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Polaris Bank Pledges Continuous Partnership with NDLEA to Combat Drug Abuse, Trafficking, and Money Laundering

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Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the fight against drug abuse, trafficking, and money laundering in Nigeria and beyond.

 

The pledge was made by the Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Kayode Lawal, during a courtesy visit by a 15-member NDLEA management team to the Bank’s headquarters in Lagos last Wednesday.

 

Polaris Bank has been a longstanding supporter of NDLEA’s mission, sponsoring advocacy initiatives, and media campaigns, and providing tools and infrastructure to aid the agency’s operations.

 

Speaking during the visit, Mr. Lawal emphasized that the partnership is rooted in shared values and social responsibility, stating, “The essence of Polaris Bank is not just profitability but fulfilling a moral obligation to society. Our collaboration with NDLEA underscores our commitment to combating crime and protecting our communities.”

 

He further noted that the Bank’s social responsibility efforts go beyond compliance, highlighting Polaris Bank’s resolve to deepen its partnership with the NDLEA in addressing pressing societal issues.

 

In appreciation, the NDLEA delegation decorated Mr. Lawal for his and the Bank’s outstanding contributions in supporting the agency’s objectives.

 

The Bank’s Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), Charles Oso, was also honored for his leadership in maintaining strong compliance and anti-money laundering systems within the Bank.

 

The NDLEA team, led by the Director of Assets and Financial Investigation, representing the Chairman/CEO, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, praised Polaris Bank’s consistent partnership and advocacy efforts, especially in supporting drug rehabilitation programs across Nigeria.

 

The agency acknowledged that under the leadership of Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retired), NDLEA has made significant progress through advocacy, enforcement, and support services, including the establishment of free toll lines for drug-related assistance.

 

The NDLEA representative lauded the enduring relationship with Polaris Bank, citing the Bank’s meaningful impact in boosting the agency’s operational effectiveness and strategic initiatives.

 

Polaris Bank’s efforts were recognized as pivotal in enhancing the national response to drug-related crimes, with the NDLEA noting that the Bank stands out as a committed private sector partner in tackling drug abuse and financial crimes.

 

Present at the reception were Polaris Bank’s Executive Directors: Chris Ofikulu, Abimbola Ozomah, and Sharafadeen Muhammed, who joined the MD in welcoming the NDLEA delegation.

 

Polaris Bank, named Nigeria’s Digital Bank of the Year from 2021 to 2024, remains committed to driving inclusive growth, empowering communities, and fostering a safer society.

 

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Boko Haram Demands $300,000 Ransom For Abducted Borno Ex-LG Chair, Another Victim

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A new video has emerged showing two men reportedly kidnapped by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State, pleading for assistance to secure their release.

 

One of the captives, former Biu Local Government Area Chairman Hassan Biu Miringa, revealed that their abductors are demanding a $300,000 ransom.

 

Miringa said he and another individual were taken in December 2025 and have remained in the custody of the militants.

 

In the video shared by Zagazola Makama, Miringa introduced himself, saying: “I am Hassan Biu Miringa, former Chairman of Biu Local Government from 2020 to 2022. Four years after my tenure, we were kidnapped by the soldiers of Khilafa about two weeks ago. Alhamdulillah, we are still alive, but we urgently need help to save our lives.”

 

He added that negotiations with the kidnappers had been underway, with some preliminary agreements reportedly reached.

 

“We have engaged them on four separate occasions and reached an understanding. We appeal to our leaders, especially Borno State Deputy Governor Alhaji Usman Umar Kadafur, the National Assembly representative for Biu, Kwaya, and Shani Hon. Betera Aliyu, as well as our community leaders, to temper justice with mercy and assist us. We are their children and have been working together,” Miringa said.

 

He confirmed the ransom demand, explaining that each captive is expected to pay $150,000, totaling $300,000 for their freedom, and pleaded for urgent intervention to reunite with their families.

 

The video highlights ongoing concerns over kidnappings and insecurity in southern Borno State, which have persisted despite government efforts to curb insurgent activity in the region.

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How Rivers Women Spread Wrappers For Wike’s Motorcade During Port Harcourt Visit

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, on Saturday visited Port Harcourt City Local Government as part of his “thank you” visit across Rivers State.

 

Upon his arrival, a group of women displayed a symbolic gesture of loyalty by spreading their wrappers on the ground for his motorcade.

 

The women and supporters of the Minister were in a jubilant mode as Wike drove on the wrappers.

 

Wike has been going around local governments in the state to appreciate them for their support while reeling out moves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

In the course of his visits, the Minister had fired several salvos at political actors in the state, warning that their sudden support for President Bola Tinubu won’t secure them any ticket in 2027.

 

Wike also renewed rivalry with Governor Sim Fubara over the leadership control of the political space in the state.

 

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Impeachment Proceedings Against Fubara, Deputy Still Active – Rivers Assembly

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The Rivers State House of Assembly has officially reaffirmed that the impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, are ongoing and have not been suspended.

 

The Assembly said the process is still ongoing and is being conducted strictly in line with constitutional provisions.

 

This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Hon. Enemi George.

 

According to the statement, the impeachment process, which began on Thursday, January 8, 2026, remains on course in line with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

 

The lawmakers disclosed that separate notices of allegations bordering on gross misconduct have been served on both the governor and his deputy in line with Section 188 of the Constitution.

 

“The notices of allegations of gross misconduct against the Governor and the Deputy Governor have been duly forwarded to them by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, and the House is awaiting their responses,” the statement said.

 

The Assembly maintained that it is constitutionally obligated to act in the interest of the rule of law and ensure that no public office holder acts outside legal boundaries.

 

Reacting to reports suggesting that the impeachment move had been halted, the House accused some individuals and media outlets of deliberately spreading misinformation to mislead the public and stir tension between the legislature and Rivers residents.

 

The lawmakers described such reports as false and insisted they would not succumb to intimidation, threats, or blackmail.

 

“We are aware of renewed attempts by certain persons and media platforms to misinform the public by claiming that the impeachment process has been discontinued. The public should disregard such falsehoods, as the process remains active,” the statement added.

 

The Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to democratic principles and constitutional responsibilities, stressing that it would not be distracted by what it termed “cheap propaganda.”

 

It also appreciated the people of Rivers State for their support and prayers amid the ongoing political developments and extended goodwill to Nigerians committed to the nation’s democratic journey.

 

JomogNews reports that during Thursday’s plenary session, presided over by the Speaker, the Majority Leader, Major Jack, formally read the notice of allegations of gross misconduct against Governor Fubara on the floor of the House.

 

 

 

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