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HEDA Petitions U.S. for Sanctions on Nigerians Linked to Security Funds Diversion

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has petitioned the United States Government, calling for visa revocation, asset forfeiture, and global sanctions against several Nigerian individuals accused of involvement in the diversion of security and arms procurement funds. The petition, signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, was addressed to the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria and the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Economic Sanctions Policy and Implementation. HEDA urged the U.S. Government to take action under Section 7031(c) of the U.S. Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, as well as the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act. According to Suraju, the alleged diversion of billions of dollars earmarked for Nigeria’s national security and arms procurement has directly contributed to widespread insecurity, terrorism, and human rights violations across Nigeria and the West African sub-region. HEDA referenced the “Dasuki-gate” arms procurement scandal and other military procurement fraud cases, arguing that the failure to equip Nigerian troops with funds approved for arms acquisition enabled the expansion of insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Suraju noted that domestic accountability efforts have been weakened by judicial technicalities, including the quashing or suspension of corruption trials on procedural and jurisdictional grounds. The organisation identified several individuals it alleged were linked to the diversion of security funds. They include former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Amosu (retd.), who was implicated in an alleged ₦22.8 billion fraud involving Nigerian Air Force funds; former Sokoto State Governor, Attahiru Bafarawa, accused of benefiting from at least ₦4.6 billion traced to arms procurement funds; and former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, who was charged with laundering ₦6.9 billion, including funds allegedly sourced from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). Others named in the petition include former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Kenneth Minimah (retd.), over the alleged diversion of ₦13.8 billion meant for military hardware; Major Generals Akerejola and Adereti, over allegations of arms procurement fund diversion; and the late Dr. Raymond Dokpesi, whose estate was linked to the alleged receipt of ₦2.1 billion from ONSA funds originally earmarked for arms procurement. While acknowledging that some of the cases resulted in acquittals, halted trials, or dropped charges, HEDA argued that such outcomes were largely based on procedural issues rather than substantive determinations on the allegations of corruption. In its petition, the organisation called on the U.S. Government to revoke visas of the listed individuals and their immediate family members, initiate asset forfeiture proceedings through international cooperation, and impose heightened financial scrutiny to prevent further laundering of diverted Nigerian security funds. “Allowing access to foreign visas and financial systems for individuals implicated in the diversion of security funds indirectly fuels insecurity in Nigeria. We are urging the U.S. Government to support transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights by ensuring that those who profit from insecurity do not find safe haven abroad.” Suraju said.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Commends ICPC as Ozekhome Faces forgery Charges Following Petition

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for filing criminal charges against Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome, over alleged fraud, forgery, and unlawful acquisition of a property in London. The charges stem from a petition submitted by HEDA to the ICPC in October 2025, which relied on a judgment of a British property tribunal. The judgment reportedly implicated Ozekhome and others in a scheme involving forged Nigerian identity documents used to fraudulently claim ownership of a North London property. Following the petition, the ICPC opened an investigation and subsequently filed a three-count charge against Ozekhome before the Federal High Court in Abuja. In the first count, the commission alleged that in August 2021, Ozekhome directly received a property located at 79 Randall Avenue, London NW2 7SX, from one Shani Tali, knowing that the transaction constituted a felony, contrary to Sections 13 and 24 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. The second count accused the senior lawyer, while acting as a legal practitioner, of creating a false Nigerian passport bearing the name Shani Tali in August 2021 to support a fraudulent ownership claim over the property. The offence is said to contravene Sections 363 and 364 of the Penal Code Laws of the Federal Capital Territory. In the third count, Ozekhome was alleged to have knowingly used the same forged passport to substantiate the ownership claim, an offence contrary to Sections 366 and 364 of the Penal Code. Reacting to the development, HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, described the filing of charges as a significant step in the fight against corruption, noting that the case demonstrates the impact of citizen-led accountability efforts. HEDA further urged the ICPC to ensure diligent prosecution of the case and called on the judiciary to expedite proceedings in the interest of justice. The organisation said it would closely monitor the trial as a test of Nigeria’s commitment to combating corruption and redemption of Nigeria’s image from a pariah state.

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Gov Seyi Makinde CategoriesAccountability HEDA News

Bodija Explosion: HEDA Drags Seyi Makinde to EFCC Over Alleged Diversion of ₦30bn Intervention Funds

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged diversion, misapplication, and criminal breach of trust involving Federal Government intervention funds released to Oyo State Government following the January 2024 Bodija explosion in Ibadan. In a petition signed by HEDA Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, and addressed to EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, the civil society organisation alleged that the Federal Government released ₦30 billion to the Oyo State Government for victims’ compensation, reconstruction, and emergency relief after the deadly explosion that claimed lives and destroyed properties. HEDA noted that the release of the funds was first publicly alleged by former Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, during a national television broadcast, and later reiterated in a statement on 28 December 2025. Fayose subsequently released documents, including a memo from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation dated 29 August 2024, which he claimed showed evidence of the fund release. According to the civil group, only about ₦4.5 billion intervention funds was reportedly applied to relief and compensation for victims, while the entire N30b was unaccounted for. The organisation further alleged that the fund was held in a commercial bank at interest for over a year without public disclosure by the Oyo State Government, leaving the utilisation and status of the funds unclear. “We at HEDA expressed concern that the state government had allegedly failed to provide transparent public disclosure or a comprehensive account of the total intervention funds received, how they were spent, and the status of any unspent balance.” “These allegations raise serious concerns bordering on corruption, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, criminal breach of trust, and possible money laundering, all of which fall within the statutory mandate of the EFCC.” Suraju added. While noting that Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution grants immunity from prosecution to a sitting governor, HEDA stressed that such immunity does not prevent investigations, particularly regarding public funds and accountability. HEDA therefore called on the EFCC to conduct a thorough, impartial, and professional investigation into the receipt, management, and utilisation of all Federal Government intervention funds released to Oyo State in connection with the January 2024 Ibadan explosion. The organisation said the petition was submitted in good faith and in the overriding public interest, urging the anti-graft agency to act urgently to uphold public confidence and accountability in the management of public resources.

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CategoriesHEDA News

EFCC Reaffirms Commitment to Asset Recovery at UNCAC Conference in Qatar

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to the fight against financial crimes and the recovery and repatriation of illicit financial flows to Nigeria. Olukoyede gave the assurance while speaking at the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) Conference in Doha, Qatar, during a side event themed “Recovering the Loot Is an Obstacle Course: New Mechanisms?” The event was jointly organised by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Nigeria; the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), South Africa; the EFCC, Nigeria; and Integrity Initiatives International. He described asset recovery as a core pillar of Nigeria’s anti-corruption strategy and highlighted achievements recorded by the EFCC over the past two years, including increased prosecutions, recovery of proceeds of crime, forfeiture of luxury assets, and restitution to victims, both locally and internationally. According to him, the commission has strengthened collaboration with international partners, leading to the recovery and repatriation of funds and assets traced to jurisdictions such as Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. He also cited the application of non-conviction-based asset recovery mechanisms under the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act (POCA), 2022, which he said has improved transparency in asset management and enhanced restitution to victims. Speaking on challenges confronting the commission, Olukoyede identified the complexity of cross-border asset recovery as a major obstacle, noting that differences in legal frameworks and limited cooperation from some countries often delay recovery efforts. He also raised concerns about the role of corrupt professional networks, including lawyers and financial experts, who facilitate financial crimes across borders. Also speaking at the event, the Head and Chief Executive of South Africa’s Special Investigating Unit, Advocate Andy Mothibi, emphasised the importance of asset recovery in the global anti-corruption fight. He noted that several African anti-graft agencies have adopted legislative and institutional frameworks similar to Nigeria’s EFCC model, including asset forfeiture units, specialised investigation teams, and dedicated tribunals to handle corruption-related cases. The participants at the session called on both state and non-state actors to intensify support for anti-corruption efforts, protect whistleblowers, and back the establishment of an International Anti-Corruption Court. In his remarks, Hon. Allan Rock, former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and a board member of Integrity Initiatives International, underscored the need for an international anti-corruption court, saying ongoing work on the draft framework aims to produce a representative document for consideration by governments by 2026. Similarly, the Special Envoy for Anti-Corruption at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Ambassador Caroline Weijers, stressed that corruption undermines all sectors of society and must be tackled collectively. She called for principled, selfless leadership, stronger regional cooperation, and sustained legal and institutional reforms to combat corruption globally.

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CategoriesHEDA News

UK $9.5m Recovered: A Win for Nigeria Anti-Corruption Fight – HEDA

– CSO charges FG on accountability, prudent use of repatriate funds The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has welcomed the decision of the United Kingdom, through the Bailiwick of Jersey, to return over $9.5 million in looted funds to Nigeria, describing the development as a significant victory in the global fight against corruption and illicit financial flows. HEDA, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, noted that the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the UK authorities and the Federal Government of Nigeria for the repatriation of the funds reinforces the growing international consensus that there should be no safe haven for proceeds of corruption, regardless of where they are hidden. “This recovery represents a clear success for sustained anti-corruption advocacy, particularly in the area of asset recovery and repatriation, which has been one of HEDA’s core campaigns over the years,” Suraju said. According to HEDA, the return of the funds traced to suspicious proceeds of corruption diverted by third-party contractors on behalf of senior Nigerian officials demonstrates the effectiveness of international cooperation, civil forfeiture mechanisms, and persistent pressure by civil society to hold corrupt actors accountable. The civil society organisation recalled that previous repatriated funds facilitated by the UK and its Crown Dependencies were reportedly deployed to critical infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and the Second Niger Bridge under monitoring frameworks, adding that this model should be strengthened and improved upon. “While commending the Federal Government and international partners for the recovery, we are charging the Nigerian government to ensure that the returned funds are judiciously utilised for landmark projects that deliver tangible benefits to citizens, particularly in the areas of transportation, social infrastructure, and economic productivity.” Suraju stressed. HEDA further urged the Federal Government to go beyond assurances and demonstrate full transparency, public disclosure, and independent monitoring in the utilisation of the recovered funds. Nigerians deserve to see, track, and verify how recovered assets are utilized. The civil group reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring asset recovery processes, advocating for stronger safeguards against corruption, and working with stakeholders to ensure that recovered public wealth is used to advance national development and restore public trust in governance.

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NNPC and Afrexim bank logos CategoriesHEDA News

Court Grants HEDA’s Application, Orders NNPC Limited to Disclose $3 Billion Afrexim Bank Crude-for-cash Loan

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCLtd) to supply information regarding the emergency $3 billion “crude-for-cash” loan obtained by the company from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to the applicant, HEDA Resource Centre. Delivering judgment in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1631/2023, brought on behalf of HEDA by Barr. Seidu Mohammed, Hon. Justice Emeka Nwite ruled in favour of HEDA’s request for an order of mandamus, directing NNPC Limited to provide detailed information about the loan. Specifically, the Court ordered NNPC Limited to disclose the anticipated benefits of the $3 billion crude oil loan to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited and the Nigerian economy as a whole, as well as the potential economic implications of the loan, encompassing both short-term and long-term effects on the Nigerian economy. The Court further ordered clarification on the specific oil grades or categories used in negotiating the loan exchange; the exchange rate applied under the terms of the agreement for crude oil repayment; and the quality of the oil being sold or used as collateral for the loan. The Court held that the information sought is simple and harmless, and that the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited has no valid reason to deny HEDA access to the information under the Freedom of Information Act. ‎“The Court does not agree that the disclosure of this simple information has the effect of harming any third-party interest in any way or affecting any contractual negotiation, most especially when there is nothing before the Court to show the harm it would cause.” ‎“Moreover, Section 15(4) of the FOI Act, assuming without conceding that disclosure has the capacity to harm any third-party interest, gives this Court the power to weigh the harm against the public interest.” ‎“The Court is of the view that, due to the nature of the transaction which has great economic impact on Nigerians, and the fact that the oil sector is the major backbone of the Nigerian economy, the Court cannot, in all honesty, decline the request of the applicant.” Reacting to the judgment, HEDA’s Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, described the decision as a major win for transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector of Nigeria. “The judgement marks another milestone in HEDA’s demand for financial and projects transparency in the NNPC Limited. It also sets a precedent for public access to information on government projects and loan agreements. We expect the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited to comply fully with the Court’s order and provide the required information in a timely manner.” HEDA also calls on all stakeholders, including the media and civil society organisations, to join in demanding accountability from public institutions and to support the fight against corruption and financial recklessness.

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Malami CategoriesAnti-corruption HEDA News

“Face your Corruption Allegations, Don’t Distract Nigerians with False EFCC Bias Claims” – HEDA Tells Malami

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has urged former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, to submit himself to investigation and address allegations of corruption and abuse of office rather than “distracting Nigerians with claims of bias and persecution.” In a statement issued and signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society organization reacted to Malami’s call for the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to step aside from an ongoing investigation involving him, describing the allegations of bias, vendetta and political persecution as an attempt to divert attention from substantive issues before the former Attorney General and Justice Minister. Meanwhile, HEDA noted that Malami, during his tenure as Attorney-General, failed to release or gazette the report of the Justice Ayo Salami Judicial Commission of Inquiry, despite repeated public demands since the conclusion of the panels sitting. The anti-corruption organisation said the continued secrecy surrounding the report raises serious concerns about genuineness and credibility of both the panel and the government that constituted it. The group also pointed out that several individuals who were invited by, or allegedly indicted by, the Salami panel have since advanced in their professional careers. “Several individuals who were invited by Salami panel such as Ibrahim Magu, former Acting Chairman of the EFCC, returned to the Nigeria Police Force, rose to the rank of Assistant Inspector General, and retired honourably. Also, Barr. Rotimi Oyedepo became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and currently serving as Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.” Suraju noted. According to HEDA, these developments reinforce widespread public perception that the panel was targeted at specific individuals rather than driven by genuine institutional reform. The organisation identified Ibrahim Magu, Rotimi Oyedepo and the current EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, who served as Secretary to the commission, as the principal targets of Malami and by extension the inquiry, at the time. HEDA, the organisation behind the 2023 petition resulting in the investigation and subsequent arrest of Malami alleged that mission of the Salami panel was to target the trio: Magu for resisting interference from Malami in EFCC cases, Oyedepo for challenging the alleged abuse of prosecutorial powers through a nolle prosequi in a case that was filed by EFCC under the Fiat of Lagos Attorney General in a case involving Abebe, and Olukoyede for challenging Malami in the usurpation of the power of Commission’s Secretary in his illegal disposal of recovered stolen assets. The Federal High Court, Lagos Division, agreed with HEDA in its challenge of Malami’s issued asset management guidelines at the time and declared the guidelines illegal, null and void. The organisation argued that following the removal of these individuals, the panel’s report was never released or gazetted, a development it said undermines Malami’s current reliance on the same process to support claims of persecution. HEDA called on Malami to stop undermining anti-corruption institutions and allow lawful investigations to proceed, stressing that accountability must take precedence over political considerations or personal grievances.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Honours Dr. Ayo-Fashida, Barr. Kayode-Omosebi, Others at 8th Gani Fawehinmi Impact and Integrity Awards

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has honoured outstanding Nigerians whose lives and actions exemplify integrity, courage and accountability at the 8th edition of the Gani Fawehinmi Impact and Integrity Awards (GFIIA), held to mark the 2025 International Human Rights Day under the theme “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now.” The annual awards, instituted in memory of the late legal icon and human rights champion, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, continue to serve as a platform for recognising individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to justice, transparency and the public good despite prevailing challenges in the country. Speaking at the event, Chairman of HEDA Resource Centre, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, described the Gani Fawehinmi Awards as a moral reminder of the values Nigeria urgently needs—fearless resistance to corruption, principled leadership and unwavering defence of human rights. He noted that the 2025 edition was particularly significant as it aligned with the global focus on safeguarding rights in the face of rising inequality, civic repression and shrinking democratic spaces. Suraju stated that the stories of the award recipients reaffirm that integrity is neither outdated nor unattainable, but remains a powerful tool for national transformation. He also announced a new partnership between HEDA Resource Centre and the Gani Fawehinmi Students’ Chambers, Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, which co-hosted the event. According to him, the collaboration underscores HEDA’s belief that nurturing integrity must begin with engaging young people through mentorship, inspiration and values-based leadership. At the ceremony, Dr. (Mrs.) Lola Odeyale Ayo-Fashida emerged as the winner of the Outstanding Integrity Award, while Barrister Olumide Kayode-Omosebi and Mr. Offiong Charles Ikpeme were named first and second runners-up respectively. In the Valuable Whistle Blower Award category, Pastor Nicholas Evaritus was announced as the winner, with Builder Kunle Awoodu emerging as first runner-up. For the Outstanding Impact Award, Hajiya Aishatu A’yan Guru Nahuce clinched the top honour, while Mary Ngozi Kekwaaru and Dayyabu Bala Gezawa emerged first and second runners-up respectively. The Nigerians in Diaspora Integrity Ambassador Award was presented to Yetunde Abimbola-Alebiosu in recognition of her commitment to ethical leadership and national development. Suraju commended the MacArthur Foundation, nominees, awardees, civil society partners and members of the media for their continued support for the Gani Fawehinmi Impact and Integrity Awards. “As we celebrate these exceptional Nigerians, we are reminded that integrity is not merely a personal virtue but the foundation upon which a just, fair and prosperous nation can be built,” he said, urging citizens to uphold human dignity, defend what is right and remain committed to accountability at all levels of society.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA reaffirms commitment to integrity, accountability at Gani Fawehinmi awards

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting integrity, justice and accountability in Nigeria. The organisation made the declaration at the 8th edition of the Gani Fawehinmi Impact and Integrity Awards (GFIIA), held in commemoration of the 2025 International Human Rights Day with the theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now.” Chairman of HEDA Resource Centre, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, described the awards as a moral compass that continues to remind the nation of the values exemplified by the late legal icon, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, including courage in the face of oppression, unwavering integrity and a lifelong commitment to justice and human rights. Suraju noted that the 2025 edition was significant as it aligns with the global theme of the International Human Rights Day, stressing that at a time of growing inequality, civic repression and widening social divisions, the defence of human rights and accountability has become more urgent than ever. He said the awards celebrate Nigerians who continue to resist corruption and uphold transparency, adding that the stories of the honourees demonstrate that integrity remains possible, powerful and impactful, even in challenging times. The HEDA chairman also announced a new partnership with the Gani Fawehinmi Students’ Chambers, Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, which co-hosted the event. According to him, the collaboration reflects the belief that building a culture of integrity must begin with mentorship, youth engagement and early inspiration. Suraju commended the MacArthur Foundation, nominees, awardees, civil society partners and members of the media for their sustained support for the GFIIA. “As we honour these exceptional Nigerians, we must remember that integrity is not just a virtue but the foundation for national transformation,” he said, urging Nigerians to stand for what is right, defend human dignity and work towards a future defined by fairness, justice and opportunity. At the event, Dr Mrs. Lola Odeyale Ayo-Fashida emerged winner of the Outstanding Integrity Award category, while Barrister Olumide Kayode-Omosebi and Mr Offiong Charles Ikpeme were named first and second runners-up respectively.  In the Valuable Whistle Blower category, Pastor Nicholas Evaritus won the award, with Builder Kunle Awoodu as first runner-up. For the Outstanding Impact Award category, Hajiya Aishatu A’yan Guru Nahuce was announced as winner, while Mary Ngozi Kekwaaru and Dayyabu Bala Gezawa emerged first and second runners-up respectively. Yetunde Abimbola-Alebiosu won the Nigerians in Diaspora Integrity Ambassador Award. Mary Ngozi Kekwaaru

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