…By for TDPel Media.
The Nigeria Police Force has taken the decision to conduct a covert investigation into Stella Okotete, President Bola Tinubu’s ministerial nominee and former Executive Director of Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM).
The investigation was initiated in response to serious allegations of document falsification and monumental fraud against Okotete.
Petition Filed Against Okotete
Stella Okotete’s name featured in the first batch of 28 ministerial nominees presented to the Senate by the President.
However, Barrister Aare Oladotun Hassan Esq of Juryman Associate Chamber lodged a petition against her with the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, a mere 24 hours after the ministerial list was made public.
The petition raised concerns about various alleged wrongdoings, including the falsification of documents, misrepresentation of qualifications required for holding the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) statutory position, corrupt practices, monumental fraud, and misappropriation of funds.
Police Investigation Plan Unveiled
A police investigation plan, obtained by SaharaReporters, provides insights into the scope of the investigation.
The plan is titled “Re: Case of Criminal Conspiracy, Offence to Wit: Falsification of Documents, Fraudulent Misrepresentation of Qualification to Hold CBN’s Statutory Position, Corrupt Practice, Monumental Fraud, and Misappropriation.”
The police authority has ordered a discreet inquiry into the allegations against Okotete.
Key Allegations in the Petition
The petition highlights several specific allegations against Stella Okotete.
Firstly, it points out that the Senate’s previous report on a petition filed by Myson Law Practice, led by Mr. Myson Nejo Esq on behalf of Ilaje Global Think Thank Initiative, has not been implemented.
The report called for Okotete’s removal and prosecution in accordance with Senate Rule 41(3).
The petitioner claims that Okotete lacks a first degree in any financial account institution, banking, or business administration-related courses such as ICAN, CIBN, or any qualification from a chartered Institution of Taxation, making her ineligible for the position she holds.
Moreover, the petitioner asserts that Okotete lacks the required 18 years of banking experience necessary for the role of Executive Director at NEXIM Bank.
Furthermore, the petition accuses Okotete of approving large sums of money for loans and recycling these loans to unqualified and unverified companies, resulting in the misappropriation of public funds.
Steps in the Investigation
The police investigation plan outlines the steps to be taken to gather evidence and verify the allegations.
These include recording statements from witnesses, verifying Okotete’s educational background, confirming her participation in the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), as well as seeking information from relevant authorities such as CBN, SGF (Secretary to the Government of the Federation), Code of Conduct Bureau, NFIU (Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit), CAC (Corporate Affairs Commission), and the National Assembly.
Additionally, the plan involves scheduling interviews with the concerned parties at the Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department (FCIID) and preparing an interim police investigation report for the appropriate authorities.
Conclusion
As the investigation progresses, Stella Okotete’s position as a ministerial nominee and her involvement in the alleged fraudulent activities remain under intense scrutiny.
The police will continue to pursue the matter discreetly, with the aim of providing clarity on the serious allegations raised against her.
Read More On The Topic On TDPel Media
