Segun Adeyemi

The World Trade Organisation (WTO) has reappointed Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as its director-general for a second four-year term.

The new term will begin on September 1, 2025, following unanimous approval by WTO members at a special General Council meeting on Friday, November 29.

Confirming the development, the WTO stated: “Her second four-year term, which was approved at a special General Council meeting, will begin on 1 September 2025. DG Okonjo-Iweala took office as Director-General in March 2021 and is the first African and the first woman to serve as head of the organisation.”

Okonjo-Iweala had declared her intention to seek reappointment on September 16. Her candidacy gained significant momentum after 58 member countries backed a proposal from the African Group for her to continue in office.

The reappointment process formally began on October 8, with November 8 set as the deadline for nominations.

On November 9, Petter Olberg, chair of the WTO General Council, confirmed that no additional nominations were submitted, making Okonjo-Iweala the sole candidate for the role.

As the first African and woman to lead the WTO, Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment underscores global confidence in her leadership.

She will continue spearheading efforts to address global trade challenges and reform the organisation.

Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, WTO director-general

As the first African and woman to lead the WTO, Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment underscores global confidence in her leadership.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala reappointed WTO director-general

<h2>As the United States gears up for tomorrow’s presidential election, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic Party's candidate, has made a strong pledge to legalise recreational marijuana if she wins the presidency. </h2>

Harris, who assumed her candidacy after President Joe Biden stepped down in July, shared this promise on her social media account, stating her commitment to reform.

“I will legalize recreational marijuana, break down unjust legal barriers, and create opportunities for all Americans to succeed in this new industry,” she wrote on X (formerly Twitter), reaffirming her focus on social and economic reform through marijuana legalisation.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I will legalize recreational marijuana, break down unjust legal barriers, and create opportunities for all Americans to succeed in this new industry. <a href="https://t.co/MuzCIpr3oP">pic.twitter.com/MuzCIpr3oP</a>&mdash; Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris/status/1853195722864132590?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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If elected, Harris faces the challenge of delivering on her marijuana reform agenda, which includes dismantling existing legal hurdles and enabling economic participation in the marijuana sector.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/world/trump-harris-make-their-final-campaign-rounds-millions-vote-early/6m2vsj8">Trump, Harris make their final campaign rounds, millions vote early</a>

Legalisation advocates have long called for federal reforms to the current marijuana policy, citing benefits for criminal justice reform and economic growth.

Harris’s promise has earned her support from various American celebrities, including Beyoncé, Cardi B, Olivia Rodrigo, and Ariana Grande, whose endorsements have brought her campaign further into the public eye.

This backing from cultural icons could strengthen her appeal, particularly among younger voters and proponents of marijuana reform.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/abure-joins-world-political-leaders-to-observe-us-presidential-election/q59rwtm">Abure joins world political leaders in Washington to observe US presidential poll</a>

The Democratic candidate faces a tough battle against Republican opponent and former president Donald Trump.

With marijuana reform at the forefront of Harris’s platform, tomorrow’s election outcome could signal a significant shift in US marijuana policy, depending on voters’ response to her proposal.

Vice President Kamala Harris has been a frequent presence in Michigan, a state critical to her electoral path.Brandon Bell/Getty Images

As the United States gears up for tomorrow’s presidential election, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic Party's candidate, has made a strong pledge to legalise recreational marijuana if she wins the presidency.

Kamala Harris vows to legalise marijuana if elected US president

<h2>In a historic victory, Kemi Badenoch, a British-Nigerian former Business Secretary, has been elected as the new leader of the UK’s Conservative Party. </h2>

Badenoch’s win makes her the first black woman to lead a major political party in the United Kingdom.

The 44-year-old clinched the leadership after defeating Robert Jenrick in the final vote, securing 53,806 votes to his 41,388.

Her appointment also positions her as Leader of the Opposition, succeeding Rishi Sunak, who stepped down earlier this year.

The Conservative Party’s announcement of her win on Saturday morning marks a significant shift, with Badenoch pledging to reshape party policies.

“This is a time for us to return to our first principles,” she stated during her campaign.

Kemi Badenoch gives a speech after becoming the new leader of the Conservative party after winning the Conservative Party leadership contest on November 2, 2024 in London, England. [Getty Images]

She emphasised her intention to spearhead a range of policy reviews in the coming months aimed at revitalising Conservative ideals.

Badenoch, raised in Nigeria before moving to the UK, has consistently highlighted her diverse background as a source of strength and resilience.

Her ascent in British politics has been closely watched, with supporters praising her commitment to conservative values and her fresh vision for the party’s future.

Party insiders are hopeful that Badenoch’s leadership will galvanise support ahead of the next general election.

<h3>Badenoch's disdain for Nigeria and backlashes</h3>

Fani-Kayode calls UK PM hopeful, Badenoch 'little girl' for attacking Nigerians

Meanwhile, <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/badenoch-fani-kayode-calls-uk-politician-little-girl-for-attacking-nigerians/62jjqvf">she has been criticised recently by Nigeria's former Aviation Minister</a>, Femi Fani-Kayode.

The ex-minister branded Badenoch a "little girl" for constantly deriding Nigerians in her attempt to assume the leadership of the Conservative Party.

Though born in Wimbledon, Badenoch spent substantial years of childhood in Nigeria before returning to her country of birth as a teenager.

Badenoch has repeatedly explored her Nigerian experience to boost her chances in the contest by narrating tales of her unpleasant experiences growing up in Africa's most populous nation.

In an interview with MailOnline, the 44-year-old politician criticised Nigeria, saying she doesn't want Britain to become like the place she ran away from.

"I will always be grateful for being lucky enough to be born here.

"It was very much fate, and I would do anything for this country – I would go to war for this country, I would fight for this country. I would die for this country.

"This is my country. I love it the way it is. I don't want it to become like the place I ran away from. I want it to get better and better, not just for me, but for the next generation," she said.

Abike Dabiri-Erewa OON (CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission)

Similarly, in 2022, the Chairman of the Nigeria in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, rebuked Badenoch over her comments on Nigerian politicians.

During <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/dabiri-erewa-expresses-anger-over-kemi-badenochs-remarks-on-nigerian-politicians/njs17xt">her campaign for the Prime Ministerial seat</a>, Badenoch said, "I grew up in Nigeria and I saw firsthand when politicians are in it for themselves. When they use private money as their piggybanks, when they promise the earth and they pollute not just the earth, but the whole political atmosphere with their failure to serve others."

"I came to Britain, determined to make my way in a country where hard work and honesty can take you anywhere," she added.

In a historic victory, Kemi Badenoch, a British-Nigerian former Business Secretary, has been elected as the new leader of the UK’s Conservative Party.

British-Nigerian, Kemi Badenoch elected leader of UK Conservative Party

<h2>The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arrested controversial social media personality Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, at Lagos's Murtala Mohammed International Airport. </h2>

The arrest, which occurred Thursday evening, October 31, came just days after the socialite had been released on bail by Nigerian police authorities.

The arrest unfolded dramatically as Bobrisky attempted to board a flight to London.

According to eyewitnesses, Nigerian authorities halted the aircraft just before takeoff and escorted the socialite out in full view of passengers.

Bobrisky, visibly distressed, took to Instagram shortly after, appealing to the public: "Nigerians help me, EFCC just arrested me. I'm badly injured."

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WATCH Moment Bobrisky was taken off the flight on his way to japa to London yesterday An Eye witnesses disclosed it was a real power tussle between Bobrisky and the airport security operatives who came to get him off the flight.... Wahala 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/CIDhG0A6M4">pic.twitter.com/CIDhG0A6M4</a>&mdash; A. Ayofe (@abdullahayofel) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdullahayofel/status/1852205100778832037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Isaac Fayose spots Bobrisky at Lagos Airport</h3>

Pulse Nigeria gathered that Isaac Fayose, brother of former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose and a fellow passenger, confirmed the incident, sharing images of himself with Bobrisky before departure.

Fayose, who has publicly criticised the Nigerian police's treatment of the crossdresser, expressed concern over the arrest's timing.

"See who is on the same flight with me to London @bobrisky222," he posted on Instagram, alongside a photo of them together.

Bobrisky has faced significant legal and public scrutiny in recent weeks. Last week, <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/bobrisky-moved-to-fcid-spent-night-in-detention/xeb6j4k">he was detained by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) </a>at the Seme border, allegedly while trying to flee the country.

This incident has fueled ongoing investigations into <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/celebrities/bobrisky-breaks-silence-did-he-really-give-naira15m-to-efcc-officers/m99n5vq">claims that he paid EFCC officials ₦15 million </a>to drop money laundering charges against him.

Further controversy emerged after an audio recording surfaced in which Bobrisky purportedly claimed he was allowed to serve his six-month jail term outside the Kirikiri prison due to "influential connections."

In response to the allegations, Bobrisky dismissed the recording as "fake" and vowed to sue social media critic VeryDarkMan, who had leaked the audio.

Meanwhile, an investigative panel has recently stated that no evidence confirms Bobrisky served any jail time outside the prison facility.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arrested controversial social media personality Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, at Lagos's Murtala Mohammed International Airport.

Crossdresser Bobrisky re-arrested by EFCC in Lagos Airport

<h2>The Federal Government's investigative panel has cleared popular crossdresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, of allegations that she evaded her jail term. </h2>

The panel's report, released on Monday, October 21, confirmed that there was no evidence to support claims that Bobrisky spent part of her six-month prison sentence outside Kirikiri Correctional Centre.

Dr Uju Agomoh, Executive Director of Prisoners' Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA), presented the findings at the Ministry of Interior.

"The panel did not find any evidence thus far that suggested that Mr Okuneye slept outside the custodial centre during the period of his imprisonment," Agomoh stated.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/celebrities/nigerian-immigration-arrests-bobrisky-during-attempt-to-flee-nigeria/t54071g">Nigerian Immigration 'arrests' Bobrisky during attempt to flee Nigeria</a>

Bobrisky had been sentenced on April 12, 2024, for naira mutilation and released on August 5, 2024, after serving her term with the standard remission.

The investigation followed allegations from activist VeryDarkMan, who accused Bobrisky of spending her sentence in a lodge rather than at the Kirikiri facility, citing influence from a powerful godfather.

VeryDarkMan also released an audio recording in which Bobrisky allegedly claimed to have bribed Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) officials with ₦15 million to drop money laundering charges.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/falana-falz-give-bobrisky-ultimatum-over-defamatory-claims-in-viral-audio/zxlmv08">Falana, Falz give Bobrisky ultimatum over defamatory claims in viral audio</a>

In response, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, ordered a probe into the claims.

On September 30, he established an investigative panel chaired by Magdalena Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, to investigate corruption and misconduct within the Nigerian Correctional Service.

Despite the serious allegations, the panel's phase one report found no evidence of Bobrisky's alleged external stay or any related violations.

Very Dark Man calls celebrities 'disgusting' for donating money to Bobrisky [TLIG media]

The Federal Government's investigative panel has cleared popular crossdresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, of allegations that she evaded her jail term.

'No evidence': FG panel clears Bobrisky of alleged evasion of justice

<h2>The death toll from the tanker explosion in Jigawa's Majia Local Government Area has tragically risen to 153, with over 100 people hospitalised, according to local authorities. </h2>

The explosion, <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/metro/90-confirmed-dead-50-injured-after-petrol-tanker-explosion-in-jigawa/cz14xf6">which took place on Sunday,</a> has left the community reeling as families mourn loved ones and survivors fight for their lives in various hospitals.

DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, the Jigawa State Police spokesperson, confirmed the latest figures, stating, "Those who have lost their lives have been laid to rest in a mass grave, while the injured are receiving treatment in Aminu Kano, Jahun, Nguru, Hadejia, and Gumel hospitals."

Governor Umar Namadi visited the scene to join in the funeral prayers and offer condolences to the families affected by this tragedy.

Expressing sorrow, Governor Namadi said, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this painful time. We stand in solidarity with those who have lost loved ones and those injured in this tragic incident."

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/senate-reacts-to-jigawa-tanker-explosion-issues-fresh-directive/9fgxl4s">Senate responds to Jigawa tanker explosion with new directive</a>

He assured the community that the state government would cover the injured's medical costs and assist affected families.

"The state government will ensure that those in need receive the necessary support as we continue to work on measures to prevent such tragedies in the future," he added.

The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) reported that 107 people have perished, while 57 others are receiving treatment for severe burns.

Governor Namadi urged the public to avoid accident sites to prevent further harm, emphasising safety and emergency preparedness.

The death toll from the tanker explosion in Jigawa's Majia Local Government Area has tragically risen to 153, with over 100 people hospitalised, according to local authorities.

Death toll hits 153 in Jigawa explosion tragedy

<h2>Rumours about Cameroonian President Paul Biya's health are raising questions about the nation's political future as public anxiety grows over his extended absence. </h2>

The 91-year-old leader has not been seen since attending the China-Africa Summit in early September, with reports suggesting he may be recovering in Switzerland or receiving treatment in France.

The lack of official updates has sparked concern about succession plans for the president, who has ruled for over four decades.

In an open letter to Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, the director of Cameroon’s Civil Cabinet, lawyer Christian Ntimbane demanded government transparency regarding Biya's condition.

"If he is on vacation, say so. If he is sick, say that too," Ntimbane urged, noting that the public's concerns deserve a clear response.

As media coverage around Biya’s absence intensifies, Cameroonians worry about potential instability in the event of his passing.

<h3>Public opinion on social media divided</h3>

Many users on X (formerly Twitter) speculate that France may be positioning Biya’s eldest son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as his successor, possibly indicating a push for a dynastic transition.

Others see this as an opportunity for change, suggesting that Cameroon could be on the cusp of a new political chapter after Biya’s long-standing rule.

Political insiders, including Cameroon Concord, report that a succession plan may already be in place, with Robert Nkili, Biya’s brother-in-law, expected to serve as interim president. However, opposition figures like Maurice Kamto are likely to resist any dynastic handover, calling instead for democratic reforms.

President Biya has held power since 1982, making him Africa's second-longest-serving leader and the oldest head of state worldwide.

His prolonged silence and the government’s refusal to clarify his status have amplified public uncertainty over Cameroon’s future, stirring debates about a potential power shift.

Cameroon's President Paul Biya waits for the arrival of France's President Emmanuel Macron (unseen) for talks at the Presidential Palace in Yaounde, on July 26, 2022. [Getty Images]

Rumours about Cameroonian President Paul Biya's health are raising questions about the nation's political future as public anxiety grows over his extended absence.

President Paul Biya’s absence fuels death rumours

<h2>A 12-year-old boy has been arrested for stabbing six children at a school in Azambuja, near Lisbon. </h2>

The attack occurred on Tuesday, September 17, leaving one boy with a serious chest injury and five girls with minor arm injuries, according to Portuguese national police. The victims, aged between 11 and 14, were swiftly treated after the incident.

Azambuja Mayor Silvino Lúcio confirmed that the seriously injured boy was transported to a hospital in Lisbon.

While his injuries are severe, doctors have stated that his life is not in danger. The remaining five children sustained minor injuries.

The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and authorities have launched an investigation to understand what led to this violent act.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/police-identify-cop-who-stabbed-man-to-death-in-lagos-mall-begin-probe/dpm24l4">Police identify cop who stabbed man to death in Lagos mall, begin probe</a>

The attacker is currently in police custody as authorities continue to probe the circumstances of the event.

Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro condemned the incident, describing it as an “isolated attack” that is rare in the country.

“It was an isolated act and a strange occurrence in Portuguese society, but one that should make everyone who works in public space reflect with a sense of responsibility,” Montenegro wrote on social media platform X.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Condeno nos termos mais veementes o ataque ocorrido na Escola Básica na Azambuja e faço votos de plena e rápida recuperação aos alunos feridos. Tratou-se de um ato isolado e de um fenómeno estranho à sociedade portuguesa, mas que deve fazer refletir com sentido de…&mdash; Luís Montenegro (@LMontenegropm) <a href="https://twitter.com/LMontenegropm/status/1836075481575166409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The normally peaceful community of Azambuja has been left shaken as investigations continue.

The tragic incident occurred at Azambuja, a small community near Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. [Getty Images]

A 12-year-old boy has been arrested for stabbing six children at a school in Azambuja, near Lisbon.

12-year-old boy arrested for stabbing 6 school children

<h2>Authorities have identified Ryan Wesley Routh as the suspect behind an attempted assassination on former US President Donald Trump. </h2>

The 58-year-old, who has a history of political commentary and an arrest record spanning decades, was reportedly arrested after a dramatic confrontation near Trump's golf course in Florida.

Routh, carrying an AK-47 style rifle, had emerged from shrubbery before fleeing in a black vehicle. The US Secret Service agents on duty opened fire, but he managed to escape before being tracked down.

AFP had previously interviewed Routh in Kyiv in 2022, during which time he expressed his support for Ukraine amid Russia's invasion.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/trumps-shooting-dirty-politics-in-us-and-nigeria/6cj2y99">Trump's Shooting: The interplay of dirty politics in US and Nigeria</a>

He had also made social media posts advocating for Ukraine's fight against Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In one such post, he declared his willingness to fight for Ukraine, saying, "I am willing to fly to Krakow and go to the border of Ukraine to volunteer and fight and die… We must win."

CNN and CBS have described Routh as a self-employed affordable housing builder from Hawaii.

He had been vocal on political matters, sometimes expressing criticism of Trump, the current Republican presidential candidate.

This incident comes at a time of high political tensions, with the upcoming US presidential election potentially extending either President Joe Biden's policies on Ukraine or President Trump's ambiguous stance on the war.

US former President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump at a press conference at Trump Tower following the oral arguments.CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images

Authorities have identified Ryan Wesley Routh as the suspect behind an attempted assassination on former US President Donald Trump.

Suspect identified in fresh attempt on Trump's life

<h2>A 36-year-old Nigerian pilot, Olukayode Ojo, is facing a five-year prison sentence in Texas after being convicted of making false statements to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). </h2>

U.S. District Judge Jodi Dishman ordered Ojo's detention following the guilty verdict. The sentence has yet to be determined.

The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma, Robert Troester, announced the conviction on Monday, August 26, via the FAA's official website.

According to Troester, Ojo made false statements while attempting to secure a First Class Medical Certificate, a crucial requirement for piloting commercial passenger aircraft.

"On June 4, 2024, a federal jury returned a two-count superseding indictment against Ojo, charging him with two counts of making a false statement. On August 16, 2024, a federal jury found Ojo guilty on both counts," Troester revealed, according to Punch.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/reps-demand-canadian-action-on-nigerian-womans-threatening-hate-speech/8qytrsp">Reps petition Canada over hate speech, genocide threat made by Nigerian woman</a>

The case, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jackson Eldridge and Matt Dillon, stemmed from an investigation by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Evidence presented during the trial highlighted that Ojo had previously pleaded guilty to two misdemeanour theft charges in Kentucky, linked to the theft of passenger luggage at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

He later concealed these convictions while applying for the FAA certificate in 2023 and 2024.

Ojo now faces a potential five-year federal prison term and fines of up to $250,000 for each count.

The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma, Robert Troester, announced the conviction of Olukayode Ojo on Monday, August 26, via the FAA's official website. [Getty Images/Punch]

A 36-year-old Nigerian pilot, Olukayode Ojo, is facing a five-year prison sentence in Texas after being convicted of making false statements to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

US court convicts Nigerian pilot for false statements, faces 5 years sentence

<h2>Thousands of international students are protesting across Canada as the federal government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, introduces sweeping immigration reforms. </h2>

According to City News Toronto, approximately 70,000 international students have taken to the streets in provinces including Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia.

The discontent stems from recent policy changes that have significantly impacted international students. In 2021, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program was abolished, a critical pathway for students to gain work experience in Canada after completing their studies.

Last year, the government further tightened immigration rules by imposing a two-year cap on international student visas.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/abike-shares-photo-of-woman-who-threatened-to-poison-nigerians-in-canada/dczex5y">Abike Dabiri shares photo of woman who threatened to poison Nigerians in Canada</a>

<h3>Canada's stern immigration policy</h3>

The effects of these changes are far-reaching. In 2023, international students made up 37 percent of Canada’s study visa holders, but the government expects a 35 percent reduction in foreign student intake due to the new visa cap.

This move comes amid growing concerns about housing shortages and unemployment, with some blaming international students for exacerbating these issues.

Student advocacy groups, such as the Naujawan Support Network, warn that many graduates could face deportation once their work permits expire at the end of the year.

“I spent six years taking risks to come to Canada... but the government has taken advantage of us,” said Mehakdeep Singh, a former international student now facing deportation.

New provincial policies reducing permanent residency nominations by 25% have further complicated the situation, intensifying the fears and frustrations of those affected.

In 2021, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program was abolished, a critical pathway for students to gain work experience in Canada after completing their studies. [The Global and Mail]

Thousands of international students are protesting across Canada as the federal government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, introduces sweeping immigration reforms.

Protests across Canada as 70,000 foreign students face deportation

<h2>Four individuals have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in a large-scale immigration scam involving the forgery of over 2,000 marriage certificates. </h2>

According to the Home Office, the fraudulent documents were used to help Nigerian nationals live illegally in the UK.

The convicted individuals—Abraham Alade Olarotimi Onifade, 41; Abayomi Aderinsoye Shodipo, 38; Nosimot Mojisola Gbadamosi, 31; and Adekunle Kabir, 54—were sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court in London on Tuesday, August 27.

Sky News reported that the group was part of an organised criminal network that specialised in making false applications to the EU Settlement Scheme.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/uk-court-sentences-6-nigerians-to-prison-for-pound10m-fraud/264xbs6">UK court finds 6 Nigerians guilty of internet fraud</a>

"This group was absolutely prolific in their desire to abuse our borders and have rightly been brought to justice.

"As with many gangs we encounter, their sole priority was financial gain. I am delighted that my team was able to intercept their operation, and I hope these convictions will serve as a warning to unscrupulous gangs who exploit people's desperation to remain in the UK," said Paul Moran, the Home Office's chief immigration officer.

<h3>How UK govt busted crime syndicate</h3>

The fraudulent activities spanned from March 2019 to May 2023 and involved not only forged Nigerian Customary Marriage Certificates but also other falsified documents.

The Home Office's investigation, conducted in both the UK and Lagos, uncovered more than 2,000 fake marriage certificates facilitated by the group, all of whom were Nigerian nationals.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/fg-writes-uk-requests-diezanis-extradition-over-alleged-dollar25bn-fraud/cydrm2z">FG writes UK, requests Diezani's extradition over alleged $2.5bn fraud</a>

Onifade, from Gravesend, and Shodipo, from Manchester, received sentences of six and five years, respectively, for conspiracy to facilitate illegal entry into the UK and conspiracy to provide articles used in fraud.

Gbadamosi, from Bolton, was sentenced to six years for obtaining leave to remain by deception and fraud by false representation.

Kabir, from London, received a nine-month sentence for possession of an identity document with improper intention.

The Home Office's investigation, conducted in both the UK and Lagos, uncovered more than 2,000 fake marriage certificates facilitated by the group, all of whom were Nigerian nationals. [Sky News]

Four individuals have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in a large-scale immigration scam involving the forgery of over 2,000 marriage certificates.

4 Nigerians jailed for forging over 2,000 marriage certificates in UK

<h2>A Nigerian man has been arrested for allegedly defrauding the United States government of at least $10 million in COVID-19 unemployment benefits. </h2>

The suspect, Yomi Jones Olayeye, also known as "Sabbie," was detained on August 13 at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York upon his arrival from Lagos, Nigeria.

According to a statement released on Monday, August 19, by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts, Olayeye, along with several co-conspirators, is accused of orchestrating a sophisticated scheme that targeted three pandemic assistance programs administered by the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance.

The programs involved are Traditional Unemployment Insurance (UI), <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/metro/nigerian-goes-to-us-prison-over-naira2-billion-covid-19-benefits-fraud/30vbxzc">Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA),</a> and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC).

Between March and July 2020, Olayeye and his associates allegedly used personally identifiable information (PII) purchased from criminal internet forums to apply for unemployment benefits fraudulently.

"Olayeye and his co-conspirators falsely represented themselves to be eligible state residents affected by the COVID-19 pandemic," the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

The <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/2-nigerians-sentenced-in-us-for-massive-fraud-operation-during-covid-19-pandemic/1514cxx">suspects allegedly opened U.S. bank accounts</a> and prepaid debit card accounts to receive the funds using the stolen PII.

They also recruited U.S.-based account holders to receive and transfer the fraudulent proceeds via cash transfer applications. The illicit gains were then used to purchase Bitcoin through online marketplaces.

Olayeye and his co-conspirators reportedly received over $1.5 million in fraudulent assistance payments. If convicted, Olayeye faces up to 20 years in prison for wire fraud, with an additional two years for aggravated identity theft.

He made his first court appearance in New York on August 14 and is scheduled to appear in federal court in Boston today.

An image for illustration. [Meta AI Image]

A Nigerian man has been arrested for allegedly defrauding the United States government of at least $10 million in COVID-19 unemployment benefits.

US authorities arrest Nigerian for $10m pandemic benefits fraud

<h2>According to the Federal Government, Nigeria is fast becoming the go-to destination for African nations seeking high-tech military hardware. </h2>

This revelation was made by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, during a news conference marking the 60th anniversary of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).

Matawalle highlighted the significance of DICON's evolving role under the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, noting that the corporation's advancements reflect the Ministry of Defence's commitment to modernising Nigeria's military capabilities.

Segun Adeyemi

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