By Francesca Hangeior

Business woman Mrs. Aisha Achimugu has said she honoured an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

She thanked the anti-graft agency for its professionalism.

Achimugu’s lawyers, Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN) and Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), said in a statement that Achimumu arrived in Nigeria early Tuesday in response to the EFCC invitation of March 4 to assist in an ongoing investigation.

The statement reads: “Mrs. Achimugu had been temporarily out of the country due to several other scheduled incidents when the EFCC issued its invitation.

“In line with her respect for lawful institutions and her sense of civic duty, she communicated openly and consistently with the EFCC during her time abroad.

“She formally wrote to the Commission twice on 5th and 12th March, 2025, clearly stating her commitment to return and make herself available to assist in the ongoing investigation at the earliest time. Both letters outlined April 28th and 29th, as her confirmed return date.

“Upon landing at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at 5:00am, Mrs. Achimugu, without delay, proceeded directly to the EFCC headquarters, fulfilling her promise and demonstrating her respect for due process and the integrity of Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions.

“Mrs. Achimugu reiterates her full commitment to cooperate with the EFCC and any relevant authorities.

“As a law-abiding citizen and advocate for transparency and accountability, she views this process as a necessary part of public service and remains confident that her cooperation will contribute positively to the Commission’s efforts.

“We also wish to extend our profound appreciation to the EFCC for the professionalism, maturity, and patience displayed in handling her temporary absence.

“Their conduct throughout this period has been both measured and exemplary, reflecting an agency committed not only to justice but also to fairness and respect for individual rights and circumstances.

“Mrs. Achimugu continues to be an advocate of the rule of law and believes in the responsibility of every Nigerian to uphold the credibility and accountability of our institutions.”

Ex-Cross River State Governor, Major General Paul Omu, rtd, is dead.

Omu died at the age of 84.

The family in a statement on Wednesday signed by Oghenekome Ufuoma Omu confirmed his passage stating that:

“With gratitude to God for a life of distinguished service and accomplishments, the family of General Paul Ufuoma Omu (Rtd), of Igbide, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, announces his passing on April 29, 2025, at the age of 84.

“Maj-General Paul Ufuoma Omu was a family man, patriot, statesman, soldier, and community leader whose life was marked by unwavering commitment to the service of Nigeria and his beloved Isoko Nation.

“A distinguished career Military Officer, General Omu rose through the ranks of the Nigerian Army, serving with honor and distinction.

He held various strategic command and administrative positions, including serving as Military Governor of the South-Eastern State (now Cross River and Akwa Ibom States) from July 1975 to July 1978. During his tenure, he initiated and implemented critical infrastructural and policy reforms that laid the foundation for the region’s growth.

In 1985, Gen. Omu was appointed Commnader Command and Staff College and a member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council, the highest ruling body in Nigeria as at then.

In the political landscape, General Omu played a key role in Nigeria’s transition to democracy. He was appointed Chairman of the Constitutional Conference Commission in 1994, helping shape the constitutional discourse that would influence Nigeria’s return to civil rule. His leadership, insight, and patriotism earned him national respect and admiration.

In September 2009, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua appointed Gen. Omu Chairman of the 10-member Governing Board of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).

Beyond his military and political service, General Omu remained deeply committed to the development of his homeland, Isoko Nation.

As President of the Isoko Development Union (IDU) between 2014 to 2015, he championed unity, education, and economic advancement, leaving behind a legacy of community empowerment and inclusive development. His tenure was marked by diplomacy, visionary leadership, and relentless advocacy for the rights and progress of the Isoko people.

Maj-General Omu is survived by his beloved wife, Senator Chief (Mrs) Stella Omu, six children, beloved siblings, numerous grandchildren, and a grateful nation that mourns the passing of one of its finest sons.

Burial arrangements will be announced in due course.

By Francesca Hangeior

In a renewed effort to strengthen professionalism and efficiency in investigative policing, the Kano State Police Command has launched a specialised capacity-building training programme for officers and personnel of the Criminal Investigation Department.

The training, which began on Tuesday, April 29, is part of a broader directive from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to equip police personnel with specialised skills essential for effective investigation and prosecution.

A statement issued on Wednesday by the Kano State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said the initiative aims to create a well-trained and motivated police force capable of tackling modern-day security challenges.

Key presentations at the training included “Eliminating Corruption in the NPF,” delivered by Assistant Commissioner of Police CID, ACP Muhammad Wada Jarma; “Extortion and Other Unethical Conduct,” by ACP Mohammed B. Suleiman of the X-Squad; and “Cyber-security Awareness,” presented by Mr. Jessy John from the Cyber-Safe Youth Initiative Organization.

The sessions highlighted the importance of integrity, professionalism, and digital security awareness in modern policing.

In his remarks, the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, praised the resource persons and urged the officers to take full advantage of the opportunity to enhance their investigative skills.

“This is not only a chance to learn but to refresh your knowledge and embrace new developments in the field,” CP Bakori said.

During the event, CP Bakori was honoured with an award by the Cyber-Safe Youth Initiative for his outstanding efforts in promoting digital security within the force. He dedicated the award to the hardworking officers and men of the Command, stating, “This award will further motivate our resolve to confront emerging security challenges and reinforce our commitment to protecting citizens in the digital age.”

He added that similar training initiatives would be held periodically across all departments to adapt to the dynamic nature of policing in today’s society.

The command emphasised that through such initiatives, it seeks to boost the investigative capacity of its officers, ultimately contributing to a safer and more secure environment for all residents.