News
Alleged BTA Defrauding of Kwara Pilgrims: Govt vows to expose those behind evil act
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board has disclosed that it has investigated the recent incident involving some of their pilgrims who were reportedly defrauded of their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA).
A statement by AbdulSalam AbdulKadir, Executive Secretary, Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, said: “Every pilgrim was given their $500 BTA in five $100 bills in the public space and under the supervision of officials of the Directorate of State Security who ensured that the currency was original. Each pilgrim signed for the collection of their BTA after counting it in the presence of pilgrims’ board officials and the DSS.
“Upon seeing the viral video in which some of our pilgrims said they had received five one-dollar bills instead of the five one-hundred-dollar notes, our preliminary findings suggest that these incidents likely occurred after the pilgrims had arrived in Medina, Saudi Arabia.
“In several cases, the affected individuals—mostly elderly and not familiar with foreign currencies— had sought help from strangers to convert their funds into Saudi Riyals. These unscrupulous individuals apparently took advantage of their vulnerability by swapping $100 bills with $1 bills under the guise of assisting them with currency exchange.
“Further investigations are ongoing to expose the criminals behind this evil act.
“In response to this unfortunate development, His Excellency Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has graciously provided for each of the affected pilgrims to be given $500 to offset the losses they incurred. We ask Allaah to reward His Excellency’s swift and compassionate intervention.
“Similarly, the Governor had visited the Kwara pilgrims’ hotel in Mecca during which he extended financial support to all pilgrims to support their local expenses. The Board and all pilgrims express our gratitude for this kind gesture.
“With the fraudulent currency swap having been reported among pilgrims from other states of the Federation, we support the Central Bank of Nigeria’s proposal to replace cash disbursements of BTA with preloaded debit cards.
“This will enhance transparency, reduce the risk of theft or fraud, and ensure that all pilgrims—especially the elderly—can manage their funds more securely.
“We strongly condemn the actions of those who preyed on the goodwill and vulnerability of our pilgrims. We also welcome any credible information that may assist in bringing the culprits to justice.”
End
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
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