EVENTS
Court Grants Bail to Former Taraba Governor Darius Ishaku Amid N27 Billion Fraud Charge.
Published
3 months agoon
By
Ekwutos Blog
In a significant development, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has granted bail to Darius Ishaku, the former governor of Taraba State, along with his co-defendant, Bello Yero, who faces serious allegations of fraud totaling N27 billion.
This decision was made on Thursday following their arraignment earlier in the week.
Judge S.C. Oriji ordered the defendants to secure bail set at N150 million each and to provide two sureties who must be residents of Abuja, with their addresses verified by the court’s registrar .
Initially, the defendants were remanded in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after pleading not guilty to 15 counts of criminal breach of trust, conspiracy, and illegal conversion of public funds.
The EFCC, which had previously opposed the bail request, later indicated no objections, as the defendants had adhered to their administrative bail conditions prior to this hearing. The case is set to resume on November 4, 2024.
Background of the Allegations
The EFCC’s charges stem from alleged diversions of local government funds, specifically a contingency fund of 2.5% allocated to the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Taraba State.
Notable instances of misappropriation include:
– Approximately N1 billion diverted for personal use between August 2015 and March 2016
– Additional allegations of diversions totaling over N650 million from January 2019 to April 2021
These serious accusations highlight the challenges of governance and financial accountability in public office, particularly during Ishaku’s tenure as governor from 2015 to May 2023 🕊️. Both Ishaku and Yero have maintained their innocence amidst the unfolding legal proceedings.
As the trial approaches, the implications of this case on governance and public trust remain paramount, with many watching closely as the judicial process unfolds.
Conclusion
In a climate where accountability is increasingly demanded from public officials, the outcome of Ishaku’s case may serve as a crucial benchmark for future governance practices in Nigeria .
Stakeholders and citizens alike are encouraged to stay informed as this high-profile case progresses through the legal system.
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When attending a U.S. visa interview, the questions can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for (e.g., tourist visa, student visa, work visa, etc.), but there are some common questions that are typically asked across different visa categories. Here are some questions you may encounter:
Published
2 days agoon
December 28, 2024By
Ekwutos BlogWhen attending a U.S. visa interview, the questions can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for (e.g., tourist visa, student visa, work visa, etc.), but there are some common questions that are typically asked across different visa categories. Here are some questions you may encounter:
General Questions:
1. Why do you want to go to the United States?
– The officer wants to understand your purpose of travel, whether it’s for tourism, study, work, or something else.
2. What will you do in the U.S.?
– Be clear and specific about your plans.
3. How long do you plan to stay in the U.S.?
– Provide the exact duration of your stay based on your visa type.
4. Who is funding your trip?
– Be prepared to show proof of financial support, whether it’s your own funds or a sponsor.
5. Do you have relatives in the U.S.?
– If you do, the officer may ask about their relationship to you and their status in the U.S.
6. What is your current occupation?
– They may ask about your job or educational background.
7. Do you plan to return to your home country?
– They want to ensure that you have strong ties to your home country, such as a job, family, or property, that will motivate you to return after your stay.
8. Have you ever been to the U.S. before?
– If yes, they may ask about the purpose of your previous visits.
Student Visa (F-1):
1. Why did you choose this particular university or school?
– Explain why you selected this institution, and mention any academic programs or research that interests you.
2. How will you pay for your education and living expenses in the U.S.?
– You may need to provide financial evidence, such as bank statements, affidavits of support, or scholarships.
3. What is your academic background?
– Discuss your previous studies and how they relate to your course of study in the U.S.
4. What are your plans after completing your studies?
– The officer may ask about your long-term goals, including whether you plan to return to your home country.
Tourist Visa (B-2):
1. What places do you plan to visit in the U.S.?
– Be prepared to provide a rough itinerary for your trip.
2. How do you plan to support yourself financially during your stay?
– You may need to provide financial documents such as bank statements or evidence of income.
3. What ties do you have to your home country?
– The goal is to prove that you will return home after your visit, so mention your job, family, or other obligations.
4. Do you have travel insurance?
– This is optional but may be asked.
Work Visa (H-1B, L-1, etc.):
1. What is your job in the U.S.?
– Describe your role, employer, and the nature of your work.
2. Why are you being transferred to the U.S. or hired by a U.S. company?
– For transfer visas, be prepared to explain why your skills are needed in the U.S. and why your company has chosen to bring you over.
3. What is your salary or compensation package in the U.S.?
– You may be asked about the terms of your employment.
4. How long do you intend to stay in the U.S.?
– This will typically depend on the duration of your work contract.
Visa Denial or Refusal:
If your visa is denied, the officer might provide a brief explanation, but they are not required to go into detail. The most common reasons for refusal are insufficient evidence of ties to your home country or failure to meet the visa eligibility requirements.
Tips:
– Be honest in your answers; dishonesty can lead to a visa denial.
– Be clear and concise.Don’t give unnecessary details, but do answer the questions directly.
– Be prepared with documentation that supports your answers (financial documents, letters from schools or employers, etc.).
– Stay calm and composed.The visa interview can be stressful, but remain polite and confident.
Good luck on your interview.
EVENTS
Nollywood Star Biodun Okeowo, “Omoborty,” Exchanges Vows in Intimate Legal Ceremony on Her Special Day (Photos)
Published
3 days agoon
December 27, 2024By
Ekwutos Blog
In a joyous celebration, Nigerian actress Biodun Okeowo, fondly known as Omoborty, has formally sealed her love with a romantic partner in a heartfelt legal wedding ceremony. This milestone comes months after their vibrant traditional wedding.
Omoborty shared her delight with fans on Instagram, posting breathtaking photos from the ceremony, accompanied by a poignant message. Reflecting on the unforgettable day, she revealed that the ceremony coincided with her birthday, rendering the moment truly unforgettable.
The actress confirmed that all formalities had been observed, proudly declaring, “With traditional, official, and legal formalities complete, I’m honored to introduce myself as Mrs. Biodun Sofuyi Olabiyi.”
Omoborty expressed heartfelt gratitude and optimism for her future, describing the wedding as her first and forever union.
Photo source: Instagram
EVENTS
Wizkid Makes a Splash with Multibillion-Naira Twin Mansions in Ikoyi, Lagos
Published
3 days agoon
December 27, 2024By
Ekwutos Blog
Afrobeats sensation Wizkid has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry with his lavish acquisition of twin duplexes in Ikoyi, Lagos. The luxurious properties, each valued at a staggering N1.2 billion, bring the total cost to an impressive N2.4 billion.
The breathtaking mansions boast exquisite designs and sumptuous interiors, leaving fans and online enthusiasts mesmerized. Shared images of the properties have garnered widespread acclaim, with many hailing Wizkid’s phenomenal accomplishment.
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