New Post Africa

Category: Crime Diary

  • Ex-NNPC General Manager Sentenced in U.S. Over $2.1 Million Bribery Scheme

    Ex-NNPC General Manager Sentenced in U.S. Over $2.1 Million Bribery Scheme

    LOS ANGELES, U.S. (NPA): A U.S. District Court has sentenced Paulinus Iheanacho Okoronkwo, a 58-year-old Nigerian-American and former General Manager of the Upstream Division of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), to 87 months in prison for accepting $2.1 million in bribes from Addax Petroleum, a Switzerland-based subsidiary of Sinopec, China’s state-owned oil and gas conglomerate.

    According to a court statement by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Central District of California, on Monday, 23 February 2026, obtained by Newpost Africa, Okoronkwo was convicted of corruption, money laundering, and tax fraud. He was also ordered to pay $923,824 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and to forfeit $1,039,997, representing the net proceeds from the sale of a home purchased with illicit funds.

    Court documents revealed that in 2015, Okoronkwo facilitated Addax Petroleum’s oil drilling rights in Nigeria in exchange for bribes. He concealed the payments by channeling them through his law firm’s trust account (IOLTA), falsely declaring them as legal fees. He also misled auditors, dismissed executives who questioned the transactions, and used the funds for personal expenses, including the purchase of a car and a home.

    In November 2017, Okoronkwo used part of the illicit proceeds to make down payments on a house in Valencia, California. His misconduct came under investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and IRS Criminal Investigation, with support from the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs.

    In January 2026, the State Bar of California suspended Okoronkwo’s law license, following the corruption probe that ultimately led to his prosecution and conviction.

  • Nigerian Immigration Officers Accused of Arresting and Extorting Youths En Route to Visit Mazi Nnamdi Kanu

    Nigerian Immigration Officers Accused of Arresting and Extorting Youths En Route to Visit Mazi Nnamdi Kanu

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Three Nigerian youths have alleged that officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) arrested, detained, and extorted money from them on 22 February 2026, while they were travelling from Kano to Sokoto to visit the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

    According to a report and video obtained by Sahara Reporters, the youths claimed they were stopped at a checkpoint at the entrance of Zamfara State, detained for seven hours, and later abandoned after being forced to pay money.

    One of the victims, identified as Cruise Naija, recounted:

    “On our way to visit Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in Sokoto, we were arrested and detained for seven hours, extorted, and left stranded in Zamfara State by Nigeria Immigration.”

    He alleged that the officers accused them of attempting to travel illegally to Libya, despite their explanation that they were heading to Sokoto. Their bags and phones were searched, and photographs showing him with activist Omoyele Sowore and other Nigerian activists were reportedly used to brand him an “activist.”

    The youths further claimed they were denied access to make phone calls and warned about the dangers of the area. They said they were taken into a room where other detainees were being held and told to pay ₦200,000, plus ₦30,000 for transportation to Sokoto.

    After allegedly paying ₦30,000 through a Point-of-Sale (POS) operator, they were placed on a truck. However, the driver later claimed he had only received ₦3,000, leaving them stranded without funds. They said they had to call friends and relatives to send money before continuing their journey.

    The Nigeria Immigration Service has not yet issued an official response to the allegations.

  • Police Service Commission Announces Screening of Constable Recruits from March 9, 2026

    Police Service Commission Announces Screening of Constable Recruits from March 9, 2026

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): The Police Service Commission (PSC) has announced that the Physical and Credential Screening of 50,000 police constable applicants will commence on 9 March 2026. This exercise is part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the Nigeria Police Force’s workforce.

    In a statement issued on 24 February 2026 by PSC spokesperson Torty Njoku Kalu, all candidates who have successfully completed the online recruitment registration are directed to report to their designated centres nationwide between 9 March and 18 April 2026 for the screening exercise.

    Applicants are required to log in to http://npfapplication.psc.gov.ng to check their status, print the necessary documents, and present them at the screening venues. The mandatory documents include:

    •             Guarantor’s Form

    •             Application Submission Slip

    •             Invitation Slip (with assigned table number)

    •             Credential Screening Form

    •             Physical Screening Form

    Candidates must also present the following original and duplicate documents:

    •             National Identity Number (NIN) printout or card issued by NIMC

    •             O’ Level (GCE/SSCE) Certificate

    •             Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age

    •             Local Government/State of Origin Certificate

    •             Trade Test/Certificate (for specialists only)

    •             Duly completed and signed Guarantor’s Form with photocopies and passport photographs of referees attached

    •             Recent passport photographs

    Dress Code: White canvas shoes, white T-shirts, white shorts, and white stockings.

    The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (Rtd), mni, emphasized that the recruitment exercise is free of charge and will be conducted with transparency and accountability. He cautioned applicants against online impostors and fraudulent individuals seeking to exploit the process, stressing that offenders will be arrested and prosecuted.

  • Peter Obi Condemns Edo Violence, Calls for Collective Action

    Peter Obi Condemns Edo Violence, Calls for Collective Action

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Former Labour Party presidential candidate and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Mr Peter Obi, has expressed gratitude to Nigerians and the international community following an attack by suspected political hoodlums in Benin City, Edo State, on February 24, 2026.

    In a statement issued on February 25, Obi paid tribute to former Edo State governors Chief John Oyegun and Professor Oserheimen Osunbor, describing them as leaders who “served Nigeria honourably in various capacities.” He noted that their support reinforced his faith in shared humanity and the collective hope for a better Nigeria.

    Reflecting on the incident, Obi recalled his own experience with political violence during his tenure as governor of Anambra State. He said such challenges had strengthened his resolve to pursue leadership positions, emphasizing that governance must restore order, security, and public trust.

    Calling on citizens not to be intimidated, Obi stated: “The growing lawlessness across our country calls upon all men and women of goodwill to step forward—not in fear but with a sense of responsibility. As Plato reminded us, the price good people pay for refusing to participate in government is to live under the rule of bad people. This moment urges Nigerians to be even more resolute in electing leaders defined by competence, commitment, character, and compassion—leaders who prioritise the nation above self and service above power.”

    Obi reaffirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election. With political alliances forming ahead of the polls—where incumbent President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to seek a second term—the dynamics of Nigeria’s political landscape remain uncertain as the election season approaches.

  • BREAKING: El-Rufai’s Arraignment Stalled, Adjourned to April 23

    BREAKING: El-Rufai’s Arraignment Stalled, Adjourned to April 23

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — Confusion over the custody and prosecution of former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and ex-Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, continued on Wednesday as his scheduled arraignment at the Federal High Court in Abuja was stalled.

    El-Rufai was absent in court, prompting his defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu, to request an adjournment. Presiding Judge Justice Joyce Abdumalik granted the request, noting that the defendant’s absence rendered his bail application premature.

    The case has now been adjourned to April 23, 2026. El-Rufai is facing a three-count charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS). The allegations include:

    • Cybercrimes — unlawful interception of communications.
    • Violation of the Nigerian Communications Act (2003).
    • Interception of the phone conversation of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, which the DSS claims El-Rufai admitted to during a televised interview.

    The charges were brought under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, and the Communications Act.

  • Police Launch Investigation into Attacks on ADC Leaders and Former Governor’s Residence

    Police Launch Investigation into Attacks on ADC Leaders and Former Governor’s Residence

    EDO STATE, NIGERIA (NPA): The Edo State Police Command has confirmed a series of violent incidents in Benin City on Tuesday, targeting leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the residence of former Edo State Governor, Chief John Odigie Oyegun. The attacks occurred shortly after Labour Party candidate in the recent Edo gubernatorial election, Olumide Akpata, defected to the ADC.

    In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer Eno Ikoedem said hoodlums infiltrated a political gathering at the ADC State Secretariat on Ogbelaka Street, off Sapele Road, causing panic and a stampede. “At about 14:55 hours, during political activities at the ADC Secretariat, some hoodlums allegedly infiltrated the gathering and caused commotion, which led to a stampede at the end of the occasion, shortly after the programme was officially concluded and most dignitaries had departed,” the statement read.

    The police reported that the attackers overturned furniture, vandalised plastic chairs and canopies arranged outside the venue, and chased party members away. Patrol teams responded swiftly, but the hoodlums fled upon sighting the operatives. No fatalities were recorded, though one woman sustained minor injuries during the stampede. She was treated at a nearby chemist and later discharged. Security has since been reinforced around the secretariat.

    In a related development, the command confirmed gunshots were reported at the residence of Chief Oyegun, who also serves as ADC State Chairman. Police operatives arriving at the scene observed extensive damage, including shattered windscreens and body parts of vehicles parked outside the property. Spent bullet casings were recovered from the premises. No casualties were reported.

    Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, has ordered a full-scale investigation into both incidents. “The Command is committed to identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting those responsible for these attacks,” the statement concluded.

  • JUST IN: Tinubu Accepts Egbetokun’s Resignation, Appoints AIG Disu as Inspector-General of Police

    JUST IN: Tinubu Accepts Egbetokun’s Resignation, Appoints AIG Disu as Inspector-General of Police

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday accepted the resignation of Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, citing pressing family considerations. The President commended Egbetokun for his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s internal security architecture during his tenure.

    According to a statement issued on February 24, 2026, by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), Egbetokun—appointed in June 2023—was originally scheduled to serve until June 2027 under the amended Police Act.

    Following his resignation, the Presidency announced the appointment of Assistant Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police with immediate effect. The statement emphasized that the decision was taken “in view of the current security challenges confronting the nation” and in line with extant laws.

    President Tinubu expressed confidence in Disu’s “experience, operational depth, and demonstrated leadership capacity,” noting that his appointment would provide “steady and focused direction for the Nigeria Police Force during this critical period.”

    In compliance with the Police Act 2020, the President will convene a meeting of the Nigeria Police Council to formally consider Disu’s appointment as substantive Inspector-General of Police, after which his name will be forwarded to the Senate for confirmation.

    The statement reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to enhancing national security, strengthening institutional capacity, and ensuring that the Nigeria Police Force remains professional, accountable, and fully equipped to discharge its constitutional responsibilities.

  • BREAKING: Peter Obi, ADC Leaders Escape Assassination Attempt in Edo State

    BREAKING: Peter Obi, ADC Leaders Escape Assassination Attempt in Edo State

    BENIN CITY, NIGERIA (NPA): The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, alongside senior figures of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), narrowly escaped an attack by armed hoodlums in Edo State, southern Nigeria.

    The incident occurred during the formal declaration of Olumide Akpata into the ADC. According to Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Interim National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, the assailants trailed party leaders to the residence of Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, where they opened fire at the gate and vandalized several vehicles.

    Dr. Tanko described the incident as a “survived assassination attempt,” warning that “democracy is in danger.”

    As of press time, neither the Edo State Police Command nor the state government has issued an official statement. Attempts by our correspondent to reach the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Eno Nkereuwem Ikoedem, were unsuccessful.

  • Reno Omokri Urges El-Rufai to Be Thankful in Detention, Citing Dadiyata’s Disappearance

    Reno Omokri Urges El-Rufai to Be Thankful in Detention, Citing Dadiyata’s Disappearance

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate, Reno Omokri, has criticized calls for the release of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai over reported health concerns in detention. The appeal was made by El-Rufai’s spokesperson, Muyiwa Adekeye, who disclosed that the former minister was experiencing nosebleeds.

    In a Facebook post titled “So El-Rufai’s Family Want Him Released Because of a Common Nosebleed?” Omokri dismissed the claims, noting that nosebleeds are common among Nigerians during the Harmattan season. He argued that El-Rufai should be “thankful he is alive, eating, and has access to his lawyers and medications,” contrasting his situation with that of Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata.

    Dadiyata, a Nigerian academic and social media critic, was abducted outside his home in Kaduna on August 2, 2019, and has not been seen since. Omokri stressed that El-Rufai’s family should consider the plight of Dadiyata’s wife, Khadija Ahmad Lame, and their two daughters, who have lived in trauma since his disappearance.

    Omokri further alleged that El-Rufai himself bears responsibility for his current detention, referencing an Arise TV interview in which the former governor admitted knowing at least one police officer linked to Dadiyata’s disappearance. He suggested that the officer should be detained alongside El-Rufai for interrogation.

    Dismissing the severity of El-Rufai’s condition, Omokri recalled that under his administration, prominent figures such as Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky suffered grave abuses in detention, while journalists including Luka Biniyat, Midat Joseph, Jacob Dickson, Sunny Yayock, and Stephen Kefas, as well as lawyer and music mogul Audu Maikori, were also detained.

    Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed concern over El-Rufai’s health, warning that the government would be held accountable should his condition worsen.

  • AIG Tunji Disu Launches Public Feedback Channel to Monitor Police Misconduct in Lagos

    AIG Tunji Disu Launches Public Feedback Channel to Monitor Police Misconduct in Lagos

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Police officers in Lagos State will face stricter accountability measures following the launch of a public feedback channel by Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Tunji Disu. The initiative, aimed at curbing misconduct, allows residents to report complaints directly to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex in Alagbon, Lagos, which is personally overseen by the AIG.

    In a statement, the Public Relations Officer of the FCID Annex, ASP Aminat Maiyegun, encouraged members of the public to share concerns or commendations through official channels: 07068865833, 08067167605, or pprofcidannex@gmail.com. She emphasized that the feedback system is designed to “promote accountability and professionalism” within the police force.

    AIG Disu, who previously commanded the Lagos Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and earned recognition for crime prevention successes, has introduced this direct interface with the public as part of his broader strategy for practical and transparent policing.

    Reports of police misconduct in Nigeria remain widespread, ranging from arbitrary arrests to roadside extortion and bribery. In Lagos, civil society groups and media outlets documented multiple cases in 2025 of officers extorting motorists at checkpoints, often demanding cash under threat of unlawful detention. While the Lagos State Police Command confirmed disciplinary action against some officers, watchdogs argue that accountability has been inconsistent.

    The new feedback mechanism is expected to strengthen oversight and rebuild public trust in law enforcement across Nigeria’s commercial capital.