Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, Nigeria Customs Boss And Us

Published

2 years ago

January 11, 2025

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Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, Nigeria Customs Boss And Us—-Fisayo Soyombo, founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), took on the Nigeria Customs Service, determined to expose the hidden truths and blurred lines within the institution. Despite being threatened with hefty lawsuits, Soyombo stood firm, armed with secret recordings of audio, video, and images.

When FiSayo Soyombo received the first lawsuit letter, his lawyers quickly responded within three hours, requesting a court meeting with Ibrahim Dende and his team. However, in a surprising twist, Dende decided to withdraw the case, Suit Number CV/2286/2024, against Soyombo. This sudden move surprised Nigerians, leaving many stunned.

However, Soyombo refused to accept the withdrawal, prompting Dende to reapply to continue with the lawsuit. This development has added another layer of complexity to the case, which has already sparked widespread interest and concern about corruption and accountability in Nigeria

The most alarming allegation, however, is that Dende, an alleged smuggler, claimed to have had a hand in the appointment of Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, the Comptroller General of Customs. This raises serious concerns about corruption and collusion within the customs service.

It’s worth noting that Soyombo, a renowned investigative journalist, has a history of taking on tough cases. He’s known for his fearless approach, having gone undercover to expose corruption in Nigeria’s justice system

Nigeria’s Customs boss, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has found himself at the center of a corruption scandal. Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo alleges that Adeniyi’s appointment as Comptroller-General of Customs was facilitated by none other than IBD Dende, an alleged notorious smuggler with a reputation for trafficking rice, turkey, arms, and ammunition. Dende is alleged by Soyombo to be the leader of the ‘Inumidun (Smuggling) Squad’.

This revelation is unsettling, to say the least. The idea that an alleged smuggler could have influenced the appointment of the Customs boss is akin to a robbery gang leader having a say in who becomes the Inspector General of Police. The allegations are disturbing conflict of interest that undermines the integrity of the Customs Service.

Interestingly, Adeniyi has been actively working to combat corruption within the Service. He recently met with the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to discuss strategies for mitigating corruption. However, these efforts may be overshadowed by the allegations surrounding his appointment.

The situation highlights the need for transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s institutions. As the country continues to grapple with corruption, it’s essential to ensure that those in positions of power are free from undue influence and are working in the best interests of the nation.

Southwestern Nigeria’s alleged most notorious smuggler wasn’t just invited to the Customs Officers Wives Association’s ‘relaunch’ event in Abuja – they were a major donor! This isn’t a bad dream, it actually happened in the Nigeria Customs. It’s a stark reminder of George Orwell’s Animal Farm, where the lines between right and wrong are hopelessly blurred. With the weight of allegations confronting the current Comptroller-General’s leadership, it seems reality has become a real-life Animal Farm

A viral video by investigative journalist, Fisayo Soyombo surfaced sometime last year, allegedly showing notorious smuggler Dende mentioning Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the current Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), while accusing customs officers of allowing his trailers carrying smuggled rice into Nigeria. In the video, Dende is seen threatening to kill a customs officer for stopping his smuggled rice and is heard ordering someone to “Call Wale, call Wale” – with ‘Wale’ referring to Adeniyi, a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

This shocking allegations raises serious concerns about corruption and collusion within the customs service.

The Nigerian Customs Service has responded to allegations surrounding Comptroller General of Customs, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR), stating that the altercation in question stemmed from the seizure of allegedly smuggled goods. However, many Nigerians remain skeptical, as there has been no update on the investigation into claims that Adeniyi’s own trailers of rice were allowed into the country while those of Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun were refused.

The Customs spokesperson acknowledged the severity of the allegations against Adeniyi but failed to provide any information on the prosecution of Dende or the outcome of the investigation. Interestingly, it has been alleged to light that Dende and Adeniyi have a long-standing friendship that predates Adeniyi’s appointment as Comptroller General of Customs.

These allegations raises questions about potential conflicts of interest and the integrity of the customs service under Adeniyi’s leadership. As the Comptroller General of Customs, Adeniyi has been instrumental in promoting data analytics and innovation within the service. However, the lack of transparency surrounding this allegation threatens to undermine his efforts and erode public trust in the institution.

After the litigant’s application to withdraw the lawsuit against Fisayo Soyombo was rejected, they have reapplied to continue the case. Nigerians are eagerly awaiting the outcome of this high-profile case. This development comes after Soyombo, an investigative journalist, exposed alleged corruption in the Nigeria Customs Service, leading to a lawsuit against him

Akinwale, a public affairs commentator, writes from Abeokuta

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BREAKING: Taiwo Hassan “OGOGO” Dies Age 66, After Battling With Stage-Four Cancer

Published

9 hours ago

August 23, 2026

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BREAKING: Taiwo Hassan “OGOGO” Dies Age 66, After Battling With Stage-Four Cancer—-The 66-year-old Yoruba film icon reportedly passed away on Sunday after his family revealed days earlier that he was battling advanced cancer and seeking urgent medical intervention.

Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has died at the age of 66 after battling stage-four cancer.

The actor’s death was reported on Sunday, August 23, 2026, with multiple Nigerian media outlets confirming the development. His daughter, Kira Hassan, announced the news during an Instagram Live session, according to QED.

The development comes only days after Ogogo’s family publicly revealed the severity of his health condition and appealed for urgent medical assistance.

Family Had Earlier Revealed Cancer Battle

The actor’s daughters, Lima and Kira Taiwo, had made emotional appeals for help after revealing that their father was battling stage-four cancer.

Kira disclosed that the hospital treating Ogogo could no longer administer chemotherapy, while the family searched for medical professionals and facilities capable of providing further treatment.

The family’s appeals generated widespread concern across Nigeria, with colleagues, politicians, fans and well-wishers rallying around the veteran actor.

Among those who offered assistance was Senator Solomon Adeola, who the family acknowledged for helping with medical bills. Reports also said several individuals offered possible treatment options as concern over the actor’s condition grew.

Industry Rallied Around Veteran Actor

Ogogo’s condition triggered an outpouring of support from the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Veteran actor Jide Kosoko disclosed that hundreds of people had offered assistance to the family, while colleagues continued to appeal for prayers and appropriate medical care.

The situation also prompted discussions among medical professionals about treatment options for patients with advanced cancer.

A Career Spanning More Than Four Decades

Taiwo Hassan was one of the most recognisable faces in Yoruba-language cinema, building a career that spanned more than four decades.

Known affectionately as Ogogo, he established himself as an actor, filmmaker and theatre practitioner and appeared in hundreds of Nigerian films throughout his career.

His distinctive performances and longevity in the industry earned him a devoted following among Yoruba movie audiences and made him one of the most respected veterans of Nigerian cinema.

Death Comes Days After Family’s Emotional Appeal

Ogogo’s death comes just days after his daughters’ emotional appeals brought national attention to his health battle.

The family’s initial revelations were followed by widespread prayers and support as they searched for ways to continue his treatment.

On August 19, Sahara Reporters reported that Ogogo’s management was facing difficulties moving him from his hospital to another facility for alternative treatment, despite receiving offers of assistance from hundreds of people.

The actor has now reportedly lost his battle with the illness, bringing an end to the life and career of one of Yoruba cinema’s most prominent veterans.

Nollywood Mourns Ogogo

News of Ogogo’s passing is expected to trigger an outpouring of tributes from across Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

For generations of Yoruba movie lovers, his name and performances became synonymous with the growth and evolution of indigenous Nigerian cinema.

From his early years in theatre to his extensive career on screen, Ogogo left a lasting mark on Nollywood and Yoruba filmmaking.

His death represents a significant loss to an industry in which he spent more than four decades entertaining audiences.

Taiwo Hassan “Ogogo” was 66.

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686 Days and Counting: Hull Loss Keeps Man United Fan Away From the Barber

Published

1 day ago

August 22, 2026

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686 Days and Counting: Hull Loss Keeps Man United Fan Away From the Barber—-Frank Ilett’s bizarre haircut challenge has entered another chapter after Manchester United’s 2–0 defeat to Hull City extended his wait for a five-match winning streak.

For most football fans, a disappointing result means a few hours of frustration before attention turns to the next match.

For Frank Ilett, a Manchester United defeat means something rather different: another few weeks with the same haircut.

Ilett has now reached 686 days without cutting his hair, as his unusual challenge continues following United’s shock 2–0 defeat to newly promoted Hull City at the MKM Stadium.

The challenge began in October 2024, when Ilett decided he would not cut his hair until Manchester United recorded five consecutive victories. What started as a light-hearted challenge has since turned into a remarkable test of patience.

And he is still waiting.

Hull Put Another Hold on the Challenge

There had been renewed optimism that Ilett might finally be getting closer to a haircut after United ended last season with back-to-back victories.

A win over Hull would have given them a third consecutive victory and kept the possibility of reaching the required five-match run alive.

Instead, the newly promoted Tigers produced a memorable performance, beating United 2–0 in front of their home supporters.

Semi Ajayi opened the scoring before Nobel Mendy doubled Hull’s advantage, both goals arriving in the first half.

The result brought United’s winning momentum to an abrupt end — and ensured Ilett’s hair would continue growing.

“This Was Meant to Be One of the Easier Games”

Speaking after the defeat, Ilett admitted that he had expected a very different outcome.

He had viewed the trip to Hull as one of the more manageable fixtures on United’s schedule and was clearly disappointed by the manner of the defeat.

The fan also criticised United’s performance, suggesting that Hull showed greater urgency and desire throughout the contest.

For Ilett, however, the consequences extend beyond the league table.

Every defeat means another delay.

A Challenge That Has Lasted Nearly Two Years

Ilett began his challenge after United’s most recent five-game winning run, which came between January and February 2024.

Since then, the club have failed to produce the sequence required to send him to the barber.

Nearly two years later, the challenge has become an internet curiosity among Manchester United supporters, many of whom have followed the progress of his increasingly lengthy hairstyle.

The latest defeat means the earliest Ilett could potentially complete the challenge is September 20, but only if United win their next five matches.

Those fixtures include meetings with Ipswich Town, Everton, Manchester City, Fulham and their opening Champions League league-phase opponent.

One slip-up would mean the challenge continues.

United’s Results Decide the Fate of His Hair

While United’s immediate concern will be recovering from their disappointing start to the campaign, Ilett will once again be watching every result with a very different interest.

For the players, five consecutive victories would mean momentum and points.

For Ilett, it would finally mean a trip to the barber.

Until then, the scissors remain untouched.

Day 686 has come and gone — and Frank Ilett’s Manchester United-inspired haircut challenge continues

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