Firm Writes Tinubu Over Alleged Illegal Arms Stockpiling By Tantita Security Company

 

Warri based Legal firm, Robinson Ariyo & Co has raised an alarm over allegation of stockpiling of small, medium and heavy Firearms against Tantita Security Limited, (TSSL), a private company owned by Ex-Niger Delta Militant, Government Ekpemupolo popularly known as ‘Tompolo’.

The firm while calling on President Bola Tinubu to investigate the activities of the Tompolo's said the recent finding clearly shows that Tantita is an arm stockpiling company which is against its mandate. 

 

The legal firm in a letter of protest addressed to President Bola Tinubu and copied the President of the Senator, Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas and the Delta state Governor, Rt. Sheriff Oborevwori said the activities of Tompolo and Tantita poses great threat to National, West African and Regional Peace.

 

The protest letter signed by Chief Robison Ariyo among others called on President Tinubu set up a panel of enquiry to investigate the activities of Tantita Security Service Limited, (TSSL).

 

Part of the protest reads, “ We act for Mrs Tsaye Mene, Edward Omagbemi, Prince Sammy Egbele Okoro , Dennis Mene, Arugha Weyinmi , Jonathan Okotie, James Ereku, Ojumude Bishop, and Lily -White Esigbone who are the accredited representatives of the members of Concerned Itsekiri Communities Organization and affiliate bodies in Warri North , Warri South-West and Warri South Local Government Area of Delta of Nigeria on whose instruction we hereby humbly register the extant petition.

 

“ That our client vehemently protest the cocktail of illegal and life threatening activities of Tantita Security Services Limited, an arm stocking, land grabbing and human violating firm disguised as registered security outfit.

 

“ The proliferation of small, medium and heavy arms in the hands of private actors in Warri Coastal Areas comprising of Warri , Warri South , Warri South West and Warri North local Government Area of elta state of Nigeria.

“The incident of usurpation, encroachment and illegal renaming of Itsekiri homeland by the Ijaw with the aid of persons violent persecution. We therefore hereby formally lodge the instant petition with Your Excellency with the hope that as usual , a proper investigation would be launched into same with the possibility of a swift prosecution of the said suspect in the circumstance

UBA Donates N500 Million to Lagos State Security Trust Fund, Pledges Support for State’s Effort at Improving Security

 United Bank for Africa(UBA) through UBA Foundation, its corporate social responsibility arm, has donated the sum of N500 million to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), as part of its continued commitment to secure environment for individuals and businesses

The N500m cheque was presented to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, by the UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, who was accompanied by the bank’s Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Muyiwa Akinyemi, at the State House, Marina, Lagos on Sunday.

 

Speaking during the presentation, Elumelu reiterated the bank’s dedication to supporting initiatives that ensure the safety and prosperity of communities across Nigeria adding that “At UBA, we understand that security is critical for economic growth and societal well-being. Our donation to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund is a reflection of the bank’s belief in building safer communities to enhance the quality of life for all. We are proud to partner with the Lagos State Government to achieve this shared vision of a secure environment conducive to investment and development.”

 

While receiving the N500m cheque, the Lagos State Governor expressed appreciation to the UBA Group and  UBA Foundation for the significant contribution and commended Mr. Tony Elumelu for its unwavering commitment to impactful projects, state’s progress and well-being.

 

He said, “we are grateful to the UBA Group for their significant contribution to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund. This donation will strengthen our efforts to enhance security and protect our citizens. Together we are building a safer Lagos for all”

 

This latest gesture aligns with UBA Foundation's Special Projects initiative, which focuses on addressing pressing societal issues through strategic partnerships and impactful interventions. Over the years, UBA Foundation has actively contributed to enhancing education, the environment, and economic empowerment and special projects such as these critical donations across Africa. The Foundation’s commitment to security as a driver of sustainable development is evident in its support for programs like the LSSTF.

 

Group Chairman, United Bank for Africa(UBA), emphasised the bank’s role as a leader in giving back to society. He explained that in pledging its support to the state’s efforts at improving security, UBA recognizes the vital link between safety and economic stability. 

 

He said, “This partnership with the Lagos State Government reinforces the Bank’s  belief in collaborative efforts as the key to addressing security challenges and creating environments where individuals and businesses can thrive. We believe that a secure Lagos State is integral to a secure Nigeria. UBA Foundation will continue to support transformative initiatives that uplift lives and drive development.”

 

UBA Foundation, the CSR arm of the UBA Group, is committed to the socio-economic betterment of the communities in which the bank operates, focusing on development in the areas of Education, the Environment, Economic Empowerment and other Special Projects.

 

 

l-r: Group Deputy Managing Director, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Muyiwa Akinyemi; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Group Chairman, UBA, Mr. Tony Elumelu, during the presentation of N500m to Lagos State Security Fund by UBA Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of UBA, held at Lagos House, Marina on Sunday.

Olori Atuwatse III to Host Prestigious Networking Dinner & Discussion Celebrating Leadership, Innovation, and Featuring a Tribute to Former Liberian Vice President Jewel Taylor

Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom, transformational speaker, lawyer, social entrepreneur, and founder of Elevate Africa, will host a highly anticipated Networking Dinner & Discussion at the iconic John Randle Centre, Onikan, Lagos. A Modern African Queen known for her visionary leadership and commitment to innovation and sustainable development, Olori Atuwatse III has created this platform to foster collaboration, leadership, and actionable strategies for Africa’s future.

The event, themed “Women Allying Women: Strengthening Bonds for a Brighter Future,” will pay a special tribute to Her Excellency Jewel Taylor, former Vice President of Liberia who will be in attendance. This celebration will honour her exceptional legacy of leadership, resilience, and advocacy for women’s rights and education. Hosted by award-winning journalist Stephanie Busari, the gathering promises to be an inspiring and impactful platform for dialogue and networking, uniting leaders from diverse sectors. The event is expected to attract women leaders from different industries, including business, technology, education, and the arts.

Why This Event is Unmissable

Olori Atuwatse III is celebrated as a trailblazer for her contributions to leadership, community transformation, and innovation. As the founder of Elevate Africa, she champions Africa’s development through technology, entrepreneurship, and strategic collaboration. By hosting this event, she underscores the importance of collective efforts in driving progress, not only for women but for Africa’s development as a whole.

The John Randle Centre, a recently renovated cultural landmark in Lagos, offers a fitting venue for this prestigious event. Combining Nigeria’s rich heritage with modern architecture, the Centre provides an inspiring backdrop for meaningful conversations and impactful connections.

Objectives of the Event

1. Honouring Jewel Taylor

Celebrate the inspiring legacy of Her Excellency Jewel Taylor, whose leadership and advocacy continue to uplift African communities.

2. Fostering Collaboration

Unite leaders across diverse sectors to facilitate dialogue and partnerships for sustainable solutions.

3. Driving Innovation and Leadership

Highlight opportunities to advance Africa’s growth through innovation, entrepreneurship, and transformative leadership practices.

A Message from Olori Atuwatse III

Leadership is about building bridges and creating opportunities for transformation. Through initiatives like Elevate Africa and events like this, we aim to inspire collective action and celebrate the visionaries who shape our continent’s future. Together, we can strengthen our bonds and drive sustainable progress,” said Olori Atuwatse III.

About Olori Atuwatse III

Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom, is a modern African queen and a transformative leader who blends her royal heritage with a contemporary vision. She is a qualified lawyer, a philanthropist, and a social entrepreneur dedicated to fostering community empowerment, education, and innovation. As the founder of Elevate Africa and The Royal Iwere Foundation, she drives initiatives that uplift underserved communities, empower young people, and promote sustainable development. Through her work, Olori Atuwatse III continues to inspire and lead change across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.

Mob attack Agboola's house in Lagos, sets building on fire

 Armed hoodlums brandishing all kind of weapons, invaded Billiaminu Agboola's residence in Lagos, setting it on fire in process.

The attackers, led  by a notorious street urchin in the area made it known that they are protesting the return of the owners of the house because information reached them that they would be returning to the house with their daughter who is allegedly involved in same sex activities abroad.

 In Nigeria, people involved in any form of sexual orientation apart from heterosexuals are treated with hatred by the society, including family members, taken to court where they can jailed for up to seven years.

  According to neighbours, the house is owned by one Mr. Billiaminu Agboola, a former banker. Before now, there has been a lingering family tussle over property left by the patriarch of the Agboola's family in Abeokuta, Ogun state. We gathered that the mob attack on his residence was because he failed to also heed the family rule that his daughter, Mariam based in Canada must do some traditional rites to sanctify herself because they considered her sexual orientation as abomination to the family tradition.

Agboola and his wife, who are obviously supporting the sexual orientation of their daughter are also been threatened by traditionalists. They know he  would not have a cover with the law enforcement agencies since the government did not support such gays,lesbians and bisexuals.

  

Preliminary findings shows that Agboola, his wife and daughter travelled abroad some years ago because of threats to their lives. Those in the know claimed that it took a more dangerous turn when a local militia group known as Oodua Peoples Congress was used by one of the warring factions to attack them at some point. 

  A witness in the neighbourhood described that it was shocking and devastating to residence of the area as they saw armed hoodlums shooting indiscriminately before setting the house on fire . 

Two security personnel was rushed to the hospital after they were brutalized by the armed men.

 Efforts to reach the owner has proved abortive. Another neighbour who simply gave his name as John said the family will definitely be in a state of despair at this point having lost their home, possessions, and a sense of security. 

Further investigations confirmed  that some family members are angry with Agboola after hearing that he is protective of his daughter,Mariam said to be bisexual, highly considered as abomination in their tradition and illegal in the country's constitution.

This incident  serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unresolved family disputes leading to wanton killings and arsonist attacks. Property inheritance issues can be highly emotionally charged and, if left unaddressed, can lead to tragic outcomes.

Herbert Wigwe’s Estate: Parents Allegedly File Caveat to Disinherit Children

  In less than one year of the demise of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, former Group Managing Director, Access Holdings, who died on February 9, 2024, in a helicopter crash in States of America, a bitter fight seemed to be brewing over the execution of his Will. 

With the campaign of calumny on the social media and falsehood propagated by hired hands, Herbert Wigwe’s parents’ heinous desire to disinherit the deceased’s children by thwarting the rightful execution of Herbert’s Estate by filling a caveat at the Probate Registry, is coming to the open.

The caveat was filed on the instruction of Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, late Herbert Wigwe’s father, and the affidavit was deposed to, by one Christian Chukwuka Wigwe, who claimed to be Herbert’s cousin, to prevent the rightful execution of Herbert Wigwe’s Will. 

The motivation for this action was that the deceased’s father requested that his son’s directives on the administration of his Estate should be altered. Pastor Shyngle Wigwe demanded that 20% of Herbert’s Estate should be taken from his children, and given to him, Herbert’s brothers and sisters.

Meanwhile, Herbert had drawn his Will, which provided that his wealth should be distributed amongst his children only, was lodged at the Ikeja Probate Court, before his unfortunate death early this year. 

Since Herbert’s death in February 2024, there have been exhibition of some ridiculous behaviours and attitudes by members of the Wigwe family when well-wishers, friends and associates, from across the globe are still mourning the demise of the top banker. 

Instead of the expected melancholy that should grip a family experiencing a genuine sense of loss, entitlement seemed to have taken over the entire Wigwe family. Herbert Wigwe’s parents would only travel on a private jet, claiming that they would fall ill, if they fly First class. 

Unfortunately, with Herbert’s demise, the dysfunctional of his family, which his accomplishments had shielded from the public glare, is beginning to manifest indecently. For instance, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe had locked up Emeka, one of Herbert’s brothers, at Panti Police Station for three months, for fighting one of Herbert’s sisters, who had cursed the deceased that “his plane would crash, and money would drop from the sky for people to pick”, because he did not grant one of her requests. 

Herbert was not genuinely loved by his family, especially siblings. He was envied for his success, and the hatred they harboured toward him is now being extended to his children, whose inheritances they are plotting to take away from them.

Trouble of Matrix Energy Substandard Fuel in Nigeria

 The issue at hand extends beyond the mere importation of substandard fuel by Matrix Energy Oil ; it encompasses a complex web of illicit activities, including the importation of sanctioned products, falsification of documents to facilitate smooth operations, and the deliberate alteration of product origin. It is high time that Matrix Energy assumes responsibility for its actions and ceases its exploitative practices.

 Nigerians deserve better and demand immediate action from the President to sanction the regulators responsible and address the leadership of the Oil and Gas sector in Nigeria. Matrix Energy’s exploitation of Nigeria’s fuel market and the manipulation of our Judiciary must be halted, and those responsible must be held accountable. The citizens of Nigeria will no longer tolerate being treated as guinea pigs for corporate greed and regulatory failure.

Tunde is an oil and gas expert writing from Dundee, United Kingdom.

OLU OF WARRI MEDIA AIDE WINS EXCELLENCE IN JOURNALISM AWARD

  Adeniyi Ifetayo, the hardworking media aide to the Olu of Warri, His Royal Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has been honoured with excellence in journalism award in Canada.

 Adeniyi Ifetayo Moses, a well known lifestyle journalist was honored with the prestigious 'Excellence in Journalism' award at The Headlamp Awards, held during the Afro Commerce Connect event in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. The event, organized by Cross Roads of Culture, centered around the theme “African Diaspora Startups,” aiming to help entrepreneurs navigate opportunities and challenges in Canada.

The award ceremony took place at The Conservatory City Hall, where Ifetayo was celebrated for his nearly two-decade-long career in journalism. The award was presented by Wale Rabiu, CEO of Grey Matlock. In his acceptance speech, Ifetayo expressed his surprise and gratitude, stating, "Thank you to the organizers of this prestigious award for finding me worthy. I did not expect to be recognized here at all. I only came to represent my principal. This recognition means a lot to me, and I promise to continue to put in the work in service to society."

Adeniyi Ifetayo's career is marked by his unwavering dedication to journalism, particularly in the luxury and lifestyle sectors. He served as reporter with Ben TV London and is the publisher of Megastar Magazine, a luxury and lifestyle magazine. He is a member of Society of Digital Newspaper Owners of Nigeria. His recognition at The Headlamp Awards is a testament to his impact on the industry and his commitment to excellence.