By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it has granted popular social media activist, Mr Martins Innocent Otse, otherwise known as VeryDarkMan (VDM) an administrative bail.

VDM was apprehended in the premises of GTBank in Abuja last weekend after he was at the bank to question why the account of his mother was debited for a loan she did not apply for.

It was reported that VeryDarkMan was blindfolded and beaten by security operatives who came for him.

Since his arrest, there have been claims that some powerful persons instigated the EFCC to pick him up because of his criticisms online.

In a statement on Tuesday, the anti-money laundering agency said it apprehended VDM over “grave allegations of financial malfeasance.”

The agency said it received petitions against the suspect, adding that it obtained an order to keep him beyond the 24 hours stipulated by the Constitution.

However, the EFCC said it have granted him an administrative bail, with VDM still making efforts to meet for his eventual release.

“The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the Commission. The appropriate Remand Order was obtained in this regard. He has been offered an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.

“The commission appreciates the interest of Nigerians in its operations. The passion, enthusiasm and torrential reactions to all of its activities are welcome.

“However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue. The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour. As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed,” the statement said.

The commission said it acted the way it did because the suspect “refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication.”

It was stated that the petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which cannot be ignored by the commission” because it has the mandate of “tackling economic and financial crimes.”

Since his arrest a few days ago, there have been calls, including from outside the country, for his release

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

President Bola Tinubu has been applauded by the president of Dangote Group, Mr Aliko Dangote, for his steps in repositioning the country’s oil and gas sector.

Recall that recently, Mr Tinubu changed the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, leading to the removal of Mr Mele Kyari as the chief executive, with Mr Bashir Bayo Ojulari chosen to replace him.

Mr Dangote described the new team as eminently qualified to take the NNPC to a greater height, noting that the new management will bring a wealth of technical expertise, and all have managerial experiences that are essential for revitalising Nigeria’s most strategic public enterprise.

“The calibre of individuals at the helm, and their deliberate, reform-driven agenda, demonstrate a commitment to fostering a culture of performance and professionalism,” the businessman said when he visited President Tinubu to commend him for putting together such a formidable and professionally competent team.

“The calibre of individuals at the helm, and their deliberate, reform-driven agenda, demonstrate a commitment to fostering a culture of performance and professionalism,” he added.

Mr Dangote expressed confidence that the new leadership of NNPC will propel the country’s energy industry to new heights and reaffirmed his group’s commitment to supporting the collective vision of a prosperous, energy-secure Nigeria.

Reacting to questions from the select media over the weekend on his statement that he is still fighting for the survival of his $20 billion refinery in Lagos, Mr Dangote said his statement was not in any way connected to the new leadership of the NNPC, noting that the new leadership in the NNPC has been so far supportive in terms of meeting the company’s needs.

He revealed that the cabals he was referring to were some major oil marketers and traders who were bent on frustrating the efforts on President Tinubu in revamping the nation’s economy.

He noted that the recent activities and structural reforms introduced by NNPC serve as strong indicators of the organisation’s renewed focus on transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

By Adedapo Adesanya

As Nigeria marks National Albinism Day, the Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights, health, and inclusion of persons with albinism (PWAs), urging the government and relevant stakeholders to adopt inclusive policies that address their unique challenges.

Established in 2019, AAN has been at the forefront of championing the welfare of persons with albinism across the country. Through targeted advocacy, education, and partnerships, the association has significantly contributed to increased societal acceptance, reduced school drop-out rates among children with albinism, and greater attention to their health needs at national forums.

According to the organisation, this year’s theme, Protect Your Skin, Be Sun Smart underscores the pressing need to address the health vulnerabilities of PWAs, especially those resulting from sun exposure. Due to the absence of melanin—the natural pigment that protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays—persons with albinism are prone to painful sunburns, premature skin aging, vision problems, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

AAN emphasized preventive measures such as the regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), wearing protective clothing including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, avoiding peak sunlight hours, and seeking routine medical checkups for early detection of skin conditions.

In a statement shared with Business Post, Mrs Bisi Bamishe, National President of AAN, made a strong appeal to the government:

“We are calling on the Nigerian government to include sunscreen in the list of essential medicines under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Sunscreen is not a luxury for persons with albinism—it is a necessity for survival.”

She further stressed the need for more tangible support

“Government should provide free or subsidized protective gear and health services to persons with albinism, especially in rural and underserved areas.”

Highlighting the importance of awareness and capacity building, Mrs. Bamishe said, “We urge health workers and teachers to receive proper training on the specific needs of persons with albinism. This will go a long way in improving service delivery and reducing stigma in schools and health centres.”

She also emphasized the importance of legal protections.

“The Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act must be enforced. It is not enough to have laws on paper; we need full implementation to ensure justice and inclusion.”

“We call for public education campaigns to reach deep into rural communities where harmful myths and stereotypes still persist. Awareness is key to acceptance.”

AAN also stressed the need for capacity building initiatives to empower community advocates and peer support systems.

As National Albinism Day is observed, AAN urges Nigerians to stand in solidarity with persons with albinism and work collectively to create a more inclusive, informed, and equitable society.