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ZENITH BANK PLC IN OIL BLOCK FRAUD … DRAGS NNPC TO COURT

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Zenith bank is a Public Limited Financial institution licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria for the provision of banking services and having its registered office at Plot 87, Ajose Adeogun Street, Victoria Island Lagos, Nigeria while Minister of Petroleum Resources is an officer of the Federal Government of Nigeria who is responsible for the Ministry of Petroleum resources which is saddled with the responsibilities of licensing of all petroleum and gas operations and activities including concession policies in the oil and gas sector of the Nigerian economy and ensuring compliance with regulations and processing of application for licenses, leases and permits in the petroleum and gas industry of Nigeria.

Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) is located at NNPC Towers, Central Business District, Herbert Macaulay Way, Garki, Abuja. NNPC is an agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria established to engage in all commercial activities relating to the Petroleum industry and to enforce all regulatory measures relating to the general control of the Petroleum sector through its petroleum inspectorate department. Meanwhile, Nigdel United Oil Company Ltd, situated at 20, Elias Close, Victoria Island, Lagos, registered in Nigeria under the Companies and Allied Matters Act.

However, Nigdel United Oil Company Ltd (NUOCL) is a customer of Zenith and has maintained banker/customer relationship.  NUOCL applied to Minister of Petroleum Resource (MPR) and Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to own a bid for an oil prospecting license (OPL 233) in Nigeria 2006 Mini Round Bidding for Oil Blocks.

Under the terms and conditions of the grant of the Oil Block, NUOCL was to pay a total signature bonus commitment of the sum of $11,000,000,00 (Eleven Million US Dollars) to the MPR and NNPC respectively.

In pursuance of the banker/customer relationship existing between NUOCL and Zenith bank, NUOCL approached his bank (Zenith Bank) for credit facilities in the sum of $11,000,000,00 (Eleven Million US Dollar) to be utilized for the payment of the signature bonus in respect of OPL 233 to be allocated to NUOCL by MPR and NNPC.

zenith bank building
Nigeria United Oil Company Ltd’s application to Zenith bank for credit facility and for the relationship between them, Zenith bank grant the credit facilities in two tranches in the total sum of $11,000,000.00 US Dollar to enable NUOCL finance the payment of the signature bonus for OPL 233 it won from NNPL and MPR

That pursuant to the bank’s offer letter which was duly accepted the NUOCL, Zenith Bank granted NUOCL a short term loan in the sum of $2,750,000,00 (two million, seven hundred and fifty thousand dollar) for a tenor of ninety (90) days to finance payment of signature bonus commitment in respect of OPL 233 Oil block to be allocated to NUOCL by Minister of Petroleum Resources and NNPC. In furtherance of NUOCL’s acceptance of the credit facility, NUOCL forwarded to Zenith board resolution accepting the said facility.

It is the terms of the agreement between Zenith bank and NUOCL as contained in the Zenith bank credit facility $2,750,000,00 shall be secured by NUOCL assigning 25% of its interest in the Oil Block allocated to her by NNPL and MPR in favour of Zenith bank.

By the agreement between Zenith Bank and NUOCL, NUOCL was obligated to execute an irrevocable assigning 25% right in respect of the Oil Block to Zenith but NUOCL failed and refused to do so.

Also, Zenith bank granted another credit facility in the sum of $8,250,000,00 to NUOCL vide an offer letter which was duly accepted by Zenith Bank. In accepting the said credit facility, NUOCL forwarded its board resolution to Zenith Bank.

The said credit facility in the sum of $8,250,000,000 was for a tenor of twelve months and it was granted to enable NUOCL finance the payment of the 75% balance of the signature bonus commitment payment in respect of OPL 233 Oil Block to be allocated by NNPC and MPR respectively.

The aforesaid credit facilities of $11,000,000,00 was secured by NUOCL was of assignment of 100% of its right in the OPL 233 Oil Block allocated to NUOCL by NNPC and MPR

By the terms of the letter dated 11th Sept., NUOCL was obligated to execute an irrevocable mandate assigning 100% of its rights in the OPL 233 OIL Block allocated to by NNPC and MPR in favour of Zenith bank.

However, Zenith Bank, following the terms of the credit facilities advance to the NUOCL prepared an irrevocable mandate assigning 100% of the NUOCL’s interest in the OPL 233 to Zenith bank to serve as security for the credit facilities Zenith Bank advanced to the NUOCL, but NUOCL refused to execute the said irrevocable mandate.

Zenith bank management revealed that the credit facility in the sum of $2,000,000,00 granted to NUOCL vide offer letter dated 14th August, matured on 17th November, which the credit facility in the sum of $8,250,000,00 granted to NUOCL vide Zenith bank offer letter dated 11th September, ever since the maturity of the aforesaid facilities, NUOCL was wilfully and persistently refused and failed to liquidate same Oil Block.

Source have it that Zenith bank revealed that NUOCL, from onset had the intention not to pay the credit facilities to the bank and that was why it failed/refused to execute the irrevocable mandate assigning its 100% interest in the OPL 233 as security for the loan.

The two parties agreed on interest rate payable in respect of the facilities Zenith Bank granted NUOCL was 25% per annum.

Zenith Bank aver that, the sum of $15,900,089,99 was outstanding in the account of NUOCL with the bank being the unpaid credit facilities the bank availed NUOCL plus interest. With this claims and intentions, Zenith Bank Plc as dragged NNPC, MPR and NUOCL to court.

NNPC claims that this is a fraudulent act/move by Zenith Bank as NNPC has never part of any agreement made by either party.

However, all the claims by Zenith are not acceptable by NNPC as a defence statement was issued.

NNPC as hereinafter expressly denies each and every averment of facts contained in the statement of claims as if same has been set down and denied seriatim.

NNPC is not in a position to admit to most of the claims mentioned by Zenith Bank but however admits that NUOCL is a customer of Zenith Bank and also won the bid for an oil prospecting License (OPL 233) and was also awarded license thereto after fulfilling all the requirement of the law.

We gathered that, Zenith bank should have encourage its client in every way to pay up instead of dragging them to court.

Moreso, NNPC revealed that, was not a part to any agreement entered between Zenith Bank and NUOCL. There exists no privy of contract between NNPC and either Zenith Bank or NUOCL in respect of any loan facility or any transfer of any interest in license issued.

NNPC is not aware of any of such agreement entered between Zenith and NUOCL.

NNPC cannot be bound by any agreement which he was not a party to.

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Just In: EFCC Arrests Former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika Over Alleged N8bn Nigeria Air Fraud

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, over an ongoing N8,069,176,864.00 money laundering probe.

The indicted former Minister of Aviation arrived at the Federal Capital Territory Command of the EFCC at about 1:00 pm on Tuesday, The PUNCH is reporting.

Our correspondent, who was at the Wuse office of the EFCC, observed the embattled former minister’s arrival at the anti-graft agency’s Abuja office.

Following his arrival at the command, Sirika is currently meeting with EFCC investigators to answer questions on alleged fraudulent contracts awarded by him to a company known as Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika.

Impeccable anti-graft sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity, because they were not authorized to speak, confirmed the development to our correspondent on Tuesday.

“Yes, that was Hadi Sirika who was taken into our FCT custody. He is currently meeting with EFCC investigators over the alleged N8,069,176,864.00 aviation ministry contract fraud,” a source revealed.

Another source noted, “The N8,069,176,864.00 aviation ministry contract fraud was carried out in connivance with his younger brother, Abubakar Sirika, through the latter’s company.”

In February, It was exclusively reported that the EFCC was investigating the activities of the Aviation Ministry under former Minister Sirika for conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, and contract inflation.

A credible source who spoke with our correspondent on Tuesday revealed that the anti-graft commission is investigating the activities of the Aviation Ministry for conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, and contract inflation.

Others are criminal breaches of trust and money laundering amounting to N8,069,176,864.00 during Sirika’s tenure in office.

 

The sum is said to be for four aviation contracts from the former minister to a company known as Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by his younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika.

Apart from being listed as the company’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Abubakar is said to be the sole signatory to the company’s two accounts, domiciled in Zenith and Union Banksy.

It was further revealed that the ex-minister’s younger brother, Abubakar Sirika, has been arrested and detained by the commission in connection with N3,212,258,930.18 paid to his company, Engirios Nigerian Limited’s, bank account by the former minister.

It was noted that there is no trace of work done on any of the contract items to date.

The source said Abubakar Sirika, who was arrested on Sunday, February 4, has since been assisting the commission in its probe of the Aviation Ministry’s financial expenditures during Mr Sirika’s tenure.

The EFCC investigator said, “We’re investigating an N8,069,176,864.00 money laundering case linked to former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika.

“Hadi awarded contracts to his brother Abubakar, knowing that the latter is a civil servant, a deputy director on Level 16 in the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, where he has been working since 2000 till date.

“The first of the contracts from the former minister to Engirios Nigeria Limited was on August 18, 2022, for the construction of the Terminal Building in Katsina Airport, at a cost of N1,345,586,500.00. The second was awarded on November 3, 2022, for the establishment of the Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Center in Katsina Airport, valued at N3, 811,497,685.00.

“The third contract was on February 3, 2023, for the procurement and installation of lifts, air conditioners, and a power generator’s house in Aviation House, Abuja, at the cost of N615,195,275.000, while the fourth was awarded on May 5, 2023, for the procurement of Magnus aircraft and a simulator for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria, at the cost of N2, 296,897,404.00.

“Out of the total contract sum, the ex-minister paid out N3,212,258,930.18 to his younger brother’s Engirios Nigerian Limited, who, upon receipt of the payment, transferred it to different companies and individuals. There is no trace of work done on any of the contract items to date.

“Abubakar Sirika is currently in our custody at the Headquarters, and he is providing us with more useful information on the financial activities of the Aviation Ministry under the supervision of his older brother, Hadi Sirika.”

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Olota, Oba Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, visits rainstorm-affected areas in Sango-Otta

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In the wake of a destructive rainstorm that struck Otta and its environs on Sunday, April 21, 2024, His Majesty, Kabiyesi Olota, Oba Professor Adeyemi Abdukabir Obalanlege, has demonstrated exemplary leadership by conducting an on-the-spot assessment of the affected areas.

 

Residents of Sango Otta awoke to a scene of chaos and distress as fallen power poles littered the roads, creating hazardous conditions for motorists and pedestrians alike.

 

Recognizing the urgent need for assistance, the Olota wasted no time in mobilizing efforts to provide support and relief to the affected communities.

 

In a statement released by Afin Olota Ile Awori and signed by the Olota’s personal assistant, Prince Adeyemi Sulaimon Olusesi, His Majesty expressed deep concern over the plight of those whose properties and livelihoods were impacted by the storm.

 

Describing the situation as “worrisome and sad,” particularly in light of the prevailing economic challenges facing the nation, the Olota extended his heartfelt sympathies to all affected individuals and families.

 

Furthermore, the Olota urged the government to take immediate action to address the aftermath of the storm and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

 

Emphasizing the importance of swift intervention, His Majesty called upon relevant authorities to prioritize the restoration of essential services and infrastructure in the affected areas.

 

Acknowledging the efforts of security agencies, notably the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), and other stakeholders who promptly responded to the crisis, the Olota expressed gratitude for their commitment to assisting the affected communities.

 

The referred monarch also offered prayers for divine intervention, invoking the mercy of Eledumare for those directly and indirectly impacted by the disaster.

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Build a fabulous, all-year round wardrobe without breaking the bank – By Kunle Bakare (KB)

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Let’s begin with Brioni today. And learn from the hugely successful Italian brand established in 1945 by two friends. The fashion house coveted by style cognoscenti has one of the most apt slogans we know: ‘to be one of a kind’.

 

‘To be one of a kind,’ unique and uncommon are the attributes of all human beings (when we deploy the traits that differentiate us, like our fingerprints prove).

 

And for style, those who constantly upgrade and elevate their duds and accessories acknowledge the importance of creating an exceptional, distinctive (but not flamboyant and loud) dress sense.

 

They fill their wardrobes with extraordinary winners that give them immeasurable pleasure. Their garments and all the pieces that elevate them heavenwards are objects of desire that amplify the best version of themselves.

 

So, to build a wardrobe that fits your personae, presents your best version, credits your account with regular dividends and high returns on investment is a meticulous and painstaking process. Forever appearing well-put-together—at work and at play, at home or out and about—demands a lot of smart thinking and action. Like the elongated shadow behind the luxury label Sofisticat, Mr Lanre Ogunlesi—whose role as a forerunner who cleared, toiled and paved the path legions are proud to prance on—constantly proclaims, ‘dressing well requires a lot of preparations.’

 

And here are some of the ways you can build a remarkable wardrobe without spending a fortune:

 

1. First, acknowledge and note the activities that are important to you.

a. How and where do you spend your week?

b. What’s the dress code at work?

c. How do your most successful partners, associates and colleagues dress?

d. How do you spend your evenings and weekends?

e. Which other activities dominate your calendar?

 

2. Priotise these activities.

Which engagements are crucial, that are important and improve your earnings (in the long run), dispense the greatest pleasure, boost your well-being and promote your mental health?

 

3. Analyse the one that takes up the most time.

Which engagement takes up the highest percentage of your time?

 

4. Now list the apparels that should populate the most engaging activities that improve your earnings and multiply your pleasure.

 

To build a special wardrobe demands enormous time, energy and resources. And the passion and will that surpass distraction and disappointment.

 

What you do—your profession and how you dress to earn your living—is paramount when you are building a wondrous wardrobe. The uniform of your occupation, the dress code permitted for your livelihood takes the prime spot. Since this engagement dominates your week (from five to six days), your wardrobe should be mostly filled with work clothes that should last for two weeks, at least—far more if your means permits—without repetition. If you master how to mix and match and coordinate, it’s possible to stretch the same items for many more days.

 

Also consider engagements that litter your evenings and weekends. The events you attend and places you worship, socialize and unwind. For these activities, start with a dozen ensembles, which you build gradually, and then expand later.

For these solemn moments, lively soirées and exciting shindigs you will require top notch attires that best represent who you are. More so, your worship ensembles—whatever faith you profess or conviction you cherish—should be the best you can afford in formal mode tilting to high elegance in consonance with what your leaders recommend.

 

For very special occasions, it might be best to make (get) new attires.

 

Before you begin assembling these togs, you should also:

 

*Decide where you want to perch on the style ladder: of course, towards the top of the Richter scale of elegance!

 

*Decide the style that warms your bosom, agrees with your persona and fits your pocket: from minimalist to the exuberantly joyful (without the gaudy factor)!

 

*Carefully pick tailors, designers and outlets that serve your style best. Take time to research and locate them in your town or farther afield.

 

Once you are clear about where you are going, do an audit of your current wardrobe and retain only items that fit your plans and aspirations. Discard everything else!

 

Choose clothes and accessories that work together (as interchangeable separates), complimentary colours and styles—and acquire heartwarming and exciting pieces for the wardrobe that will serve you for years.

 

Your wardrobe—to serve your objectives and take you far—should represent the slow fashion ethos. Classic, durable, ethically produced and sustainable fabrics in modes devoid of trends and what’s in vogue. And Brunello Cucinelli—the 70 year-old flag bearer of quiet luxury whose restoration efforts in Solomeo (Italy) is a ‘tribute to human dignity’—readily comes to mind.

 

Note: it takes time to build anything worthwhile (even if money was no object). Test what works unhurriedly, step by step and settle for what fits your future self. Upgrade as your knowledge increases and your pocket swells.

 

What’s more, you should take good care of your apparels. They will serve you better and longer. For example, don’t iron wool and delicate fabrics directly. Buy the most functional steam iron you can afford. You should also own a garment steamer. Don’t wear shoes two days in a row. Rotate! Stock shoe care products and use them.

 

Get a good, dependable and experienced dry cleaner and laundryman. Your clothes will thank you and serve you for years.

 

And don’t forget: dry clean your garments occasionally. The chemicals used in dry cleaning damage clothes. Instead, rotate, air, iron, steam, buff and polish your clothes and shoes— and keep them in breathable bags in cool spots.

 

You may also consider stylists or wardrobe consultants (they will save you time, energy and money eventually).

 

-Kunle Bakare for Omoluwabi by KB (19.04.2024)

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