Yahaya Bello, the immediate past governor of Kogi State, has petitioned the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja, Justice John Tsoho, to transfer his money laundering trial to Lokoja.

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Bello, through his counsel Adeola Adedipe (SAN), argued that Lokoja is the appropriate venue for his arraignment, as the alleged offences occurred there.

At a resumed hearing on Thursday, Adedipe informed Justice Emeka Nwite that a formal request had been submitted to the Chief Judge for administrative consideration.

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Adedipe emphasized that the Federal High Court in Lokoja has the territorial jurisdiction to adjudicate the case.

He also mentioned that the defense team is awaiting a response from the Chief Judge, noting that the prosecution has been informed of the request through a letter dated June 14, 2024.

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This letter, addressed to Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), was signed by Joshua Ibrahim Aji, Esq., the Special Assistant to the Chief Judge.

However, the EFCC, represented by lead counsel Dr. Kemi Pinheiro, strongly opposed the transfer request, describing it as a delay tactic.

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Pinheiro urged Justice Nwite to hold Adedipe and Abdulwahab Mohammed (SAN) accountable for their failure to present Bello in court, despite previous commitments.

He also called for the senior advocates to be cited for contempt of court.

The court has scheduled July 17 for Bello’s arraignment and for ruling on the EFCC’s request to cite the defense lawyers for contempt.

Bello faces 19 counts of alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of funds amounting to N80.2 billion.

The senator representing Kogi Central senatorial zone, Natasha Akpoti, has announced the appointment of 100 constituents as aides.

Senator Akpoti, through her verified Facebook handle on Thursday, stated, “As Senator representing the Kogi Central District, I thought it good to engage the services of 100 dynamic men and women across all 57 wards of Kogi Central for strengthening representation.

“These men and women, both old and young, make up not only the geographical coverage of our communities but also the various professional and artisanal groups.”

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She further revealed that the aides would be placed on a monthly salary for the entire tenure of her engagement as their senator at the National Assembly, with the first salary to be paid on the 30th of June 2024.

“Congratulations,” she added.

Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan’s initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness of her representation by involving a diverse group of individuals from her constituency.

Senator Natasha Akpoti, Kogi Central Senatorial Zone

Chief Chekwas Okorie, the founder and pioneer chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), shares his insights on the ongoing crisis within the party, his views on Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and other political issues.

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Chief Okorie expressed his frustration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for not recognizing Chief Edozie Njoku as APGA’s national chairman despite a Supreme Court ruling in March 2023.

He criticized INEC Chairman Prof Mahmood Yakubu for failing to comply with the court’s decision, noting that this defiance has prolonged the party’s leadership crisis.

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Okorie highlighted that APGA has faced leadership disputes for 22 years.

He recounted the challenges since the party’s inception in 2002 and the internal conflicts that have persisted, with every governor using party resources to secure control within Anambra State.

He attributed APGA’s limited geographical influence to these internal power struggles.

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Despite past betrayals, Okorie holds no grudge against Peter Obi.

He praised Obi’s rise in national politics and acknowledged his role in Obi’s political journey.

Okorie advised Obi against frequently changing parties, as it could undermine his political gains.

On the issue of merger, Okorie asserted that APGA would not merge with other parties but would consider alliances or coalitions to maintain its identity.

He emphasized the importance of constructive engagement in political strategy.

Okorie acknowledged the difficult economic situation inherited by President Bola Tinubu and commended his bold steps to address it.

However, he criticized the ostentatious lifestyles of government officials and called for more sensitivity to public sentiment.

He also noted the lack of progress in agriculture and advised President Tinubu to address these issues urgently.

Despite challenges, Okorie believes Nigeria is in capable hands with President Tinubu.

He praised Tinubu’s political acumen and courage but cautioned against nepotism, urging a more inclusive approach to governance.

The Labour Party has reiterated its commitment to serving as the political platform for Peter Obi’s 2027 presidential ambitions.

Ayo Olorunfemi, the National Vice Chairman of the party, made this statement during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

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Olorunfemi addressed the speculation and pressures from some factions within Obi’s support base, known as the Obidients, urging him to leave the party following internal crises post-2023 elections.

He dismissed these calls as misguided, asserting that genuine supporters would not suggest such a move.

Describing the dissenting voices as “delusional,” Olorunfemi emphasized the unwavering support from the core Obidient groups, including student unions and young Nigerians who are disillusioned with the current state of the nation.

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He questioned which alternative party could align with Obi’s principles, contrasting the Labour Party’s ideological foundation with other political entities like PDP and APC.

“This party is rooted in social democracy,”

“Peter Obi’s only viable path to victory in 2027 is through the Labour Party, and we are gearing up for that challenge.” He said.

Olorunfemi praised Obi as a potential president Nigeria has yet to experience and expressed optimism about the party’s prospects despite recent turmoil.

He assured that the leadership, under Julius Abure, is committed to resolving conflicts and welcoming back members from the Lamidi Apapa faction.

Ongoing reconciliation efforts, according to Olorunfemi, include the potential return of Apapa and Abayomi Arambabi.

He also mentioned the possibility of a special convention to address unfilled positions from the last party convention, underscoring the party’s commitment to unity and strength as they prepare for the upcoming elections.