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  • Investigation Before Prosecution: Echoing the AGF’s Advocacy for Adopting the FBI Model BY CONFIDENCE MBANG

    Investigation Before Prosecution: Echoing the AGF’s Advocacy for Adopting the FBI Model BY CONFIDENCE MBANG

    Investigation Before Prosecution: Echoing the AGF’s Advocacy for Adopting the FBI Model

    The media space has been abuzz with discussions surrounding the activities of law enforcement agencies, including anti-corruption bodies. Among these activities are the arrest and prosecution of suspects in corruption-related cases. The process of investigation and prosecution has long been a significant area of concern. While anti-corruption agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have carried out impactful investigations and prosecutions, they have also faced accusations of bias—often tied to the manner in which investigations are conducted—or of being politically influenced and used for witch-hunts. Such perceptions undermine public confidence in these corruption-sensitive agencies, highlighting the urgent need for reforms.

    Recently, the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince (Dr.) Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, advocated for the adoption of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) model for corruption investigations. Speaking at the Food and Energy Security in Africa Conference in Lagos on the theme, The Rule of Law and Attracting International Investment Towards Food and Energy Security in Africa, the AGF expressed admiration for the FBI’s investigative approach. He recommended that the EFCC and ICPC should prioritize completing investigations before making arrests.

    The learned Silk strongly advocated for the adoption of an “FBI Model Institution” and cautioned against the practice of prematurely celebrating arrests without thorough investigations. While this position does not imply that ongoing investigations and prosecutions are entirely flawed, it emphasizes the need for a more robust and systematic approach to tackling corruption.

    In the United States, the FBI’s undercover operations stand out as an effective investigative model. Guidelines issued by the U.S. Attorney General’s Office govern these operations, underscoring their importance. As noted in the Undercover Guidelines:

    “The use of undercover techniques, including proprietary business entities, is essential to the detection, prevention, and prosecution of white-collar crime, public corruption, terrorism, organized crime, offenses involving controlled substances, and other priority areas of investigation.”

    One of the hallmark features of high-profile corruption cases is the collusion among parties, which often makes it difficult to secure witnesses. This challenge makes undercover operations—where law enforcement agents infiltrate criminal networks under disguise—particularly suitable for uncovering deeply entrenched corruption.

    The FBI has successfully used this model to expose significant corruption scandals. Examples include:

    i. Operation Abscam (1970s): Led to the conviction of several congressmen and public officials for corruption.
    ii. Operation Greylord (1980s): Resulted in the conviction of numerous judges and court officials in Chicago for corruption.
    iii. Operation Bid Rig (2000s): Led to the conviction of several public officials in New Jersey.

    Although the undercover model is not entirely new to Nigeria’s security framework, the AGF’s advocacy calls for its strict and religious adoption by anti-corruption agencies for tackling corruption-related cases.

    The AGF has the powers and authority to issue guidelines for investigating and prosecuting corruption cases. While adopting the FBI model is not devoid of challenges and controversies, its implementation has the potential to address gaps that contribute to the negative perceptions of anti-corruption agencies. Stakeholders, agencies, and key players in Nigeria’s anti-corruption ecosystem should seriously consider this advocacy as a step toward fostering transparency, accountability, and credibility in the fight against corruption.

    By: Confidence Mbang
    (Abuja-based Lawyer)
    [email protected]

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Confidence MBANG, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Cross River Northerners, Open Your Eyes… BY AGBA JALINGO

    Cross River Northerners, Open Your Eyes… BY AGBA JALINGO

     

    If you are from Cross River North, kindly come with me. There is something important which you may already know but may not have given thought to, that I want to put in context for you.

    Do you know that by land mass, all the five local governments that make up Cross River North, put together, are smaller than Akamkpa LGA? That means the Chairman of Akamkpa LGA is ruling over a land space bigger than the one ruled by the five LGA Chairmen of Northern Cross River, combined.

    Ogoja is 972 km². Yala LGA has an area of 1,739 km². Obudu is 591.7km². Obanlikwu is 1,057km². And Bekwarra LGA is 306km². All the five combined, sum up to 4,665.7km². Akamkpa LGA alone has a land area of 5,049km². That means Akamkpa is bigger than the whole Cross River North by 383.3km². The remainder is still bigger than Bekwarra LGA. That also means Akamkpa alone is bigger than the entire Lagos State, which has a meagre land area of just 3,475 km².

    Cross River North, however has a combined population of 1,116,700 people out of a total population of 4.406million for the whole State. That’s 25.3 percent of the State population. Between July to September (third quarter, 2024), from official FG documents, the five LGAs of Cross River North, also received net allocation totalling N5,349,067,043 from FAAC, excluding internally generated revenues.

    So, 1,116,700 people, living within 4,664.7km square of land, were allocated N5.34billion in three months from FAAC. If you multiply this by four quarters of the year, that’s over N20billion. This is excluding internally generated revenues. Let’s also look at the constituency development funds allocated to Cross River North, through our federal lawmakers which also run into hundreds of millions of Naira. We have one Senator and two House of Reps members.

    Looking ahead, let us project positively that this financial routine will repeat itself or even perform better and Cross River North will within the next 12 months, get say 30billion in remittances from both FAAC, IGR and Federal Constituency Development Funds, let us also assume that the encumbrances that used to swallow up LG allocations have been torpedoed by the Supreme Court judgment, is it not time to begin to ask questions about where these monies will be spent?

    With this volume of resources, entering a space smaller than Akamkpa LGA, there is no tenable reason why our leaders cannot rebuild our water works instead of drilling boreholes, why they can’t give us electricity instead of rechargeable lamps they call street lights, why they can’t give us health insurance and equip our Primary Health centers, instead of three days health outreaches, why they can’t give us motorable roads, instead of bikes and kekes, why they can’t ensure food security instead of sharing rice and noddles and handouts? why they can’t give children free basic education instead of driving kids away from schools over illegal levies.

    Comparatively, there is no reason why Cross River North should not be ahead of other parts of Cross River State and that should perturb our leaders who seem more concerned now about their personal egos and retention of power than the gruelling conditions of our people.

    We just lost the golden opportunity of changing the fortunes of the North as the last eight years were blown away by our brother. The people who told us they were stepping in to rescue us should know that we will also hold them to account. They didn’t promise the people that they will step in and fight themselves. They didn’t tell us there were stepping in to divide and rule and hoodwink us. The people of the North know how to ask questions at the right time, and we will ask if the work is not done.

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Agba Jalingo, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for 

     

  • NBA Statement On The Arrest Of Dele Farotimi And Alleged Invasion Of His Law Firm

    NBA Statement On The Arrest Of Dele Farotimi And Alleged Invasion Of His Law Firm

    STATEMENT BY THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION ON THE ARREST OF DELE FAROTIMI AND ALLEGED INVASION OF HIS LAW FIRM

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is gravely concerned about the arrest of Dele Farotimi on allegations of libel, as well as the reported invasion of his law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises. These actions constitute a troubling breach of the rule of law and the sanctity of the legal profession.

    While the Nigerian Police Force has the authority to investigate crimes, this power must be exercised within the confines of the law and in respect of offenses recognized under Nigerian law.

    We must reiterate that the alleged offense of libel, for which Dele Farotimi was reportedly arrested, is not recognized as a criminal offense under the laws of Lagos State. The Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 repealed the criminalization of defamation by omitting it from its provisions. This progressive legislative move aligns with global best practices, which treat defamation as a civil wrong rather than a criminal offense.

    The Supreme Court in Aviomoh v. Commissioner of Police & Anor (2021) affirmed this position. Justice Helen Ogunwumiju, JSC, unequivocally held that defamation ceased to be a criminal offense in Lagos State following the enactment of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011. This authoritative pronouncement leaves no room for doubt.

    Furthermore, under Sections 4 and 24 of the Police Act, 2020, the Nigerian Police Force is mandated to act only about conduct that constitutes a criminal offense under Nigerian law. Arresting individuals for non-criminal matters, such as defamation in Lagos State, is not only unlawful but also a blatant violation of the principles of legality and the rule of law.

    Of equal concern is the reported invasion of Dele Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises. Reports that phones were confiscated from lawyers and staff during this invasion highlight a severe disregard for the sanctity of legal practice and the constitutional rights of individuals. The legal profession is a cornerstone of justice and democracy, and any attempt to undermine its independence is a direct assault on the rule of law.

    The NBA unequivocally condemns the invasion of Mr. Farotimi’s law firm, the harassment of its lawyers and staff, and the unlawful seizure of their phones. Such actions are not only a violation of the constitutional right to dignity and privacy but also an affront to the independence of the legal profession.

    We, therefore demand the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, as his arrest lacks any basis under the laws of Lagos State. The authorities must swiftly launch an investigation into the invasion of his law firm, with the findings made public and those responsible held accountable.

    We urge law enforcement agencies to prioritize the principles of legality, fairness, and respect for human rights in their operations. These principles are foundational to justice, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ freedoms.

    #FreeDeleFarotimi #FreeDeleFarotimiNOW

    Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
    President
    Nigerian Bar Association

  • Sen Jarigbe Attends Funeral Rites Of Wantaregh Paul Unongu

    Sen Jarigbe Attends Funeral Rites Of Wantaregh Paul Unongu

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, on Saturday attended the funeral rites of a former Nigerian Minister of Power and Steel, Wantaregh Paul Unongu, in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.

    Unongu who had held several political and public offices was until his death Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC).

    In a condolence message, Senator Jarigbe described the death of the elder statesman as a loss to not just the good people of Benue State but the entire Nigeria, adding that death has robbed Nigeria of a committed patriot.

    The lawmaker who was accompanied by his friend, Mr. John George and other delegation, described the late Unongu as a perfect gentleman who staunchly believed in the march towards achieving Nigeria’s true destiny as a great nation.

    “Paul Unongu was a true patriotic Nigerian and a quintessential politician who believed in the ideals of democracy. We will miss him but will continue to uphold the ideals he stood for in life,” Senator Jarigbe added.

    He expressed sympathy and offered prayers to the immediate family and the good people of Benue State, urging them to remain strong during this difficult time.

    Some of the dignitaries who attended the funeral include, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, H. E George Akume, the Executive Governor of Benue State, H. E Rev. Fr. Hycent Alia, other top government functionaries and Nigerians from all walks of life.

    May the soul of Pa Paul Unongu rest in peace!

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Give Us Time, We will Resolve Our Misunderstanding, Akpanke Tells Obudu PDP Stakeholders

    Give Us Time, We will Resolve Our Misunderstanding, Akpanke Tells Obudu PDP Stakeholders

     

    The member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke, has assured stakeholders of the People’s Democratic Party PDP, in Obudu Local Government Area that the widespread misunderstanding that seemed to have caused division among party faithfuls will soon be resolved.

    The Member of Parliament made the disclosure at his residence, Keting – Bendi in Obanliku today 3rd December 2024 when he hosted stakeholders of the People’s Democratic Party PDP.

    Akpanke who reacted to the call by the stakeholders for the trio of Sen Jarigbe Agom, Hon Peter Akpanke and Mr Vena Ikem Esq, the PDP State Chairman to come together and provide the leadership that is required of them, noted that the leadership has decided to put the differences behind them to enable them provided the leadership and representation that is required of them.

    Stakeholders from the 10 wards of Obudu Local Government Area, took turns to expressed their disappointment over what they referred to as in-house differences, rather became an issue that was discussed everywhere and used the opportunity and charged the trio to unite for task ahead is very demanding.

    Hon Akpanke used the opportunity to appreciate stakeholders for the support given to the party, and noted that even husband and wives have some misunderstandings and how best they resolve their differences matters.

    He noted that “The little disagreement, we have met and decided that we should reunite ourselves, give us time, we will resolve fully.

    “All the people that were suspended, by the grace of God, they will be reinstated”.

    Akpanke berated the use of social media to vent anger when he said “There are more mature ways of settling issues other than going to social media.
    I don’t need to destroy people today and tomorrow I come and pretend to you that I need you.

    “We are very sorry for disappointing you. For those of you who wants to destroy others, please stop it. Some of you seated here are the ones spreading the rumors.

    “I have not told anybody that I want to defect to APC. I have not told anybody that I will run for senate. Whatever issues you think we have, we will resolve them. To

    “I will invite the three chapter chairmen to Abuja and we will have a meeting with leadership in Abuja to consolidate”.

    On the request for constituents to be awarded contracts to equip them for grassroot mobilization, Hon Akpanke, informed stakeholders that there seemed to be more bottle necks in the release of funds for projects execution now than before.

    He called on constituents to exercise some patience when he said “Please know that Sen Jarigbe Agom and I are in opposition. Give us the four years and access our performances”.

    On his rumoured defection, he said “I’m not defecting to anywhere. Those who are there, how well are they?
    Please don’t take anything personal.

    “All the issues you hear, are 80 percent resolved.
    They know our strength, and wants to infiltrate us. We will not give them the opportunity”.

    On the last local government elections, he averred that “The local government elections was not within our powers. The election was state government election. In Obanliku, they brought materials, they gave us result sheets, but they didn’t give us the ward result sheets, where will we have collated the results?”.

    ;

  • Aniashie Akpanke Calls For The Immortalization Of Sen Joseph Wayas

    Aniashie Akpanke Calls For The Immortalization Of Sen Joseph Wayas

     

    A social commentator and the immediate past Chairman of the College of Education Academic Staff Union COEASU, Federal College of Education, Obudu chapter, Aniashie Akpanke PhD, has called for the Immortalization of the late Sen President, Joseph Wayas, who was laid to rest last weekend at his country home, Basang, Obanliku Local Government Area.

    Aniashie who made the call on his verified Facebook page argued that it is not too much to rename the University of Calabar as Joseph Wayas Wayas University of the Federal college of Education Obudu, which he singlehandedly attracted to Cross River State, as Joseph Wayas Federal College of Education, Obudu.

    He referred and likened the senator Joseph Wayas as Azikiwe, Awolowo, Tafawa Balewa, Bayero, Joseph Tarka, who were immortalized and posited that Wayas may have been honored with a befitting burial. He equally deserved Immortalization.

    Akpanke opinion reads in full “Just laying Dr Joseph Wayas to rest isn’t enough. Nigerians are anxiously waiting for government’s pronouncement of the immortalization of his unblemished name. If I may ask, is it too much to rename either the University of Calabar as Joseph Wayas University or the Federal College of Education Obudu, which he singlehandedly attracted to Cross River State, as Joseph Wayas Federal College of Education Obudu? To say the least, this great man was (is) our own Azikiwe, Awolowo, Tafawa Balewa, Bayero, Joseph Tarka, etc. He may have been honoured with a befitting burial. He equally deserves immortalization”.

  • Hon Akpanke Pays Tribute To Late Dr Joseph Wayas

    Hon Akpanke Pays Tribute To Late Dr Joseph Wayas

     

    Nigeria’s former senate president, Sen. Dr Joseph wayas was finally laid to rest in his country home, Obanliku LGA today 30th of November 2024 after day of National and state ceremonies.

    The member representing Obudu, Obanliku, Bekwarra Federal Constituency in the National Assembly was present during the funeral activities of the late elder statesman to honour and pay his last respect to him

    In his condolence to the family and the people of the federal constituency, the MP acknowledged the contribution of the late senate president to the growth and unity of Nigeria while extolling his phenomenal records and sterling performance while in his prime and even in his later days

    The event which witnessed and had in attendance distinguished personalities from different parts of the country, including the Secretary to the government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, Governor of Cross River State, Sen Prince Bassey Otu, with his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Sen John Enoh , the honourable minister of state (industry), Sen. Jarigbe Agom and other national assembly members, State House of Assembly Members, various LGA council executives and ward councillors, and others.

    May the soul of Late Sen. Dr Joseph Wayas and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace.

    The Rock Media.

  • Akpanke Identifies With Orphanage, Attends St Patrick Chaplaincy Moniaya’s Harvest Thanksgiving

    Akpanke Identifies With Orphanage, Attends St Patrick Chaplaincy Moniaya’s Harvest Thanksgiving

     

    In a remarkable show of love for Children, Hon Akpanke honoured the invitation of the leadership and members of St Patrick Chaplaincy Moniaya in Ogoja on the 1st of December 2024 to harvest with pupils of Divine Providence Orphanage Ogoja.

    The Member of Parliament who is renowned for his philanthropy, took time off his schedule to worship at St. Patrick’s Chaplaincy Ogoja while identifying with the children of the aforementioned orphanage.

    Hon Akpanke in his usual manner of supporting the church, made financial donation and pledged to power the church surroundings with ten solar lights which will further electrify the environment and provide adequate security for spiritual activities.

    Recognising the place of little children in the work of God, the MP pledged to support the orphanage with basic facilities that will make life worthwhile for the kids and encourage them to become great men and women in the society.

    De Rock Media…

  • Jarigbe Bids Farewell to Late Senator Joseph Wayas As His Remains Is Laid To Rest

    Jarigbe Bids Farewell to Late Senator Joseph Wayas As His Remains Is Laid To Rest

     

    As the remains of the former Nigeria’s Senate President, Dr. Joseph Wayas was finally laid to rest on November 30, 2024, in his country home of Basang, Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State, the senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom was in attendance to pay his last respects to the late statesman.

    Dr. Wayas, who passed away on November 30, 2021, in the United Kingdom, was honored with a state ceremony at U. J Esuene Stadium before his remains were transported to Basang for final rites.

    Senator Jarigbe, in his condolence message, praised Dr. Wayas’ remarkable contribution to Nigeria’s democracy and development. He highlighted the late icon’s leadership as Senate President during the Second Republic and his commitment to national unity and progress.

    “Senator Wayas lived a good life and was there for his people which is why we have all come down to honor him due to his remarkable achievements”, Senator Jarigbe added.

    The burial ceremony was attended by dignitaries from across the country, including the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu and his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, former Gov Ben Ayade, Sen Asuquo Ekpenyong, Sen Jones Eteng, the Hon. Minister of State (Industry), Senator John Owan Enor, Senators representing Cross River Central and South Senatorial Districts, member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku and his counterpart of Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, former governors, members of the State Executive Council, members of the State House of Assembly, Councils Chairmen, Councillors amongst others.

    May the soul of Senator Joseph Wayas rest in peace!

    TEAM JARI MEDIA.

  • Wayas: In Praise Of Gov Otu, Cross River North Leaders BY INYALI PETER

    Wayas: In Praise Of Gov Otu, Cross River North Leaders BY INYALI PETER

     

    The repatriation of former Senate President, Sen. Joseph Wayas remains to Nigeria on July 10th, after almost three years, was a momentous occasion. Wayas had passed away thirty-three months prior in a London hospital, following a protracted illness. The prolonged stay of his body in the United Kingdom had become an embarrassment to the state, sparking discussions both within and outside the state.

    In Nigeria, it’s a deeply ingrained tradition to ensure that deceased are buried in their homeland. Except for military personnel who die in active service, burying someone outside their home is considered shameful and even abominable in many cultures. For a national icon like Wayas, who remains the only Senate President in the history of Nigeria to have acted as President for 16 days, allowing his body to be interred in the UK would have been a big shame to the people of Cross River State, Northern Cross Riverians, and the institution of the senate.

    But it is worrhy if note that the delay in bringing his body home was not due to a lack of commitment from the people of Cross River or the government. Rather, it was caused by internal issues beyond the leadership’s control. Even the successful effort was not without its challenges, requiring more than just diplomacy to achieve.

    As it is said, after the storm, comes the rains. Indeed, following the long and arduous journey, our beloved leader, Sen. Wayas, was not only brought home to be buried with dignity but also accorded one of the most colourful state burials imaginable. This emotional but heroic celebration the late leader has received
    was made possible by the collective efforts of distinguished personalities who deeply respect and value our culture and tradition.

    Top on the list is the state Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu. His leadership and commitment to not only ensure the successful repatriation of the remains of our late icon but honouring his memory with state burial is humbling. His support, which included significant funding, has been critical in ensuring that the late leader receives a fitting tribute. The people of Cross River North are grateful for his efforts, which will be remembered for years to come.

    Also, I commend the persistence enthusiasm of the ‘Who is Who’ in Northern Cross River sociopolitical group, led by Sir Dorcklaimz Enamhe, Ph.D, and the entire leadership structure of the senatorial district. Their efforts and resources committed to bringing our leader home for a befitting farewell are truly appreciated.

    Special thanks also go to Sen. Ben Ayade who sets the first state burial committee as Governor, Sen. Kano Agabi, SAN, Goddy Jedy-Agba, OFR, Sen. Jarigbe Agom, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Hon. Godwin Offiono and many others for their contributions to the success of the event. On this, the people of the North should be proud of the dexterity and unity of purpose demonstrated by these leaders to ensure our leader is brought home like a king that he was.

    Thanks also to the leadership of the national assembly particularly, the Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio for the respect and honour accorded the deceased even in death. To other members of the National Assembly from the state, thank you.

    May his soul continue to rest in peace.

    Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, or the organization the author works for.