Author: Dodo Elias Denen

  • Navy Seizes Over 340,000 Litres of Stolen Crude Oil, Shuts Down 30 Illegal Refineries in March 2025

    Navy Seizes Over 340,000 Litres of Stolen Crude Oil, Shuts Down 30 Illegal Refineries in March 2025

    The Nigerian Navy has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing anti-crude oil theft campaign, Operation DELTA SANITY II, with the seizure of over 340,000 litres of stolen crude oil and the deactivation of at least 30 illegal refinery sites across the Niger Delta region in the month of March 2025.

    According to a statement released by Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Information, the Navy also recovered large quantities of illegally refined petroleum products, arrested suspects, and uncovered illegal arms during operations in Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, and Ondo States.

    Among the major highlights of the operation, on March 7, an illegal refinery site was discovered at Oteghele, Obodo Omadino in Warri, Delta State, with 5,500 litres of stolen crude and 2,000 litres of illegally refined AGO. On March 9, the Navy intercepted MFT Olokun VIII, a vessel with IMO number 8778275, carrying illegal arms and ammunition on the Saint Nicholas River in Bayelsa. Two suspects were arrested in connection with the illegal firearms.

    On March 13, the largest haul was recorded at Ohaji/Egbema West in Rivers State, where eight illegal refinery sites and 55 ovens holding 55,000 litres of stolen crude and 4,000 litres of AGO were seized. On March 25, a massive wooden boat carrying 100,000 litres of crude oil was seized around Egbessan oilfield in Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State. Similarly, on March 27, a suspected cultist/kidnappers’ camp and four vandalized wellheads were uncovered alongside 70,000 litres of crude oil, 25,000 litres of AGO, and 15,000 litres of kerosene in Rivers State.

    The operation concluded on March 31 with the deactivation of 12 refining ovens and two dugout pits containing 30,000 litres of crude oil and 5,000 litres of AGO in Tumburu and Biseni forest, Bayelsa State.

    In total, the Nigerian Navy neutralized over 30 illegal refinery sites, seized more than 340,000 litres of crude oil, and confiscated a large cache of petroleum products, arms, and refining equipment.

    The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, reiterated the Navy’s resolve to maintain aggressive patrols and operations to safeguard Nigeria’s oil infrastructure and boost crude oil output in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive.

  • 81 Division Operatives Intercept 320 Wraps of Suspected Cannabis in Ogun State

    81 Division Operatives Intercept 320 Wraps of Suspected Cannabis in Ogun State

    Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 81 Division have intercepted a consignment of 320 wraps of substances suspected to be Cannabis Sativa during a routine patrol in the Alamutu area of Odeda Local Government Area, Ogun State.

    The operation, carried out on April 2, 2025, followed actionable intelligence pointing to the movement of illicit drugs by a suspected transnational drug syndicate. The suspects, who were conveying the substances on two motorcycles, fled into a nearby bush upon sighting the troops.

    According to a statement released by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the patrol is part of ongoing efforts by the Division to support relevant agencies in the fight against drug trafficking in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy.

    The seized drugs and motorcycles have since been handed over to the Military Police Unit of the 35 Artillery Brigade for onward transfer to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ogun State Command, for further investigation.

    Reacting to the development, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, commended the troops for their swift response and urged them to intensify efforts in the clampdown on criminal activities within their area of responsibility.

    He further issued a stern warning to individuals engaged in criminal enterprises, particularly drug trafficking, to desist or be prepared to face the full consequences of the law.

    The operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to supporting inter-agency collaborations in ensuring a drug-free and safer society.

  • Nigeria Customs Service Denies Tenure Extension For Comptroller-General

    Nigeria Customs Service Denies Tenure Extension For Comptroller-General

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has refuted claims circulating about an alleged extension of the tenure of Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR. In a statement released on April 1, 2025, the NCS dismissed the report as false and misleading.

    According to the statement signed by the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the purported extension, allegedly announced by the State House, has no basis in fact. The NCS clarified that appointments and tenure extensions for the Comptroller-General are at the sole discretion of the President and Commander-in-Chief, in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and other relevant regulations. As of now, no such directive has been issued by the appropriate authorities.

    The Service reassured the public that it remains committed to its statutory responsibilities, including trade facilitation, revenue generation, and border security. Under the leadership of Adeniyi, the NCS continues to implement key reforms aimed at modernizing operations, improving inter-agency collaboration, and driving economic growth.

    The NCS urged stakeholders and the general public to rely solely on official channels for accurate information regarding appointments and tenure decisions. It reiterated its dedication to transparency and professionalism while appreciating the continued support of stakeholders.

  • Third (3rd) Annual Innocent Chukwuemeka Chukwuma Impact and Legacy Lecture Series

    Third (3rd) Annual Innocent Chukwuemeka Chukwuma Impact and Legacy Lecture Series

    CLEEN Foundation, in collaboration with the Innocent Chukwuemeka Chukwuma Empowerment Foundation, is honored to announce the third (3rd) annual Innocent Chukwuemeka Chukwuma Impact and Legacy Lecture Series. This year, the title of lecture is “The Personal is Political: Lessons from the Life of Innocent Chukwuma” and will be delivered by the distinguished Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, a renowned feminist activist, gender and development specialist, writer and former First Lady of Ekiti State.

    Innocent Chukwuemeka Chukwuma was a renowned and tireless advocate for social justice, equality, human rights, justice sector reforms and good governance. His work continues to inspire and influence the current and future generations of changemakers in Nigeria and beyond. This annual lecture series honors his enduring legacy by bringing together thought leaders, activists, and the broader community to engage with topics that were central to Innocent’s life and mission.

    This year the event is set to take place in Lagos on April 3, 2025. The Guest Lecturer, Erelu Adeleye-Fayemi will be bringing Innocent back to life as she speaks about the interconnectedness of personal experiences and the larger social and political structures. The phrase ‘’the personal is political’’ which was popularized by the second wave of feminism in the 60s, is very relevant till date. Her insights will offer valuable lessons on how Innocent’s personal life influenced his political thoughts, ideology and activism.

    Participants can expect engaging discussions, personal narratives, and actionable insights that underline the profound influence one individual can have on societal progress. The event is open to all who wish to honor Innocent’s legacy and explore the intersections of personal life and political impact. Attendees (physically and virtually) will have the opportunity to engage in dialogue, deepen their understanding, and draw inspiration for their own efforts toward creating a more just society.

    Register in advance for this meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/MIAI32GuQku_LxhOUXyCRg

    For inquiries and confirmation of participation please contact; Salaudeen Hashim CLEEN
    Foundation via salaudeen.hashim@cleen.org or via 07061347269 or Ayo Olanrewaju, Innocent Chukwuemeka Chukwuma Empowerment Foundation via ayotolaolanrewaju@iccef.org.ng or via 08034854544.

  • CISLAC Commends Edo Governor For Kano Visit, Suspension Of Vigilante Groups And Security Chief

    CISLAC Commends Edo Governor For Kano Visit, Suspension Of Vigilante Groups And Security Chief

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has lauded the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his swift and decisive actions following the tragic killing of travelers in Uromi, Edo State, on March 27, 2025.

    The victims, who were from Bankure Local Government Area of Kano State, were brutally murdered by an illegal vigilante group operating outside the official security framework of the state.

    In a statement signed by the Executive Director of CISLAC, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organization expressed strong support for Governor Okpebholo’s handling of the aftermath of the horrific incident.

    The governor not only visited the bereaved families in Kano State to offer his condolences but also assured them of his commitment to justice.

    In addition, Governor Okpebholo announced the immediate suspension of all vigilante groups in Edo State and the suspension of the Edo State Security Corps Commander, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), after it was revealed that the vigilante group responsible for the killings was operating illegally.

    As a civil society organization dedicated to promoting good governance, rule of law, and the protection of human rights, CISLAC strongly supports the governor’s actions, especially the disbanding of unregulated vigilante groups that pose a serious threat to public safety and the rule of law.

    The organization commended the governor for taking a firm stance on ensuring that all security organizations operate within legal frameworks, thus fostering an environment where citizens’ rights are upheld.

    “We commend the swift investigation by the Edo State government, which has already led to the arrest of 14 suspects, and we welcome the assurance from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that security agencies are working tirelessly to ensure justice is served,” the statement reads.

    CISLAC also applauds Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and their families, emphasizing that the perpetrators will be apprehended and prosecuted.

    The collaboration between the Edo and Kano State governments is also hailed as an exemplary model for other Nigerian leaders, showcasing the importance of unity, compassion, and decisive leadership during times of tragedy.

    “This tragedy should serve as a reminder of the need for strong leadership and cross-regional solidarity,” the statement continues.

    “CISLAC acknowledges Governor Okpebholo’s efforts as a significant step in fostering peace and solidarity between the northern and southern regions of Nigeria, particularly at a time when such incidents can easily sow division.”

    The organization also commended the people of Edo State, especially those in Uromi, who risked their lives to save some of the victims. Their brave actions reflect the values of empathy, courage, and unity that transcend ethnic and regional boundaries, further emphasizing the collective spirit that binds Nigerians together.

    CISLAC calls on all levels of government to prioritize the welfare and protection of citizens, ensure justice for victims of violence, and promote peaceful coexistence across Nigeria.

    The organization urges the Edo State government to follow through on its commitment to dismantling unregistered security groups and to strengthen the legal framework for community security to prevent such tragedies in the future.

    “CISLAC remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting transparency, accountability, and justice in Nigeria, and we stand in solidarity with the victims and their families during this challenging time,” the statement concludes.

  • CISLAC Demands Justice, Calls for Immediate Investigation into Uromi Lynching Incident

    CISLAC Demands Justice, Calls for Immediate Investigation into Uromi Lynching Incident

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) strongly condemns the brutal killing of at least 16 travelers in Uromi, Edo State, and calls for an immediate, thorough, and transparent investigation into the incident.

    In a statement signed by CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, it was revealed that the victims—hunters traveling from Rivers State to Kano to celebrate Eid with their families—were mercilessly lynched after their vehicle was intercepted by a vigilante group and armed youths.

    The victims were beaten, tied to used tires soaked in petrol, and set ablaze. Disturbing viral videos of the incident show the victims pleading for mercy as they are attacked with axes, iron rods, and machetes. Onlookers cheered but failed to intervene.

    CISLAC condemns this horrific act of mob violence, which underscores the alarming rise of vigilante justice and a growing disregard for human life in Nigeria.

    The organization calls for an immediate and transparent investigation into the killings. Nigerian authorities must ensure that those responsible for this gruesome act are apprehended and held accountable under the law, including any police officers who may have failed to act in accordance with their duties.

    CISLAC emphasized that, “Under international law, the Nigerian government has an unequivocal obligation to protect its citizens, safeguarding their right to life and protecting them from torture and other ill-treatment. The failure to fulfill this duty sends a dangerous message, signaling that violence and impunity will be tolerated, ultimately emboldening mobs and vigilantes to act with increasing brutality.”

    CISLAC demands that President Bola Tinubu and the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Monday Okpebholo, take immediate action to condemn this act of violence and demonstrate their commitment to ensuring justice for the victims. The Nigerian government must go beyond offering mere condemnation and take concrete steps to ensure that the suspected attackers face justice through a fair trial.

    “The incident in Uromi is not an isolated case but part of a disturbing trend of vigilante violence across the country, particularly in towns and villages where highway communities are increasingly besieged by groups taking the law into their own hands. This culture of mob violence has been allowed to thrive due to the government’s consistent failure to hold perpetrators accountable and enforce the rule of law,” the statement noted.

    The statement concluded by stressing the urgent need for the Nigerian government to strengthen its efforts to prevent further mob violence and vigilante killings. “This includes ensuring that the police are properly equipped to respond effectively and that victims have access to justice and meaningful remedies. The government must implement both punitive and preventive measures to curb the rising tide of impunity and uphold the sanctity of human life.”

  • FY 2024: Fidelity Bank Records A 210.0% Growth In PBT To N385.2 Billion

    FY 2024: Fidelity Bank Records A 210.0% Growth In PBT To N385.2 Billion

    Declares a total dividend of N2.10 per share

    Lagos, Nigeria, March 29, 2025: Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, released its 2024 full-year Audited Financial Statements, reporting a 210% growth in Profit Before Tax to N385.2 billion.

    According to the Bank’s results released on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) on Friday, 28 March 2025, Gross Earnings increased by 87.7% to N1,043.4bn, driven by 106.9% growth in interest and similar income to N950.6bn. The increase in Interest Income was led by a combination of improved yield on earnings assets and 51.6% expansion in earnings base to N6.3tn. This led to a Profit After Tax of N278.1 billion, representing a 179.6% annual growth.

    Commenting on the results, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe,OON, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc said, “We are delighted with our 2024 full-year (FY) performance, which showed strong growth across key revenue lines, improved asset quality, and significant traction in our strategic business segments. Our impressive results led to a triple-digit increase (210.0%) in Profit Before Tax (PBT), rising from N124.3bn in 2023 to N385.2bn in 2024.”

    A further review of the financial performance revealed that the bank’s net interest income increased by 127.1% to N629.8 billion, driven by a high-yield environment in 2024. To optimize its margin, the bank sustained its asset yields above funding cost by maintaining a high low-cost deposit profile at 92.6%. This led to an increase in its Net Interest Margin from 8.1% in 2023 FY to 12.0%.

    Similarly, the bank continued to deepen its market share in both the corporate and retail segments, with customer deposits increasing by 47.9% from N4.0trn in 2023FY to N5.9trn. The increase was driven by strong double-digit growth across all deposit types. The Retail Banking Business gained significant traction with savings deposits increasing by 28.8% to N1.1trn, marking the 10th consecutive year of double-digit annual growth in savings deposits.

    Despite the difficult economic terrain in 2024, the bank has continued to support the real sector of the economy by increasing its Net Loans & Advances from N3.1tn in 2023FY to N4.4tn in 2024FY.

    “This remarkable performance demonstrates our capacity to deliver superior returns to our shareholders. In line with our commitment to them, we have declared a final dividend of N1.25 per share, bringing our total dividend for the 2024 financial year to N2.10 per share”, explained Onyeali-Ikpe.

    Having consistently paid dividends since 2006, Fidelity Bank will pay investors a total dividend of N2.10 per share for the 2024 financial year, subject to shareholders’ approval at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 29 April 2024. The dividend will be paid on 29 April 2025 to shareholders whose names appear on the register of members as of 15 April 2025.

    It will be recalled that the bank successfully completed the first phase of its capital raising exercise through a Public Offer and Rights Issue in 2024, which were oversubscribed by 237.92% and 137.73%, respectively. The positive result is a testament to the strength of the Bank’s franchise in the capital market. A total of N175.9bn was recognized as fresh capital in 2024 financial year from the exercise, which had a positive impact on its Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) at 23.5%. The bank plans to conclude the second phase by Q3 2025, ahead of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s deadline, which will further strengthen its capital base and reaffirm its attainment of Tier 1 Bank status in the Nigerian Banking Industry.

    Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

    The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

  • Comptroller Onyeka Hosts Ramadan Dinner, Pledges Support For Harmonious Coexistence At Tincan Island

    Comptroller Onyeka Hosts Ramadan Dinner, Pledges Support For Harmonious Coexistence At Tincan Island

    In a bid to foster unity and peaceful coexistence, the Customs Area Controller of Tincan Island Port Command, Frank Onyeka, hosted a special Ramadan Dinner for stakeholders at the Command’s headquarters on Wednesday.

    Speaking at the event, Comptroller Onyeka emphasized the significance of Ramadan as a period of reflection, self-discipline, and compassion. He noted that the dinner was not just about sharing meals but also about strengthening relationships and promoting mutual understanding. “This dinner is a way to show solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters during this sacred month. It is an opportunity to celebrate their devotion while embracing the shared values of community, kindness, and empathy,” he said.

    The Chief Imam of Tincan Island Mosque, Imam Sadiq Mohammed, expressed gratitude to Comptroller Onyeka for the initiative. He described the gathering as a meaningful step towards bridging religious divides within the port community and offered prayers for the success of the Command.

    Similarly, Alhaji Akeem Ayobiojo, Chairman of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics (APFFLON), Tincan Island Command Chapter, commended the event. He lauded the Customs Controller for fostering unity at the port, stating, “This dinner is a testament to the spirit of unity and mutual respect we strive to cultivate here at Tincan Island Port. Comptroller Onyeka has created an environment where our differences are celebrated, and our shared humanity is recognized.”

    The event was attended by key figures, including members of the Armed Forces, Customs Licensed Agents, Terminal Operators, and Shipping Line Operators.

  • Kano Residents Benefit From Fidelity Food Bank Initiative

    Kano Residents Benefit From Fidelity Food Bank Initiative

    Over 1,500 residents have benefited from a Fidelity Food Bank outreach in Kabuga community, Dala Local Government Area of Kano state.

    The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, executed in partnership with Misnoory Foundation, saw staff of the bank distribute essential food items to support people during the holy month of Ramadan.

    Commenting on the distribution event, Divisional Head, Brands and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, emphasized the bank’s dedication to supporting its host communities through impactful projects.

    “Social responsibility is at the heart of who we are as a bank. Our Fidelity Food Bank initiative is one of the way we drive social welfare in our host communities. The initiative was launched to support the vulnerable and alleviate the impact of hunger in the society as part of our contribution to Sustainable Development Goal 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger.

    “Consequently, we have distributed more than 150,000 food packs at outreach events like this across the country since April 2023 when we launched the initiative. Our outreach in Kabuga is designed to support women, widows, children and the community with food items for the Ramadan season.”

    On her part, the Founder, Misnoory Foundation, Maryam Isa Inuwa stated that, “The commitment of the foundation towards poverty alleviation and various humanitarian support to society’s most vulnerable members perfectly aligns with the Fidelity Bank initiative.

    “Fidelity Bank is one of the major sponsors of our humanitarian outreaches to the needy in the society. The foundation is delighted to count on the bank as a long-standing partner.

    “We seek to touch the lives of many people in need through our various humanitarian efforts across different communities and today, it is the turn of Kabuga community to benefit from the Fidelity Food Bank program “.

    Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 8.5 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

    The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the Export Finance Bank of the Year at the 2023 BusinessDay Awards; the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; Best Payment Solution Provider Nigeria 2023; and Best SME Bank Nigeria 2022 by the Global Banking and Finance Awards. It was also recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2023 and the Best Domestic Private Bank in Nigeria by the Euromoney Global Private Banking Awards 2023.

  • Nigeria Customs At Ogun I Command Intercepts 7 Million CFA Smuggled Currency, Hands Over To EFCC

    Nigeria Customs At Ogun I Command Intercepts 7 Million CFA Smuggled Currency, Hands Over To EFCC


    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has intercepted 7 million CFA francs being smuggled out of the country and officially handed it over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, disclosed this during a media briefing on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at the Idiroko Headquarters of the Command.

    According to Shuaibu, the seizure was made on March 20, 2025, when officers at the outward baggage hall of the border post in Idiroko detected a suspicious bag during routine checks on passengers traveling to Benin Republic. Upon thorough examination, the bag was found to contain freshly minted foreign currency notes amounting to 7 million CFA francs.

    “The failure to declare cash of such magnitude contravenes the Anti-Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, as well as the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1995,” Shuaibu stated.

    Recognizing the EFCC’s pivotal role in combating financial crimes, the NCS handed over the seized currency to the anti-graft agency in line with the directives of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. The move, Shuaibu explained, strengthens interagency collaboration between Customs, EFCC, and other relevant security agencies.

    He further warned against smuggling activities, emphasizing that the Ogun I Command remains committed to enforcing federal fiscal policies and customs regulations.

    “The current Customs administration under the leadership of Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has zero tolerance for revenue leakages and violations of economic and fiscal policy measures. We will continue to send a strong signal to deter illegal activities at our borders,” he added.

    Shuaibu urged border communities to refrain from engaging in smuggling, assuring that the Command will sustain its vigilance in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests.

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