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Vijorm Oil Boss, Victor Ojomo, Bags 30 Years For N47.6m Fraud

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These are not the best of times for Victor Ojomo, the Chief Executive Officer of Vijorm Oil Nigeria Limited as an Ikeja Special Offences Court has convicted and sentenced him

to 30 years imprisonment for orchestrating a fraudulent scheme and defrauding a businessman of N47,645,000.

 

Justice Rahman Oshodi delivered the judgment on Friday, convicting Ojomo on three counts: conspiracy to obtain money by false pretence, obtaining money by false pretence, and stealing.

 

In his judgment, Justice Oshodi stated, “You orchestrated an elaborate scheme to defraud the victim of N47,645,000 and showed no remorse throughout the proceedings.”

 

The judge highlighted the severe impact of Ojomo’s actions, noting, “The victim has been deprived of his funds for years, and the impact on his life cannot be overstated.”

 

 

The court also ordered a restitution of the sum of N47,645,000 to the victim.

 

Justice Oshodi further convicted Ojomo’s company and held that it would be wound up if it failed to pay the fines imposed against it, within 90 days.

 

Although Ojomo was a first-time offender, the judge emphasised that the gravity of his offences far outweighed any mitigating factor.

 

“Given the severity of the offences and the need for deterrence, I have decided to impose a sentence of 70% of the maximum prescribed sentences,” he said.

 

The court sentenced Ojomo to 14 years’ imprisonment for both the first and second counts, and two years and one month for the third count.

 

These sentences are to run concurrently, beginning from July 10, 2023, the date of his remand.

 

 

Justice Oshodi acknowledged that N2m had been recovered from MAO Petroleum and returned to the victim, but stressed, “This represents only a fraction of what was taken, leaving a balance of N47,645,000.”

 

The judge made a restitution order for the full amount under Section 11 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act, instructing that all funds in Exhibit F, in the name of Vijorm Oil Nigeria Limited, be applied towards restitution.

 

“The prosecution is to ensure full restitution is made, as per Section 11 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act,” he added.

 

The judge also offered Ojomo the possibility of a reduced sentence if he made full restitution. “If you make full restitution of N47,645,000 to the victim, your sentence will be reduced to seven years, which is 50% of your sentence.

 

“I urge you to reflect on your actions and use this time to reform yourself.”

 

 

Ojomo’s company, Vijorm Oil Nigeria Limited, was also convicted of fraud.

 

While the company, as a corporate entity, cannot be imprisoned, it was held accountable for its role in the scheme.

 

Justice Oshodi imposed fines on the company: N2.5m, each for the first and second counts, and N500,000 for the third count.

 

The judge warned that if the company failed to pay the fines within 90 days, it would be wound up and its assets forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

 

“These sentences reflect the severe nature of using a corporate structure to perpetrate fraud,” Justice Oshodi remarked.

 

 

Your actions have harmed the victim and eroded public confidence in legitimate business transactions.

 

“This sentence is designed as both punishment and deterrence to others contemplating similar fraudulent activities.”

 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had arraigned Ojomo and his company on charges of fraud arising from a purported oil trading deal involving 5,000 metric tonnes of Automotive Gas Oil.

 

The prosecution accused the convicts of conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretence, and stealing.

 

Justice Oshodi recounted the case, stating, “In 2018, the complainant, Mr Abdulwaheed Jimoh (Prosecution Witness 1), entrusted the defendants with the sum of N49,645,000 to facilitate the importation of 5,000mt of AGO from Lome to Nigeria.”

 

 

The central issue, the judge noted, was not whether the money changed hands, but the intentions behind the transaction and the subsequent actions of the parties involved.

 

The defence, led by Mr. Ayo Olumofin, argued that Ojomo’s failure to supply the AGO was due to a frustrated transaction, not deceit.

 

They blamed a third party, Mr Philip, for failing to issue a bank guarantee or standby letters of credit, and pointed to the absence of a valid lien instrument.

 

“They alleged that the document submitted by PW1 (Exhibit B) was false, thus rendering the entire deal untenable,” Justice Oshodi summarised.

 

However, the prosecution, led by Mr. T. J. Banjo, argued that the defendants had never intended to fulfil their promises, presenting evidence that a purported N100m, block fund from GTB, offered by the defendants to PW1, was fabricated.

 

 

The prosecution also alleged that payments for naval clearance, storage at MAO Petroleum Company Limited, and other associated costs were a ruse to deceive PW1.

 

After reviewing the evidence and testimony, Justice Oshodi concluded, “The prosecution has successfully proven all three charges beyond reasonable doubt.

 

“The totality of the evidence paints a coherent picture of a fraudulent scheme orchestrated by the defendants.”

 

Ojomo and his company were found guilty on all counts of conspiracy to obtain money by false pretence, obtaining money by false pretence, and stealing.

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ENHANCING PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECURITY: THE HALO TRUST AND US GOVERNMENT PARTNER TO PROVIDE AMMUNITION HANDLING AND ACCOUNTING TRAINING AT IKEJA LAGOS.

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The Nigeria Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal – Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear (NPF EOD-CBRN) has successfully completed the first batch of training for 19 personnel on Ammunition Handling and Accounting Course. The training, held in Ikeja, Lagos, from December 3-20, 2024, was organized by The HALO Trust and sponsored by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

According to The HALO Trust’s Country Director for Nigeria, Prince Ganiyu Otunba, this training is part of aholistic NPF-HALO developed project aimed at supporting personnel capacity building, addressing equipment needs, and enhancing the operational readiness of the NPF EOD-CBRN Command to mitigate explosive ordnance threats in Nigeria. A second batch of 22 personnel is scheduled to undergo the same training in January.

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun PhD, NPM, through the CP EOD–CBRN CP Patrick Atayeroexpressed gratitude to the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs andThe Trust HALO for their support.

The training aimed to equip NPF EOD-CBRN personnel with the knowledge, skills, and best practices necessary to handle and account for ammunition and explosives safely and securely. The course also focused on ensuring proper accounting and record-keeping, preventing theft and diversion, reducing the risk of unplanned explosions at munitions sites, and promoting international best practices.

The NPF appreciates the support provided by the United States government, which will have a profoundly positive impact on the society.

CP Patrick Atayero emphasized the importance of responsible ammunition management in preventing the proliferation of illicit weapons and reducing the risk of unplanned explosions at munitions sites. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate with the Police in efforts to prevent the diversion, misuse, and unauthorized handling of explosive and other hazardous materials.

About HALO

The HALO Trust is the world’s largest humanitarian organization engaged in the field of Mine Action and weapons and ammunition management. With over 35 years’ experience, The HALO Trust is the most experienced organization in the field of Weapons and Ammunition Management, rehabilitating and constructing armouries and ammunition stores to international standards, disposing of unsafe and unserviceable weapons and ammunition, and building national capacity to allow for the safe, accountable and secure management and control of weapons and ammunition.

The HALO Trust presently implements Mine Action and weapons and ammunition management projects in 30 countries and territories. In 2024, HALO trained a total of 106 Nigeria security forces personnel in weapons and ammunition management.

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Aliu Gafar delivers stellar performance as Esusu in Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors

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By Rtn. Victor Ojelabi

The much-anticipated movie series Seven Doors by Femi Adebayo has finally premiered, currently showing on Netflix, captivating audiences with its intricate storytelling and compelling characters.

The movie begins with a haunting scene of seven women under a mysterious spell leaping to their deaths from a waterfall, setting the tone for a gripping tale that unravels in Ilara Kingdom.

The series explores various societal issues, including corruption, greed, gluttony, family values, malicious conspiracies, and the delicate balance of law and order.

Central to its plot is the calamitous fate of Oba Adedunjoye, the Onilara of Ilara, whose failure to perform traditional rites—symbolised by knocking on seven doors—unleashes devastating consequences on his kingdom.

At the heart of this chaos is Esusu, a malevolent and exiled villain whose return wreaks havoc.

Esusu, a ni ohun t’Eledumare o ni.
Eledumare o ni ika, ika ni Esusu

The character of Esusu, pivotal to the story’s depth, is masterfully brought to life by Aliu Gafar.

Gafar’s first appearance, late in Episode 2, immediately shifts the narrative, introducing a chilling force that spares no one, not even the royal family. His commanding portrayal encapsulates the essence of Esusu, a man whose wickedness defies comprehension.

The backstory reveals Esusu’s sinister pact with Ọba Adejuwọn, an ancestor of Adedunjoye.

Desperation led Adejuwon to seek Esusu’s help to evade death—a move that came at an unthinkable cost, forgetting that bi alọ ba lọ, abọ nbọ (a pendulum that swings to is still coming to swing fro).

Esusu’s return demanded not only royal treatment but the freedom to live as he pleased, challenging the very fabric of the kingdom.

Gafar embodies this complex character with remarkable precision, delivering a performance that is both chilling and unforgettable.

With almost two decades in Nollywood, Aliu Gafar has solidified his reputation as a versatile and dedicated actor.

His extensive filmography includes acclaimed productions such as Jagun Jagun, Anikulapo, Iyalode, Eefin, and Omo Ajele.

His role in Seven Doors further cements his legacy as a master of his craft, showcasing his ability to seamlessly portray multifaceted characters.

The Yoruba actor has also garnered accolades for his work, including the Best Actor award at the Dallas International Yoruba Movies Awards for his role in Peregun.

His commitment to the industry and his talent for captivating performances continue to make him a force to be reckoned with in Nollywood.

In Seven Doors, Gafar’s nuanced performance as Esusu elevates the series, demonstrating his ability to command attention and bring depth to a complex narrative.

His contribution to the Nigerian film industry remains invaluable, and his portrayal of Esusu is a testament to his enduring excellence.

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Ogun State Prominent Monarchs, Business Tycoons, Others Honor Olusho Agba At The Confession 2024

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The Olusho Agba’s confession 2024 attracted more dignitaries as three respected monarchs in Ogun honour the event by physical appearance, alongside side most prominent CEOs in Ogun.

 

The royal fathers present at the laudable event held at Continental Suits in Abeokuta include HRM Oba Oyabanji Adetunji (Oloja Of Oja Odan) HRM Oba Buhari Makinde (Oniwoye of Iwoye Land) HRM. Oba Lukmon Kuoye (Olu of Imasayi).

 

Also Chief Executive Officer of IBD Foundation, Dr. Mrs. Lara Dende, the Chief Executive Officer of Pelican Valley Nigeria Limited Amb. Dr Tunde Adeyemo and CEO of Zolakaz Oil and Gas Alh. Sanni Azeez was also present at the event.

 

The Confession 2024 features a series of content creators, comedians, singers and dancers, and artists of different fields such as Dr Smile, Hafeez Oyetoro (Simply Saka), Woli 3310, Chukwuka Jude, Babalegba

Biola Adekunle, Femi Obimodede, Ishau Abidemi, and many more.

 

Below are some pictures from the event…

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