News

Lamorde’s Fate Hangs In Balance

Published

10 years ago

January 18, 2016

Nigerians are still wondering whether erstwhile Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibrahim Lamorde, is still in the Police Force or not, having gone under soon after he was removed and shortly after a probe of his tenure was muted.
While our correspondents report that contrary to earlier speculations that Lamorde fled the country, the man is still in Nigeria, though he has failed to report back to the Police from where he was seconded to the EFCC. This perhaps explains why the Police last week dribbled on our enquiries on Lamorde’s status in the Force, as Police spokesperson, declined comments on the issue when inquired by our correspondent.
nationalTRAIL reports that, Lamorde, until he was relieved of his appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari, late last year, was a serving Police Officer, on the pay roll of Nigeria Police Force, but since his removal from office, his status in the force remains a matter of conjecture, as he never reported back to duty, nor was he announced to have been retired, or dismissed.
It may be recalled that, the status of one of his predecessor, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, was dogged with similar controversy, when he was removed as EFCC Chairman, and the issue generated a lot of public debate until his status was eventually clarified by the Police.
Nigerian Police Spokesperson, was not in a hurry to clarify Lamorde’s status until she gets explanations from higher authorities, which did not come until the time of going to press.
There are however, strong indications over the last two weeks that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has commenced a detailed investigation into some financial transactions during the tenure of the immediate past chairman of the commission.
The anti graft body which initially appeared reluctant to indict its own, may have set the machinery for the probe, even as Lamorde, who has stoutly defended fraud allegations during his tenure in the dying days of his chairmanship obviously did not wish to carry the cross that is now his lot.
In addition to the series of petitions which eventually led to his ouster, our correspondent gathered that, the commission has not been able to pay its staff ‘s allowances throughout the period Lamorde held sway as the Chairman of the agency: an action which earned him disdain amongst staff.
Sources within the commission confirmed this much, as according to it, the fear of the former Chairman made it impossible for them to even demand for their entitlements, saying, “it was a reign of terror, staff were blackmailed and allowances withheld without explanations from the office of the chairman”
nationalTRAIL reliably gathered that Lamorde, who was recently relieved of his appointment as the Chairman of EFCC may have come under investigation for an alleged abuse of office and which sordid details included the alleged diversion of money recovered by the commission before and during his tenure.
It could be recall that the Senate Committee had invited him to appear before the National Assembly , to explain his role in alleged missing funds in the Commission.
The fraud allegedly perpetuated by Lamorde was said to have dated back to his days as the Director of Operation in the commission: between 2003 and 2007, as well as acting Chairman of the commission between 2007 and May 2008, when the then Chairman, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, was away for a course at National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies , NIPPS, Kuru Jos.
Goerge Uboh, The Chief Executive Officer of the Panic Alert Security System, a security firm in another petition dated July 31, 2015, specifically alleged that Lamorde was involved in under remittance, and non disclosure of proceeds of corruption recovered from criminal suspects, including Tafa Balogun, and late Diepriye Alamiesyehga.
nationalTRAIL learnt that Lamorde may also be investigated for offshore recoveries and mismanaging of some of the assets recovered by the Commission.

News

2027 BENUE GUBER: MORE TROUBLE FOR GOV ALIA

Published

20 hours ago

July 14, 2026

milcah

The Following names joined the political family of Sen. Dr. George Akume today after leaving the sinking Alia ship .

Under the leadership of Barr. Emmanuel Jime .

The are ;
Chief Nelson Alapa
Douglas pepe SAN senatorial Aspirant zone A,
Engr Peter Ashiekaa
QS Clement Beetseh
Former commissioners
Joy Luga
Ann itodo
Barr martins Shaagee
Miss Dorcas
Prof Usar Joseh
Prof Cephas Tushima
Chief Patrick Idoko
Hon Patience Akor
Hon Fred Idoko
Hon Lawrence Ekpo Onoja Jnr
Hon Andrew Abah
Hon Agbo Innocent Ikwumonu
Hon Simon Omachoko
Hon David Egboja
Dr John Garba
Among together,

News

ENGR. BELLO BABAYO BELLO FELICITATES VICE PRESIDENT KASHIM SHETTIMA ON RENOMINATION

Published

1 day ago

July 14, 2026

milcah

Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, Executive Director (Networks) of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, on his renomination as the Vice Presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

In his message, Engr. Bello described the renomination as a beautiful affirmation of the Vice President’s enduring commitment to Nigeria’s unity, stability, and prosperity. He noted that Senator Shettima, himself a former Senator of the Federal Republic, has consistently embodied resilience, foresight, and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that continue to inspire confidence across the nation.

“This renomination is a shining testament to your unwavering dedication to the Nigerian people,” Engr. Bello stated. “It reflects the trust of the party and the citizens in your ability to guide our country toward greater progress, peace, and prosperity. Your leadership has been a beacon of hope, and this endorsement is richly deserved.”

Engr. Bello further emphasized that Senator Shettima’s political journey has been marked by courage and service. From his tenure as Governor of Borno State to his current role as Vice President, he has consistently championed initiatives that address national challenges, foster economic growth, and promote inclusive development.

As a leader in the power sector, Engr. Bello highlighted the importance of visionary leadership in driving infrastructure and energy reforms. He expressed confidence that Senator Shettima’s continued role in government will further strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to deliver reliable power, expand opportunities, and improve the quality of life for millions of citizens.

He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the Vice President wisdom, strength, and good health to continue serving the nation with distinction. “May Allah bless your efforts, guide your decisions, and grant you success as you carry forward the responsibility of leadership,” he added.

The message concluded with a reaffirmation of goodwill and support: “Congratulations once again, Your Excellency. We look forward to your continued contributions to the peace, progress, and prosperity of Nigeria.”

Signed:Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSEExecutive Director (Networks)Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC)

News

What MKA Will Do Differently

Published

2 days ago

July 13, 2026

milcah

Open rural roads to allow faster and deeper security response, while also improving the movement of agricultural products. The current government has focused on cosmetic projects that do not reflect the current challenges and realities of the state. The rural areas are the most hard hit by this terror and my government will focus on providing a targeted and holistic responses .
To ensure deterrence, I will set up a committee of experienced legal minds to monitor and follow up the prosecution of criminals arrested by the police. I will also work with the State Assembly to further strengthen our anti-crime laws.
Improve security intelligence by deepening collaboration with the clergy, traditional rulers, neighbouring states, and security agencies. I will also improve surveillance by building a command centre capable of 24-hour remote monitoring of critical and volatile areas of the state. The current government of Abia State under Alex Otti has delivered one such project with great results.
Payment of salaries should not be a yardstick for measuring good governance. Salaries are simply workers’ entitlements for services rendered. To promote transparency, I will publish a public salary website showing the monthly status of salary payments.
I will set up a committee tasked with ensuring Benue youths are fairly represented in federal government job recruitment exercises.
In the area of sports, I will build astroturf football pitches across the state to encourage youth participation in sports. Additionally entrepreneurs will receive grants and low interest loans to grow.
Agriculture is a business, and our farmers will be equipped with the training and infrastructure needed to carry out commercial farming. I will deploy my experience of running a rice factory over the last 10 years to transform agriculture into a profitable enterprise.
Global cities are also entertaining cities. Benue has a large pool of talented entertainers, and I will set up an Entertainment Advisory Board to promote talent and grow the entertainment industry in the state.