The Nigerian government has launched a massive manhunt for Nadeem Anjarwalla, an executive of the cryptocurrency platform Binance, who managed to escape from custody. Anjarwalla, detained for tax evasion and other offenses related to Binance’s operations in Nigeria, fled from a guest house in Abuja on March 22. The government has taken swift action, arresting the security personnel responsible for his escape and affirming that his flight will not hinder the enforcement of a $10 billion fine imposed on Binance for money laundering.
In another incident, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria shut down a KFC outlet at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos after allegations of discriminatory treatment against Adebola Daniel, the son of former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel. Adebola was reportedly told by a manager at the outlet that wheelchairs were not allowed. FAAN’s decision was based on the violation of Lagos State law on People with Special Needs. KFC expressed regret over the incident and announced plans to implement sensitivity training for its employees.
Moving on to a harrowing tale, Segun Olatunji, the Editor of FirstNews Online Newspaper, shared his ordeal after being abducted by military personnel from the Defence Intelligence Agency. Olatunji spent nearly two weeks in DIA detention, where he was blindfolded, flown from Lagos to Abuja, and kept in handcuffs and leg chains. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for action against those responsible for violating media freedom.
On a more positive note, the abducted schoolchildren from LEA Primary School and Government Secondary School Kuriga in Kaduna State have been rescued after nearly three weeks in captivity. The coordinated operation involving the military, local authorities, and government agencies led to the safe return of the students to their families.
In a tragic turn of events, the Defence Headquarters is on the hunt for eight individuals involved in the brutal killing of 17 military personnel during a peacekeeping mission in Delta State. The military has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice, with Major General Buba Edward stating that no effort will be spared in their apprehension. President Bola Tinubu has pledged support for the victims’ families and announced scholarships for their children.
Amidst the turmoil, one of the wanted individuals, Clement Ikolo, the Ovie of Ewu Kingdom in Delta State, surrendered himself to the police. The incident underscores the ongoing efforts to address the violence and bring those responsible to justice.
This week’s news highlights showcase a mix of challenges and triumphs, reflecting the complex landscape of Nigeria’s current affairs. Stay tuned for more updates on these developing stories.