Nigeria News (Standard)
Abuja Court to Rule on Admissibility of Emefiele’s Statements in Alleged $4.5bn Fraud Case
Judge to determine if ex-CBN governor’s written confessions while in EFCC custody can be used as evidence
Judge to determine if ex-CBN governor’s written confessions while in EFCC custody can be used as evidence
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has announced it will soon decide whether statements made by former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, during his detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), are admissible in the ongoing trial over alleged $4.5 billion fraud. The court session took place on Friday, June 26.
The case centres around allegations that Emefiele, while serving as CBN Governor, was involved in transactions totalling $4.5 billion that authorities describe as fraudulent. At the latest hearing, prosecution and defence lawyers argued over the legal status of statements Emefiele wrote while being held by the EFCC. The court reserved ruling on whether these statements could be accepted as evidence in the trial.
The issue of admissibility is considered significant, given its potential impact on the prosecution’s case and Emefiele’s defence. Legal observers note that cases involving high-profile financial crimes have often hinged on such procedural matters in Nigerian courts, affecting both outcomes and public perception.
The EFCC maintains that due process was followed in obtaining Emefiele’s statements, insisting they were made voluntarily during lawful custody. Defence counsel countered that the former CBN governor was under duress at the time, arguing that any statement given under such conditions should not be admitted as evidence. The judge adjourned to deliver a ruling on the matter at a later date.
The outcome is expected to shape subsequent proceedings in one of Nigeria’s most closely watched corruption cases involving a top financial sector official. The next court date will see parties return for either continuation of trial or further argument depending on the judge’s decision regarding admissibility.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Armen Pogossian’s Jardins d’Arménie Named Crystal Partner for 2026 Monte-Carlo TV Festival
Premium Armenian brandy expands Monaco presence as Pogossian Luxury Brand House secures major sponsorship deal
Premium Armenian brandy expands Monaco presence as Pogossian Luxury Brand House secures major sponsorship deal
Jardins d’Arménie – Royal Brandy, owned by entrepreneur Armen Pogossian, has been announced as a Crystal Partner for the 2026 Monte-Carlo Television Festival, marking a significant move in the brand’s strategic expansion across Monaco. The development was confirmed by Pogossian Luxury Brand House in a statement on Tuesday.
The partnership will see Jardins d’Arménie, produced in Armenia from Voskehat grapes and known for its distinctive 35-year multi-stage ageing process, take on a prominent role at the prestigious television festival scheduled to hold in Monte-Carlo in 2026. The arrangement is set to enhance the visibility of both the brand and Armenian craftsmanship within the international entertainment and luxury sectors.
Industry stakeholders have described the deal as a boost for luxury branding and cultural exchange between Armenia and Monaco, with potential to attract more attention to artisanal products from emerging markets. For Nigerian investors and lifestyle enthusiasts tracking global luxury trends, this partnership underscores ongoing efforts by international brands to tap into elite events as platforms for market penetration.
While Pogossian Luxury Brand House did not disclose financial details of the agreement or specific activation plans, company representatives emphasised that becoming a Crystal Partner aligns with their vision of placing Jardins d’Arménie among leading names at global events. As at press time, officials of the Monte-Carlo Television Festival had yet to issue an independent statement on the partnership.
The festival, recognised globally for celebrating excellence in television production, is expected to feature high-profile collaborations during its 2026 edition. Industry observers anticipate that other premium brands may seek similar partnerships as competition intensifies within both entertainment and luxury goods sectors.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nigerian Security Operatives Arrest Seven Suspected Terrorists Returning From Hajj in Abuja
Authorities say the suspects, intercepted at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, are linked to major violent attacks across North-East
Authorities say the suspects, intercepted at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, are linked to major violent attacks across North-East
Security agencies in Abuja on Friday arrested seven individuals identified as notorious terrorist suspects upon their arrival from the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The arrests took place at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, according to an official government statement released on 26 June.
Officials said the suspects, whose identities were not immediately disclosed, are believed to have participated in several high-profile attacks and abductions across the North-East geopolitical zone. Security operatives acted on intelligence that the men were returning from Mecca and coordinated their apprehension as soon as they landed in Nigeria’s capital city.
The development underscores continued efforts by Nigerian authorities to disrupt terrorist networks operating within and outside the country. Over recent years, security forces have intensified surveillance of suspected extremists travelling abroad, especially during mass religious gatherings such as Hajj and Umrah. This latest operation is part of ongoing measures to prevent regrouping of criminal elements targeting communities in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states.
A senior security official, who confirmed the arrests on Friday, described the operation as a ‘major breakthrough’ in ongoing counter-terrorism operations. The official said investigations are underway and assured that due process would be followed: “These individuals have long been on our watchlist for their alleged roles in orchestrating attacks. They will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted if found culpable.”
As at press time, details regarding any additional suspects or planned follow-up operations had not been made public. Security analysts say increased monitoring of international travel routes has become crucial as armed groups seek to exploit pilgrimage seasons for covert movement. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NDC Lawmakers in Abuja Reject Court Ruling Cancelling Party Registration, Allege Suppression of Opposition
Opposition members claim recent judgement threatens multiparty democracy, call for urgent intervention by electoral authorities
Opposition members claim recent judgement threatens multiparty democracy, call for urgent intervention by electoral authorities
Lawmakers representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Abuja on Friday condemned a recent court decision voiding the party’s registration, alleging it is part of a wider scheme to weaken opposition voices ahead of the next general elections. The development has sparked heated debate at the National Assembly as stakeholders question the implications for Nigeria’s political landscape.
The court ruling, delivered earlier this week in Abuja Federal High Court, declared the NDC’s registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) null and void. NDC lawmakers argued that the judgement is a direct attack on Nigeria’s multiparty system and could undermine fair competition in upcoming polls. They further alleged that powerful interests were working behind the scenes to prevent viable opposition parties from participating effectively.
The controversy comes as Nigeria prepares for key off-cycle governorship and legislative elections in several states, with political observers warning that any move perceived as targeting opposition groups could erode public trust in democratic institutions. The NDC, though not one of Nigeria’s largest parties, has fielded candidates in multiple constituencies and is seen by supporters as an important alternative voice.
In their reaction, NDC lawmakers called on INEC and relevant authorities to respect the rule of law and uphold party rights under Nigeria’s constitution. “This judgement is a dangerous precedent that threatens to silence dissenting voices,” one NDC representative said during a session at the House of Representatives. The lawmakers urged civil society organisations and international partners to closely monitor developments related to party deregistration.
It remains unclear whether the NDC will appeal the ruling or seek other legal remedies. Analysts say how authorities handle this case could set an important benchmark for future disputes over party registration and opposition rights in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.
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