The First Prosecution Witness, PW1, Hamma Adama Bello in the trial-within-trial of the former Head of Service (HoS), Winifred Oyo-Ita on Monday, 30 June, 2025 presented before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, a video evidence of the defendant writing down her confessional statements unperturbed in the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The witness tendered the video recording of the confessional statements while being led in evidence by prosecution counsel Faruk Abdullahi to prove that Oya-Ita was never threatened, harassed or put under duress while in EFCC’s office against her claim that she wrote her statements under duress in the Commission’s office.
Oyo-Ita, first defendant, is facing criminal prosecution by the EFCC alongside her special assistants, Ugbong Okon Effiok, seventh defendant, Garba Umar, fourth defendant and six companies: Frontline Ace Global Services Limited, Asanaya Projects Limited, Slopes International Limited, U and U Global Services Ltd, Prince Mega Logistics Ltd and Good Deal Investments on 18-count charges, bordering on misappropriation of funds, official corruption, money laundering and criminal diversion of funds to the tune of over N3 billion.
Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter till October 14 and 16, 2025 for continuation of trial.
Youth Leader Calls for Extension of Tenure of Cusroms Comptroller General
A foremost youth leader, Dr. Raymond Edoh has called for the extension of the tenure of the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi
following his recent appointment as the Chairperson World Customs Organisation, the highest decision-making body in global customs administration.
Edoh said the extension is necessary to reward him following an overwhelming glory he has brought to Nigeria with his appointment as the Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation.
He said: “This is a glory for Nigeria. It has never happened before. This has been a long-awaited dream for Africa, only to be surprised to have it bagged by the Nigerian Adewale Adeniyi, the CG Customs, Nigeria Customs Service.
“The challenge now is, if his tenure is not elongated, Nigeria as a country, as well as Africa, will lose this most influential position within the Customs macrocosm, and the negative implication would be enormous.
“Against this backdrop, I, Dr. Raymond Edoh, call on the federal government to kindly extend his tenure so that Nigeria as a country and Africa at large can enjoy the accrued benefits associated with the position therein”.
Edoh, while congratulating Adeniyi, described him as a hardworking leader and passionate administrator per excellence, assuring WCO that he would make the organisation proud in his tenure.
He said: “In a resounding affirmation of confidence, members of the WCO elected Adewale Adeniyi to lead the organisation, recognising his commitment to enhancing international customs cooperation, trade facilitation, and effective border management. This significant appointment not only underscores Adeniyi’s exemplary leadership within the Nigeria Customs Service but also highlights Nigeria’s increasing influence in global affairs, particularly in customs and trade.
“The WCO plays a pivotal role in establishing international customs standards and practices, fostering global trade and economic development. With Adeniyi at the helm, we are sure he would birth strategic advancements that align with the goals of the WCO, emphasising digital transformation in customs procedures, addressing illicit trade challenges, and promoting sustainable practices”.
Edoh further stated that: “Adewale Adeniyi’s election as the Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation is not merely a personal achievement but a victory for Nigeria and a monumental step towards strengthening our role on the global stage. His leadership will undoubtedly foster a collaborative approach to customs that will benefit not just Nigeria but all nations in the collective pursuit of economic prosperity and security.
“Adewale Adeniyi has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a profound understanding of customs issues over his years of service in the Nigeria Customs Service. He has initiated various reforms aimed at modernising customs operations, reducing trade barriers, and increasing revenue generation. His vision for a more efficient customs system aligns with the WCO’s objectives and mirrors the aspirations of the Nigerian youth, who seek a brighter future characterised by integrity, transparency, and innovation in all sectors.
He noted that: “The youth of Nigeria are especially proud of this achievement. It serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with determination and a clear vision, we can achieve positions of influence on the global platform. This is an inspiration to young leaders across Nigeria, proving that we are capable of driving change and impacting our communities on a larger scale.”
He said under Adeniyi’s leadership, there is an anticipated focus on technology and innovation as key drivers of customs reform. The integration of advanced technologies, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence, can streamline customs procedures, reducing delays and enhancing efficiency. This move towards digitalised customs processes will facilitate smoother international trade and strengthen the global supply chain.
He added that: “Adewale Adeniyi has always taken a stand against illicit trade practices. His leadership in the WCO presents an opportunity to tackle these critical issues with a comprehensive and collaborative approach, ensuring that customs administrations worldwide can effectively combat these challenges while promoting legitimate trade.
“The appointment of Adewale Adeniyi comes at an opportune moment when there is a growing need for enhanced cooperation among customs authorities globally. In light of recent global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, strong leadership in customs administration is essential to ensure that trade continues to flow unhindered. Adeniyi’s election is a strategic move towards stabilising the global trading environment and ensuring that customs systems are resilient against future challenges.
He however urged all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, and civil society, to rally behind Adewale Adeniyi’s leadership, stressing that: “It is imperative that we work together to achieve the WCO’s goals. “Collaboration will be key in ensuring that customs administrations operate effectively, facilitating trade while safeguarding our economies and societies.”
Dr. Raymond Edoh is a renowned youth leader and advocate for youth and sustainable development in Nigeria. With a deep passion for empowering young people and promoting progressive governance, Dr. Edoh has been at the forefront of various initiatives aimed at fostering youth participation in leadership and decision-making processes. He continues to inspire the next generation of leaders through his dedicated efforts and exceptional leadership skills.
