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Court of Appeal clears ex-NIMASA DG, Akpobolokemi of N754.8m fraud case

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The Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, has discharged and acquitted former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Patrick Akpobolokemi, of alleged fraud involving N754.8 million.

In a unanimous judgment delivered on Friday, the appellate court upheld Akpobolokemi’s appeal and overturned the ruling of the Ikeja High Court, which had earlier dismissed his no-case submission.

The court quashed the 12-count charge filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

The EFCC had initially accused Akpobolokemi of conspiracy, stealing, and forgery in connection with purported illegal transfers from the account of the VIMSAS Committee.

While he was initially arraigned alongside several others, the charges were later amended to focus solely on him and one co-defendant.

Justice Raliatu Adebiyi of the trial court had previously held that the EFCC had established a prima facie case against the defendants and directed them to open their defence.

Akpobolokemi, through his counsel, Ogbonna and Kunle Gbolahan, challenged the ruling, arguing that the prosecution had failed to establish any direct link between him and the alleged offences.

The appeal pointed to the reliance on inadmissible evidence and uncorroborated testimonies of prosecution witnesses, including PW9, PW10, and PW11, as well as Exhibits P59 to P61.

The appellate court found merit in the appeal, holding that Akpobolokemi was neither a member of the VIMSAS Committee nor a signatory to any of its accounts.

It also held that he did not authorize or sign any withdrawal instructions or internal memoranda related to the transactions in question.

The court emphasized that trial courts are bound to act only on legally admissible evidence and noted that the evidence relied upon in this case should have been excluded, regardless of whether objections were raised during trial.

By striking out the charges and entering an acquittal, the Court of Appeal brought the protracted legal proceedings against Akpobolokemi to a close.

During the trial, Akpobolokemi’s defence consistently argued that the EFCC had not substantiated its case, while the prosecution, led by Rotimi Oyedepo, maintained that the testimonies of 12 witnesses supported the charges.

EVENTS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY LOVE- GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA CELEBRATES HIS WIFE ON HER BIRTHDAY WITH HEARTFELT MESSAGE .

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By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
15- DEC- 2025

Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, has paid a deeply emotional and reflective birthday tribute to his wife, expressing profound gratitude, love, and appreciation for her unwavering companionship and strength throughout their shared journey in life.

In the message released to mark her birthday, the Governor described his wife as a steadfast partner whose presence has brought him joy, balance, and reassurance. He conveyed how privileged he feels to walk the path of life with her by his side, portraying her as dependable, faithful, and strong in moments of certainty and uncertainty alike.

Drawing from literary wisdom, Governor Uzodimma likened his wife to a guiding light in turbulent times, noting that her love has been a source of direction and comfort. He referenced the words of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe to illustrate a love that nurtures rather than controls, explaining that through their union, he has come to understand how genuine love cultivates patience, courage, and enduring hope.

The Governor further reflected on their shared accomplishments, emphasizing that their relationship has gone beyond planning and aspirations to the building of a purposeful and meaningful life together. He described each achievement as a joint success and every milestone as evidence of unity, shared resolve, and mutual commitment. In alignment with Aristotle’s philosophy of love as a single soul dwelling in two bodies, he affirmed that their past experiences and future aspirations remain inseparably connected, with greater accomplishments still ahead.

Offering prayers for his wife, Governor Uzodimma called on God to continually guide her steps, bless all her endeavors, and grant her long life, sound health, and abiding peace. He reassured her of the deep and enduring love she shares with him and their children, a bond he described as far beyond what words can fully capture.

The Governor concluded the tribute by warmly wishing his wife a joyful birthday, celebrating her not only as a life partner but as a pillar of strength, love, and inspiration within their family.

 

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Otti Throughs a Lavish Banquet to Celebrate music Icon, Zigima King, Bright Chimezie

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It was a night of deserving honour to the Zigima that has shone for decades. 

A night of entertainment, joy, excitement and laughter. 

Thank you Governor Alex Otti for your intentional dedication to creating a new atmosphere of unity, peace and security, backed by visible transformation in all facets of governance. 

Thank you for ensuring that Abia didn’t just rise from the ashes, but that it commenced a progressive journey to greatness in all spheres. 

Thank you for choosing to inspire the younger generation by celebrating excellence and great accomplishments.

Happy birthday Bright Chimezie (Zigima)

Ferdinand Ekeoma 

December 14, 2025.

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Wike at 58: “You’re a Shinning Star in my Cabinet, Tinubu hails Wike.

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President Bola Tinubu congratulates Chief Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), on his birthday, December 13.

President Tinubu celebrates with the Minister and former governor of Rivers State, giving thanks to God Almighty for enriching him with a life defined by purpose, service, and courage.

The President describes Chief Wike as an audacious top performer who defies obstacles and delivers results.

President Tinubu acknowledges the ongoing transformation of the Federal Capital Territory through infrastructure expansion, highlighting the Minister’s recent intervention that broke the 14-year logjam in the construction of the Apo-Karshi road.

The President commends Chief Wike for his resilience, can-do attitude, and commitment to excellence in all assignments.

President Tinubu thanks the Minister for his consistent efforts in delivering results and wishes him a happy birthday and strength to further his good work in the FCT.

“Nyesom Wike has been one of the shining stars in the cabinet, an exceptional performer, developing infrastructure in the Federal capital as never seen before and proving that his moniker as ‘Mr Project’ is not limited to his home state of Rivers.

“I commend him for being one of the champions of our Renewed Hope Agenda, even though he belongs to another party and wish him well as he marks another year in his life journey”.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information and Strategy)
December 13, 2025

 

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