Bello: Kogi Court Summons EFCC Chair Over Alleged Contempt Of Court
The Kogi State High Court has summoned the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, to appear on May 13, 2024, regarding a contempt charge. This follows allegations that the EFCC disobeyed a court order by carrying out actions that were previously restrained pending the determination of a substantive motion. The court's ruling stemmed from a motion filed by the immediate-past Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, who sought redress against the EFCC's actions despite a restraining order. The court granted the application and ordered Olukoyede to appear and respond to the contempt charge on the specified date.
Tinubu Appoints New Heads for NESREA, NDRBDA
President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dr. Innocent Bariate Barikor as the Director-General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulation Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and Prince Ebitimi Amgbare as the Managing Director/CEO of the Niger Delta River Basin Development Authority (NDRBDA). Barikor, a former member of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and Amgbare, a retired naval officer and former commissioner in Bayelsa State, bring extensive experience to their new roles.
Laolu Akande questions American school’s acceptance of Yahaya Bello’s $760, 000 payment
Former presidential aide Laolu Akande has raised questions about the American International School Abuja's acceptance of a $760,000 advance payment from former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello for his children's school fees. Bello, who is wanted by the EFCC over alleged financial misappropriation, reportedly paid this amount from the Kogi State Government's funds. Akande criticized the school for accepting such a large upfront payment, as their policy reportedly limits advance payments to a maximum of two years. He also commented on the conduct of Bello and the current governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, regarding their actions amidst the EFCC investigation, describing it as shameful and questioning Bello's avoidance of arrest.
Operators Hope for Lower Airfares Following Jet A1 price Drop
The drop in Jet A1 fuel prices by Dangote Petroleum Refinery has raised hopes of potential reductions in airfares for travellers in Nigeria. This reduction, with rates set at N940 for diesel and N980 for aviation fuel per litre, is seen as a significant factor in determining ticket prices by airline representatives and travel agency leaders. There is optimism that lower airfares could stimulate increased travel and benefit businesses, although other factors like demand and competition could influence ticket prices independently of fuel costs.