News
Federal High Court Dismisses Contractor’s Application in $65 Million Money Laundering Case.
In a significant ruling, the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has dismissed an application filed by Mr. Tarry Rufus, the Chief Executive of Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited, aimed at halting the prosecution by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in connection with a $65 million money laundering case.
Justice Yilwa H. Joseph presided over the case, during which it was established that a prima facie case of alleged misappropriation had been established. The court emphasized that it could not obstruct the ICPC from performing its statutory duties, particularly in light of the evidence presented. The court found no merit in Rufus’ claim of unlawful detention, noting the absence of supporting evidence and stating that his failure to satisfy bail conditions did not imply a breach of his fundamental rights.
Mr. Rufus, along with former executives of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN)—Mr. Gimba Kumo Ya’u and Mr. Bola Ogunsola—is accused of misappropriating funds intended for the construction of 962 residential housing units in Kubwa District, Abuja. The allegations specify the unlawful conversion of funds amounting to approximately $3.55 million, which contravenes the Money Laundering Act.
Despite these serious allegations, Rufus sought to have the court prevent the ICPC and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from further involving him in the case. He argued that he had not committed any infractions in the execution of the contract and claimed unlawful detention by the ICPC. Furthermore, Rufus requested compensation of N500 million for what he described as “frivolous criminal persecution.”
Representatives from the ICPC countered that their investigative powers allow for meticulous examination of allegations of misappropriation and maintained that Rufus willingly engaged with the Commission during its inquiries. The court’s dismissal of Rufus’ application reinforces the ICPC’s mandate to address allegations of corruption and financial misconduct with due diligence.
This ruling marks a critical juncture in the ongoing legal proceedings and highlights the judiciary’s role in upholding regulatory frameworks designed to combat corruption in Nigeria.
On Friday, May 16, 2025, Princess Opeyemi Bright was sworn in as the youngest Mayor in the United Kingdom, assuming the prestigious title of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham at the age of 29.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright’s election has been widely lauded as a testament to diversity, youth empowerment, and the increasing global impact of the Nigerian diaspora. Having served as a councillor since the age of 22, her ascent to mayoralty follows a legacy of public service, with her mother, Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright, previously serving as Civic Mayor of Hackney.
Princess Bright’s success exemplifies a broader trend of Nigerians achieving prominent positions in international governance, joining the ranks of figures like Kemi Badenoch and Chi Onwurah in the UK, and others globally. Her inauguration serves as an encouragement for youth engagement in politics and underscores the vital role young people and women play in shaping public life. This historic achievement offers valuable insights for Nigerian policymakers in diaspora engagement and leadership development initiatives.
Nollywood actress Mary Njoku has recently ignited a debate regarding the necessity of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination for university admissions in Nigeria. In a statement posted on her Instagram story, Njoku questioned the need for JAMB and post-UTME, arguing that the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) should be sufficient proof of a candidate’s completion of secondary education.
Her statement comes amidst recent controversy surrounding JAMB, particularly following widespread reports of mass failures in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME). While JAMB has admitted to errors and announced retakes for affected candidates, Njoku’s questioning highlights a deeper concern regarding the redundancy and potential inefficiencies within the current university admission process. The actress’s comments add fuel to an existing debate about the effectiveness and fairness of the JAMB examination in evaluating a student’s readiness for tertiary education.
South African sensation Tyla is poised to make history as the first African personality to host the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. Organizers announced the Grammy-winning artist as the host of the 2025 edition, scheduled to air live on June 21st from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.
Beyond hosting duties, Tyla has also secured two nominations: Favourite Global Music Star and Favourite Music Collaboration for “Show Me Love” with WizTheMc, and “bees & honey.”
The nominations list is topped by Kendrick Lamar, Ariana Grande, and Lady Gaga, each receiving four nods. Selena Gomez, Dwayne Johnson, Jelly Roll, and Jack Black follow closely behind with three nominations apiece.
Expressing her excitement on X, Tyla simply stated, “I’m really about to host the kids choice awards.” This landmark achievement further solidifies Tyla’s rising star on the global stage.
Princess Opeyemi Bright Inaugurated as Youngest UK Mayor.
Nollywood Actress Questions JAMB’s Relevance in University Admissions.
Tyla to Host 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.
Queen Phinadon Honored at the Cultural Exhibition and Award Ceremony 202
Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World Set for Theatrical Release
Nigeria’s SEC Grants Approvals to Crypto Operators: A Step Towards Regulation and Acceptance
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