Court Approves Arrest, Detention Of Six CBEX Promoters

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  The Federal High Court in Abuja has approved the request of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to arrest and detain six promoters of Crypto Bridge Exchange over an alleged investment fraud amounting to over $1 billion. Justice Emeka Nwite gave the order on Thursday after listening to submissions from the EFCC’s lawyer, Fadila Yusuf. The six individuals named in the ex parte motion filed on April 23 are Adefowora Olanipekun, Adefowora Oluwanisola, Emmanuel Uko, Seyi Oloyede, Avwerosuo Otorudo, and Chukwuebuka Ehirim. The EFCC sought the court’s permission to arrest and keep the suspects in custody while investigations continue and possible charges are prepared. In the motion, the EFCC asked for two things: permission to issue arrest warrants and an order to remand the suspects in EFCC custody during the investigation. Yusuf told the court, “The defendants are at large, and a warrant of arrest is required to bring them in for proper investigation and prosecution.” She explained that the EFCC had received intelligence linking the suspects to criminal acts and that the commission had a constitutional duty to investigate and enforce the law. According to an affidavit submitted with the motion, the EFCC said it received information in April 2025 about a fraudulent investment scheme involving the suspects. The commission said the fraud was carried out through ST Technologies International Limited, in partnership with CBEX. The suspects were accused of promoting CBEX, convincing people to invest in cryptocurrency through their platform while promising extremely high returns, up to 100%. “The victims were required to convert their digital assets into USDT, a stablecoin, and deposit them into the suspects’ cryptocurrency wallets,” the affidavit stated. At first, investors could monitor their investments through the CBEX platform. But after over $1 billion was deposited, the platform was suddenly shut down, and victims could no longer access their funds. Further investigations revealed that although ST Technologies was registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, it was not licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission to run any investment business. The EFCC also told the court that the suspects had abandoned their known addresses in Lagos and Ogun states. The agency said, “A warrant of arrest is necessary to place the suspects on a red watch list and ensure they are apprehended to face justice.” The commission added that its investigation had shown a clear case of fraud and urged the court to grant the application in the interest of justice. After reviewing the case, Justice Nwite ruled, “I have listened to the submission of learned counsel for the applicant. “I have also examined the affidavit evidence and the exhibits attached, along with the written address. “I am of the view, and I so hold, that the application is meritorious. Consequently, the application is granted as prayed.”

Bolt Seeks Dialogue With Drivers Ahead Of May 1 Strike

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  Bolt, Nigeria’s largest e-hailing startup by market share, says it is seeking dialogue with driver representatives following a planned 24-hour strike by app-based drivers in Lagos, scheduled for May 1, over poor earnings and working conditions. In an emailed response to PUNCH Online on Thursday, the Estonian ride-hailing operator acknowledged some of the concerns raised by the drivers and confirmed its openness to discussions aimed at addressing the drivers’ grievances. The strike, announced on Tuesday by the Lagos State chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, targets major operators including Bolt, Uber, In Drive, and others. The union accused the companies of ignoring repeated calls for fair compensation, safer working conditions, and recognition of workers’ rights. “We are actively working to engage with driver representatives to better understand their needs and explore viable solutions through open and constructive dialogue, ” the General Manager of Bolt Nigeria, Osi Oguah, said. “We recognise the concerns raised around fares, commissions, and overall working conditions. These are important matters, and we remain committed to finding sustainable ways to address them. Our goal has always been to create a platform that is fair, transparent, and beneficial for all stakeholders.” AUATON said its attempts to engage the companies in meaningful dialogue have been met with indifference, accusing operators of prioritising profit over drivers’ welfare. While Bolt confirmed that it is in talks with driver representatives to “better understand their needs and explore viable solutions through open and constructive dialogue,” Uber had not responded to PUNCH Online’s inquiry as of press time. The planned strike, timed to coincide with International Workers’ Day, could disrupt ride-hailing services across Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub and a major market for mobility platforms in Africa. Bolt made its entry into the Nigerian market in 2016, introducing a transformative, technology-powered transportation service to the country’s ride-hailing industry. Founded in 2013 as Taxify by Markus Villig in Estonia, the company quickly expanded across Africa, launching in key markets such as Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya by 2016. By 2025, Bolt had facilitated over 250 million rides in Nigeria, highlighting its commitment to safety and affordability with features like audio trip recording designed to safeguard both drivers and passengers. Punch

NiMet Workers Begin Indefinite Strike, Shuts Down Meteorological Services

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  Workers of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency commenced an indefinite strike on Wednesday, withdrawing all meteorological services nationwide. Our correspondent observed that the strike officially began at 7:00 a.m., with NiMet staff and union members walking around the airport premises holding placards. It was gathered that some staff even slept at the agency’s premises overnight to ensure a total shutdown of operations. One of the workers lamented: “The situation is bad for us here in NiMet. In terms of our welfare, the salary package and everything are very low compared to our sister agency. You can see a management staff member in NiMet collecting ₦470,000, while someone in the sister agency earns about ₦1.2 million. “Any increment the Federal Government is making, we are not getting it. We provide more sensitive services than even our sister agency, but our welfare package is so poor that it cannot cover transportation, rent, or even our children’s school fees. “The working conditions are too poor. We need to be taken care of like our sister agency. We are not asking for too much — just a good condition of service that would at least make life comfortable for us to concentrate on our job. “We provide services like agro-meteorology, marine, and transportation for all industries. We offer services to them, yet our welfare is too poor. So we are calling on the government to look into our case.” Secretary of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, Paul Ogohi, condemned the conduct of some domestic airlines, while also highlighting the toll the current system is taking on NiMet staff. “Other international airlines have parked and are keeping strictly to the regulations of ICAO. British Airways has complied, and Qatar Airways has also suspended operations. But the problem we are facing is with Nigerian airlines and their pilots. These rules are meant to govern aviation operations, but we, the locals, are the ones violating these standards. It’s not right. “We should discourage it and condemn it entirely. It’s unacceptable. This kind of thing only happens in Nigeria. You can see that unprecedented deaths are occurring in NiMet, as if we are chickens. Nearly 70 per cent of our staff forecasters have high blood pressure. “Ninety per cent no longer have good vision, because we are constantly working to observe the aerodrome. We have eye defects. It is unbearable. Some of us are taking loans to pay school fees, rent, and even to come to work. “We are appealing to the Minister to please come to our aid. We are seeing changes, but those changes should extend to NiMet because we are suffering.” In reaction, the Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Michael Achimugu, said that safety remains paramount and that a meeting with the unions is forthcoming. “The NCAA is going into a meeting with the unions soon. However, NAMA is currently providing auxiliary services. You should know that in aviation, safety comes first. So, if there is any threat to operations at this moment, nobody will be allowed to fly. Rest assured,” he said. Punch

Tinubu Meets Fubara In London

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  President Bola Tinubu met with suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, in London. The meeting, confirmed by The Africa Report, was held at the insistence of Governor Fubara, who assumed office in May 2023. As of the time of this report, The PUNCH could not confirm the details of the meeting, as presidential aides contacted said they were not part of the President’s latest trip. However, officials confirmed that it was the first face-to-face meeting since Tinubu invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution on March 18, declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State and removing Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, from office. Tinubu’s national broadcast on March 18 cited “months of intense political instability” that had “paralysed governance” and “threatened national stability.” He appointed Navy Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as sole administrator. Opposition governors from seven PDP-controlled states immediately filed a suit at the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutionality of the proclamation and calling for a return to democratic governance. Tinubu, who had been in Paris and then London since 2 April, agreed to meet with Fubara in an effort to defuse the ongoing crisis. Officials said the pair discussed restoring a functional government in the oil-rich state. Although neither side disclosed specific details, presidential aides who spoke on condition of anonymity said the talks focused on the possibility of Fubara returning to office before the end of his six-month suspension. The President returned to Abuja on Monday night after spending 18 days abroad. It was learnt that Fubara’s estranged political godfather, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was not part of the meeting and was reportedly uneasy about such discussions taking place without him. However, Tinubu is expected to meet with Fubara, Wike, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to chart a lasting resolution to the political crisis in the state. Punch

BREAKING: Pope Francis Died Of Stroke — Vatican

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  Pope Francis died of a stroke, causing a coma and “irreversible” heart failure, according to his death certificate released by the Vatican on Monday. The 88-year-old Catholic leader died on Monday morning, almost a month after being discharged from five weeks in hospital with double pneumonia. The cause of Pope Francis’ death has been identified as a stroke, followed by a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse. The Director of the Directorate of Health and Hygiene of the Vatican City State, Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, issued the official certification, and the Holy See Press Office released the report on Monday evening. According to the medical report, the Pope had a prior history of acute respiratory failure caused by multimicrobial bilateral pneumonia, multiple bronchiectases, high blood pressure, and Type II diabetes. His death was confirmed through electrocardiographic thanatography. “I hereby declare,” wrote Dr. Arcangeli, “that the causes of death, to the best of my knowledge and judgment, are as stated above.” AFP

Birthday: Aare Olayinka Segelu Celebrates Seasoned Journalist, Kazeem Awojoodu

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  A governorship aspirant on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 elections in Oyo State, Aare Olayinka Segelu, has extended his heartfelt facilitations to Mr. Kazeem Awojoodu, a seasoned journalist based in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on the occasion of his birthday. Awojoodu is the Daily Independent Newspaper correspondent for Oyo State and he is stationed in the Governor’s office, Ibadan. Aare Segelu, a Germany-based businessman and ICT expert, described Awojoodu who is his childhood friend, as a hardworking journalist who has carved a niche for himself in the journalism profession. In his message of congratulations to media professional, the governorship hopeful, said: “Dear Kazeem Awojoodu, “I congratulate you on the occasion of your birthday today. “On this special day, I want to take a moment to celebrate not only your birthday but also the significant impact you have made as a seasoned journalist in our society. Your commitment to professionalism and dedication to your craft inspires many, including myself. “Thank you for your unwavering support and the positive influence you bring to our community. I wish you many more years filled with joy, good health, and continued success in all your endeavours. “Enjoy your birthday today! Best wishes.

Easter: Aare Olayinka Segelu, Governorship Aspirant, Salutes Oyo State Residents

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  An aspirant for the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, Aare Olayinka Segelu, has extended his warm greetings to the good people of Oyo State on the ocassion of the 2025 Easter celebration. In his message to Oyo citizens, the Germany-based Ibadan-born businessman and ICT consultant, said: “As we celebrate this Easter season, I extend my warmest wishes for a joyful and peaceful holiday to each and every one of you. Easter embodies the spirit of new beginnings and renewal, reminding us of the hope and resilience that lies within our communities. “During this time of reflection, we are encouraged by the message of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, which inspires us to remain confident in our journey forward. Just as spring brings forth new life, let us embrace the opportunities that lie ahead for Oyo State. I want to take a moment to express my unwavering support for our esteemed governor, Seyi Makinde. Under his leadership, we have witnessed progress and development in our beloved state, and it is crucial that we continue to stand firmly behind him as he guides us toward a brighter future. “As I seek your support for my gubernatorial ambitions, I ask for your partnership in fostering a united and prosperous Oyo State. Together, let us build on the foundation of hope and prosperity that Easter represents. “Wishing you a blessed Easter filled with hope and renewed spirit.”

Just In :NAF Strikes Insurgent Camps In Sambisa Forest, Kills Several Terrorists

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  The Nigerian Air Force on Thursday said two successful airstrikes conducted on insurgent strongholds in Borno State killed several terrorists. The service said the coordinated air interdiction missions, executed under the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, targeted Kollaram and Arra—two locations long considered havens for terrorist activity in the Sambisa general area and the Southern Tumbuns. This was contained in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Thursday. Ejodame said the first strike occurred at about 5:30 a.m. in Kollaram after Intelligence and surveillance footage confirmed the presence of high-value terrorist commanders and active operational hubs, including structures fitted with solar panels used by the fighters. He said, “In a bold display of force and precision, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), under the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, executed two highly successful air interdiction missions on April 15, 2025, targeting terrorist strongholds in Borno State’s Sambisa general area and the Southern Tumbuns. “The first strike occurred at approximately 5:30 a.m. in Kollaram, a known stronghold of insurgents. Intelligence reports, supported by surveillance footage, confirmed the presence of high-value terrorist commanders in the area. Several structures, some equipped with solar panels, were identified as active terrorist hubs. “Nigerian Air Force assets carried out a precision strike on the location, eliminating several fighters and disabling key infrastructure.” He added that later in the day, at around 3:55 p.m., NAF assets struck again in Arra, Sambisa. According to him, real-time visuals gathered from Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions revealed clusters of armed militants. “Precision-guided munitions were employed, resulting in the effective destruction of targets and disruption of the group’s operational capabilities. “These back-to-back missions are part of a sustained air campaign designed to erode terrorist capabilities, dismantle leadership structures, and eliminate sanctuaries across Nigeria,” Ejodame added. Punch

Boy Who Stood In Front Of Obi’s Convoy Freed After Three Months In Detention

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  Quadri Alabi, the 17-year-old who became known during the 2023 presidential election for standing in front of Labour Party candidate Peter Obi’s convoy, has regained his freedom after being held for nearly three months at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre in Lagos. Alabi was discharged on Thursday by a Magistrate Court in Apapa following legal advice from the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions, which found no evidence to support the armed robbery charge brought against him. “We are excited to announce that Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the 17-year-old teenager who gained fame during the 2023 elections after he spontaneously jumped and stood in front of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, has been freed by the court today, 17th April, 2025,” his lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, announced in a post on X on Thursday. Effiong described his arrest and detention as a “diabolical frame-up” allegedly orchestrated by local thugs known in the Amukoko area as Lege and Baba Waris. The two reportedly abducted Alabi near his home and handed him over to the police, accusing him of being involved in a street fight. According to Effiong, the boy had faced threats from the said individuals since 2023 over donations he received from supporters of Obi. Alabi’s family was also reportedly pressured by local leaders to appease the community by buying a cow and hosting a feast. Effiong stated, “At the Court today, the presiding Magistrate, His Honour, A. O. Olorunfemi (Mrs.), confirmed that the legal advice issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), of the Ministry of Justice, Lagos State, Dr. Babajide Martins showed that there was no evidence to substantiate the allegation of armed robbery against Quadri. “In his Legal Advice, the DPP recommended the non-prosecution of Quadri. Thus, the presiding Magistrate discharged him and he was accordingly freed. “We commend the DPP for standing by the truth in this matter.” According to Effiong, despite initial claims of a street fight, the police had arraigned Alabi on January 26 on allegations of armed robbery. He was remanded in custody along with four adult strangers he had no connection to, while his age was falsely recorded as 18, the lawyer said. The matter drew public attention earlier this month after being highlighted by Hassana Nurudeen, co-founder of the Ray of Hope Prison Outreach. Following the court’s ruling, Effiong called for disciplinary action against the Divisional Police Officer of the Amukoko Police Station, the Investigating Police Officer, and others involved. He also demanded a N100 million compensation and a public apology from the police. “Quadri’s case is a painful example of the putrefying corruption, monstrous impunity, and pervasive injustice in the Nigeria Police Force,” he said. Punch

Lege Miami Sparks Outrage For Calling Women With Phone Passwords Prostitutes

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  Actor and self-proclaimed relationship adviser, Adams Kehinde, popularly known as Lege Miami, has come under fire after saying that married women who use passwords on their phones are like “prostitutes” and should leave their homes. In a video he posted on his Instagram handle on Tuesday which went viral on Wednesday, Lege made it clear that he believes only men have the right to keep their phones private and even cheat on their partners. He insisted that women are not allowed to do the same. He said, “A woman who is married and uses a password on her phone is a prostitute. She should pack her load and leave the house. “Any housewife who has a password on her phone is a prostitute. If a married woman can put a password on her phone, she is a prostitute. “So, because your husband has his phone passworded, you too want to put yours as well? You are not ready for marriage. You can pack your load and leave the house. Quote me!” Lege also insisted that men are allowed to cheat but women are not. He stated, “As a relationship expert, I will say that you pack your load and leave the house. “Your husband can cheat, but as a woman, you don’t have the right to cheat. That’s how to be a good and responsible wife.” This, however, did not sit well with many social media critics, especially women who noted that Lage was biased and one-sided. An Instagram user, #theseunlawal insisted that whatever bands men to cheat also bands the women. #theseunlawal wrote, “Shut up, broad mi, it’s vice versa, don’t give what you can’t take. Who gave men the license to cheat? If you can cheat, then she can do the same. Relationship expert isonu…” Another user, #Oyedolamounique wrote, “Boda Lege, I disagree with you on this sir, my kids will make you frustrated if you no get password.” However, despite the backlash, some people took Lage’s statement as a joke. A user, #Bukkysuccessbeni stated, “Lege u no serious. Okay, na water dey run for women body? Dey play.” Another Instagram user, #menduza wrote, “Egbon ofo niyin ooo. Na u dey matchmaker, an you dey scatter am back.”

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