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Nigerian Pastor Slams N500Million Suit On Church Member Who Demanded Return Of His Lexus SUV After Alleged Failed Prophecy

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Dr. David Emmanuel Ovie, the Head Pastor and General Overseer of the God in Action Liberation Mission has slammed a five hundred million naira (N500 million) suit on one of his church members who demanded the return of his SUV from the church after an alleged failed prophecy.

We gathered the church member identified as Temitope Monday Diamond gave his Lexus RX330 to the church after a prophecy.

 

Temitope told SaharaReporters that the pastor of the church at Okuokoko in the Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State asked him to sacrifice his most precious property so that things could work well for him financially.

 

He said, “This pastor told me to sacrifice my most precious property so that things will be working well for me financially which I did by sacrificing my vehicle, Lexus RX330.

 

“After four months and things had not picked up as he said, my wife called him to know what was happening but he got angry and told me that my wife was rude and that he wanted to refund the money he got when he sold the vehicle – which is N4 million.

 

“We have been waiting for him to send the money since around December and January but he had refused to do so. We called and texted him but no response, we had to go to the church with a few friends and two soldiers who were not armed, just to accompany us (for security purposes).

 

“He called the youths of the community to beat us up before handing us over to Ebrumede police station. When we got there, we were detained. We later got bailed with N200,000 before the Divisional Police Officer could hear from us. The DPO called us to his office and we narrated everything to him as the pastor lied to him that we were kidnappers.

 

“The DPO judged the case in our favour and demanded that the car be refunded or he should pay the N4 million he made from selling the car. He agreed that he would be paying one million naira every week in February so that by month’s end, he would finish paying the money.

 

“By the second week of March, he still hadn’t paid a penny. Then the IPO in charge of the case called to tell us that the lawyer was pleading on his behalf and that he would be paying one million naira every month end. Then I got angry and said if he (the pastor) wanted to stress me over the money, he should return my car for breaching the agreement we had at the DPO’s office.

 

“We later heard that he filed a suit against us at Orerokpe High Court. The court was to sit on Monday, April 15 but was adjourned to May 10.

 

“The lawsuit says he is suing us for N500 million for coming to his church with an army and that the car cannot be returned because it had been sold. And that we are using police from Asaba to threaten him and his members, which is false.”

 

However, in a court document obtained by SaharaReporters on Tuesday signed by one Ogedengbe, the Applicant (General Overseer) alleged that he was arrested and detained on January 21, which Temitope said was the same day he and his friends stormed the church to ask for the N4 million he had promised to send.

 

The respondents in the document are Temitope Monday Diamond as the 1st respondent; Divisional Police Officer, Ebrumede Police Station, Delta State as 2nd respondent and the Commissioner of Police in Delta State as 3rd respondent.

 

The relief sought by the applicant reads in part, “A declaration that the arrest and detention of the applicant on the 21st day of January, 2024 by officers of the 3rd Respondent attached to the office of the 2nd respondent at the behest of the 1st Respondent is a gross violation of the applicant right to personal liberty guaranteed under section 35 (1) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

 

“A declaration that the threatened arrest of the applicant by officers of the 3rd respondent at the instance of the 1st respondent over demand for the return of a car donation made to the God in Action Liberation Mission is a threatened violation of the applicant’s right to personal liberty guaranteed by section 33(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

 

“The sum of five hundred million naira (N500, 000,000.00 only as damages.”

 

When contacted by SaharaReporters to hear his version of the story, the cleric said, “What I can tell you is that the matter is in court. I charged the matter to court because they came into the church with thugs and started fighting me and trying to harm me.

 

“It was during a live service in the middle of a wedding; that was when my members started fighting them.

 

“They came with weapons; knife and battle axe. One of them came with a gun as I was told. We handed them over to the community chairman while he took them to the police station.”

 

When asked whether he was arrested and detained by the police on January 21 as claimed in the court document, he said, “My lawyer asked me not to answer any further questions.”

 

“I don’t know what the constitution says, I only know the bible,” he added.

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Nifemi Temiloluwa Eitaio-Alao: Innovating in Furniture, Politics, and Community Service

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In a competitive market like Lagos, setting a furniture brand apart requires a unique approach. For Nifemi Temiloluwa Eitaio-Alao, this means prioritizing sustainable materials, innovative designs, and exceptional customer service. By engaging with local culture and incorporating traditional craftsmanship, he aims to create furniture that not only stands out but also resonates with the Nigerian identity.

 

Keeping up with industry trends is crucial in the furniture business, and Nifemi is closely monitoring key shifts such as the growing demand for sustainable materials, multifunctional furniture suited for urban living, and locally crafted designs that reflect cultural heritage. To adapt, he is focusing on sourcing eco-friendly materials, designing versatile pieces, and collaborating with local artisans to create unique offerings that blend modern aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship.

 

As a seasoned entrepreneur, Nifemi envisions a diverse product portfolio that caters to both residential and commercial spaces. His goal is to attract customers who value quality, sustainability, and distinctive design—young professionals, families, and businesses seeking furniture that combines elegance with functionality.

 

The rise of emerging technologies, including 3D printing, augmented reality (AR), and smart furniture, is reshaping the furniture industry. Recognizing the potential of these innovations, Nifemi is exploring partnerships with tech firms, investing in team training, and staying ahead of industry advancements to integrate these technologies effectively into his business.

 

Customer satisfaction is at the heart of his brand’s philosophy. He prioritizes clear communication, personalized service, timely delivery, and strong post-purchase support. By actively listening to customer feedback and responding to their needs, he fosters trust and loyalty among his clientele. To gather valuable insights, he leverages surveys, direct interactions, and social media engagement, ensuring that his products continue to evolve based on customer preferences and market demands.

 

Finding the right balance between aesthetics, functionality, and durability is key to creating high-quality furniture. Nifemi achieves this by selecting premium materials and employing innovative design techniques that ensure both beauty and longevity. Additionally, he manages customer expectations regarding delivery times and custom orders through transparent communication, setting realistic timelines, and keeping clients informed throughout the process.

 

Beyond his business pursuits, Nifemi remains deeply invested in his political aspirations. Having publicly expressed his ambition two years ago, he sees public service as a natural extension of his entrepreneurial success. With strong roots in Kwara State, he feels a growing responsibility to give back to his community. As the 2027 elections approach, he and his team are diligently laying the groundwork for his political journey. While he has yet to officially announce the office he intends to run for, he remains optimistic and eager to share more details in the near future.

 

As his birthday marks another milestone today February 14, 2025—a day that coincides with Valentine’s Day—Nifemi looks forward to celebrating with gratitude and giving back to those in need. He cherishes this annual tradition as an opportunity to reflect, offer prayers, and share his blessings. Surrounded by supportive friends, he anticipates a joyful celebration filled with love and appreciation.

 

Looking ahead to 2025, Nifemi is determined to push the boundaries of excellence in his entrepreneurial ventures, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and community impact. He remains committed to transparency, ethical leadership, and advocating for policies that support small businesses and economic growth. For him, success is not just about personal achievement but about creating opportunities for others to thrive. With big plans on the horizon, he is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that the future holds.

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Just In: Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo is dead…

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Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a prominent leader of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, is dead.
We gathered that the nonagenarian passed away on the morning of Friday, February 14, 2025, at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State.
He was aged 96.
The family confirmed his passing in a statement on Friday signed by Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo Adebanjo.
He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos Nigeria home at the age of 96,” the statement read.
Adebanjo, a distinguished lawyer, former organising secretary of the Action Group, and the national leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, along with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
“We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, and justice. His belief and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was total, and this he fought for until he breathed his last breath,” the statement added.
The family also disclosed that consultations are ongoing with Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various interest groups across Nigeria and beyond to finalise plans for a befitting funeral. Details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
A condolence register has been opened at his residence at 8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, as well as his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State

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Oba Otudeko, Bisi Onasanya’s lawyers reject EFCC case. …… argue for dismissal, ruling due March 17

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On Thursday 13th February, court proceedings in the case of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) vs former FBN Holdings (also known as First HoldCo Plc) Chairman Dr Oba Otudeko, former First Bank Managing Director Bisi Onasanya, and others was adjourned to 17th March 2025.

At the hearing, the defendants’ counsel challenged the court’s jurisdiction to hear the matter. Dr Otudeko’s legal team, led by Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, argued that the subject matter of the charge arose from a standard banker-customer relationship which had been completely resolved over 8 years ago, with the EFCC itself involved in the entire resolution process. Further buttressing the point, the third defence counsel, Kehinde Ogunwumiju, SAN, asserted that a civil banker-customer relationship should not be reclassified as a criminal matter.

In response, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, representing the EFCC contended that the defendants’ arraignment should be addressed before any other applications.

Rebutting this argument, Olanipekun emphasised the need for judicial restraint, cautioning against “pulling cases by the strand of hair.” He referenced legal precedents established after the enactment of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), which held that a preliminary objection must be considered before a plea is taken.

The defence counsels asked the court to disregard the prosecution’s request and decide on their preliminary requests based on the multiple precedents where the courts have done so. It is important to note that despite having ample time, the prosecutor had not filed a response to the preliminary objections prior to the hearing.

Curiously, Babajide Koku, SAN, counsel for FBN Holdings was also present in court and announced that his client, FBN Holdings is the complainant in the charge. Meanwhile, Mr Ade Adedeji, SAN, representing Anchorage Leisures Limited, noted that it appeared the case was malicious, driven by improper motive and arose from boardroom politics.

Justice Aneke adjourned the case to 17th March 2025 for a ruling on the applications.

The case has drawn considerable attention, reflecting ongoing debate about the EFCC’s prosecutorial boundaries. As the case unfolds, all eyes will remain on the court’s next steps and the broader implications for corporate governance in the country.

 

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