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Things To Know About Procurement Fraud As A Nigerian – EFCC

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has highlighted key facts Nigerians need to know about procurement fraud, describing it as one of the biggest threats to accountability in the country.

In an awareness post on its official X account on Tuesday, the commission recalled that its Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, had said in January 2025 that “procurement and contract fraud accounted for more than 90 per cent of Nigeria’s corruption and fraud issues.”

Procurement fraud refers to the intentional manipulation or deception in the procurement process to obtain personal or organisational benefits, often at the expense of others.

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The anti-graft agency explained that the crime takes different forms, including:

READ ALSO:EFCC Raids Obasanjo’s Hotel, Arrests Suspected Internet Fraudsters At Pool Party

Bid rigging – colluding to predetermine bid winners.

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Bribery – offering or accepting inducements to influence decisions.

Kick-backs – receiving payments for favourable treatment.

Over-invoicing – inflating prices or quantities.

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Product substitution – delivering inferior goods against contract terms.

“Procurement fraud can occur in various industries, including government contracting, construction, and private sector purchasing.

READ ALSO:EFCC Arraigns Six Katsina Revenue, Bank Workers Over N1.2bn Fraud

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It can lead to financial losses, undermine trust, and damage reputations,” the EFCC stated.

The commission warned that offenders risk stiff penalties under the Public Procurement Act (2007).

Section 58 of the law prescribes “a term of imprisonment not less than five calendar years but not exceeding 10 calendar years without an option of fine.”

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It added that corrupt procurement officers face dismissal and jail terms, while companies may be barred from public contracts for not less than five years and fined up to 25 per cent of the value of the fraudulent deal.

READ ALSO:EFCC Investigates 18 Sitting Governors

To illustrate its point, the EFCC cited the conviction of Chandra Singh, an Indian businessman, who was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment for procurement fraud involving N816 million.

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Delivering judgment on Thursday, February 27, 2025, Justice Ijelu found him guilty as charged and sentenced him to 10 years without an option of fine.

“He was also ordered to make restitution of N345 million to his victim,” the statement read.

The commission urged Nigerians to be vigilant and resist attempts to manipulate contract processes.

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The fight against procurement fraud is a fight to safeguard public resources, promote fairness, and strengthen national development,” it added.

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Edo Postpones School Resumption Date

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Edo State Government has postponed the resumption of all public and private schools in Edo Central Senatorial District where Governor Monday Okpebholo hails from.

The postponement of the resumption date may not be unconnected to the rising insecurity in the area, as it would be recalled that violent protest a few days ago engulfed Ekpoma, Edo Central over incessant kidnappings in the locality.

The angry protesters vandalised the Palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, just as shops were looted, an act the state government had condemned in strong terms.

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READ ALSO:Edo Targets 2.2 Million Children For Measles, Rubella Vaccination

In a statement, the state Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, said the school resumption postponement was till further notice and to enable them address some exigencies to improve the welfare of the pupils.

According to him, “The new date of resumption will be duly communicated to the public in due course.

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“Parents, guardians, and all education stakeholders within Edo Central Senatorial District are kindly requested to take note of this development and comply accordingly.”

 

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NAF Launches Attack On Terrorists In Borno

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The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, operating as part of the joint task force of Operation Hadin Kai, has carried out a coordinated air interdiction at AbbagaJiri in the Timbuktu Triangle, Borno State.

According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information of NAF, the air strikes successfully paved the way for ground troops.

He explained that the operation was based on actionable intelligence from multiple sources, which confirmed the presence of terrorists, their structures, and concealed logistics facilities in the area.

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Ejodame stated that NAF air assets were deployed in integrated surveillance and precision strike roles to target identified threats.

READ ALSO:NAF Hits Bandit Logistics Hub, Neutralises Many In Zamfara

The operation aimed to degrade terrorist capabilities, deny them sanctuary, and shape the battlefield for ground forces, all while strictly adhering to rules of engagement and protecting civilians.

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He added, “The Identified terrorist structures were decisively engaged and destroyed, denying the terrorists freedom of action, while a follow-up engagement neutralised armed elements observed converging on the location.”

Subsequent advances by ground troops into the area confirmed the effectiveness of the air strikes and validated the success of the joint air–land operation.”

Speaking on the mission, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said, “The success of the mission reflects the NAF’s resolve to dominate the air domain in support of joint operations.

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READ ALSO:NAF Hits Bandit Logistics Hub, Neutralises Many In Zamfara

Aneke further emphasized that the operation highlighted the service’s commitment to providing precise and decisive air power in support of ground forces.

In his words, “We will continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement, sanctuary, and logistics wherever they seek to hide. Air operations will remain relentless and intelligence-driven.”

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“Our operations are carefully planned and intelligence-led, ensuring maximum effect on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians.”

READ ALSO:NAF Announces Two-hour Road Closure In Abuja For 10km Walk

The Nigerian Air Force will sustain pressure until terrorist networks are completely dismantled.”

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He further noted that the operation showcased NAF’s aggressive stance, precision employment of airpower, and dedication to sustained joint operations.

Aneke added that such missions play a crucial role in enabling ground troops to maintain momentum and deliver decisive outcomes against terrorist networks threatening lives, property, and Nigeria’s national security.

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Lagos Parks To Close For Maintenance – State Govt

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The Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency, LASPARK, has announced that all public parks under its management across the state will be temporarily closed for routine maintenance and upgrades.

In a statement released on January 9 and shared via its official platforms early Saturday, LASPARK said, “All parks under our management will be closed to the public from January 12 to January 31, 2026.

“This follows increased visitor activity during the recent festive season.”

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The agency listed several popular recreational spots that will be affected, including “Ndubisi Kanu Park, Alausa JJT Park, Dr. Finnih Abayomi Park in Oregun, and all other LASPARK-managed parks across Lagos State.”

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Explaining the reason for the closure, LASPARK added, “The temporary shutdown is necessary to carry out essential landscaping, facility repairs, and general upgrades to ensure that our parks remain safe, clean, and enjoyable for residents and visitors.”

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The agency also stressed that the exercise aligns with its broader mandate, noting, “This maintenance programme is part of our commitment to providing well-maintained green spaces that promote relaxation, wellness, and environmental sustainability.”

LASPARK assured residents that “all parks will reopen at the end of the maintenance period.”

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