians decreased by 63 percent compared to the last three months of 2022. This rise in rejection rates occurred alongside stricter visa regulations for immigrants in the UK. The British government indicated that modifications to dependent visa policies have generated adverse reactions in both nations, particularly after adjustments were made to the graduate route post-study work visa. As a result, an increasing number of Nigerians are seeking opportunities in the United States. During the 2023/2024 academic year, Nigeria ranked as the seventh largest contributor of international students worldwide and the foremost in Africa, with 20,029 students enrolled in the US. This enrollment figure represents a 13.5 percent rise compared to the previous year for Nigeria.