Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos EFCC Witness Testifies Accused Boasted No Agency Could Arrest Him in Alleged $41,000 Romance Scam
Court hears details of suspect’s claims as EFCC pursues prosecution over alleged international online fraud involving foreign victim
Court hears details of suspect’s claims as EFCC pursues prosecution over alleged international online fraud involving foreign victim
A witness for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) told a Lagos court on Saturday that the accused person in an alleged $41,000 romance scam had boasted no agency could arrest or prosecute him. The testimony was delivered during a session at the Federal High Court, Lagos, as part of ongoing efforts by the EFCC to tackle cybercrime and related offences within the state.
According to court proceedings, the EFCC’s witness described how the accused, whose name was not disclosed in open session, allegedly defrauded a foreign national through an elaborate romance scam valued at $41,000 (over ₦61 million at current exchange rates). The witness recounted that during investigations, the suspect claimed he was untouchable by Nigerian law enforcement agencies.
The case highlights growing concerns among stakeholders about the proliferation of online scams targeting individuals abroad, with Nigeria’s anti-graft agency intensifying efforts to secure convictions and recover illicit proceeds. The EFCC has repeatedly warned Nigerians about engaging in internet fraud schemes and urged citizens to report suspicious activities.
During cross-examination, the defence challenged aspects of the evidence presented. The presiding judge adjourned further hearing to a later date for continuation of trial. The EFCC maintains that it will pursue all legal avenues to ensure justice is served in cases of cybercrime.
If convicted, the accused faces significant jail time under Nigeria’s anti-fraud laws. The case underscores ongoing government efforts to restore Nigeria’s image internationally and deter would-be offenders from engaging in cyber-enabled crimes.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti ADC Governorship Candidate Raises Alarm Over Vote-Buying Ahead of 2026 Polls
Candidate warns electoral officials to enforce rules, says widespread inducement threatens credibility of South-West state’s elections
Candidate warns electoral officials to enforce rules, says widespread inducement threatens credibility of South-West state’s elections
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Ekiti State has expressed serious concerns about alleged vote-buying activities as the state prepares for its 2026 governorship election. The candidate, who spoke in Ado-Ekiti on Saturday, said the growing trend of financial inducement at polling units could undermine the integrity of the entire electoral process.
According to the ADC flagbearer, reports from party agents and supporters across various local government areas suggest that some political actors are already mobilising funds and materials with the aim of influencing voters. He urged both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to take swift action in order to protect the credibility of Ekiti’s democratic process.
Vote-buying has been a recurring issue in Ekiti and other South-West states during previous elections, raising questions about the effectiveness of existing laws and enforcement measures. Analysts say that if left unchecked, such practices could erode public trust in government and discourage credible candidates from participating in future polls.
The ADC candidate called on INEC officials to strictly enforce anti-vote-buying regulations at polling centres and for security personnel to arrest any individual found engaging in electoral malpractice. He also appealed to voters not to allow themselves be swayed by financial offers but to vote according to their conscience.
With campaigns set to intensify in the coming months, stakeholders are watching closely to see how authorities will respond to these allegations and whether measures will be put in place to ensure a free and fair election come 2026.
raised concerns
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti Governor Oyebanji Urges Calm Over Voting Glitches in Governorship Poll
Oyebanji appeals for patience as reports of technical issues emerge during Ekiti State governorship election
Oyebanji appeals for patience as reports of technical issues emerge during Ekiti State governorship election
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has called on residents to remain patient and law-abiding following reports of technical glitches during Saturday’s governorship election across the state. The governor addressed the situation after voters in several polling units raised concerns over delays attributed to malfunctioning accreditation devices.
According to information gathered from various polling centres in Ado-Ekiti and other local government areas, some voters experienced slow processing as electoral officials struggled with equipment failures. Election officers were seen making efforts to resolve the issues, with many urging voters not to leave their stations until accredited.
The smooth conduct of the Ekiti governorship election is seen as crucial by stakeholders, given its importance as a bellwether for South-West politics and coming just months before other major elections nationwide. Technical hitches with accreditation devices have previously caused tension in Nigerian polls, often leading to voter frustration and concerns about disenfranchisement.
Governor Oyebanji appealed for calm, assuring residents that officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were working to address all complaints promptly. “I urge our people to exercise patience and allow INEC officials do their work so every eligible voter can participate,” he said in a statement issued at the Government House in Ado-Ekiti.
While some political parties expressed worry over the delays, others commended the efforts of INEC staff on ground. As at press time, voting was ongoing in most affected units, with INEC yet to issue a comprehensive statement on the scale or resolution of the glitches. Security agencies were also monitoring developments to maintain order across polling centres.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti Police Vow to Sanction Vote-Buying Offenders, Launch Electoral Emergency Hotline
State command issues stern warning as reports of vote inducement emerge ahead of 2026 governorship poll
State command issues stern warning as reports of vote inducement emerge ahead of 2026 governorship poll
The Ekiti State Police Command has announced it will take firm action against anyone found engaging in vote-buying or other electoral offences during the 2026 governorship election. The announcement came on Saturday, 20 June, as concerns grew over reports of inducements and irregularities in parts of the state.
According to the police, a dedicated emergency line has been provided for residents to report any electoral malpractice or violence as voting progresses. This move is aimed at boosting public confidence and ensuring a peaceful exercise across all local government areas. Security personnel have been deployed to identified flashpoints to maintain order and prevent disruption.
Vote-buying has remained a significant challenge in Nigeria’s elections, with stakeholders repeatedly warning that the practice undermines democracy and disenfranchises ordinary voters. The police initiative comes amid mounting pressure from civil society groups and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for security agencies to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
The Ekiti State Police Command reiterated its commitment to neutrality and professionalism throughout the election period. “Anyone caught violating the law will face immediate prosecution,” an official statement from the command read. Residents were encouraged to make use of the emergency hotline if they witness any irregularities. As at press time, opposition parties had not issued an official response regarding the police measures.
The deployment of the emergency contact and increased patrols signal heightened vigilance by security agencies in Ekiti ahead of the highly anticipated poll. Analysts say success in curbing vote-buying could set a precedent for future elections in South-West Nigeria.
Ekiti ADC Governorship Candidate Raises Alarm Over Vote-Buying Ahead of 2026 Polls
Ekiti Governor Oyebanji Urges Calm Over Voting Glitches in Governorship Poll
Ekiti Police Vow to Sanction Vote-Buying Offenders, Launch Electoral Emergency Hotline
Ekiti Accord Party Candidate Alleges Vote-Buying, Accuses Security Agents of Bias in Governorship Poll
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Ekiti Party Agents Use Numbered Slips for Vote Buying Amid Tight Cash Scrutiny
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