As oil prices surged past $100 per barrel and fuel costs climbed by 35% at Nigerian pumps, a troubling paradox emerged: Nigeria, a major crude oil producer with Africa’s largest privately-owned refinery now operational, still found itself buffeted by global energy shocks originating thousands of miles away.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and resulting disruptions to global energy markets exposed the deeper structural challenge facing Nigeria’s economy.

Despite domestic crude production and the operational Dangote Refinery, Nigeria has struggled with rising inflation, which reached approximately 27% in 2025.

The crisis illuminated an uncomfortable truth: decades of import dependency have left Nigeria’s economy precariously exposed to external shocks, even in sectors where the country possesses natural advantages.

This vulnerability extends beyond energy. Nigeria’s technology sector offers a particularly instructive case study in the costs of import reliance, and the transformative potential of local capacity as the pathway to economic stability and technological sovereignty.

Against this backdrop, Zinox Technologies stands as a compelling counternarrative. Founded in 2001 by technology entrepreneur Leo Stan Ekeh, Zinox operates West Africa’s only computerized digital assembly plant.

As Nigeria’s first indigenous computer manufacturer, Zinox demonstrates what becomes possible when vision, investment, and commitment to local capacity converge.

The company’s reach extends beyond traditional computing. Zinox’s innovation spans renewable energy through iPower and home electronics with iTEC, addressing Nigeria’s chronic power challenges with locally-assembled solar solutions and backup systems designed for Nigerian conditions.

This diversification reflects sophisticated understanding: true technological sovereignty requires integrated capabilities.

Zinox’s journey offers a clear case study in how indigenous companies can drive transformation. By focusing on local assembly and manufacturing of computer hardware and digital devices, the company has contributed to building a domestic technology ecosystem that supports government institutions, educational systems, and private enterprises.

This approach not only reduces reliance on foreign imports but also creates jobs, transfers knowledge, and strengthens national capacity.

The implications are significant. Every locally assembled device represents a step away from foreign exchange exposure.

It also signals a shift in mindset, from consumption to production. In a country where demand for technology continues to rise, especially with the acceleration of digital adoption, the importance of local manufacturing cannot be overstated.

Beyond economics, there is also a strategic dimension. Technology is no longer just a commercial tool; it is a defense tool and a national asset.

Countries that control their technology supply chains are better positioned to innovate, secure their data, and compete globally. In this context, companies like Zinox are not merely businesses; they are enablers of national development.

Furthermore, local capacity development has a multiplier effect. It stimulates ancillary industries such as logistics, retail, maintenance, and technical services.

It also fosters entrepreneurship, as more Nigerians gain access to affordable and reliable technology tools needed to participate in the digital economy.

Yet, while progress has been made, there is still work to be done. Scaling local manufacturing requires sustained policy support, infrastructure investment, and a deliberate focus on skills development. It also calls for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to create an environment where indigenous innovation can thrive.

Encouragingly, the momentum is building. There is a growing recognition that Nigeria must move beyond being a consumer market to becoming a production hub.

This shift is not only necessary, it is urgent. Global uncertainties will continue to test economies, and only those with strong internal capabilities will remain resilient.

The current global crisis offers clarity. If the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened or supply chains to imports are fractured, only countries with strong domestic manufacturing capacity will weather the storm. Those dependent on imports suffer disproportionately.

The story of Zinox Technologies underscores what is possible. It shows that with the right mix of vision and execution, Nigeria can chart a new course, one defined by self-reliance, innovation, and sustainable growth.

As the country navigates an increasingly complex global landscape, the message is clear: the future belongs to economies that build, not just buy.

A statement by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) noted that the President recalled the launch of Zinox range of indigenous computer products and accessories in 2001, an event Tinubu described as “a groundbreaking moment for indigenous technology production.”

“President Tinubu celebrates with the accomplished entrepreneur on his Platinum Jubilee, describing him as one of Nigeria’s pioneering innovators in the information technology sector.

“He acknowledges Mr Ekeh’s contributions to the growth of the nation’s manufacturing and information technology ecosystem and commends him for being a pace-setter and dynamic industrialist.

“The President also commends the entrepreneur for his commitment to promoting the Nigerian brand and creating opportunities for young Nigerians.

 “As the Chairman of Zinox Group celebrates this milestone, President Tinubu wishes him good health and more years of groundbreaking accomplishments,” the statement said.

It should be noted that President Tinubu played prominent role in 2001 during the launch of Zinox when he was Governor of Lagos State as he hosted Mr.  Ekeh to a private dinner at his official lodge.

Tinubu, famed for being a business-friendly leader, did not only grace the occasion at Eko Hotel, Lagos, he added a seal of approval for indigenous production of tech products.

Both Tinubu and the then Vice President Atiku Abubakar who was Special Guest of Honour described the event as the biggest tech launch in the history of Nigeria. Other dignitaries at the launch were then President of the Senate, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, many governors, parliamentarians, ministers, captains of industry including bank chief executive officers, members of the Diplomatic Corps, organised labour leaders including Adams Oshiomhole who was then President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), etcetera.

Ekeh currently presides over Zinox Group consisting of Zinox Technologies; Task Systems, TD Africa, the biggest tech distribution company in sub-Saharan Africa; Konga (Africa’s foremost truly composite e-commerce outpost combining offline-online mix in service delivery), TD Mobile, to name a few, within the conglomerate.

He also expressed overflowing gratitude to Nigeria, a country he said has “boosted and blessed me.”

On whether he would join politics after a successful run in entrepreneurship, he said:

“Me, politics? No. I would have been governor of my state long, long ago, but politics is not my calling. However, I support progressive, ideas-driven politicians across the country,” he said.

Ekeh who is the Chairman of Zinox Group was responding to questions during a forum of select mentees of young entrepreneurs which ended late Thursday.

He recalled his early beginning in the nation’s Information Communication Technology (ICT) marketplace after returning to Nigeria from the United Kingdom.

The Zinox chief who turns 70 on February 22 took the mentees down memory lane, recalling how he introduced desktop publishing and switching the nation’s publishing landscape from analogue to digital as well as scaling up his business into what has become a conglomerate today.

“I returned to Nigeria from the United Kingdom after quitting my post-graduate programme because I believed so much in this country and the opportunities it presents. Though the country has blessed and bruised me, my dream was unambiguous: to propagate what I called ‘digital democracy’ in a country that in those days was wholly analogue. Today, I will say to a large extent that Nigeria has helped me to actualize my dream, though there is still work to be done.

“Once we were done with digitizing the media, we moved strongly into oil and gas, financial sector, and public sector where we impacted heavily on e-governance. Our ambitious Computerise Nigeria initiative ensured that homes, educational institutions, and ministries, parastatals and agencies (MDAs) which had no access to computers had access. We did not just dump computers on the people, we ensured they were skilled-up to effectively use the systems for enhanced productivity. Nigeria offered me the opportunity to do all this for which I am grateful,” he told the mentees.

Ekeh, an Imo state indigene, was in Owerri at the weekend with other dignitaries including Vice President Kashim Shettima and many governors, politicians and captains of industry at the grand finale of the Imo at 50 celebrations, where he was honoured with the Distinguished Star of Imo State (DSI) award.

While responding to questions on the state of the economy, Ekeh commended President Tinubu for the courage to start the reforms from the day he assumed office, arguing that any delay would have shrank the economy further and completely wiped out investors’ confidence in the Nigerian economy.

He referenced the recent verdicts from the World Bank and the Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) as evidence that what indigenous entrepreneurs have been saying about the Tinubu reforms as truly progressive is not a farce.

“As a major player in Africa’s ICT ecosystem, I can assure you that major multinationals in this sector are not only investing more in Nigeria, they are collaborating with indigenous players and this is evident in the contribution of the ICT sector to the GDP.

“You will recall that the World Bank Managing Director, Anna Bjerde, who was in Nigeria recently, said Nigeria is now frequently cited globally as an example of steady, credible reform leadership. That says a lot about what entrepreneurs and employers of labour like me have continued to say about the Tinubu government.

“Sentiments aside, President Tinubu is a well exposed visionary leader. He is investment-friendly, he is courageous and he is a good team player. This has impacted the brave decisions he has taken and I am happy that global bodies like the World Bank, and the WTO are talking about it. I have known the President for many years and he has remained consistent to his commitment to national development. I speak here as an entrepreneur, not a politician. I don’t play politics. I am not a politician and I will not be one. I play in the digital space which is the enabler of development and I am happy doing what I’m doing,” Ekeh said.

He recalled Tinubu’s role when he launched the Zinox range of digital products in 2001 when Tinubu was governor of Lagos State, stressing that he has no reason not to support him the way he supports his governor.

“As host governor, he took over the show, owned it and drove it. And that’s because he was futuristic and driven by the vision of a digitally-driven economy. Tinubu is driven by pragmatism,” he said.

He charged the mentees to stay focused on their track and be intentional in their commitment to keep forging ahead even when the tide seems against them; adding that “entrepreneurship anywhere in the world is tough but with patience, perseverance and commitment, you will push through the veil.”

The month-long shopping festival will run from Saturday, November 1st to Sunday, November 30th, 2025, promising shoppers across Nigeria a more exciting, rewarding, and value-packed experience than ever before.

To build anticipation, Early Bird Deals kicked off on October 26th and will run through October 31st, giving early shoppers a head start on some of the year’s most incredible bargains. This exclusive pre-sale window allows customers to secure limited-time offers before the official Yakata sale commences.

Since its inception, Konga Yakata has redefined Black Friday shopping in Nigeria. Evolving beyond a retail event, it has become a nationwide celebration of value, convenience, and trust, firmly positioning Konga as the go-to destination for millions of Nigerians seeking genuine products at the best possible prices.

According to the management of Konga, the 2025 edition of Yakata will surpass previous years with new innovations, expanded product categories, richer customer experiences, and unmatched discounts.

This year’s event will feature engaging activities such as Treasure Hunts, Combo Day, Week of Wonder, Flash Sales, Live Auctions on Konga Radio 103.7FM, Giveaways, Freebies, and the same-day delivery option on KongaNow items, ensuring every shopper enjoys an unforgettable experience.

The campaign will also extend across multiple channels, online and in Konga Retail Stores nationwide, offering customers flexible shopping options and exclusive in-store deals.

A wide range of products will be available across various categories, including Laptops, Desktops and Accessories, Mobile Phones and Tablets, Home and Kitchen Appliances, Electronics, Fashion, Groceries, Baby, Kids & Toys, and Wines & Spirits.

Shoppers can expect massive discounts on top brands, including HP, Samsung, Apple, Haier Thermocool, iPower, Tecno, L’Oréal, Zinox, Nexus, Infinix, Nokia, iTec, Polystar, Nivea, and Lenovo, among others.

In line with its mission to promote financial inclusion and digital convenience, KongaPay is offering shoppers an instant 10% discount when they pay with their KongaPay wallet during the Yakata sale.

The company has also encouraged customers to download and activate their KongaPay app ahead of the sale for a seamless checkout experience, extra savings, and exclusive wallet-based deals.

Speaking on the upcoming sale, the management reaffirmed Konga’s commitment to customer satisfaction, genuine products, and affordable pricing.

“Konga Yakata is not just a sale; it’s a celebration of trust and value,” a company spokesperson noted. “Our goal is to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of their location or budget, can experience the joy of shopping for authentic products at unbeatable prices. This year, we are going even further with more deals, more engagement, and more innovation to delight our customers.”

Over the years, Konga Yakata has become an integral part of Nigeria’s retail calendar and is widely regarded as the benchmark for Black Friday sales in Africa. It has empowered millions of customers to access premium products, strengthening Konga’s position as a trusted household name in e-commerce.

As the countdown begins, Nigerians are urged to stay alert, prepare their shopping lists, and keep their devices close. Shoppers are also encouraged to follow Konga’s social media channels for firsthand updates, flash alerts, and exclusive Yakata offers.

This transformative initiative will be officially unveiled on Thursday, September 4, at the prestigious GITEX Nigeria event, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s digital evolution.

The scope of this initiative reflects Zinox’s unwavering commitment to national development, with an ambitious target of providing computers to at least one million Nigerians.

Understanding that technology alone cannot thrive without supporting infrastructure, the comprehensive package includes iPower customized inverter solutions to address Nigeria’s persistent power challenges, alongside satellite internet connectivity powered by Starlink.

This holistic approach ensures that beneficiaries receive not just devices, but complete digital ecosystems capable of functioning optimally in Nigeria’s unique operational environment.

This initiative presents an unprecedented opportunity for stakeholders across Nigeria’s development spectrum to contribute meaningfully to economic growth.

Zinox Technologies extends an open invitation to government at all levels, politicians, alumni associations, NGOs, and well-meaning Nigerians to support schools and students nationwide through this transformative initiative.

The program represents a unique opportunity for stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s digital future while ensuring measurable impact.

The strategic timing of this launch coincides with global recognition of digital literacy as fundamental to economic growth.

By targeting higher institutions, the initiative addresses the critical need to prepare graduates for an increasingly digital global marketplace.

Students equipped with modern computing skills and reliable internet connectivity will emerge better positioned to contribute to Nigeria’s knowledge economy and compete internationally.

Understanding that the cost of technology can be prohibitive for many institutions, the Computerize Nigeria Flexipay initiative offers remarkably flexible payment terms.

This payment structure removes traditional financial barriers while ensuring sustainability and accessibility for educational stakeholders across different economic levels.

The interest-free arrangement demonstrates Zinox’s commitment to social impact over profit maximization.

This model is backed by quarterly donor reports, ensuring that contributors, whether government agencies, alumni associations, NGOs, or well-meaning Nigerians, see how their support is transforming classrooms and communities.

The initiative addresses a critical gap in Nigeria’s educational infrastructure, where many institutions struggle to provide students with adequate exposure to modern computing technologies.

By democratizing access to premium digital resources, the program aims to level the playing field and ensure that geographical location or economic circumstances do not determine a student’s digital future.

Under the theme, ‘Advancing Innovation for a Sustainable Future,’ senior executives from both organizations convened to explore collaborative opportunities aimed at promoting technological transformation and sustainable energy solutions within tertiary institutions nationwide.

The high-level delegation from Zinox, comprising members of its executive management team, was led by Leo Stan Ekeh, the chairman.

Representing TETFUND in the discussions was Sonny Echono, the executive secretary, along with his top management team.

The highlight of the visit was the establishment of a strategic partnership between Zinox Technologies and TETFUND to provide renewable energy solutions to universities and polytechnics across Nigeria.

Additionally, Mrs. Kelechi Eze-Okonta, Zinox managing director, delivered a comprehensive, world-class presentation on the company’s diverse verticals and advanced ICT services, underscoring the need for intentional policy measures to support indigenous technologies for sustainable economic growth.

The TETFUND team expressed their appreciation for Zinox’s contributions to technology awareness, implementation, and adoption in Africa.

Sonny Echono, the ES of TETFUND, conveyed his deep appreciation for the visit by the Zinox team.

He commended Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh for his unwavering and impactful contributions to Nigeria’s digital transformation, and that efforts are underway to establish a framework for effective energy solutions in tertiary institutions.

Highlighting Zinox Technologies’ expertise and proven track record, Echono expressed optimism about partnering with the company to develop scalable and efficient power solutions for academic institutions.

While both organizations remain committed to implementing innovative initiatives that enhance institutional capacity across the nation’s higher education sector, the visit marks a significant milestone in establishing a strategic partnership to equip Nigeria’s tertiary institutions with the essential technological infrastructure for a sustainable, digitally-driven future.

The latest is the dismissal of the suit by Justice Akpan Okon Ebong of the FCT High Court, who struck out the case filed by Mr. Femi Falana SAN, purporting to act on a fiat donated to him by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi SAN, against the Chairman of Zinox Technologies, Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, and 12 others.

The other defendants are Mr. Chris Eze Ozims, Oyebode Folashade, Charles Adigwe, Obilo Onuoha, Agartha Ukoha, Anya O. Anya, Femi Dosumu, Nnenna Kalu, Admas Digital Technologies Limited, Technology Distributions Limited and Zinox Technologies Limited.

In the suit No. FCT/HC/CR/985/24 filed in November 2024, Falana, on behalf of his client, Benjamin Joseph, the CEO of Citadel Oracle Concept Limited, an Ibadan-based computer firm, filed charges against Ekeh, 9 other individuals and 3 companies before the Federal High Court in Abuja for allegedly diverting N162,247,513.80 being payment for laptop supply contract at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Headquarters which Technology Distribution Ltd (now TD Africa), the biggest tech equipment distributor in sub-Saharan Africa supplied on behalf of Citadel in 2012.

However, in the certified true copy of the judgment dated March 20, 2025, Justice Ebong ruled as follows: “It is my conclusion based on the foregoing that this charge (No. FCT/HC/CR/985/2024, Federal Republic of Nigeria v Leo Stan Ekeh and 12 ORS) constitutes a gross abuse of court process and is liable to dismissal. I accordingly hereby dismiss it.”

Before arriving at his judgment, which has put the final nail in the coffin of a case that other courts had also dismissed in the past as dead on arrival, Justice Ebong considered the outcome of previous cases and petitions filed by Mr. Joseph, none of which was in his favour.

Justice Ebong said:

“One intriguing aspect of this matter is that none of the law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation of the nominal complainant’s (Mr. Joseph) numerous petitions has found merit in any of his allegations against the defendants. When called upon before Senchi J. (Justice Danlami Z. Senchi) to prove his said allegations to the court, he failed to turn up in court. One then wonders on what premise he wants to maintain this campaign of persecution against the defendants.”

Previous judgments on the matter had established that rather than being the culprit, Ekeh and the 12 others were actually the victims of a failed money diversion scheme plotted by Mr. Joseph and Citadel.

When contacted, one of the defendants, Mr. Chris Eze Ozims, a lawyer, said:

“This ruling truly reflects our consistent position on the allegations, and it is good that we have been vindicated, once more, by a competent high court.”

He asserted that the judgment of Justice Ebong was consistent with the position of the defendants and in tandem with the rulings of other judges who had previously adjudicated on the same matter.

Chief counsel to the defendants, Mr. Matthew Burkaa SAN, described the judgment as a victory for integrity and the rule of law.

Court papers showed that Falana’s suit was based on the same claims that various courts had dismissed in the past as falsehood and baseless.

The case arose from a contract between Citadel and Technology Distributions Limited over the supply of computers to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), a project fully funded by Technology Distributions and has no bearing whatsoever with Zinox and its promoter, Mr Leo Stan Ekeh.

It will be recalled that Mr. Joseph had lost the case and its adjunct suits at different courts in the past. In his petition to the police in 2013, police authorities discovered that Mr. Joseph provided false information to the police, prompting the Inspector General of Police to charge him for false information in charge no.CR/216/16.

In another case filed by the EFCC in his instance against his partner, Princess Kama, in charge no. FCT/HC/CR/244/2018,  Honorable Justice Danlami Z. Senchi of the FCT High Court (as he then was) dismissed as false all the allegations made by Benjamin Joseph, and imposed the sum of N20 million as damages against him for false petitioning in relation to these same allegations.

Earlier court papers showed that Joseph, in his statement on oath in suit No:LD/4335/2014 in the High Court of Justice, Lagos State, dated June 28, 2019, averred that his company, Citadel, did not execute any contract with FIRS and that he was not aware that a contract had been awarded to Citadel.

In his deposition under oath, Joseph claimed that Citadel “did not at any time execute any contract for the FIRS and neither did the 2nd defendant (Princess O. Kama) who is its agent in respect of the contract it bid for with the FIRS deliver/release any documents to the Claimant (Citadel) indicating that the contract it bid for, or any other contract was awarded to it by the FIRS or any other body.”

However, a letter from the FIRS addressed to the chamber of Afe Babalola & Co dated February 11, 2014 (FIRS/PD/GDS/2559) and signed by one Idrissa Kogo, Head Legal Department, stated: “Contrary to your client’s claim that they knew nothing about the execution of the contract awarded to them and that they did not receive any payment for the execution of the contract, our record reveals otherwise.

“Your client instructed FIRS through a letter dated December 13, 2012, to deal with Princess O. Kama (Your client’s agent) in relation to the contract. Through three separate letters dated December 20, 2012, your client instructed FIRS to pay to the client’s account with Access Bank plc. Please note that FIRS acted in compliance with your client’s instruction and with due diligence,” the FIRS letter stated.

The FIRS letter was a response to inquiry by Afe Babalola Chamber, lawyers to Citadel Oracle Concept Ltd and its MD, Mr. Benjamin Joseph, at that time.

The current charges filed by Falana on the basis of a fiat from the Attorney General is the third in a row as Mr Joseph had earlier filed charge no.CR/469/2022, which was struck out by Honorable Justice C. O. Oba of the FCT High Court, by an order dated November 8, 2022.

Determined to push through with his case, Mr Joseph filed the same charges before Honorable Justice A. S. Adepoju of the FCT High Court, and the charges were, once again, struck out by the Honorable Court on March 19, 2024, with Honorable Justice Adepoju holding that:

“This matter was brought in dead, extinct and should be confined into the dustbin of history…I hold that the instant suit is an abuse of the process of court, and it is hereby struck out accordingly.”

The visit, aimed at establishing a robust partnership, highlights Seplat’s commitment to equipping its workforce with cutting-edge technology solutions.

The Seplat team, led by Iniabasi Ekpo, IT Site Lead, and Oyebola Chukwunyem, IT Customer Experience Lead, was warmly received by Kelechi Eze-Okonta, managing director of Zinox Technologies, and her team.

During the visit, the Seplat delegation toured Zinox’s state-of-the-art facility, gaining firsthand insight into the company’s innovative solutions and cutting-edge technology offerings.

At the heart of this visit is Seplat’s objective to provide its workforce with high-performance laptops, desktops, and other technological devices designed specifically for performance, security, and efficiency.

This initiative aligns with Seplat’s ongoing efforts to maintain operational excellence in Nigeria’s competitive energy sector.

For over two decades, Zinox Technologies has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s digital transformation. As an indigenous IT powerhouse, Zinox has consistently delivered cutting-edge technology solutions tailored to the unique needs of businesses, government agencies, and multinational corporations. Needless to say, it emerged as a natural choice for this collaboration.

Zinox’s reputation as a technology titan is well-established. It has successfully partnered with global energy giants, including Chevron, Shell, and NLNG.

These collaborations have empowered major energy corporations with secure, high-performance computing solutions, reinforcing Nigeria’s ability to compete in the global digital economy.

“We are excited about the partnership with Seplat Energy,” said Kelechi Eze-Okonta, managing director of Zinox Technologies. “This collaboration represents the coming together of two industry leaders committed to driving technological advancement in Nigeria. At Zinox, we understand the unique technological needs of the energy sector, and we are positioned to deliver solutions that will enhance Seplat’s operational capabilities.”

With Seplat’s investment in Zinox’s high-end computing solutions, the future of Nigeria’s technology independence looks even brighter. This partnership is a testament to the fact that world-class technology can also be built here in Nigeria.

As more corporations follow in Seplat’s footsteps, Nigeria is well on its way to becoming a self-reliant technology powerhouse, driven by indigenous innovation, cutting-edge solutions, and a commitment to excellence on a global scale.

It will be recalled that Joseph, in his statement on oath in suit No: LD/4335/2014 in the High Court of Justice, Lagos State, dated 28th June, 2019, averred that his company, Citadel, did not execute any contract with FIRS and that he was not aware that a contract had been awarded to Citadel.

In his deposition under oath, Joseph claimed that Citadel, “did not at any time execute any contract for the FIRS and neither did the 2nd defendant (Princess O. Kama) who is its agent in respect of the contract it bid for with the FIRS deliver/release any documents to the Claimant (Citadel) indicating that the contract it bid for, or any other contract was awarded to it by the FIRS or any other body.”

However, a letter from the FIRS addressed to the chamber of Afe Babalola & Co dated 11th February 2014 (FIRS/PD/GDS/2559) and signed by one Idrissa Kogo, Head Legal Department, stated: “Contrary to your client’s claim that they knew nothing about the execution of the contract awarded to them and that they did not receive any payment for the execution of the contract, our record reveals otherwise.

“Your client instructed FIRS through a letter dated 13th December 2012 to deal with Princess O. Kama (Your client’s agent) in relation to the contract. Through three separate letters dated 20th December 2012, your client instructed FIRS to pay to the client’s account with Access Bank plc. Please note that FIRS acted in compliance with your client’s instruction and with due diligence,” the FIRS letter stated.

The FIRS letter was a response to inquiry by Afe Babalola Chamber, lawyers to Citadel Oracle Concept Ltd and its MD, Mr. Benjamin Joseph, at that time.

Spokesman for Zinox, Mr. Chimezie Orisakwe, when contacted, confirmed the letter, stressing that the document from FIRS was actually in response to inquiries by the chamber of Afe Babalola SAN, who was Joseph’s first lawyer.

“Mr. Joseph had been presenting the story in a manner that portrays him as the victim in a business relationship, but it was apparent that he did not give full disclosure to the chamber of Afe Babalola, who had to write the FIRS to get a proper brief on the matter. I want to believe that the disclosure from FIRS which rubbished all the depositions of Joseph and exposed him as a perjurer must have informed the withdrawal of the highly respected Afe Babalola from the case. Interestingly, this letter has already been filed in Suit No. LD/4335/2014, the civil case at the Lagos State High Court.

“More curious is that Mr. Benjamin Joseph, in his Witness Statement on Oath in the said civil case, admitted that he gave the corporate documents of Citadel Oracle Concept Ltd and a letter of authorisation to Princess Kama, his staff, dated 13th December 2012, in respect of the FIRS contract. This, therefore, contradicts his present claim that his corporate documents were forged to open the bank account”, Mr. Orisakwe added.

The Zinox spokesman expressed shock that Femi Falana would include Zinox in his purported fiat/charges, even when the company has nothing to do with the transaction or allegations.

He said:

“Zinox has never been invited by any investigative agency, including the police and the EFCC, on the so-called allegations. There is no report either by the police or the EFCC or any investigative agency where the name of Zinox was mentioned as a suspect. There is no judgment or ruling of any court where Zinox was mentioned as having anything to do, whatsoever, with the transaction or the allegations, the basis of the fiat/charges. Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, the Chairman of Zinox, has never made any statement to the police in the course of any investigations and has never been mentioned in any court proceedings or judgment as part of any investigations relating to these allegations.”

Orisakwe cited instances in which Mr. Joseph lost the case and its allied suits. In a petition/case Mr. Joseph reported since 2013 and for which the Inspector General of Police charged him for false information in charge no.CR/216/16, the Zinox spokesman said Mr. Joseph was unable to prove his case.

He recalled that in another case filed by the EFCC at his instance against his partner, Princess O. Kama, in charge no. FCT/HC/CR/244/2018,  Honorable Justice Danlami Z. Senchi of the FCT High Court (as he then was), dismissed as false all the allegations made by Benjamin Joseph, and imposed the sum of N20 million as damages against him for false petitioning in relation to these same allegations.

The Zinox spokesman alleged that the current charges said to have been filed by Falana on the basis of a fiat from the Attorney General is the third in a row as he had earlier filed charge no.CR/469/2022, which was struck out by Honourable Justice C. O. Oba of the FCT High Court, by an order dated 8th November 2022.

“He filed the same charges before Honorable Justice A. S. Adepoju of the FCT High Court, and the charges were, once more, struck out by the Honourable Court on 19th March 2024, with Honorable Justice Adepoju holding that: ‘This matter was brought in dead, extinct and should be confined into the dustbin of history…I hold that the instant suit is an abuse of the process of court and it is hereby struck out accordingly,’ Orisakwe said.

He expressed shock that a “learned Senior Advocate in the person of Femi Falana, would, yet, proceed to file the same charges before Honourable Justice A. O. Ebong of the FCT High Court in charge no. FCT/HC/CR/985/24 in November 2024.”

According to the Zinox spokesman, “It is very clear that the deliberate intention for instituting this new charge by Femi Falana SAN, to include the name of Zinox and its Chairman and other persons who were never part of the investigations, is to embarrass them, harm their reputation, and thereby damage their businesses.”

Meanwhile, when the case came up on 9th January 2025, the lawyers to Zinox and Technology Distributions filed Preliminary Objections boldly challenging the jurisdiction of the court over the case and the appearance of Falana, on the ground that the purported Fiat was legally wrongful and defective, and ought not to have been granted to Mr. Femi Falana SAN, in the first place.

This, thus, robs the court of jurisdiction because the case is brought on the basis of the Fiat, and if it is shown that the Fiat is defective and invalid, the court cannot exercise its jurisdiction over the case.

In the light of this development, Mr. Falana asked the court for an adjournment to enable him respond to the Preliminary Objections.

The court consequently adjourned the case to 3rd March 2025, to hear the Preliminary Objections and any other pending application. From a legal perspective, the issue of jurisdiction must first be determined by the court before any other step can be taken in the case, including the plea of the defendants.

This was the reason for the absence of the defendants in court on the said January 9 2025, especially as the individual defendants were yet to be served the court papers.

In a statement on Sunday, Zinox referenced recent news items in the media relating to certain charges filed by  Falana, purporting to act on a fiat donated to him by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi SAN, whom Zinox said may not have been properly briefed.

“We are sure that if the circumstances of this case were made available to the respected Honorable Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, he would not have granted the purported fiat to Femi Falana,” Zinox said in the statement.

In the news reports, Falana was said to have filed a suit before Honorable Justice A. O. Ebong of the FCT High Court in charge no. FCT/HC/CR/985/24 in November 2024, a suit Zinox said was based on the same claims which various courts had in the past dismissed as falsehood and baseless.

“Our initial reaction was to ignore these publications as the usual campaigns of calumny that have been orchestrated against Zinox since 2014 by one Mr. Benjamin Joseph, the Managing Director of Citadel Oracle Concept Ltd, the client of Mr. Femi Falana SAN. However, we are persuaded to respond by the consideration that once falsehood is sustained over time, it tends to acquire the garb of truth.”

Zinox said the case arose from a contract between Citadel and Technology Distributions Limited over the supply of computers to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), stressing that the matter has no bearing whatsoever with Zinox and its promoter, Mr Leo Stan Ekeh.

“Firstly, we are shocked that Femi Falana would include Zinox in his purported fiat/charges, a company that has nothing to do with the transaction or allegations. For the records, we want to state as follows:

“Zinox has never been invited by any investigative agency, including the police and the EFCC, on these allegations. There is no report either by the police or the EFCC or any investigative agency where the name of Zinox was mentioned as a suspect. There is no judgment or ruling of any court where Zinox was mentioned as having anything to do, whatsoever, with the transaction or the allegations, the basis of the fiat/charges. Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, the Chairman of Zinox, has never made any statement to the police in the course of any investigations and has never been mentioned in any court proceedings or judgment as part of any investigations relating to these allegations. Indeed, he has never met with Benjamin Joseph before,” the statement said.

Zinox cited instances in which Mr. Joseph lost the case and its adjunct suit. In a petition/case Mr. Joseph reported since 2013 and for which the Inspector General of Police charged him for false information in charge no.CR/216/16, he was unable to prove his allegations for more than 8years.

In another case filed by the EFCC at his instance against his partner, Princess Kama, in charge no. FCT/HC/CR/244/2018, Honorable Justice Danlami Z. Senchi of the FCT High Court (as he then was), dismissed as false all the allegations made by Benjamin Joseph, and imposed the sum of N20 million as damages against him for false petitioning in relation to these same allegations.

Zinox alleged that the current charges said to have been filed by Falana on the basis of a fiat from the Attorney General is the third in a row as he had earlier filed charge no.CR/469/2022, which was struck out by Honorable Justice C. O. Oba of the FCT High Court, by an order dated 8th November 2022.

In what appears to be forum shopping and abuse of court process, “he filed the same charges before Honorable Justice A. S. Adepoju of the FCT High Court, which charges were, once more, struck out by the Honorable Court on 19th March 2024, with Honorable Justice Adepoju holding that:

“This matter was brought in dead, extinct and should be confined into the dustbin of history…I hold that the instant suit is an abuse of the process of court and it is hereby struck out accordingly,” the statement said.

Zinox said it was shocked that a “learned Senior Advocate in the person of Femi Falana, would proceed to file the same charges before Honorable Justice A. O. Ebong of the FCT High Court in charge no. FCT/HC/CR/985/24 in November 2024.”

The statement said: “It is, therefore, very clear that the deliberate intention for instituting this new charge by Femi Falana SAN, to include the name of Zinox and its Chairman and other persons who were never part of the investigations, is to embarrass them, harm their reputation, and thereby damage their businesses. In the circumstance, we hereby demand a public apology from Mr. Femi Falana SAN, if he is unable to produce the evidence demanded above.

“We, therefore, assure all our business partners, stakeholders, and friends, that we are not ruffled by these spurious allegations. While our lawyers are set to defend the present charges purportedly filed by Femi Falana SAN, we shall not fail to explore all legal remedies against persons associated with orchestrating these false allegations and publications against us,” Zinox said.