Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas LTD to appeal Federal High ruling over forfeiture assets

Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Limited has said it will appeal to the recent ruling of the Federal High Court ordering the forfeiture of certain assets.

Barr. Nnenna Onyeaso, the Company Secretary said in a statement on Thursday insisting that neither the company nor its leadership was found guilty of any wrongdoing.

Onyeaso said that the firm has described the court’s decision as a civil asset forfeiture order based on suspicion rather than proof, stressing that the judgment did not establish any criminal liability against the organisation.

According to her, the company maintain that it has already directed its legal team to file an appeal, expressing confidence in the judicial process and the outcome of a thorough review of the case.

“To be clear, this ruling is a civil asset forfeiture order with no finding of wrongdoing against Oceangate or its leadership.

“The court’s decision rested on a legal standard of suspicion, not proof, and it is one we intend to pursue fully through the appeals process,” she said in a statement.
The firm secretary also said that Oceangate has reiterated its belief in the rule of law, noting that the appellate system exists to address such outcomes.

She added that the company remained confident that the facts of the case will ultimately affirm its integrity and business practices.

Onyeaso said that the firm also emphasised that its operations remained unaffected, stating that it continues to provide employment for many Nigerians while contributing to the country’s energy sector and broader economy.

“We have always believed in the ability of the judicial process, and that belief has not wavered,” she added.

She noted that Oceangate further expressed appreciation to its employees, partners, and clients for their continued support amid the development, assuring stakeholders of its commitment to transparency and accountability.

The Secretary said that the company reaffirmed its confidence in Nigeria as a viable destination for investment, describing the country as a land of equity, growth, and opportunity.

“We remain committed to the continued growth of our business and the communities we serve as we are optimistic that justice will prevail at the end of the legal process.

Chicago-Based Nigerian Businessman, Yomi Akingbade under Scrutiny Over Alleged Workplace Misconduct

+ Audio of one of his misconducts

In the ever-evolving landscape of diaspora entrepreneurship, stories of Nigerians abroad investing back home are often celebrated as symbols of progress and economic contribution.

However, recent accounts surrounding a Chicago-based Nigerian businessman have begun to raise serious concerns among former associates and employees in Nigeria.

The businessman, Yomi Akingbade who has spent several years residing in Chicago in the United States, is known to operate multiple small-scale ventures in Nigeria from abroad. While he presents himself in elite social circles as a successful investor committed to expanding opportunities back home, several former and existing employees paint a starkly different picture of his management style.

Workers who have been employed in his Nigerian businesses describe an environment marked by intimidation, delayed wages, and excessive pressure.

According to some staff members, management decisions are often communicated through abrupt phone calls and directives from overseas, leaving employees with little room for dialogue or professional input.
More troubling allegations have also emerged from female employees who claim they experienced inappropriate behavior and uncomfortable interactions during their time working under his supervision. Though many have chosen not to speak publicly for fear of professional repercussions, some former staff say the workplace culture was deeply troubling.

According to our reporter, one of Yomi’s domestic staff who preferred anonymity alleged that he had repeatedly made advances of raping her in his house in Lagos. She alleged that she had witnessed how Yomi slept with a cook and despite gracing his bed, she was fired a day she said no. The lady made available to us exclusive voice notes on her Yomi was trying to rape her with a threat.

Rumors circulated among some acquaintances that he was involved with questionable circles and substances that could easily destroy reputations if exposed, a reason he acts weirdly sometimes.

Recently, he began planning a new venture in Nigeria—a transport company that would operate inter-state buses. In conversations with friends, he described it as “the next big money move.” To the outside world, it looked like another ambitious investment by a diaspora entrepreneur.

Yet among some of his workers, the news created anxiety instead of excitement. They wondered whether the new company would simply become another workplace ruled by fear.

Efforts to speak with Yomi Akingbade proved abortive as his Nigeria line rang and no one picked it. A message was also sent to the line but no response as at press time.

Audio

ZENITH BANK ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF KENNEDY OKWUDILI AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ZENITH BANK ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF KENNEDY OKWUDILI AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Zenith Bank Plc has announced the appointment of Mr. Kennedy Onuwa Okwudili as an Executive Director of the bank effective May 1, 2026. The appointment, which is consistent with the bank’s tradition and succession strategy of grooming leaders from within, will further strengthen the bank’s Executive Management.

Mr. Okwudili graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Accounting in 1998 from the University of Maiduguri, Nigeria, with a Second Class Upper division. He obtained a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria in 2008 and a Masters of Science in Accounting from Veritas University, Abuja, Nigeria in 2021.

Mr. Okwudili has over twenty-five years of cognate banking experience spanning credit and marketing, treasury, compliance as well as operations and had at different times worked in various zones and departments of the bank.

He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), 2013, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), 2024 and an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), 2016.

He has attended several Executive Education Programmes both within and outside the country, including: Senior Leadership Development Programme at the Lagos Business School, Corporate Directorship Programme at the Harvard Business School and Oxford Advanced Management and Leadership Programme at the University of Oxford, SAID Business School.

He is currently the President of Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria (CBAN) and a member of the Noble Order of the Knights of St. John International (KSJI).

Three rescued after failed church attack in Kwara

Joint security operatives on Sunday repelled a suspected bandits’ attack on an ECWA Church in the Omugo community of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Kwara State, rescuing three abducted victims in the process.

The attack was reportedly carried out by armed men during a church service, triggering panic among worshippers and residents of the community.

A local source said the gunmen stormed the church premises and whisked away members before security forces swiftly intervened to contain the situation.

An anonymous source from the Kwara South Joint Security Watch told The PUNCH that no fewer than seven persons were abducted during the attack.

“At least seven people were abducted,” the source said, without providing further details.

Confirming the development in a statement on Sunday, the State Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, said security operatives successfully rescued three victims while efforts were ongoing to secure the release of others.

She stated, “We commend the immediate and coordinated response of the security forces, forest guards, and local vigilantes, which led to the rescue of three of the abducted victims and helped to repel the attackers.”

Olukoju added that the government had directed security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend those behind the attack and ensure the safe return of the remaining victims.

“While commending the immediate response of the security forces and other stakeholders, we task them to ensure that the ongoing manhunt leads to the rescue of the remaining victims and the arrest of the perpetrators,” she said.

The commissioner further condemned the targeting of a religious centre, describing the act as both cowardly and unacceptable.

“The Kwara State Government strongly condemns the cowardly targeting of a place of worship under any guise, and we reaffirm that such acts of violence have no place in our communities,” she added.

The commissioner also urged residents to support ongoing security efforts by staying vigilant and cooperating with the relevant authorities.

“We call on community members to continue to work closely with security agencies, forest guards, and local vigilantes to bring an end to this menace and safeguard our communities,” the statement noted.

Olukoju emphasised that ongoing forest combing operations had yielded results in curbing criminal activities in the area.

“We also commend the appreciable progress made in the ongoing combing of the forests, which has significantly curtailed the activities of criminal elements across affected areas,” she said.

The government reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents of sustained collaboration with all security stakeholders.

The PUNCH had earlier reported that security concerns have heightened in the state following intelligence reports of planned coordinated attacks across parts of Kwara South.

The Kwara South Joint Security Watch had earlier warned of possible attacks targeting Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin local government areas.

The group’s Coordinator, Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, confirmed the development, stating that intelligence indicated planned strikes on March 23 and March 28, 2026.

“Yes, it is from the intelligence that we gathered that they are planning to strike, and we don’t want to take anything for granted,” he said.

He added that security agencies have begun deploying military and paramilitary personnel, alongside air surveillance, to forestall the anticipated attacks.

Wisdom: The Principal Catalyst for Breaking Evil Patterns — Dr. Chris Okafor

Wisdom: The Principal Catalyst for
Breaking Evil Patterns — Dr. Chris Okafor

…“Demonic patterns persist until someone
rises to confront and change them.”

+ Grace Nation Global also used the occasion to celebrate mothers with special prayers and thanksgiving

Understanding how to break negative cycles requires more than desire—it demands insight, discipline, and the right spiritual principles. This formed the foundation of the teaching delivered by the Generational Prophet of God and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Worldwide, Christopher Okafor, during the Divine Intervention and Breakthrough Service held at the church’s international headquarters in Ojodu Berger, Lagos, Nigeria.

Understanding Ungodly Patterns

Preaching in the ongoing series “Patterns,” with the subtitle “Ungodly Patterns,” Dr. Okafor explained that recurring negative experiences within families are often sustained by underlying spiritual forces and long-standing practices.
According to him, covenant practices, consistent spiritual discipline, and kingdom commitment are among the channels through which individuals can break free from such patterns.
“Demonic patterns do not end on their own,” he said. “They remain until someone rises with understanding and takes responsibility to change the narrative.”
The Role of Prayer and Spiritual Discipline
The cleric emphasized that strategic and intentional prayer is central to rewriting one’s life story. He described prayer as giving God the legal ground to intervene in human affairs.
However, he cautioned that prayer without corresponding action may delay results.

“When you pray without enforcement, results may be slow,” he noted. “But when prayer is backed by commitment, sacrifice, and alignment with God’s principles, answers come swiftly, and long-standing patterns are broken.”
Breaking Curses and Negative Cycles

Dr. Okafor further described curses as spiritual forces that keep individuals trapped in repeated cycles. He stressed that breaking such patterns requires spiritual awareness, obedience to divine instruction, and alignment with godly authority.

He also highlighted the importance of honouring both biological and spiritual guidance, noting that such alignment can play a role in overcoming entrenched limitations.

“When you follow divine instruction and remain committed,” he said, “you position yourself for freedom, and what once held your family bound begins to lose its grip.”

Service Highlights
The Divine Intervention and Breakthrough Service featured moments of deliverance, healing, miracles, restoration, and testimonies from attendees who reported positive changes in their lives.

Celebration of Mothers

The service also included a special segment dedicated to celebrating mothers across Grace Nation Global.
In his remarks, Dr. Okafor described women as pillars of society and emphasized the need to honour and appreciate their sacrifices.

He prayed for all women in the ministry, declaring that they would live to enjoy the fruits of their labour and witness the fulfillment of their destinies.

“None will die before their glory manifests,” he declared. “Every woman who has laboured will reap in joy.”
He further pronounced blessings on expectant mothers, expressing faith that by the same time next year, many would return with testimonies of fulfilled desires.

– Sunday Adeyemi

Adron Homes Deepens Commitment to Cultural Heritage, Sponsors 39th Lisabi Festival

Adron Homes and Properties Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and fostering community development through its sponsorship of the 39th edition of the Lisabi Festival, one of the most revered cultural celebrations of the Egba people.

Held under the distinguished leadership of Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the festival remains a symbolic institution that celebrates the unity, resilience, and historical legacy of Egbaland. It pays tribute to the legendary warrior Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, whose courage and leadership united the Egba people and secured their freedom.

Through this strategic sponsorship, Adron Homes and Properties Limited continues to position itself not only as a leading real estate developer but also as a custodian of culture and a partner in sustaining the traditions that shape communities across Nigeria.

Speaking on the importance of the festival, Oba Gbadebo emphasized that Lisabi serves as a vital platform for preserving the Egba people’s values, traditions, and identity, while inspiring younger generations to remain connected to their cultural roots.

For Adron Homes, the partnership reflects a deliberate alignment with the socio-cultural aspirations of Egbaland. By supporting the festival, the company is contributing meaningfully to the preservation of indigenous heritage, the promotion of unity, and the celebration of a people whose influence continues to shape the cultural landscape of Abeokuta and beyond.

Notably, Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State is also home to key Adron Homes developments, including the prestigious Adron Homes Sunrise Park and Gardens located in Alabata, and Southgate Park and Gardens Estate in Alamala. These flagship estates further reinforce the company’s deep-rooted presence and long-term investment in the socio-economic growth of the region.

The 2026 edition of the Lisabi Festival, themed “Integrating Apprenticeship Training into Education: Opportunities and Challenges,” highlights the intersection between tradition and modern development, an area where Adron Homes continues to make an impact through its community-driven initiatives.

The festival will feature a vibrant lineup of cultural and social activities, including the iconic Woro procession, traditional rites, arts and crafts exhibitions, educational programmes, and community engagements, all reflecting the richness of Egba heritage.

Adron Homes Felicitates with Muslims, Nigerians on Eid al-Fitr Celebration

Adron Homes has extended warm felicitations to its Muslim customers and Nigerians at large on the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a goodwill message released to commemorate the celebration, the company described Eid al-Fitr as a significant period of gratitude, reflection, and spiritual renewal, following a month devoted to fasting, prayer, sacrifice, and self-discipline.

Adron Group commended the Muslim faithful for their devotion, resilience, and commitment to the values of faith, compassion, and service to humanity, noting that these virtues are essential for fostering unity, peace, and sustainable national development.

The company emphasized that the lessons of Ramadan, selflessness, empathy, and generosity, should continue to guide individual and collective conduct beyond the festive season, especially in promoting harmony and supporting the less privileged in society.

“As we celebrate Eid al-Fitr, we urge Nigerians to embrace the spirit of unity and peaceful coexistence, which are critical to building a stronger and more prosperous nation,” the statement read.

Adron Group also reaffirmed its commitment to delivering value to its customers and contributing meaningfully to community development, while celebrating the diversity that strengthens its workforce and customer base.

The company expressed appreciation to its customers for their continued trust and loyalty, assuring them of its dedication to excellence in service delivery.

Adron Group concluded by wishing all Muslim faithful a joyful and peaceful Eid celebration, praying that the blessings of the season bring continued guidance, prosperity, and abundant grace to all Nigerians.

ZENITH BANK OPENS MANCHESTER BRANCH TO SUPPORT CROSS-BORDER TRADE AND INVESTMENT

Zenith Bank Plc has announced the opening of a new branch in Manchester, United Kingdom, marking another significant milestone in the bank’s international growth and its commitment to strengthening financial connections between Africa and global markets.

The official opening ceremony, scheduled to hold on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, is expected to attract government officials from Nigeria and the United Kingdom, regulators, investors, customers, and business leaders from both countries, underscoring the growing economic ties and investment opportunities between the two markets.

The new Manchester branch will complement Zenith Bank’s existing operations in the United Kingdom and serve as a strategic hub for supporting businesses engaged in international trade and investment. Through the branch, the bank will provide corporate banking, trade finance, treasury and related financial services to clients operating across the United Kingdom, Europe and Africa.

Speaking ahead of the launch, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, said: “The opening of our Manchester branch represents another important step in Zenith Bank’s growth as a leading African financial institution connecting businesses and markets across continents. Manchester is one of the United Kingdom’s most dynamic commercial centres, and our presence here will further strengthen financial connections between businesses in the UK and opportunities across Africa’s rapidly expanding markets.”

Founded in 1990 by its Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s most respected banking institutions, boasting a robust capital base and a remarkable history of year-on-year profitability. Built on a strong foundation of people, technology and service, the Bank has consistently delivered innovative financial solutions while maintaining a disciplined approach to growth and risk management. The impressive performance of the Bank has consistently earned it excellent ratings, recognition and endorsement from local and international agencies and institutions.

Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Zenith Bank operates over 500 branches and business offices across the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Bank currently operates subsidiaries in several African countries including Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Cote d’Ivoire, while maintaining a presence in major international financial centres including the United Kingdom, France, UAE and China. In recent years, Zenith Bank has continued to expand its international network as part of its strategy to support global trade and investment flows involving Africa.

Manchester, widely regarded as one of the United Kingdom’s most vibrant economic centres, hosts a diverse base of businesses across sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, logistics, technology and consumer goods. The city’s strong commercial ecosystem and international outlook align closely with Zenith Bank’s expertise in corporate banking, structured finance and trade finance.

The Manchester branch will work closely with the Bank’s London operations and its broader international network to support clients seeking to expand across markets and unlock new opportunities in both the United Kingdom and Africa.

With the opening of the Manchester branch, Zenith Bank continues to advance its vision of building a truly global African banking institution that connects businesses, facilitates trade and investment, and creates stronger economic bridges between Africa and the world.

Security Crackdown at Akure Airport: Four Suspected Bandits Arrested

Security operatives have arrested four suspected bandits at the Akure Airport in Ondo State.

In a statement issued late Sunday, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said the suspects were apprehended during a coordinated security operation involving aviation security personnel and other local security agencies.

According to FAAN, the individuals were first spotted behind the airport’s perimeter fence near the Eleyewo community.

The agency said security personnel, including FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and other local security groups, immediately launched a joint search operation in response to the sighting.

During the operation, some individuals reportedly attempted to flee the area, but four suspects were captured by the security team. The suspects have since been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further questioning.

In the statement signed by Henry Adegbire, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the authority commended the swift collaboration among aviation security officials, the military, the police, and local security outfits, including Amotekun and community vigilantes.

FAAN said the incident highlights the need to strengthen security around airport perimeters, noting that phased efforts are already underway to enhance protection across airports under its management against illegal access and other threats.

The authority also assured travellers and host communities of its continued commitment to ensuring the safety and security of airport facilities nationwide.

Meanwhile, Ondo State has witnessed a surge in attacks by gunmen in recent weeks.

On March 3, protesters from the Ayede Ogbese community in Akure North Local Government Area blocked the Akure-Owo-Benin highway to protest repeated killings and abductions in the area.

Similarly, on March 10, residents of Ilu-Abo and neighbouring communities in the same local government area barricaded the Akure-Owo expressway over increasing cases of kidnapping.

During the protest, demonstrators placed the remains of a kidnap victim on the highway while chanting solidarity songs, causing heavy traffic on the busy road linking the southern and northern parts of the country.

Nigerian Military Arrests Bandit Who Promoted Terror Activities on TikTok

The Nigerian military has arrested a suspected bandit identified as Sule Yellow, who allegedly used the TikTok account @suleyellow6 to promote terrorist activities.

According to a report shared by @mobilisingniger on X on Monday, the suspect was arrested shortly after he reportedly collected ransom money from the family of a kidnapping victim.

Before his arrest, Sule Yellow had been actively posting on TikTok, where he allegedly showcased the operations and activities of bandits.

On March 4, he was said to have appeared in a livestream alongside another suspected bandit known as Auta, along with several others.

Security sources revealed that operatives had been monitoring his online activities for some time before carrying out the operation that led to his arrest.

Following his capture, authorities also disabled the TikTok account believed to be linked to him.

“The Nigerian Military arrests a notorious bandit Sule Yellow after collecting ransom payment from the victim’s family,” the post stated, adding that security forces shut down his account after the arrest.

Culled – Daily Post