After weeks of anticipation, Nigerian music sensation Shallipopi has officially released his much-awaited single, Laho. This track, which initially gained traction on TikTok after a snippet was shared on his social media pages, marks his first release of 2025. Shallipopi, known for his unique fusion of Amapiano, hip-hop, and Benin-influenced street slang, continues to captivate fans with his infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics. His latest release, Laho, embodies the signature elements that have endeared him to listeners—an engaging chorus, vibrant Pidgin lyrics, and energetic street lingo. This single also marks Shallipopi’s first major release since parting ways with Dapper Music. His exit from the label was reportedly due to financial transparency concerns, a conflict of interest, and contract disagreements. Now operating under his own imprint, Plutomania Records Ltd, Shallipopi has partnered with RCA/Sony UK, solidifying his presence on the global stage. 2025 is already shaping up to be a remarkable year for the rapper. He recently secured six nominations at the prestigious 17th Headies Awards, including a nod for the highly coveted Next Rated Prize. Laho follows Shallipopi’s last single, Order, which featured rap heavyweight Olamide and was released in November 2024. This latest track is one of the lead singles preceding his upcoming album, which is slated for release later in 2025. The album is rumored to feature international collaborations, including a possible guest appearance from American rapper Swae Lee. With his growing global appeal and strategic industry moves, Shallipopi is poised for an even bigger breakthrough this year. Long-Tail Focus Keywords: Shallipopi new single 2025, Shallipopi joins RCA Sony UK, Shallipopi latest song Laho DOWNLOAD LAHO here READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel. More on RCA/Sony UK Partnership
The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has openly criticized the United States’ planned airstrikes targeting terrorist groups across Africa, emphasizing that foreign military actions have historically fueled conflicts rather than resolved them. This stance was in response to an announcement by Gen. James Hecker, Commander of U.S. Air Forces Europe and Africa, during the 2025 African Air Chiefs’ Symposium in Lusaka, Zambia. Gen. Hecker stressed that continued U.S. airstrikes are essential to neutralize high-profile terrorist threats jeopardizing both African nations and U.S. interests. However, PeacePro counters that Africa’s security issues should be tackled by African-led initiatives rather than external military force. Abdulrazaq Hamzat, PeacePro’s Executive Director, in a statement issued in Ilorin, condemned foreign military involvement, pointing out its repeated history of worsening regional instability. “Africa doesn’t need more foreign bombs; it needs sustainable, locally-driven solutions,” Hamzat asserted. The Dangerous Legacy of Foreign Interventions PeacePro argues that past foreign military interventions, particularly those led by Western powers, have often resulted in unintended consequences, including civilian casualties, political instability, and a rise in extremist recruitment. Hamzat stressed that “external forces often leave behind power vacuums that worsen security issues rather than solve them.” A Call for African-Led Security Solutions Instead of foreign airstrikes, PeacePro advocates for a holistic, African-centered approach to tackling terrorism. The organization urges regional institutions like the African Union (AU) and ECOWAS to take the lead in shaping robust security frameworks. PeacePro’s recommended strategies include: Hamzat also warned African governments against hosting foreign military bases under the guise of counterterrorism efforts, stating, “Allowing foreign powers to dictate our security policies risks turning Africa into a battlefield for global rivalries.” Redefining U.S.-Africa Relations PeacePro calls on the U.S. to reconsider its approach to African security by shifting focus from military interventions to fostering economic partnerships, promoting conflict prevention, and supporting intelligence-sharing initiatives. “Africa needs allies in development, not war,” Hamzat emphasized. Through its Africa Demilitarization Campaign, PeacePro urges the AU, ECOWAS, and African governments to reject foreign military interventions and invest in indigenous, long-term peacebuilding strategies. Read more about Africa’s push for self-reliant security strategies on United Nations Africa READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Osun Government Overrules Police Security Alert, Confirms Local Government Elections Proceed Despite security concerns raised by the Nigeria Police Force, the Osun State Government has declared that the local government (LG) elections will proceed as scheduled, emphasizing its commitment to uphold democratic principles and court directives. On Friday, the police issued an advisory urging the suspension of the elections, citing intelligence reports warning of potential violence and serious security threats. The advisory, communicated through the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, highlighted the risks associated with moving forward with the planned elections. However, the Osun State Government, through a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, firmly rejected the police advice. The government emphasized that the elections must proceed in accordance with a court ruling mandating the conduct of the LG polls. Court Ruling Overrides Police Concerns Kolapo Alimi stated that while the government acknowledges the security advisory, it cannot undermine a valid court order. The commissioner criticized the police for allegedly displaying partisanship, claiming their actions favor the All Progressives Congress (APC), which has been contesting the elections. “The Osun State Government respects the rule of law and cannot succumb to politically motivated advice,” Alimi stated. He accused the police of siding with the APC, referencing a previous incident where the force allegedly enforced a non-existent court order in favor of the party. The court ruling referenced by the Osun government validated the removal of APC council officials and directed the police and other security agencies to ensure the safety of the elections scheduled for Saturday, February 22nd. The government emphasized that ignoring the court order would be a direct violation of democratic principles. Governor Adeleke Reaffirms Commitment to Democracy Governor Ademola Adeleke reinforced his administration’s dedication to democracy and the rule of law. The governor urged voters to participate peacefully, assuring them of the state’s readiness to conduct free, fair, and credible elections. While thanking the police for their concerns, the government maintained its position, calling on the electorate to exercise their civic rights responsibly. The Osun State LG elections remain set to proceed, with the government prioritizing legal compliance and democratic integrity over security warnings perceived as politically motivated. Channels Television READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The European Union (EU) is advancing Nigeria’s digital economy by fostering partnerships with private sector stakeholders. In Lagos, the EU held a high-profile meeting aimed at enhancing investments in Nigeria’s digital space, aligning with the EU-Nigeria Digital Economy Package, which seeks to transform Nigeria into a leading regional digital hub. Key Investments Powering Nigeria’s Digital Future Central to this initiative is the EU’s support for Nigeria’s massive 90,000 km fibre-optic expansion. This project is designed to improve connectivity across urban and rural regions, enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure. In addition, the EU focuses on improving digital public services and strengthening Nigeria’s ICT talent pipeline through initiatives like the 3 Million Technical Talents (3MTT) program. At the core of this collaboration is the European Investment Bank’s (EIB) commitment, which has already funneled €100 million to extend secure 4G networks in Lagos and Ogun states. The EIB is also providing technical assistance to scale up the fibre-optic network, enabling widespread connectivity while ensuring privacy, safety, and cybersecurity standards are upheld. Boosting Digital Identity & Public Services As part of efforts to enhance digital public services, the EIB is supporting the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) with a €250 million loan to bolster Nigeria’s digital identity system. This project ensures that data protection meets global standards, fostering trust among citizens and businesses. The EU is also actively collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) to streamline business registration processes for start-ups and MSMEs. This aims to ease entry for new businesses into Nigeria’s expanding digital ecosystem. Empowering Nigeria’s Youth & Tech Start-ups The EU’s long-term vision includes nurturing Nigeria’s future tech leaders. With a combined investment of €54.5 million in projects like the Digital Transformation Centre (DTC) and the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP), the EU is creating pathways for young graduates and women in tech. These programs offer hands-on training and open up employment opportunities within both Nigerian and EU companies. Thuweba Diwani, Head of Project at GIZ-DTC Nigeria, highlighted that the initiative aims to create a bridge between Nigerian private sector players and EU digital markets, fostering global opportunities for Nigerian entrepreneurs. Strengthening Data Privacy & Cybersecurity A vital component of the EU’s support is ensuring that Nigeria’s digital growth aligns with top-tier data privacy and cybersecurity standards. The EU played a significant role in the adoption of Nigeria’s Data Protection Law and has strengthened the capacity of the Data Protection Commission, bringing the country’s framework closer to EU regulations. Driving Inclusive Growth in Nigeria’s Digital Space Through its strategic investments and partnerships, the EU is not only enhancing Nigeria’s digital infrastructure but also empowering local talent, supporting SMEs, and creating a thriving digital market that benefits all stakeholders. European Union External Action Service READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Abuja Residents to Face Power Outages as TCN Conducts Transformer Maintenance The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced scheduled power outages in certain parts of Abuja this weekend due to essential maintenance on two transformers at the Apo 132/33kV transmission substation. According to Mrs. Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, the preventive maintenance will take place on Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. This critical exercise focuses on the 2×100 Megavolt Ampere (MVA) TR3 & TR4 transformers, ensuring long-term efficiency and reliability. Areas Affected by the Abuja Power Outage: Residents in specific parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) should prepare for seven-hour power interruptions on Saturday, including: The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) will be unable to receive bulk power during this period, leading to temporary disruptions. Mrs. Mbah reassured residents that electricity would be restored promptly after the maintenance concludes and apologized for the inconvenience, emphasizing that the work is essential for improved power supply reliability. “Power supply will be restored to the affected areas upon completion of the maintenance exercise,” she assured. Why This Maintenance Matters: TCN highlighted that such preventive exercises are necessary to minimize future disruptions and maintain stable electricity across the FCT. The company appealed for patience from residents, underlining that the short-term inconvenience will lead to long-term power stability. Abuja’s Recent Power Disruptions: This isn’t the first time Abuja residents have faced power outages due to infrastructural upgrades. Last month, TCN successfully restored full bulk power to the Apo substation after relocating eight 132kV and 33kV towers along the Kukwaba/Apo 132kV line. This relocation, driven by the Federal Capital Development Agency’s (FCDA) road dualization project, caused a 15-day planned power outage from January 6 to 20, 2025, affecting areas such as: Despite public backlash from residents and the Nigeria Consumer Protection Network, the outage proceeded to complete the infrastructure project. Additionally, in December 2024, some parts of Abuja experienced power cuts as TCN conducted technical servicing on a 60MVA power transformer at the Gwagwalada 330/132/33kV Transmission Substation. What Residents Should Do: For the latest updates on Abuja power outages and TCN maintenance schedules, stay connected with LMSINT MEDIA. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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As the Premier League season heats up, Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim openly admitted that David Moyes is currently doing a better job managing Everton than he has at Old Trafford. In a rare moment of honesty, Amorim acknowledged the challenges he’s faced since stepping in as United’s manager and praised Moyes for his swift impact at Everton. The two managers will face off this Saturday in what will be Goodison Park’s final Premier League clash before Everton moves to a new stadium next season. With Everton sitting 14th and United lagging behind in 15th place, the stakes are higher than ever. Since taking over from Erik ten Hag in November, Amorim has managed only four wins alongside eight defeats. In contrast, Moyes, who returned to Everton in January, has already secured four victories in just six games—matching Amorim’s total in half the time. Amorim didn’t shy away from crediting Moyes’ influence, saying, “David Moyes is simply doing a better job than me. Sometimes it comes down to small wins that build belief. The pressure’s different too.” This candid acknowledgment underscores the pressure Amorim is under. Moyes himself was dismissed from Manchester United back in 2014 after less than a season in charge, but his current form at Everton shows his growth and adaptability. Pressure Mounting on Amorim at Old Trafford Amorim’s leadership has come under intense scrutiny, with reports suggesting that some players are questioning his methods. However, the Portuguese coach remains unfazed. “I don’t feel that in training. If they’re not convinced, it’s my job to change their minds—and I’m good at that,” Amorim stated confidently. Despite the rough patch, Amorim doesn’t regret taking the United job. Initially, he had plans to stay at Sporting Lisbon until summer but made the leap to the Premier League when the opportunity arose. “Of course, starting a season from the beginning offers more control, pre-season bonding, and time to adapt strategies. But it’s Manchester United—you can’t say no,” Amorim explained. Even amid mounting pressure and a string of defeats, Amorim remains committed to turning things around. But with the upcoming match against Everton, a loss could intensify calls for change at Old Trafford. As United battles to climb the table and Everton looks to maintain momentum, Saturday’s clash at Goodison Park promises high stakes and drama—a fitting farewell to the historic ground. Read more on Premier League manager performances on BBC Sport READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Bliss Joseph Reveals Her Boundaries in Acting, Views on Cosmetic Surgery, and Career Aspirations Bliss Joseph, popularly known as Ogechukwu Anasor, has been a prominent figure in Nollywood for over 11 years. The Enugu State-born actress has navigated the highs and lows of the entertainment industry with resilience and self-belief. Reflecting on her journey, Bliss opened up about her experiences, personal limits on set, and her stance on cosmetic surgery. The actress, who once bravely shared her traumatic experience involving a rapist she mistook for a destiny helper early in her career, continues to inspire others with her honesty and strength. Personal Boundaries in Nollywood Bliss Joseph is clear about her acting boundaries. She firmly stated that she would not engage in on-screen kisses with actresses or perform nude scenes, valuing her principles over industry pressure. “The entertainment world is tough, but I’ve found my balance by staying true to my craft and my personal values,” Bliss shared. Her dedication to authenticity in her roles while respecting her limits has played a vital role in her long-standing career. Cosmetic Surgery: Embracing Natural Beauty but Staying Open-Minded When it comes to cosmetic surgery, Bliss Joseph believes in aging gracefully and embracing her natural beauty. However, she acknowledges that the decision to undergo cosmetic procedures is deeply personal. “If I ever feel uncomfortable in my body, I won’t hesitate to go under the knife. It’s about confidence and self-love, not societal pressure,” she stated. Bliss emphasized that while she prefers to maintain her natural look, she supports individual choices, encouraging others to prioritize their happiness over societal norms. Thoughts on Botox and Face Fillers The actress also touched on the growing pressure in Nollywood and society to opt for face fillers and botox. Bliss remains grounded in her belief that natural aging is beautiful. “There’s always pressure, but I choose to embrace my true self. I don’t feel the need for cosmetic enhancements,” she explained. Career Aspirations and Personal Growth Bliss Joseph’s goals extend beyond her appearance. She’s focused on growing her acting career, exploring diverse roles, and participating in projects that leave a positive impact. Prioritizing her mental and physical health, Bliss also aims to deepen connections with her family and loved ones. Her ultimate aspiration? To continuously improve herself. “Every day, I strive to be a better version of myself,” she concluded. Bliss Joseph’s journey highlights the importance of self-acceptance, personal boundaries, and the freedom to make choices—lessons that resonate far beyond the entertainment industry. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Nigeria’s Immigration System Undergoes Major Overhaul The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the discontinuation of its Visa-on-Arrival policy, replacing it with landing and exit cards that visitors must complete before entering or leaving the country. This update was disclosed by Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, during the conclusion of a weeklong training for Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) personnel in Abuja. The training focused on Advanced Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record (API/PNR) Data for National Security and Law Enforcement. Why is the Visa-on-Arrival Policy Being Cancelled? The Visa-on-Arrival policy, introduced in 2020, allowed short-term visas to be granted at entry points. However, upon assuming office in 2023, Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated that the policy would only continue on a reciprocal basis, meaning Nigeria would only offer Visa-on-Arrival to countries that grant similar privileges to Nigerian citizens. Previously, this visa was mainly given to frequent travelers, high-net-worth investors, and individuals from countries without Nigerian embassies. However, concerns over security risks and inefficiencies in the system have prompted a shift towards a more structured immigration framework. Implementation of API/PNR for Enhanced Security Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the API/PNR system is not optional but a necessity for national security and objective decision-making in immigration processes. The system, now integrated into all five international airports in Nigeria, ensures better profiling of incoming travelers and eliminates subjective decision-making in granting entry permits. Key Features of the New Immigration System: When Will the New System Take Effect? According to the Minister, the e-visa solution is expected to go live by March 1, 2025, or at the latest, April 1, 2025. This transition aims to strengthen border security and ensure Nigeria does not become a haven for criminals. Quote from Dr. Tunji-Ojo: “Nigeria cannot be a destination for wanted criminals. We are committed to implementing a system where visa approvals cannot be granted without clearance from Interpol, criminal records systems, and all necessary background checks in real time.” Implications for Travelers and Investors For Foreign Visitors: For Investors and Business Travelers: For more details on international visa policies, visit the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Conclusion The cancellation of the Visa-on-Arrival policy marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s immigration framework, prioritizing security and efficiency. While this change may require adjustments from travelers and investors, it aligns with global best practices in border security and migration management. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Canada Faces Enrollment Crisis Among International Students A recent report published in January 2025 has revealed a concerning trend—approximately 50,000 international students failed to register at their designated Canadian institutions despite arriving in the country during March and April of the same year. Breakdown of Non-Enrolled Students According to data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), these unregistered students accounted for 6.9% of the 717,539 international students being monitored at the time. The report highlights that: Meanwhile, 89.8% of international students (644,349) were confirmed as enrolled, while the status of 23,514 students remained unverified. Factors Behind the Missing Enrollments The report suggests multiple reasons why these students did not register at their intended institutions: Government Response: Stricter Policies and Monitoring To address the misuse of student permits, Immigration Minister Marc Miller introduced stricter regulations in November 2023. These measures include: Canada’s Concern Over Visa Exploitation Renée LeBlanc Proctor, a spokesperson for Minister Miller, highlighted that Canada is becoming increasingly aware of the exploitation of temporary resident visas, particularly study permits. She noted that organized smuggling networks and global migration crises have worsened the situation, making it imperative for the government to enforce stricter regulations. Canada Immigration Official Website READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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The United States Senate has passed a budget framework early Friday, overcoming strong Democratic resistance. This move takes the government a step closer to securing funds for border security and other key priorities, despite lacking former President Donald Trump’s approval. Key Highlights of the Senate’s Budget Approval How the Senate Budget Framework Works The approved budget resolution allows the Senate to pass it with a simple majority instead of the usual 60-vote threshold. While Republicans hold a majority in the Senate with 53 seats, they still face challenges in the House of Representatives, where they also have a narrow majority. Trump’s Push for a More Comprehensive Budget Bill Trump has advocated for a larger budget package that includes extended tax credits—policies he introduced during his presidency, set to expire at the end of the year. His push for an all-encompassing financial plan, which he calls “one big beautiful bill,” faces hurdles within Congress. Potential Risks of the Budget Plan A significant risk in the budget process is potential cuts to major federal programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. Some conservative lawmakers in the House may push for reductions in these programs to balance the cost of extending Trump’s tax cuts. However, cutting these essential services could spark widespread public opposition, further complicating Republican efforts to pass their version of the budget. Trump’s Reaction to the Senate’s Decision While Trump has praised Senate Republicans for advancing the budget that supports border security, he remains firm in his stance that the House must pass its more comprehensive budget plan. He reiterated this position on Truth Social, emphasizing the need for both chambers to approve the House’s version to advance his broader fiscal agenda. Read more about the US budget process on Congress.gov Conclusion With the Senate passing its budget framework, all eyes are now on the House of Representatives. The ongoing political negotiations will determine whether a broader package including Trump’s tax cuts will be approved or if Congress will have to settle for the scaled-down Senate version. This version is structured for reader engagement, easy comprehension, and optimized for search engine indexing to ensure visibility on Google. Let me know if you need any refinements! READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Shocking Discovery at Idumota Open Drug Market The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has made alarming discoveries during an ongoing enforcement operation at the Idumota open drug market in Lagos. According to a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, the agency seized large quantities of unregistered narcotics, counterfeit GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) medications, and vaccines that were stored under unsanitary conditions, with some even found hidden in toilets. Details of the Raid The agency revealed that its enforcement team intercepted a variety of substandard pharmaceutical products, including: NAFDAC officials emphasized that such illegal practices endanger public health by exposing consumers to unsafe medications and ineffective contraceptives. Public Health Concerns and Regulatory Actions The sale of counterfeit drugs and expired health products poses significant risks, including treatment failures, drug resistance, and potential fatalities. NAFDAC has assured the public that it will continue its nationwide crackdown on illicit drug markets to prevent the circulation of dangerous products. NAFDAC also urged Nigerians to purchase medicines only from licensed pharmacies and to verify product authenticity through its official verification channels. Consumers are encouraged to report suspicious pharmaceutical activities via the agency’s official website. Related Concerns in the Pharmaceutical Industry The issue of counterfeit medications is a global problem. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 1 in 10 medical products in low- and middle-income countries is either substandard or falsified. To learn more about drug safety and how to identify counterfeit medicines, visit WHO’s official page on counterfeit drugs. Conclusion NAFDAC’s efforts to rid Nigeria’s markets of dangerous pharmaceuticals remain a priority. This recent crackdown in Lagos underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and consumer vigilance. As the agency continues its enforcement operations, Nigerians are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize their health by purchasing only from verified sources. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Nigeria’s EFCC Recovers and Returns Stolen Funds to International Fraud Victims In a significant move to uphold financial justice, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has successfully recovered and returned a total of $120,548.43 and N70,602,841.46 to victims of fraud originating from the United States, Spain, and Switzerland. This restitution effort underscores the agency’s ongoing commitment to combating economic and financial crimes while ensuring affected individuals receive justice. EFCC’s Commitment to Financial Crime Prevention The funds, illicitly obtained by fraudsters within Nigeria, were recovered through diligent investigations and enforcement operations. The EFCC reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on financial crimes, pledging continued efforts to track down perpetrators and recover stolen assets. This initiative not only serves the victims but also enhances Nigeria’s reputation in the global fight against fraud and corruption. Strengthening Nigeria’s Role in Global Anti-Corruption Efforts By prioritizing financial integrity, the EFCC reinforces Nigeria’s position as a key player in international anti-fraud operations. The agency continues to collaborate with foreign law enforcement agencies to dismantle fraudulent networks and ensure restitution for those affected. This latest recovery highlights the importance of international cooperation in tackling financial crimes and serves as a warning to fraudsters that justice will prevail. External Reference For more on global efforts to combat financial crimes, visit the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL). READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned a legal practitioner, Alexander Uchenna Ozougwu, before the Federal High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, over alleged involvement in a N1.3 billion forex investment fraud. According to a statement by Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s Head of Media & Publicity, the accused was charged with six counts relating to money laundering and obtaining money under false pretenses. The charges stem from claims that Ozougwu operated a bogus foreign exchange investment scheme, misleading investors and diverting funds. The EFCC alleges that between July and September 2024, Ozougwu acquired over N1.3 billion through fraudulent means. One charge specifies that he collected N268,850,000 through an account named Starlight Attorneys, funds suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities. Another charge highlights a transaction involving N213,000,000 in July 2024, similarly funneled through the same account. When the charges were read, Ozougwu pleaded not guilty. The prosecution, led by Joshua O. Abolarin, requested the defendant’s remand in a correctional facility and a trial date. Meanwhile, the defense counsel, C. M. Onuchukwu, applied for bail on self-recognizance, assuring the court of the defendant’s availability for future proceedings. Presiding Judge, Justice Sergius Onah, granted bail set at N500 million, with two sureties of grade level 12 or higher in the civil service, who must own landed properties within the court’s jurisdiction. Additionally, the defendant was required to submit his international passport and two passport-sized photographs. Details of the Fraudulent Scheme Investigations revealed that Ozougwu posed as a registered Bureau de Change operator, convincing victims to share access to their betting accounts under the pretense of funding them. However, instead of fulfilling his promises, he reportedly diverted over N1.3 billion into personal and betting accounts. The EFCC launched the investigation after receiving complaints from four petitioners who suffered financial losses. The commission’s probe confirmed that the funds were funneled into various betting platforms under a Ponzi-like structure, ultimately leading to the massive fraud. Justice Onah adjourned the case until March 31, 2025, for trial continuation. For more on Nigeria’s latest fraud cases and anti-corruption efforts, visit the EFCC’s official website. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
