Article
Odinkalu’s Call for GTBank Boycott: A Fight for Press Freedom and Accountability in Nigeria
By Abdulrahman Aliagan, Abuja
By suppressing press freedom and allegedly using state apparatus to detain journalists, Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO), led by its Managing Director and CEO, Segun Agbaje, finds itself at the center of a growing controversy. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
Odinkalu’s condemnation stems from the three-month detention of bloggers Precious Eze, Olawale Olurotimi, Rowland Olonishuwa and Seun Odunlami reportedly orchestrated by GTCO following unfavorable reports about the company. The case highlights a dangerous trend in Nigeria: the gagging of journalists and the erosion of press freedom, fundamental pillars of any democratic society.
GTCO is embroiled in allegations of unethical financial practices, including declaring questionable profits of over N1 trillion, evading tax payments, and managing unauthorized accounts. Instead of addressing these accusations, GTCO allegedly retaliated by targeting journalists who dared to report on the company’s activities. Bloggers like Precious Eze, Olawale Rotimi, Rowland Olonishuwa, and Seun Odunlami were detained on charges of cyberstalking—a broad and often abused provision under Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act.
According to Odinkalu, the bloggers’ detention is a calculated move to create a chilling effect on the media and deter critical reporting on corporate malpractice. “GTBank has procured the police to detain these bloggers since September 2024 on flimsy charges of cyberbullying and conspiracy,” he tweeted. “This is a blatant abuse of power and an attack on press freedom.”
Odinkalu criticized GTCO’s deployment of a high-powered legal team, including three Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), to pursue its case against the bloggers. “On October 23, GTBank showcased a team of 10 lawyers whom it has retained to oppress these poor journalists,” he noted, describing the legal strategy as disproportionate and oppressive.
He further revealed that the police investigation into the case lacked substantive evidence, with the investigating team recommending the bloggers be used as “scapegoats.” Such actions underscore the imbalance of power between wealthy corporations and individual journalists or bloggers, who often lack the resources to defend themselves.
Odinkalu’s call for a boycott of GTBank resonates beyond the immediate case of detained bloggers. It highlights broader issues of accountability, transparency, and press freedom in Nigeria. GTCO’s alleged financial misconduct—including accusations of tax evasion and questionable account practices—remains unaddressed by regulatory authorities like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
“This lack of accountability emboldens corporations like GTCO to suppress dissent and intimidate whistleblowers,” Odinkalu remarked. “If GTBank fails to stop this assault on press freedom, citizens should stop banking with it.”
The detention of journalists reflects a troubling trend in Nigeria, where press freedom is increasingly under attack. Journalists face harassment, intimidation, and imprisonment for exposing wrongdoing, creating a hostile environment for investigative reporting.
By targeting journalists, GTCO is not only silencing dissent but also undermining democracy. A free press is essential for holding corporations and governments accountable. Without it, corruption and abuse of power flourish unchecked.
Odinkalu’s call to action has sparked conversations about the role of civil society in defending press freedom. Advocacy groups like the Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN) have already initiated legal proceedings to compel regulatory bodies to investigate GTCO’s alleged misconduct. However, more collective action is needed to protect journalists and ensure accountability.
The GTCO case exposes critical gaps in Nigeria’s regulatory and legal frameworks. The misuse of cybercrime laws to target journalists underscores the need for legislative reforms that protect press freedom and prevent corporations from exploiting vague legal provisions.
Odinkalu’s call for a boycott is a powerful reminder that citizens have a role to play in demanding accountability. By withdrawing their patronage from institutions that undermine democracy, Nigerians can send a clear message: the suppression of press freedom will not be tolerated.
The ongoing detention of journalists by GTCO is a litmus test for Nigeria’s commitment to democracy and justice. It raises urgent questions about the balance of power between corporations and the press and highlights the need for systemic reforms to safeguard press freedom.
As Odinkalu noted, “GTBank forgets that we are also customers.” The boycott call is not just about GTCO; it is a clarion call for all Nigerians to stand against corporate impunity and defend the principles of transparency, accountability, and freedom of expression that underpin a democratic society.
Aliagan is the Managing Editor of Time Nigeria Magazine, President of the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) and Public Analyst based in Abuja
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Ajia: The Bridge-Builder Turbaned as Dan Amanar Fune Emirate
By Abdulrahman Aliagan, reporting from Damagum, Yobe State
In a rare blend of honour, tradition, and national recognition, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, a distinguished son of Ilorin in Kwara State, was turbaned as Dan Amanar (Custodian of Trust) of Fune Emirate in a grand ceremony held at the Emir’s Palace in Damagum, headquarters of Fune Local Government Area, Yobe State, on Saturday, June 28, 2025.
The colourful occasion, which also marked the 25th coronation anniversary of His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr. Saleh Ibn Uthman, Emir of Fune, was attended by royal fathers from across Northern Nigeria, political leaders, captains of industry, and hundreds of admirers from Ilorin, Abuja, and Damagum.
Alhaji Ibrahim Ajia is not just a politician or businessman—he is a patriotic Nigerian whose footprints in public service, security, philanthropy, and community development have made significant impacts nationwide. Born in Magaji Ngeri ward, Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State, Ajia’s life journey is that of relentless pursuit of excellence and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian project.
From humble beginnings at ECWA Primary School in Ilorin and later Government Secondary School Kawo, Kaduna, Ajia pursued academic excellence with deep passion. Though he initially gained admission to study Economics at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, his desire to serve Nigeria led him to the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, where he was commissioned as an Inspector of Police in 2004.
Ajia later earned a B.Sc. in Sociology from the University of Abuja and a Master’s Degree in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution from the National Open University of Nigeria. He also obtained a Certificate in Public Leadership and Policy from the School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG), Abuja.
As a young, vibrant, and intelligent officer, Ajia served in various sensitive capacities in the Nigeria Police Force, including as:
ADC to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, GCON, Security Aide to the late Governor of Yobe State, Senator Mamman B. Ali, Chief Security Officer to Governor Hassan Dankwambo of Gombe State, Police Public Relations Officer, FCT Command and 2IC, Yenagoa Area Command, Bayelsa State.
He also trained in several advanced security and leadership courses across Egypt, Italy, the UK, and Nigeria, including combating organised crime and high-risk operations. These experiences sharpened his understanding of national security and human management, building his reputation as a trusted, tested, and efficient.
Upon retiring from active service in 2017, Ajia transitioned into politics and entrepreneurship, but his core passion remained human development. Through his MAI Foundation, he has provided succour to thousands of Nigerians—orphans, widows, students, farmers, and small-scale business owners—across Kwara State and other parts of the country.
The foundation has carried out impactful interventions in education, health, youth and women empowerment, rural infrastructure, and skills acquisition. Whether it is donating medical equipment to rural hospitals, providing scholarships to indigent students, drilling boreholes, or equipping young people with vocational tools, Ajia has consistently used his resources to uplift the underserved and vulnerable.
This was one of the key reasons behind his recent honour by the Fune Emirate, which described him as “a trustworthy, honest, reliable, and dependable personality who has written his name in gold.”
To be turbaned as Dan Amanar Fune is not merely ceremonial; it signifies a deep trust and a sacred responsibility. For the Emir of Fune, Ajia represents those rare Nigerians who transcend tribal and religious lines, working selflessly for unity and progress.
Speaking after his turbaning, Ajia expressed gratitude to the Emir and the people of Fune for the honour. He promised not to relent:
*This is not just a title; it is a sacred trust. I will continue to work for the good of the Emirate, Yobe State, and our great country, Nigeria. This recognition has rekindled my commitment to serve humanity even more.”
Indeed, for nearly two decades, Ajia has maintained a close relationship with the Fune Emirate, dating back to his days as the Security Aide to the late Governor Mamman B. Ali. That relationship, built on mutual respect, trust, and shared goals, has now matured into formal recognition by the traditional institution.
Aside from his security background and philanthropic work, Ajia is also a farmer, businessman, and President/CEO of FUNAB Group of Companies, a conglomerate involved in construction, retail, hospitality, and cleaning services.
In 2019, he contested for the PDP gubernatorial ticket in Kwara State. In 2023, he ran for the House of Representatives seat for Asa/Ilorin West Federal Constituency. Beyond the ballot, Ajia has remained a passionate voice for inclusive governance, social equity, and national cohesion.
His track record, humility, and passion for development make him one of the shining stars of the younger generation of Nigerian leaders.
That a man from Ilorin, Kwara State, would be so recognised and turbaned with a traditional title in faraway Fune Emirate, Yobe State, is both a celebration. It is a celebration of how character, service, and loyalty can gain national recognition.
Ajia has done much, not only for Kwara but for Nigeria. From Ilorin to Abuja, Damagum to Bayelsa, his legacy continues to expand. His recent turbaning should serve as a call to action for his native Emirate to also recognise his efforts, and further encourage other indigenes to serve with integrity, humility, and purpose.
In the words of one observer at the event, “Ajia may have received the title of Dan Amana in the North-East, but his loyalty and service began from home. Ilorin must not be the last to honour him.”
With his head held high and heart full of gratitude, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia has shown that true service transcends geography—and those who serve selflessly will always be seen, celebrated, and remembered.
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All Hail Tinubu: Nigeria Steps Boldly Into a New Tax Era
By Ayo Mojoyin
When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sat behind the polished mahogany desk at the Presidential Villa last week, flanked by key economic advisers and lawmakers, he was not merely signing papers. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); js">
The four new tax reform bills he signed into law—hailed by supporters as revolutionary—seek to do what past governments only dreamed of: make taxation fairer, simpler, and genuinely growth-focused.
From the corridors of Aso Rock to the smallest street-side stalls in Lagos and Kano, the reverberations of this moment are already being felt.
Reform Decades in the Making
For decades, Nigeria’s tax landscape has resembled an uneven patchwork: multiple rates, overlapping authorities, opaque collection, and the chronic leakage of public funds. Small businesses have groaned under the burden of unpredictable levies, while ordinary citizens often wondered what, if anything, their tax payments accomplished.
Enter the Tinubu administration’s Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, inaugurated in 2023 and led by Taiwo Oyedele. Over two years of consultations, public hearings, and heated debates, the committee laid the groundwork for reforms designed to rewrite the rules of engagement.
The result? Four sweeping laws that promise to unify, digitize, and humanize Nigeria’s tax system.
What Makes This Different?
Unlike previous half-hearted attempts, these laws come with clear pillars that set them apart:
✅ The Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) will replace the Federal Inland Revenue Service, establishing a single, technology-driven tax authority.
✅ Tax relief for low-income Nigerians: Households earning ₦250,000 per month or less will be exempt from personal income tax.
✅ Zero VAT on essential goods—including food, medicine, education services, and rent—will shield the most vulnerable.
✅ Simplified rules for SMEs to reduce the compliance nightmare that has stifled small enterprises for generations.
✅ State empowerment through new formulas for sharing VAT, designed to reward states that actively grow their tax base.
According to official projections, these reforms could raise trillions of naira in sustainable revenue over the next decade—without punishing the poor.
A President’s Vision
In his remarks at the signing ceremony, President Tinubu didn’t mince words:
> “This is the way forward for our country’s prosperity. Nowhere in the world will tax reforms be easy, but we are determined to make them work for every Nigerian.”
The president’s words landed with unusual clarity. In a country often skeptical of fiscal promises, Tinubu has staked a large portion of his political capital on getting it right.
*Reactions From Across Nigeria*
The response has been electric.
Business groups like the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association have applauded the reforms as a decisive move to improve the ease of doing business. International observers have also noted the potential for the new regime to unlock investment.
Even some critics, while cautious, concede that the relief measures—especially the zero-VAT provision—could ease pressure on struggling households battered by inflation.
Yet challenges remain. Northern states have expressed concern that the new VAT-sharing formula could deepen regional inequalities. Labour unions are demanding further consultations to ensure that implementation does not hurt workers or deepen distrust.
Risks and Rewards Ahead
Reforms of this scale are never risk-free. Successful implementation depends on several delicate factors:
Digital infrastructure to track and collect taxes efficiently.
Political consensus to avoid sabotage or reversals.
*Public trust, built through transparent spending of tax revenues.*
If these pillars hold, the reforms could redefine how Nigeria funds its development and delivers services to its people.
If they falter, the country could be staring at yet another failed attempt to modernize its economy.
A New Chapter, or a Familiar Story?
For all the complexities, one fact remains clear: President Tinubu has shown unusual political will to tackle Nigeria’s tax crisis head-on. Whether he succeeds or not will shape not just his legacy but the fortunes of millions of Nigerians for years to come.
One thing is certain: as these laws take effect from January 2026, the nation will be watching—and hoping—that this time, Nigeria finally gets it right.
© Ayo Mojoyin
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Tribute to My ‘Mother’ and a Global Trailblazer: Celebrating Ms. Arunma Oteh @ 60
By Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia,
As we celebrate the 60th birthday anniversary of my dearest ‘mum’ Ms. Arunma Oteh, I am overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude and admiration for a woman whose life has been a beacon of Hope, Excellence, Resilience and Integrity . adsbygoogle || []).push({});
Ms. Arunma Oteh’s life is a testament to what can be achieved through hard work, vision, and resilience.
Born in Kano Nigeria, her academic journey began with a first-class honours degree in Computer Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. She then scaled the heights of education, earning an MBA from the prestigious Harvard Business School. These were the stepping stones to a career that would leave indelible marks on Nigeria, Africa, and the world.
Her illustrious career spans decades of service at institutions like the African Development Bank (AfDB), the World Bank, and FSD Africa. At AfDB, she rose through the ranks, assuming pivotal roles, including that of Treasurer and Vice President for Corporate Management. Her expertise and leadership turned challenges into opportunities, paving the way for sustainable financial growth across the continent.
In 2009, Ms. Oteh was entrusted with the monumental task of leading the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as its Director-General. It was a turbulent time for Nigeria’s capital market, but she embraced the challenge with unmatched determination. Her reforms eradicated entrenched abuses, restored investor confidence, and laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth.
Her leadership was not without resistance, as she confronted powerful interests that sought to undermine progress. Yet, with resolute commitment, focus, integrity, and the support of reform-minded leaders, she navigated these challenges, leaving behind a reformed and revitalized capital market.
Ms. Oteh’s appointment as Vice President and Treasurer of the World Bank in 2015 underscored her global stature. Managing a $200 billion debt portfolio and advising Sovereign Wealth Funds, Central Banks, and Pension Funds, she exemplified financial expertise at the highest level. Beyond her technical brilliance, she championed inclusive economic policies that benefited emerging markets and underserved populations.
Her legacy at the World Bank extends beyond numbers; it is a story of transformational leadership and unwavering commitment to empowering others.
While her professional accolades are monumental, what sets Ms. Oteh apart is her personal touch. To me and many others, she has been a mother—providing guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support. Her mentorship has been a compass in my life, teaching me the values of integrity, hard work, and service.
Her ability to nurture talent and inspire excellence is unparalleled. Through her mentorship, she has raised a generation of leaders who are now making meaningful contributions in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.
Ms. Oteh’s story resonates with people from all walks of life. She embodies the principle that our background does not define our future, but our choices do. Her life is a beacon of hope for those striving to overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
As an Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), a recipient of the “Distinction In Public Service” award, and one of Forbes’ “Africa’s 50 Most Powerful Women,” Ms. Oteh is celebrated not only for her achievements but also for the values she represents—integrity, resilience, and Excellence in service . Now a leading best seller on Amazon for her new book ‘All hand on deck’
On this special occasion of her 60th birthday, I celebrate Ms. Arunma Oteh for her unquantifiable contributions to Nigeria, Africa, and the global world. I honour her for the lives she has touched, the systems she has transformed, and the legacy she continues to build.
Ms. Oteh, your life is an inspiration, your achievements are a testament to excellence, and your mentorship is a gift to us all. As you celebrate this milestone, I pray for continued blessings, good health, and strength to keep shining your light on the world.
With deepest gratitude and love
Ajia, is the President/CEO, Funab Group of Companies Ltd, a Security expert and a Politician
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