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Francis Onoiribholo
The leadership of NBM of Africa Worldwide has distanced itself from any July 7 celebration, declaring that there is no such event neither recognised nor authorised by the organisation and warning that anyone linking it to the celebration risks legal action
The Legal Adviser of the organisation, Prince (Barr.) Ezekwesiri Nwauwa, made the declaration in a statement issued on Sunday, saying the clarification became necessary to properly inform the security agencies, the media and the general public of the organisation’s position.
NBM stated that the purported July 7 celebration does not form part of its constitution, official programmes, activities or calendar, stressing that it neither organises, sanctions nor endorses the event in any form.
The organisation reaffirmed that it has no affiliation, association or involvement whatsoever with the celebration, insisting that no individual or group has been authorised to represent it or associate its name, identity or insignia with the event.
It further reiterated that NBM of Africa Worldwide remains a separate and distinct legal entity from the group commonly referred to as Black Axe, maintaining that the two organisations are not connected in any way.
According to the statement, the organisation’s position was reaffirmed by the Delta State High Court, Warri, in Suit No. EHC/210/2021, where Justice Roli Daibo Harriman, on April 29, 2024, held that NBM of Africa is separate and distinct from Black Axe and cannot be described as such.
NBM warned that any individual or group that uses its name, identity, insignia or reputation in connection with the July 7 celebration does so without its authority, adding that such conduct could attract appropriate civil and criminal proceedings where permitted under Nigerian law.
The organisation said the notice was issued to safeguard its legal identity, prevent misrepresentation and protect public confidence, while urging members, security agencies, the media and the general public to disregard any attempt to associate it with the purported July 7 celebration and be guided accordingly.
