₦airaland Forum

Bukola Saraki : The defeated winner
— 18th June 2017
By Chidi Obineche

It came with a screeching din, accompanied by a resounding bang of definiteness. Many had discerned that it would careen into an all- clear without scars or lacerations. But the mammoth plebeians and even patricians that often dot the congealed public space had long seen him clutched, thrown out of his lofty seat and perhaps out of the hallowed chambers. Bukola Saraki, Nigeria’s 8th Senate president of the 4th republic is not your run of the mill politician. In 18 years of active politicking he has built the phoenix image and the life flow of the beetle. He is like wheels that never stop. He does not live the same day over and over again and call it life. For close to two years, he rocked uncomfortably on his seat, faced his travails with rugged equanimity but with a flourish of optimism. He swam in the solidarity of his colleagues to the eternal discomfort of his traducers. He evinced courage in the face of near extinction of his ambition, resonating always in Chetan Kumbhar’s “ Winners don’t lose even when they lose.” He is today the defeated winner. He ululated in Benjamin Suulola’s words that “ Winners don’t think defeat.
They think victory”. The triumph at the Code of Conduct Tribunal last Wednesday puts a seal, at least for now on the most daunting challenge to his seat. But he is not a newcomer to dire straits. Even his emergence as Senate president came with hoofs and drama. He subdued and consolidated. His many struggles in his political odyssey may have buoyed up his spirit and strength. He almost never loses. Winning takes talent and the glory is poise under stress. Look back to his days as governor. He rancorously ran the opposition out. He planted his foot soldiers in a well wrought dynasty. With eyes squarely primed at the center, he cavorted with the late president Musa Yar’Adua and sang the sweet song of a cabal. In Goodluck Jonathan he found a lush field to groom his panthers. And the journey continues. His politics find apt expression in Friendrich Wilhelm Nietzsche’s “ life is an instinct for growth, for survival, for the accumulation of forces, for power.” It’s like women’s lives where constantly, humour, sadness and survival instincts are encountered. Saraki rides with the arsenals in Rider Haggard’s best seller “She stoops to conquer” by never daring the denizens of power with success as his only revenge. As they say in common leadership parlance, nobody is stronger, weaker than someone who came back. There is not much you can do to such a person because he has seen it all and paid the price over and over again. He demonstrates in totality that in a mad world, only the mad are sane or better put, if you live among the wolves, you have to act like a wolf. Saraki may have been dirtied in this battle, he may have sucked in a great deal of pain, but his victory is nothing more than recovery.
Olubukola Abubakar Saraki was born on December 19, 1962 to the acclaimed strongman of kwara politics, Oloye , Dr Olusola Saraki, a onetime Senate leader in the Second Republic, and Florence Morenike. He attended Kings College, Lagos, from 1973 to 1978 and Cheltenham College, Cheltenham, London from1979 to 1981 for his Higher School Certificate. He then studied at the London Hospital Medical College of the University of London from 1982 to 1987 where he obtained the MBBS (London) He was the governor of Kwara state from 2003 to 2011. He was the chairman of the influential Nigeria Governors Forum, NGF. Earlier in 2000, he was a Special Assistant to President Olusegun Obasanjo on Budget. He was first elected to the Senate in 2011 representing Kwara Central Senatorial District and was reelected in 2015 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC. He became the Senate president on June 9, 2015.

*Capital Market: Senate Receives 3 Bills from SEC*

The Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), on Thursday, presented three draft bills to the Senate, aimed at enhancing the operations of the capital market and reposition it as a dependable catalyst for economic recovery.

The Director General of SEC, Mounir Gwarzo, said the bills were in response to the challenge thrown to the Commission by the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, during a roundtable conference organized by the Senate last year on how to reposition the nation's Capital Market for effectiveness.

The bills which were presented to the Senate President during a courtesy call by a SEC delegation led by its DG, Gwarzo, in Abuja, according to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Senate President, Sanni Onogu, include the Investment and Securities Bill, Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) (amendment) Bill and the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria Act (amendment) Bill.

The Senate President who received the bills said they were necessary to provide a conducive environment for investment in the country and to make the nation's capital market conform to international best practices.

He said the Bills when passed into law would help boost investment in the country and thus create jobs for Nigerians.

He said: "First of all, I remember attending the conference that was organised last year. It was an effort done by our former colleague, Senator Isiaka Adeleke and also his Vice, Senator Foster Ogola.

"I remembered we all commended the Conference and I challenged the SEC that time that they should from the conference come up with areas that they felt we need to review that will make a lot of difference in the area of investment and also to deepen our capital market.

"Am happy that you have been able to come up with a report that we can work with. While waiting for you on the report, work has already been done to some areas.

"For example, I know that CAMA and the Investment Security Act (amendment) Bill are already being considered, nevertheless, I think they are still at Committee stages. So, definitely, I will get these reports across to them so that they can incorporate all the issues here.

"Most important here is to see that we carry out necessary amendments in these laws that will be in line with the international best practices and ensure Nigeria is an investment destination.

"As such we will be able to help our people to provide employment, fight poverty and create wealth. I want to assure you that this report will not just lie without anything being done on them. We want to promise you that you can start counting, we will start the process and hopefully, very soon we will be able to pass these bills," he said.

END

Sanni Onogu
Chief Press Secretary to the Senate President

*Below are the 10 major reasons the Code of Conduct Tribunal acquitted the Senate President. The Nation NewsPaper*

Upholding Saraki’s “no-case submission”, the tribunal made up of two men, the Chairman and a member said:

1) The prosecution failed to discharge the burden of proof placed on it under the law.
The CCT Chairman Justice Danladi Yakubu Umar said the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case against Saraki to warrant his being called to defend himself.

2) Umar faulted the evidence of the third prosecution witness, Samuel Madojemu (Head of Investigation at the Code of Conduct Bureau, CCB) that he received oral instructions to join a team from other agencies to investigate Saraki.
He said Madojemu was unhelpful to the prosecution when he (Madojemu) claimed that all information in the affidavit in support of the 18-count charge was based on information supplied to him by an undisclosed team of investigators.

3)Umar said what the EFCC tendered before the tribunal was more of a product of intelligence gathering than of conventional investigation.

4) It is wrong of the investigators not to have invited the defendant to make a statement so that the truth can be unearthed.

5) Agwadza noted that while the prosecution alleged that Saraki was earning salary from the Kwara State government even as a Senator, it (prosecution) failed to call the state’s Accountant-General to prove that allegation.

5)The prosecution failed to produce material evidence including the defendant’s statement and the original copies of his assets declaration forms.

6) In criminal prosecution, he said, the onus was on the prosecution to prove its case, adding that where it fails in that duty, the defence could not be called to prove its innocence.

7)The prosecution, he said, failed to call vital witnesses to “effectively link the defendant to the offences charged”.

The CCT noted that the evidence was so discredited, unreliable that no reasonable court will attach probate value to them.



9) He said the team referred to by Madojemu comprising operatives of the EFCC, DSS and CCB is unknown to law, adding that the team has no constitutional or statutory backing to have done what it did.

The tribunal’s sole member, Williams Atedze Agwadza.

10) My humble conclusion is that the defendant in this case has no case to answer and he is accordingly discharged and acquitted,” Agwadza said.

CAN SOWORE PLEASE RESPOND TO THIS

BETWEEN SOWORE OMOYELE AND BUKOLA SARAKI

Country of contradictions - It's only in NIGERIA that a NOTORIOUS BLACKMAILER will be FRUSTRATED that a WRONGDOER is not doing the RIGHT THING. Just imagine, SOWORE is FRUSTRATED that SARAKI is free from his trial - a curious case of a POT calling a KETTLE BLACK.

Can SOWORE SWEAR on his late father’s grave; MR . DAVID OMOREMILEKUN SOWORE, who died in 2005, and whose FUNERAL I contributed the HIGHEST MONEY to so SOWORE, being the FIRST CHILD, could be able to bury his father; that he didn’t demand a BRIBE from me?

Yet, with all I did for SOWORE OMOYELE for over 20yrs, including FUNDING the “Honeymoon” of he and his wife in 2004 in Nigeria (when SOWORE first came with the Naija lady in America to Nigeria), SOWORE still THREATENED and BLACKMAILED me with malicious FAKE NEWS because I didn’t succumb to his demand of 100 Million Naira from the fictitious N500 Million which he LIED that I collected from the NSA money .

SOWORE still THREATENED me over the PHONE that the EFCC was after me that he only BEGGED THEM to CALM DOWN that we were friends and that I should respond to his DEMAND (the 100 Million Naira) quickly so the EFCC wouldn't pick me up. Even though I told him that I was ready to face the EFCC, SOWORE was still persistent with his callous DEMAND.

I’ve given some of these evidences to the Police and MR. FEMI FALANA (SAN) whose name SOWORE was dropping when I got him ARRESTED in JANUARY (HIS 1ST ARREST SINCE HE STARTED HIS SAHAREPORTERS).

Interestingly, I ran into MR. FEMI FALANA at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, when I landed in Abuja last week. I will give more details on this brief encounter with MR. FALANA in subsequent posts.

In the meantime, I BEG YOU ALL to READ THESE WHATSAPP CHATS between MYSELF & SOWORE and PLEASE make your conclusion with AN OPEN MIND & SINCERITY OF PURPOSE. (It's one of the chats including phone conversations that we both had before & after Sowore published the negative story. Even at that I was only expecting him to APOLOGIZE. I guess that's too big for his overrated internet presence. But see how God shamed him & made me to arrest him in January)

MEANWHILE, SOWORE should be INFORMED that, I, OLALEKAN FATODU, have TRIUMPHED over his BLACKMAIL; AND HE CAN ALSO CONTINUE TO MAKE ME THE MAIN SUBJECT OF HIS EXTREMELY NEGATIVE & LIES-PEDDLING SITE.

But I am not backing down on my CASE with SOWORE and I am going to USE this BITTER-SWEET experience to RAISE AWARENESS ON THE DANGER OF FAKE NEWS, BLACKMAILING & CYBERBULLYING. God bless you all!

Lest I forget to those who have judged that I'm being used by some powerful names to fight Sowore ( as Sowore has been claiming to cover this monumental shame) , you are forgiven & may God free you from the bondage of the pathological LIAR.

*#TodayInPlenary*

*PROCEEDINGS OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF TUESDAY 13TH JUNE, 2017*

It's a new Legislative day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Senate President Bukola Saraki took the official prayer and led the chamber into today's proceedings.

Senator Yusuf Abubakar moved for the approval of Votes and Proceedings of Friday 9th June, 2017. Senator Ahmed Ogembe seconded.

*EXECUTIVE SESSION*
Senate moved into an Executive Session.

Senate resumed from its Executive Session and Senate President Bukola Saraki Reported Progress that at the executive session Senate deliberated on issues bothering on the workings of the Senate and the National Assembly in general.

*EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION*

Senate President Bukola Saraki read a letter from Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) requesting the confirmation of Abdulahi Attah as the chairman of Federal Capital Tereitory (FCT) Inland Revenue Service (IRS) board.

*ANNOUNCEMENT *

Senate President Bukola Saraki made announcements and welcomed staffs and students who were present in the gallery to observe Plenary.

*POINT OF ORDER*

Senator Rose Oko cited order 43 on personal explanation about the death of Miss Joy through cocaine poisoning after invitation to the house of Alhaji Usman Adamu.

Senator Aliero cited order 39(5) and 40 and stated that the letter of confirmation of board chairman of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Inland Revenue Service (IRS) shouldn't come from Federal Capital Territory(FCT) minister.

Senator Dino Melaye cited order 14 and informed the Senate of the attack on His life from the Governor of Kogi State in a visit to the State and said all he wants is for Salaries and Pension of the citizens of Kogi state to be paid.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu cited order 14(2)c and stated that it is clear on the security of the people and appealed to the Federal and State Government to ensure citizens are protected as well as Properties, Ensure people that indulge in reckless activities don't get away. He stated that this is condemnable and should not be allowed on any democratic system. Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said those who sustained injuries, GOD should heal them and they should get proper treatment from the hospital.

*PRESENTATION OF BILLS - FIRST READING*

1. Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo, Gombe State (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 471) by Senator Joshua Lidani.

2. Federal Polgtechnic Adikpo, Benue State (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 494) by Senator Barnabas Gemade.

3. Electricity Theft (Prohibition and Prevention) Bill, 2017 (SB. 496) by Senator Yahaya Abdullahi.

4. Federal University of Health Sciences Otukpo, Benue State (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 504) by Senator David Mark.

*PRESENTATION OF REPORTS*

1. Report of the Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by Senator Dino Melaye.
-That the Senate received the reports of the Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on the following House Bills for Concurrence:

I. Federal Capital Territory Transport Authority (Establishment, etc.) Bill, 2017 (HB. 91),

II. Federal Capital Territory Hospitals Management Board (Establishment, etc.) Bill, 2017 (HB. 441),

III. Federal Capital Territory Civil Service Commission Bill, 2017 (HBs. 167 and 310),

IV. Federal Capital Territory Water Board (Establishment, etc.) Bill, 2017 (HB. 318).

Senator Remi Tinubu seconded that the Senate received the report of the Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on the House Bills for Concurrence.

2. Report of the Committee on Housing and Urban Development by Senator Barnabas Gemade.
-That the Senate received the report of the Committee on Housing and Urban Development on the need to prosecute building law violators in Nigeria.

Senator Theodore Orji Seconded that the Senate received the report on the Committee on Housing and Urban Development on the need to prosecute building law violators in Nigeria.

The Reports were LAID.

*MOTIONS*

1. Need to ensue affordable and accessible mental health care for Nigerians by Senator Remi Tinubu.

Senator Shehu Sani said what makes people mentally unstable in other societies is different from ours, Young men seem more desperate here.

Senator Barau Jibrin said life is full of ups and down, you can be fortunate today and tomorrow its different,the Government should perform its function by ensuring the wellbeing of citizens.

Senate accordingly resolved to:

1. Urge the Ministry of Health at Federal and State levels to embark on mental health sensitization and awareness campaign,

2. Urge the Ministry of Health at all levels to set up free and accessible mental health stations in all Government owned hospitals and clinics across Nigeria,

3. Urge the citizenry to look out for possible symptoms of unhappiness, depression etc. and to seek professional help where necessary.

2. Smuggling- A threat to Nigeria's quest to Self-Sufficiency in Rice Production by Senator Hope Uzodinma.

Senator Adamu Aliero said there was a meeting between the Farmers association and the Comptroller General of Customs, solutions have been proffered. He stated that these Smugglers are in Nigeria and most of them are Asians, the officers in Benin Republic have been notified, we expect a feedback.

Senator Ahmed Lawan said we spend millions importing rice, a drastic measure is needed, if we have to close our borders for sometime,let it be.

Senator Sola Adeyeye said the only market stronger than rice in Nigeria is oil. He stated that because we abandoned Agriculture, we have to Import. Senator Sola Adeyeye said Economic Community Of West African States (ECOWAS) need to be revisited, we need a holistic approach showing relationship between Economic Community Of West African States (ECOWAS) countries.

Senator Bala Na'Allah said if when we make firm policies, Smugglers still breach them. The rate of Smuggling in the country is alarming.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said the matter will go for public hearing, we need to know what to do to put everything in order. He also said we must ensure there is a corresponding increase in the supply chain, we must check the borders, we will all do our best with the Ministry of Agriculture so that smugglers won't have any incentives.

Senate accordingly resolved to:

1. Urge the Federal Government to intensify border patrol to check the activities of these smugglers,

2. Urge the Federal Government to engage out neighbouring countries where these smuggled rice are discharged by ships and transported to the country, and

3. Mandate the Committee on customs, excise and tariff to carry out a holistic investigation on the operation of comprehensive import supervision scheme (CISS) and identify those behind the smuggling of rice and other items into Nigeria with a view to bringing them to book.

Senator Na'Allah added that the Federal Government should work out import duty for rice and incentives for farmers. Senator Sola Adeyeye seconded the additional prayer.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said Senator Hope Uzodinma should look into the Importation of Plastic Rice.

*ADJOURNMENT*

Senate Leader moved that other items on the Order paper be stood down to another Legislative day. Minority Leader seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Wednesday, 14th June, 2017.

*#GavelBangs*TodayInPlenary*

*PROCEEDINGS OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF TUESDAY 13TH JUNE, 2017*

It's a new Legislative day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Senate President Bukola Saraki took the official prayer and led the chamber into today's proceedings.

Senator Yusuf Abubakar moved for the approval of Votes and Proceedings of Friday 9th June, 2017. Senator Ogembe seconded.

*EXECUTIVE SESSION*
Senate now moved into an Executive Session.

Senate resumed from its Executive Session and Senate President Bukola Saraki Reported Progress that at the executive session Senate deliberated on issues bothering on the workings of the Senate and the National Assembly in general.

*EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION*

Senate President Bukola Saraki read a letter from Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) requesting the confirmation of Abdulahi Attah as the chairman of Federal Capital Tereitory (FCT) Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) board.

*ANNOUNCEMENT *

Senate President Bukola Saraki made announcements and welcomed staffs and students who were present in the gallery to observe Plenary.

*POINT OF ORDER*


Senator Rose Oko cited order 43 on personal explanation about the death of Miss Joy through cocaine poisoning after invitation to the house of Alhaji Usman Adamu.

Senator Aliero cited order 39(5) and 40 and stated that the letter of confirmation of board chairman of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) shouldn't come from Federal Capital Territory(FCT) minister.

Senator Dino Melaye cited order 14 and informed the Senate of the attack on His life from the Governor of Kogi State in a visit to the State and said all he wants is for Salaries and Pension of the citizens of Kogi state to be paid.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu cited order 14(2)c and stated that it is clear on the security of the people and appealed to the Federal and State Government to ensure citizens are protected as well as Properties, Ensure people that indulge in reckless activities don't get away. He stated that this is condemnable and should not be allowed on any democratic system. Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said those who sustained injuries, GOD should heal them and they should get proper treatment from the hospital.

*PRESENTATION OF BILLS - FIRST READING*

1. Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo, Gombe State (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 471) by Senator Joshua Lidani.

2. Federal Polgtechnic Adikpo, Benue State (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 494) by Senator Barnabas Gemade.

3. Electricity Theft (Prohibition and Prevention) Bill, 2017 (SB. 496) by Senator Yahaya Abdullahi.

4. Federal University of Health Sciences Otukpo, Benue State (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 504) by Senator David Mark.

*PRESENTATION OF REPORTS*

1. Report of the Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by Senator Dino Melaye.
-That the Senate received the reports of the Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on the following House Bills for Concurrence:

I. Federal Capital Territory Transport Authority (Establishment, etc.) Bill, 2017 (HB. 91),

II. Federal Capital Territory Hospitals Management Board (Establishment, etc.) Bill, 2017 (HB. 441),

III. Federal Capital Territory Civil Service Commission Bill, 2017 (HBs. 167 and 310),

IV. Federal Capital Territory Water Board (Establishment, etc.) Bill, 2017 (HB. 318).

Senator Remi Tinubu seconded that the Senate received the report of the Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on the House Bills for Concurrence.

2. Report of the Committee on Housing and Urban Development by Senator Barnabas Gemade.
-That the Senate received the report of the Committee on Housing and Urban Development on the need to prosecute building law violators in Nigeria.

Senator Theodore Orji Seconded that the Senate received the report on the Committee on Housing and Urban Development on the need to prosecute building law violators in Nigeria.

The Reports were LAID.

*MOTIONS*

1. Need to ensue affordable and accessible mental health care for Nigerians by Senator Remi Tinubu.

Senator Shehu Sani said what makes people mentally unstable in other societies is different from ours, Young men seem more desperate here.

Senator Barau Jibrin said life is full of ups and down, you can be fortunate today and tomorrow its different,the Government should perform its function by ensuring the wellbeing of citizens.

Senate accordingly resolved to:

1. Urge the Ministry of Health at Federal and State levels to embark on mental health sensitization and awareness campaign,

2. Urge the Ministry of Health at all levels to set up free and accessible mental health stations in all Government owned hospitals and clinics across Nigeria,

3. Urge the citizenry to look out for possible symptoms of unhappiness, depression etc. and to seek professional help where necessary.

2. Smuggling- A threat to Nigeria's quest to Self-Sufficiency in Rice Production by Senator Hope Uzodinma.

Senator Adamu Aliero said there was a meeting between the Farmers association and the Comptroller General of Customs and solutions have been proffered. He stated that these Smugglers are in Nigeria and most of them are Asians, the officers in Benin Republic have been notified, we expect a feedback.

Senator Ahmed Lawan said we spend millions importing rice,a drastic measure is needed,if we have to close our borders for sometime,let it be.

Senator Sola Adeyeye said the only market stronger than rice in Nigeria is oil. He stated that because we abandoned Agriculture, we have to Import. Senator Sola Adeyeye said Economic Community Of West African States (ECOWAS) need to be revisited, we need a holistic approach showing relationship between Economic Community Of West African States (ECOWAS) countries.

Senator Bala Na'Allah said if when we make firm policies, Smugglers still breach them. The rate of Smuggling in the country is alarming.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said the matter will go for public hearing, we need to know what to do to put everything in order. He also said we must ensure there is a corresponding increase in the supply chain, we must check the borders, we will all do our best with the Ministry of Agriculture so that smugglers won't have any incentives.

Senate accordingly resolved to:

1. Urge the Federal Government to intensify border patrol to check the activities of these smugglers,

2. Urge the Federal Government to engage out neighbouring countries where these smuggled rice are discharged by ships and transported to the country, and

3. Mandate the Committee on customs, excise and tariff to carry out a holistic investigation on the operation of comprehensive import supervision scheme (CISS) and identify those behind the smuggling of rice and other items into Nigeria with a view to bringing them to book.

Senator Na'Allah added that the Federal Government should work out import duty for rice and incentives for farmers. Senator Sola Adeyeye seconded the additional prayer.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said Senator Hope Uzodinma should look into the Importation of Plastic Rice.

*ADJOURNMENT*

Senate Leader moved that other items on the Order paper be stood down to another Legislative day. Minority Leader seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Wednesday, 14th June, 2017.

*#GavelBangs*

*#TodayInPlenary*

*PROCEEDINGS OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF THURSDAY, 1ST JUNE, 2017*

Its a new Legislative day in the Nigerian Senate. Senate President Bukola Saraki took the official prayer and led the Senate into today's proceedings.

Senator Monsurat Sunmonu moved for the approval of votes and proceedings of Wednesday, 31st May, 2017. Senator Gilbert Nnaji seconded.

*ANNOUNCEMENT*

Senate President Bukola Saraki welcomed the staffs and Students who were present in the gallery to observe the Plenary.

*PRESENTATION OF REPORTS*

1. Report of the Joint Committee on Labour, Employment and Productivity and Power, Steel Development and Metallurgy. Motion on the Hike in Electricity Tariff by Senator Suleiman Nazif.
-The Senate received the report of the Joint Committee on Labour, Employment and Productivity and Power, Steel Development and Metallurgy in respect of a motion on the Hike in Electricity Tariff by the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and Distibution Companies (DISCOs).

Senator Joshua Lidani seconded that the Senate received the report of the Joint Committee on Labour, Employment and Productivity and Power, Steel Development and Metallurgy in respect of a motion on the Hike in Electricity Tariff by the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and Distibution Companies (DISCOs).

The Report was LAID.

2. Conference Committee Report. National Assembly Budget and Research Office (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 222) by Senator Emmanuel Paulker.
-The Senate received the Conference Committee Report on the National Assembly Budget and Research Office (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 222).

Senator Ibrahim Gobir seconded that the Senate received the report of Conference Committee on National Assembly Budget and Reserch Offcice (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 222).

The Report was LAID.

*CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS*

1. Report of the Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Screening of 15 Nominees for Appointment as Resident Electoral Commissioners by Senator Suleiman M. Nazif.
-The Senate considered the report of the Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the Screening of 15 Nominees for Appointment as Resident Electoral Commissioners.

Senator Clifford Ordia seconded that the Senate received the report of the Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the Screening of 15 Nominees for Appointment as Resident Electoral Commissioners.

Senate dissolved into the committee of the whole to consider the report on the Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the Screening of 15 Nominees for Appointment as Resident Electoral Commissioners.

Senate reverted back to Plenary and reported progress.

Senate confirmed the Appointment of 15 officials as Resident Electoral Commissioners of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Senate President Bukola Saraki congratulated the new nominees, wished them a successful tenure, he also complimented the work of the chairman and hoped the officials perform well thereby improving the Electoral Process.

2. Report of the Committee on Works. Federal Roads Authority (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 219) by Senator Kabiru Gaya.
-That the Senate do consider the reports of the Committee on Works on Federal Roads Authority (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 219).

Senator Atai Aidoko seconded that the Senate considered the report of the Committee on Works on Federal Roads Authority (Est, etc) Bill, 2017 (SB. 219).

Senate dissolved into the Committee of the Whole for clause by clause consideration of the Report of the Committee on Works.

Senate reverted back to Plenary and reported progress.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said that further consideration of the Bill will be moved to another Legislative day.

*ADJOURNMENT*

Senate Leader moved that other items on the Order paper be stood down to another Legislative day. Minority Leader seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Tuesday, 6th June, 2017.

*#GavelBangs.

Saraki's Media Office Replies African Confidential
Re - Ambitious Men
This letter comes to directly refute the information reported in your most recent publication whereby in an article titled 'Ambitious Men' you wrote that the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, was one of "those who stood against Muhammadu Buhari for the All Progressives Congress nomination in 2014". The story also mentioned erroneously that Dr. Saraki has "retained London Communications consultants Aequitas, which helped Labour Party to remake its image under Tony Blair in the mid-1990s".
First, please note that your claims above are not correct. Dr Saraki did not contest the last Presidential primaries of the All Progressives Congress. Dr. Saraki publicly announced in a statement in Ilorin on October 12, 2014 that he would not contest against Major General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) who was then an aspirant because "some of us need to make sacrifice and be part of the solution rather than part of the problem of the party". He then declared that he would support the candidacy of the retired General. Dr. Saraki was one of the people who worked tirelessly to ensure General Buhari won the APC ticket, and the general election.
Again, contrary to the claim in your article, Dr Saraki does not retain the services of Aequitas. He formerly engaged Aequitas for strategic policy services while he was Governor of Kwara State, and Chair of the Nigeria Governors Forum, and at the initial stage of his period as Senate President. He no longer retains the services of Aequitas effective from January 1, 2017.
The Senate President has repeatedly stated that his interest now is to reform the Senate and make it an institution whose impact and relevance is felt and appreciated by the generality of the people. He has equally pledged his full support for and commitment to the success of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.
Dr. Saraki has long admired the important contributions Africa Confidential has made to increasing global understanding about African affairs and policy. It is his hope that your publication can continue this fine tradition, while also paying attention to the sensitivity of the information it disseminates on current affairs in the countries of Africa.
Sincerely,
Yusuph Olaniyonu
Special Adviser (Media and Publicity) to the Senate President

*Senate Passes Key Anti-Corruption Bill*
 

 

The Senate has approved and passed the Bill on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters between Nigeria and other Foreign States.  


The executive bill presented to the Senate by President Muhammadu Buhari, provides for the repeal of the Money Laundering Act of 2011 (as amended in 2012) to prohibit money laundering activities, expand the scope of money laundering offences, provide protection for employees of various institutions, provide appropriate penalties and other purposes.

 

In his comment after the passage of the Bill, Senate President,  Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, said: “This anti-money laundering legislation is a key component of President Muhammadu Buhari’s war on corruption agenda.  This act will facilitate the needed cooperation with other states to prevent individuals from escaping prosecution by fleeing to another country.”

 

Under the passed Bill, the Nigerian government may request that any country where a money launderer is hiding out to aid in the prosecution of such person, or such person may even be prosecuted in accord with the law of the host country.  Nigeria would also be able to supply the country with evidentiary support to aid a conviction.

 

“This is the kind of innovative and cooperative anti-corruption scheme that will truly discourage money laundering”, said Saraki.  “I and my colleagues applaud the President’s creativity and determination to discourage this kind of corruption.”

 

END

*Another milestone reached by the Nigerian Senate under the leadership of Dr ABUBAKAR BUKOLA SARAKI*

Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters between Nigeria and other Foreign States Bill, 2017 (SB. 224) is read the 3rd time and passed.

This is a critical bill to support the fight against corruption

Update: #kwaraAt50: Snippets from Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed's interview session with Journalists at state house, Ilorin. Full details coming

***Kwara has one of the lowest unemployment rates. We want to build on that.
***Our LG councils have been created along political lines. Presently, they lack capacity to generate revenue because their economic base is weak.
*** Water is a problem in Kwara because the population is increasing and there is pressure on infrastructure. Ongoing reticulation once completed and repair of water works will alleviate the problem.
*** In the next 2 years, we will see increase in Human Capital Devt and support for tertiary institutions.
*** In the coming months, more roads will be rehabilitated, and new ones constructed.
*** In the health sector, we will see additional General Hospitals rehabilitated, equipped and staffed .
*** Kwara will become a major Agric hub. We will upscale ODDA and also make Agric more attractive to youths
*** Joint allocation committee does not join @kwaragovt with the LGs. It's joint among the 16 LGs.
*** The challenge is to reform the LGs so that their capacities to generate revenue are improved.
*** It is difficult for @kwaragovt to always augment the LGs because the intervention is not included in the budget.
*** States can't reform the LGs. It requires FG reforms and constitutional amendments.
*** The reform of the LGs will broaden the revenue base of the LGs to meet their obligation.
*** What people say in terms of political condemnation does not perturb us. We remain focused.
*** Agriculture has been wrongly perceived as a govt prog; rather it's a business.
*** Our creation of the Agro Mall is to supply input resources for farmers and act as a link between farmers, markets and resources.
*** In Kwara, education is free because tuition is free. Tuition fees have been removed to lessen the burden on the parents.
*** Once we get extraordinary revenue inflows, we will pay scholarships to students.
*** We are looking at viable management for Kwara Hotel to make it functional and sustainable.
*** Roads are ongoing; even to my last day in office, road projects will be ongoing.
.
*** On no account should any contractor leave ongoing projects because funding has been put in place under IFK.
*** As we celebrate Children's day, we've put policies in place to guarantee their future.
*** We will give 5-years holiday to new small businesses in Kwara.
*** No company has left #Kwara, and none will leave, because of multiple taxation by @kwaragovt.
*** We created a PPP arrangement for Shonga and financial plan through debt-equity structure.
*** "The true ownership structure of Shonga Farms can be accessed through CAC.
*** Shonga Farms has the biggest hatchery in Sub-shara Africa; a complete de-risked value chain.
*** The Cargo Terminal in in limbo because we are awaiting FG approval. Aviation is under constitution's exclusive list-
*** We agreed in Kwara that when there is encroachment by Herdsmen, there will be compensation to victims.
*** We are trying to tidy up arrangements of Soludero Transport Scheme before we flag off.
*** Soludero Transport buses were bought for NURTW under SME funding and they will have to pay back.
*** Shonga Farms has the biggest hatchery in Sub-shara Africa; a complete de-risked value chain.

*Today, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki led Senate broke 17 years jinx by passing the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill. Find below Benefits of the Bill to Nigerians*



1. It will create a conducive business environment for petroleum operations


2. Enhance exploitation and exploration of petroleum resources in Nigeria for the benefit of Nigerians


3. Optimize domestic gas supplies, especially for power generation and industrial development


4. Encourage investment in Nigerian petroleum industry


5. Optimize government revenue 


6. Establish profit-driven oil entities


7. Deregulate and liberalize the downstream petroleum sector


8. Create efficient and effective regulatory agencies


9. Promote the development of Nigerian content in the oil industry


10. Protect health, safety and the environment in petroleum operations.


11. PIB will lead to the establishment of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Investment Pact Scheme will ensure that components of industry equipment can be manufactured locally



KEY IMPLICATIONS/OBJECTIVES TO NOTE FROM THE ABOVE



- More jobs for Nigerians – as it will become illegal to employ foreigners for certain skills that can be sourced locally


- Where such skills are sourced from abroad due to unavailability locally, a local understudying the expat is a requirement 


- The above is applicable not only to skill, but to materials sourcing


- The above means more jobs for Nigerian local contractors, especially those from the oil producing regions


- Gas is still under-focused in Nigeria and the potential from this source of energy lays untapped. PIB seeks to maximize this. If well explored, this will boost power supply in Nigeria


- Government revenue from oil industry will increase. This means more funds in the hands of government to engage in developmental activities, ideally


-  The downstream sector becomes fully deregulated. In other words, subsidy will be totally removed


- Environmental protection – what Saro Wiwa and co fought for, and the initial grudge of the Niger Delta militancy – will be addressed to a large extent- WHO OWNS THE OIL?The PIB vests ownership and management of all petroleum resources, offshore or onshore, in the Federal Government of Nigeria, which manage them on behalf of all Nigerians.


- This means irrespective of where the oil is found, it belongs to the government of Nigeria. Of course, equity calls for special consideration for localities where the resources are mined. This is taken care of by the Revenue sharing laws and other provisions of this Bill like the Host Community Fund.

Just in : *Saraki Hails Buhari, Security Forces on Release of 82 Chibok Girls*


President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has commended the efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government, security operatives, and the international Red Cross on the release of 82 of the Chibok schoolgirls, that were part of the group abducted by Boko Haram in 2014.


In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki expressed delight at the development, saying that the prayers and well-wishes of Nigerians and the global community had led to the return of “more of our daughters.”


“As a father, I can’t help but feel delighted and excited at the release of the 82 schoolgirls. When they were taken from us, the whole world joined in demanding for their return — now, it is a testament to the tenacity and commitment of the Federal Government, led by Mr. President, that they are back with us, and will soon be reunited with their families,” the Senate President said.


“Last year, we managed to secure the release of 20 girls. Today, 82. By this feat, those that are still out there should be rest assured that Nigeria will not forget them, and this government will continue to do everything within its power to bring them back home,” Saraki said, “Moving forward, the Security Forces must be commended.  However, the work is not yet done, too many families are still anxious today. Too many of our daughters have not returned.”


The Senate President reassured that the Senate and by extension, the National Assembly, would continue to do everything within its power to augment the efforts of the executive and our international partners in securing the release of more girls and ending the Book Haram menace once and for all.


“My colleagues and I in the 8th Senate will continue to remain committed to the cause of bringing back all our girls, ending the Boko Haram insurgency and ensuring the rehabilitation of the devastated North East zone,” he said, “It is clear that we still have a lot to do. But God-willing, we will be up for the challenge.”


END

Signed: 


Yusuph Olaniyonu 
Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, to the Senate President

CORRECTION:

CBN Approves N2b Facility for Poultry Consortium at Shonga Farms.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is to boost agriculture in Kwara State with N2billon agriculture loan facility to Poultry syndicate of Shonga Farms Holdings Limited.


The CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, who dropped the hint while fielding questions from newsmen  in Shonga, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, after an inspection of the farm, said the facility is to support the investor's expansion plans.

The CBN governor, who expressed satisfaction with what he witnessed on the farm, said the N2b will be provided at low interest rate of 9%.

He also described his visit as an eye opener, noting that there are several opportunities to tap from Shonga Farms and the poultry value chain as a whole to improve the country's economy.


The CBN Governor, therefore, praised the state government for its initiative and called on other states of the federation to emulate the Kwara commercial agriculture model  as a way of diversifying the economy.

He said Shonga Farms was a practical example of how governments can collaborate with the private sector to deliver real dividends of democracy such as jobs and agro-allied prosperity.

Also speaking the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki commended the state governor for sustaining the vision of Shonga Farms and improving on it. He also appreciated the CBN Governor accepting the invitation to visit the farm and for approving the loan facility.

He explained that purpose of the visit was to identify challenges confronting the farmers as well as new opportunities available for investment at the farm.

Dr. Saraki also pledged the National Assembly's support for agribusinesses in the country through the appropriate laws and effective oversight of the relevant agencies.

On his part, the state Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed thanked the CBN Governor and the Senate President, who he described as the pioneer of commercial farming in Kwara State, for the visit and support for agriculture in the state.

He said the state government has established an Off Taker Demand Driven Scheme based on the lessons learnt from the Shonga Model as a means of empowering farmers, creating jobs and establishing Kwara State an a major agriculture hub in the country.

CBN Approves N2b Facility for Poultry Consortium at Shonga Farms.

*#TodayInPlenary*

*PROCEEDING OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF WEDNESDAY 3RD MAY, 2017*

Its a new Legislative day in the Nigerian Senate. Senate President Bukola Saraki took the official prayer and led the Senate Leadership into today's proceedings.

Senator Bukar Abba Ibrahim moved for the approval of votes and proceedings of Tuesday, 2nd May, 2017. Senator Andy Uba seconded.

*ANNOUNCEMENT*

Senate President Bukola Saraki made announcements of Letters from Senators.

*POINT OF ORDER*

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu raised a Point of Order on the threat to his Life and Career via a planned frivolous whistle blowing.

*PRESENTATION OF BILL FOR FIRST READING*

1. National Water Resources Bill 2017 SB. 479 by Senate Leader.

*PRESENTATION OF REPORT*

1a. The Report of the Works Committee on the National Roads Fund (Est. Etc.) Bill 2017 SB. 218 was laid by Senator Kabiru Gaya.

1b. The Report of the Works Committee on the Federal Roads Authority (Est. Etc.) Bill 2017 SB. 219 was also laid by Senator Kabiru Gaya.

2a. The Report of the Banking Committee on the Credit Bureau Services Bill 2017 SB. 205 was laid by Senator Rafiu Ibrahim.

2b. The Report of the Banking Committee on the Secured Transactions in Movable Assets Bill 2017 SB. 261 was also laid by Senator Rafiu Ibrahim.

*EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION*

Senate moved to Ministerial Screening of Professor Stephen Okani Ocheni and Suleiman Zarma Hassan from Kogi and Gombe States respectively.

*COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE*

Senate dissolved into the Committee of the Whole to consider the Ministerial Screening.

Senate Leader moved that the Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on National Assembly Matters (Senate) Senator Ita Enang and the Ministerial Nominees be allowed into the Chambers.

Ocheni took over the Floor. He introduced his background leading to becoming a Professor of Public Sector Accounting. Professor Ocheni spoke on his sterling public service records as a Former Permanent Secretary and Former Accountant General of Kogi State.

Senator Atai Aidoko asked Professor Ocheni about his thoughts on the Treasury Single Account TSA.

Senator George Sekibo asked Professor Ocheni about ethnicity and indigeneship in Modern Nigeria.

Senator Adamu Aliero asked about what pieces of advice Professor Ocheni would give to the Federal Election Commission (FEC) towards taking Nigeria out of recession.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu asked the nominee how he would use his accounting knowledge to uncover embezzlement and corruption and alleviate poverty.

Professor Ocheni said Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and economic diversification should be emphasized. He also commented on incessant strike actions in Universities.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu further asked Professor Ocheni what steps he would take in ensuring improved Government-Labour relations.

Professor Stephen Ocheni responded to the question and was allowed to take a bow as he left the chambers.

The second nominee, Suleiman Zarma Hassan now took the floor. He introduced himself as an experienced Surveyor and former Local Government Chairman. Mr. Suleiman Hassan said he worked in Old Bauchi State and then Gombe State before venturing into private practice. He said he was recently nominated by President Muhammadu Buhari as an Ambassador but now renominated as Minister.

Senator Lawan asked Mr. Suleiman Hassan on using his surveying experience in data gathering for the 2018 Census and 2019 General Elections.

Senator Akpabio also asked the nominee about land and surveying challenges as well as the overbloated civil service with multiple Ministry Department Agencies.

Mr. Suleiman Hassan said land issues are usually an elitist problem with most communties leaving harmoniously until differing interest come. Mr. Suleiman Zarma Hassan was allowed to take a bow as he left the chamber.

Chairman of the Committee of the Whole, Senate President Bukola Saraki put the question and the two Ministerial nominees were confirmed.
Senate reverted back to plenary.

Senate President Bukola Saraki reported progress from the Committee of the Whole on the Ministerial Screening of Professor Ocheni and Suleiman Hassan. He put the question and the Nigerian Senate in plenary confirmed the nomination of Professor Ocheni and Suleiman Hassan as Ministers.Senate President Bukola Saraki congratulated the two Ministerial Nominees and hoped their contributions to Federal Election Commission would add immense value to the nation.

*CONSIDERATION OF REPORT*

1. Report of the Ad-Hoc Committee on Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in the North East. Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in the North-East.
-That the Senate do consider the report of Ad-hoc Committee on Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in respect of a motion on the Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in the North-East by Senator Shehu Sani.

Senator Shehu Sani who chairs the Ad-hoc Committee took the Floor. He said the Committee did a meticulous job and even visited the North East Region. He spoke on how the Presidential Initiative on North East (PINE) flagrantly flouted Procurement Laws in Contract Awards. Senator Shehu Sani pointed out anomalies such as that Presidential Initiative on North East (PINE) awarded normal contracts as emergency ones and flouted clear bidding processes. He pointed out inconsistencies in dates and that the contract award for invasive plant species in Yobe State was shrouded in fraud.Senator Shehu Sani said there is no document of Federal Election Commission approval of Presidential Initiative on North East contracts of more than N50Million as required by Public Procurement Act. He added that Presidential Initiative on North East project and contracts had no direct bearing or effect on the people of the North East nor IDPs in North East Region.Senator Shehu Sani said PINE contributed N50Million to two different Humanitarian Conferences and less than N2Million to IDPs themselves. He said a lot of PINE Contract were awarded to friends and cronies of people in Government. He said they confirmed from BVN records at Central Bank that suspended SGF Babachir Lawal is still signatory to one of the companies. He said there is acute malnutrition, starvation and hunger amidst IDPs in North East Nigeria. Babachir Lawal is still signatory to one of the companies. Senator Shehu Sani said there is acute malnutrition, starvation and hunger amidst IDPs in North East Nigeria.He said 40Trucks of Grains meant for IDPs in the North East was also criminally diverted. Senator Shehu Sani also said13 other accounts carrying the same BVN was also linked to the suspended SGF Babachir Lawal.Senator Shehu Sani said the SGF breached his oath of office and should be disciplined immediately by relevant agencies.

Senator Na'Allah said there was a different amount for contract awarded N200million and also another amount for consultant fee N20million. He stated "The report is no longer 'balderdash' and every kobo wrongful spent must be recovered."

"Laid down contract procedures were flouted. Economic Financial Crime Commission should go into work immediately."
-Senator Goerge Sekibo.

Senator Yayi Adeola supported the full report and congratulates the Senate on accurate findings and insisting on the truth.

Senate President Bukola Saraki asked Senator Shehu Sani on ways to address the issues of acute malnutrition and vaccination in the North East. He also asked about how to restore humanitarian agencies' confidence in the North East and Nigeria as a whole.

Senator Shehu Sani said different MDAs such as Federal Ministry of Health and NEMA involved in healthcare and food distribution should rise up to the task. He stated "The humanitarian issue in the North East is crisis to some and an industry for exploitation for others".Senator Shehu Sani said there's the need to dig deeper into the activities of different agencies involved with IDPs in the North East.
Senator Abu Kyari said hunger is still evident in the North East with agencies spending more money on operations and less on actual work.

Senate moved into the recommendations of the Committee which included the need for Health officials to move into IDPs Camps immediately.

Senate also condemned nemanigeria and the National Commission for IDPs and Refugees for not appearing before the Ad-hoc Committee despite invitation. Senate also recommended that Engr. Babachir Lawal be prosecuted as he has abused his oath of office.Senate recommended that out of school children in IDP Camps be provided with education facilities. Senate also recommended that Bureau of Public Procurement should evaluate all Presidential Initiative on North East inflated contracts and partially done contracts should be completed.

Senate President Bukola Saraki said he was indeed proud of the Senate and the Ad-hoc Committee for the unbiased report despite enormous political pressures. He added that the quality of the report gives no chance for debate. There is also the need to restore international confidence.

*ADJOURNMENT*

Senate Leader moved that all other matters on the Order Paper be stepped down. Minority Leader seconded.

Senate Leader now moved that Senate adjourns for 10Minutes to reconvene in order to approve the Votes & Proceedings. Minority Leader seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Thursday, 4th May, 2017.

*#GavelBangs*

Politics 5 Companies Babachir Lawal Used In Grass-cutting Scandal


The Nigerian Senate committee report has revealed how the suspended SGF, Babachir Lawal racked in billions of Naira through shady deals in the Presidential Initiative for the North East (PINE).

The Committee report revealed that after receiving payments from PINE, at least five companies separately paid about N450 million to the Eco Bank account (182001809) of Rholavision Engineering Limited owned by Mr. Lawal according to CAC and self-admission, and his private account (0003004417) with Diamond Bank, bank statements showed.

According to a CBN confirmation attached to the report, Mr. Lawal was still the signatory to the account of Rholavision until February 15, 2017 which shares the same Bank Verification Number with his personal account and 13 other accounts in commercial banks.

Here are the companies and transactions details:

1. Between March 29, 2016 and April 20, 2016, Josmon Technologies Limited transferred N317 million to Rholavision after receiving two “grass-cutting” contracts worth N530.6 million for the removal of invasive plant species in Yobe State.

The transfers were made in tranches, mostly N10 million per transaction, and N47 million on the last day.

2. For the “grass-cutting” contract, Mr. Lawal’s Rholavision was awarded the consultancy contract on March 8, 2016, while the owner was in the service of the government as federal cabinet secretary, in breach of Nigeria’s code of conduct for public officers and the Public Procurement Act.


But apart from that contract which formed the basis of the call by the Senate that Mr. Lawal be removed and prosecuted by President Muhammadu Buhari last December, the suspended SGF was also into other fraudulent deals with companies using PINE as conduit pipe.

3. For instance, on August 8, 2016, JMT Global Technologies Ltd transferred N30 million from its Zenith Bank account 114357188 to Rholavision. Then, JMT had just got eight contracts for “rehabilitations/renovations in Adamawa” State for the sum of N199.4 million.

4. Also Messrs Adamawa Boreholes and Drilling Companies Ltd transferred N18 million to Mr. Lawal’s company, after clinching N54.8 million contract to renovate seven classrooms at Yeskule Girls Secondary School, Michika Adamawa State.

5. Similarly, Barde Brothers Multi-Services Limited which was also awarded seven contracts to renovate classrooms in Adamawa State for N145 million returned N71 million to Mr. Lawal’s company account on October 10, 2016, and another N13 million between July 7, 2016 and September 9, 2016 to his private account.

#TodayInPlenary

PROCEEDING OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF TUESDAY 2ND MAY, 2017

Welcome to a new Legislative day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Senate President Bukola Saraki took the official prayer and led the Senate Leadership into today's proceedings.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu moved for the approval of votes and proceedings of Thursday, 27th April, 2017. Senator Emmanuel Paulker seconded.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Senate President Bukola Saraki welcomed students present to observe today's Plenary.

Senate President Bukola Saraki said that the two ministerial nominees would be screened tomorrow, Wednesday, 3rd May, 2017.

PETITIONS

-Senator Ben Murray Bruce laid a petition.

-Senator David Umaru laid a petition about stoppage of salary of constituent member.

-Senator Yele Omogunwa laid a petition on wrongful dismissal involving a member of his constituency.

All petitions laid were referred to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges to report back in 2 weeks.

Senate President Bukola Saraki said the backlog of petitions should be cleared before others are laid. 339 petitions have been laid and 76 have been treated in the 8th assembly. He stated that 6 petitions and 87 petitions were treated in the 6th and 7th Senate respectively.

POINT OF ORDER

Senator Oluremi Tinubu cited order 43 (personal explanation) and thanked the Senate for attending her husband Asiwaju Bola Tinubu's 65th birthday.

PRESENTATION OF REPORT

1. Report of Ad-hoc Committee on Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in the North-East. Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in the North-East.
-That the Senate do receive the report of Ad-hoc Committee on Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in respect of a motion on the Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in the North-East by Senator Shehu Sani.
The Report was LAID.

EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION

1. Confirmation of Nomination.
-That the Senate do consider the Request of Mr. President Commander-in-Chief on the Confirmation of the Nomination of the following 3 persons as Non-Career Ambassadors Designate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in accordance with Sections 171 (2)(c) and (4) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (As Amended).
-Justice Sylvanus Adiewere Nsofor, Imo State -Re-submission.

-Joseph Olusola Iji,  Ondo State -Replacement.

-Commodore Yusuf Jonga Hinna  (Rtd), Gombe State - Replacement.

Senate President Bukola Saraki referred the nomination for Non-Career Ambassadors to the Committee on Foreign affairs to report back in two weeks.

2. Confirmation of Nomination.
-That the Senate do consider the Request of Mr. President Commander-in-Chief on the Confirmation of the Nomination of  27 persons for appointment as Resident Electoral Commissioners for the Independent National Electoral Commission in accordance with Sections 14 (3)(a) of the Third Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (As Amended).

Senate President Bukola Saraki referred the nominees to the Committee on INEC to report back in two weeks.

Senate President Bukola Saraki named Senator Suleiman Nazif as interim chairman Committee on the Independent National Electoral Commission for the appointment confirmation.

CONSIDERATION OF REPORT

1. Conference Committee Report. Nigerian Peace Corps (NPC) Bill, 2017 (SB. 173 and SB. 183) by Senator Bayero U. Nafada.
-That the Senate do consider the Conference Committee Report on the Nigerian Peace Corps (NPC)(Establishment, etc.) Bill, 2017 (SB. 173 and SB. 183).

Senator James Manager stood against the Bill while Senator John Enoh supported the Bill and wanted it passed immediately.

"The Bill should be passed, it will serve as a means of employment for Nigerian youths".
 - Senator Garba Binta.

"The Bill should be stepped down due to the controversies which surround the establishment."
-Senator Godswill Akpabio.

Senate Leader Ahmed Lawan raised a point of order and stated that the reading stages have been passed. It's no longer an option.

Senate President Bukola Saraki said the Senate should comply to proper guidelines and consider the stand and relationship of the green chamber and referred it to the Committee on Judiciary to report back in two weeks.

MOTIONS

1. Urgent need to regularize the agreement between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the government of the United Kingdom on the transfer of Sentenced Persons by Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu.

Senate resolved to:
i. Direct the Senate Committees on Judiciary and Foreign Affairs to invite the Attorney General of the Federation, Minister of Justice and the Minister of Foreign Affairs to shed light on issue of Transfer of the Sentenced Persons with regard to the Agreement entered into between Nigeria and the United Kingdom on the Subject Matter, and report back to the Senate within one month for further legislative action,

ii. Direct the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Human Rights to invite the Comptroller General of Prisons to brief the Committee on his level of involvement in complying with the agreement on the transfer of Sentenced Prisoners between Nigeria and United Kingdom and report back to the Senate within one month to enable the Senate determine further course of action,

iii. Direct the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Human Rights to invite the Attorney General to give an update on the status of ratification of all treaties from 1999 to 2017 and report back to the Senate within one month for further legislative action.

We should refer the Bill to the Committee on Judiciary and Foreign affairs and Minister of justice to get the best out of it.
-Senator James Manager.

Senator Monsurat Sunmonu spoke to amend prayer that the Minister of interior should be involved and Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe seconded, and in addition stop the habit of designating the head of the Ministry, Ministers should be accountable for the affairs of the ministry.

Senate President Bukola Saraki stated that all constitutional and Legal requirement should be fully complied with. The Comittee on Judiciary should fast track the report and should be concluded in a month.

2. The poor State of Infrastructure in Queens College, Lagos by Senator Garba Binta.

Senate resolved to:
i.  Observe a one minute silence for our three girls who lost their lives in Queens College Lagos,

ii. Direct the Minister of Education to address urgent infrastructure upgrade and to provide safe water and safe sewage treatment as well as expand the current boarding facilities for the purpose of de-congesting the dormitories,

iii. Direct the Ministry of Education to ensure the enforcement of a credible admission policy that limits admission to merit lists from each of the 36 States and the FCT to a maximum of 200 per year and 1200 total school population,

iv. Direct the Minister of Education and Health to enforce the establishment of a comprehensive school health and curative aspects of the health of students,

v. Mandate the Senate Committee on Basic Education and Health to carry out a public hearing on the poor living conditions in Queens College Lagos and the death of the three girls who died.

"We need to keep our eyes on the Principals and other Heads, Federal Government colleges charge parents huge amount of money."
-Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso.

"I support this motion and express anger on the state of our schools, not just the Queens college. This should be thoroughly investigated."
Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

"This school has been in existence for years, looking back at this school, it was managed properly in the past. The school was in existence before the discovery of petroleum, we should find what led to what from the Principal. This is a national Calamity."
-Senator Jibrin Barau.

"We must take this strongly, the future of the country cannot be excluded from the future of our education." -Senator Shehu Sani.

"We must make provisions for the involvement of private sector for infrastructure development."
-Senator Emmanuel Paulker.

"What has happened to the Queens college is happening to other schools and theirs maybe worse."

Senate President Bukola Saraki said Queens college led a delegation to his office last week and we promised to look into the issue, I spoke with the Chairman of the Committee on appropriation, on funding to get them basic facilities. He stated that decisions taken today to show concern on this matter are as follows.
Ensure this does not happen again in any Unity School by investigating the matter and ensure it is treated properly and does not happen again.
Ensure chairman of appropriation provides funding for the repair of the sewage and safe water, we should also try to get the support of the private sector. Committee should report back in four weeks.

3. The urgent need to provide Pedestrian Bridges on Federal Highways. By Senator Oluremi Tnubu.

Senate resolved to:
i. Urge the law enforcement agencies to enforce the use of pedestrian bridges,

ii. Urge Government at all levels to provide foot bridges and pedestrian bridges over large express roads and at major bus stops,

iii. Direct relevant law enforcement agencies to rid pedestrian bridges of beggars and petty traders, to allow for free movement of persons,

iv. Urge the Government to ensure that roads and pedestrian bridges are lit up to prevent proliferation of crimes in those areas,

v. Urge that Security agencies such as Civil defense Corps be stationed at these Pedestrian bridges.

"I support this motion, Bauchi state should be considered when constructing these pedestrian bridges."
-Senator Ali Wakili.

5. Urgent need to speed up all necessary steps towards construction of 3,050mw Mambilla and 700mw Zungeru Hydro-Electricity Power Projects by Senator Yusuf Abubakar.

Senate resolved to:
i. Urge Mr. President to impress it on the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing to speed up the remaining steps and process towards fast-tracking the immediate commencement of the two projects constructions;

ii. Urge Mr. President to impress on the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing to periodically publish proceedings, events and actions relating to the commencements and realizations  of the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydro-Electric power projects.

"Our industries today are not in working condition because of the lack of power."
-Senator Bayero Nafada.

Senate President Bukola Saraki said that a Committee be mandated and should submit a report in two weeks. He stated we will know if there is a need to invite the Minister of Power.

ADJOURNMENT

Senate Leader Ahmed Lawan moved for other items on the order paper be stood down to another Legislative day, Minority leader seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Wednesday, 3rd May, 2017.

#Gavelbangs

*About a year ago, April 23 2016*

President of the Senate wrote this article and with the release of the book *Against The Run of Play* by Olusegun Adeniyi, I thought to share the article with you again so you have a good understanding of the issue.


*My Offence is That I Opposed Muslim-Muslim Ticket*

By Bukola Saraki

My dear brother Dele, let me thank you most sincerely for your article last weekend, “My Candid Letter to Saraki.” I take everything you said in that article to heart and I must commend you for your candidness indeed and the sincerity of your intentions.

As you said in your article, you are someone I have known more by reputation than by any personal relationship, until recently when we struck up some personal acquaintance based on our shared political interests, especially during the last presidential election. However, I understand why you had to sound so defensive for knowing me at all and had to publicly map the boundaries of our relationship. We have got to that point in our country when we no longer believe that anyone could stand for anything based on principles and convictions alone. Moreover, in the growing culture of media crucifixion and presumed guilt; it is rare to find a voice like yours that calls for fairness and justice.

I would have simply sent you a text message or call you up for your candid advice to me, which I take seriously. But I feel the need to make some clarifications on some of the issues you raised. One of them was that in seeking to be Senate President, I struck a deal with the PDP and made it possible for one of them to be the Deputy Senate President. I know this is the dominant narrative out there, but it is far from the truth.

I did not do any deal with the PDP. I did not have to because even before the PDP Senators as a group took the decision to support my candidature on the eve of the inauguration of the 8th Senate, 22 PDP Senators had already written a letter supporting me. What I did not envisage was a situation where some members of my party would not be in the chambers that day, especially when the clerk had already received a proclamation from the President authorizing the inauguration of the Senate. Pray, if a team refused to turn up for a scheduled match and was consequently walked over, would it be fair to blame the team that turned up and claimed victory? I believe those that made it possible for PDP to claim the DSP position were those who decided to hold a meeting with APC senators elsewhere at the time they ought to be in the chambers. What the PDP Senators did was to take advantage of their numerical strength at the material time. They simply lined up behind Senator Ike Ikweremadu while those of us from APC voted for Senator Ali Ndume. It was a game of numbers, and we were hopelessly outnumbered. If the PDP had nominated their own candidate for the Senate Presidency position that day, they would have won. It was as simple as that.

Secondly, I don’t know if you were aware that in the build up to Senate inauguration, the National Working Committee of the APC sent two signals. The first signal specified how leadership positions in the National Assembly have been zoned. While we were trying to give effect to this decision, the second signal came, which contained names of people to which these zoned position had been allocated. What was not acknowledged was that the President of the Senate is not an executive president. He is primarily one of 109 senators. Therefore, I cannot decide by myself who gets what in the Senate. Therefore, when they said I defied party directive in the choice of principal officers, they are invariably ascribing to me the power that I did not have.

My dear brother, most people talk about the Senate Presidency position, but this was not my only offence. I have also been accused of helping to frustrate some people’s opportunity to emerge as President Muhammadu Buhari’s running mate. But I have no problem with anybody. My concern was that it would not be politically smart of us to run with a Muslim-Muslim ticket. I doubt if we would have won the election if we had done this, especially after the PDP had successfully framed us a Muslim party. I felt we were no longer in 1993. Perhaps, more than ever before, Nigerians are more sensitive to issues of religious balancing. This, my brother, was my original sin. What they say to themselves, among other things, was that if he could conspire against our ambition, then he must not realize his own ambition as well. For me however, I have no regrets about this. I only stood for what I believed was in the best interest of the party and in the best interest of Nigeria.

Now to the substantive issue of my trial. As you rightly noted, this trial is not about corruption. And I am happy that since my trial started, people who have followed the proceedings have now understood better what the whole thing is about. I have had opportunity to declare my assets four times since 2003. Over those years, the Code of Conduct Bureau had examined my claims. There was no time that they raised any issues with me on any item contained in my declarations over those twelve years. This is why you should be surprised that while I am being tried by the Code of Conduct Tribunal, the witness and the evidence supplied against me were all from EFCC.

Like you, I have an abiding faith in the judiciary. May God forbid the day that we would give up on our judicial system. However, the onus is not on me to prove that I have confidence in the judiciary; the burden is on my prosecutors to prove to the world that justice is done in my case. If the process of fighting corruption is itself corrupt, then whatever victory is recorded would remain tainted and puerile!

Some people have wondered, why has Saraki been “jumping” from one court to another instead of facing his trial? To those people, I would say that I have only gone to those courts in search of justice. Strange things have happened, and they are still happening. For example, Section 3(d) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act states that the Bureau shall refer any breach or non-compliance to the Tribunal. However, where the person concerned makes a written admission of the breach, no reference to the Tribunal shall be necessary. It was on this basis that the case against Asiwaju Bola Tinubu was dismissed in 2011, by this same judge in this same Tribunal on the grounds that he was not given an opportunity to deny or admit to any breach before he was brought before the tribunal. This was the ruling that I relied on in making my case. But what did the judge say? That he had judged in error in 2011 and he had since realized his error and departed from it. My question is whether a Tribunal of first instance has the power to reverse itself. I should expect that everyone would be worried if justice is applied differently to different people. However, in spite of my fears, I remain hopeful. Why? Because the judiciary does not end with this Tribunal.

Do you know the genesis of my real problems with President Goodluck Jonathan? I have had a touchy relationship with him, but the turning point was in September 2011 when I moved a motion on the floor of the Senate that exposed the N2.3 trillion fuel subsidy racket. I remain proud that I was the Senator that blew the lid on the most elaborate corruption scheme ever in this country. But after that I became a marked man. My security was withdrawn. I was invited and re-invited by the EFCC and the Special Fraud Unit. I was even declared wanted at a point. I believe I am still one of the most investigated former governors in this country. I have no doubt that if the Jonathan government was able to find anything against me, they would not have allowed me to go unpunished.

Let me make this point clearly. I do not expect to be shielded from prosecution because of my contribution to APC, if there was genuine basis for such action to be taken against me. But I have every reason to expect not to be persecuted by the party that I contributed so much to build. The New PDP may not have given APC victory in 2015, but it was an important factor in the dynamics that produced that victory. And with all sense of modesty, I was an important factor in the formation of New PDP; in leading that group to the APC; in ensuring our group’s support for the candidate during the primaries and in mobilizing substantial resources for the election. For these, I have not expected any special compensation. Rather, I only expect to be treated like every loyal party member and accorded the right to freely aspire!

Some people have complained that I have been taken Senators with me to my trial. But I did not force them to follow me. The Senators have freely accompanied me to the Tribunal not because they are loyal to me as Abubakar Bukola Saraki, but because they are committed to the principle that produced me as the President of the Senate. The same principle that produced Ike Ekweremadu as Deputy Senate President and produced Ali Ndume as Majority Leader. They see all of us in the Senate leadership as manifestation of their jealously guarded right to freely choose their own leaders. Because they know they made us their leaders without any external interference; they are confident that they retain the power to remove us whenever they so wish. They also know what this trial is all about. They believe I am being victimized because they have expressed their right to choose their own leadership. This is why I am not in any way perturbed by my absence in the chambers during this trial. Because I was not imposed on the Senate, I feel confident that the Senate will protect its own choice whether I am present or not. It is never about me. It is about the independence of the legislature. It has always been so since 1999. It is so today and it would be so in 2019, it would be so in 2023, and as long as we practice a democracy that operates on the principle of separation of powers.

My dear brother, let me end by observing that I am not alone in this trial. On trial with me in this process is the entire judicial system. On trial with me is our entire anti-corruption institutions and our avowed commitment to honestly fight corruption. On trial with me is our party's promise to depart from the ways of the past, a promise that Nigerians voted for. And I dare say, on trial with me is our media and their ethical commitment to report fairly and objectively. In the end, it is my earnest hope that whatever we do will ultimately ennoble our country.

Dr. Saraki is President of the Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria

Just in : SENATE IS WORKING WELL WITH PRESIDENT BUHARI - APC Chairman

*Are you now in support of the process that brought the leadership of the National Assembly into office?*

Once they have emerged, there is nothing anybody can do. The president said let the National Assembly elect its people. We had our views as a party and we tried to guide as to what ought to be done which was not largely complied with. The House of Representatives did a lot better, they did comply largely with the advice that was given by the party. It wasn’t quite so in the Senate. But since then remedial actions have been taken by the Senate. The officers there are a reality and we have to work with that reality. That is not what I want or anybody wants.  

*The impression many Nigerians have is that they are trying to hold the president to ransom. Do you also share this view?*

Yes, I have heard that. Quite a few of people have that impression but look at it, in most cases where there had been disagreements, take for example like the EFCC chairman’s   confirmation case but the most critical bills of the president have sailed through the National Assembly. So, disagreements have to come once in a while; it is natural. If you look at the United States today, you will see the disagreement that is going on between the Senate and the president over their critical Health Bill. The Senate in fact, virtually turned it down and it is a Senate controlled by the same party that produced President Donald Trump. So, these are checks and balances that are built by our constitution drafters into the system. What I am insisting is that even when there are disagreements, it must be contained within civil and civilised limits.

Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/04/buhari-go-second-term-oyegun-apc-chairman/

The Osborne Towers, a luxury residential complex in Ikoyi, Lagos where EFCC said it found  $43,449,947, £27,800 and N23, 218,000 on Wednesday is owned by the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.

The house was built by Alhaji Adamu Muazu, the former Chairman of PDP
through a loan from GTBank.

He could not repay the loan so GTB took over the house and allocated the Pent House to Muazu and two flats. 

Rotimi Amaechi bought TWO of the flats (7A and 7B). He then gave 7A to MO ABUDU,  the TV presenter, who is suspected to be his girl friend.

But the flat 7B where the money was found belong to Rotimi Amaechi. 

The is believed to be cash kept for 2019 elections.

Let's see how the cover up game goes.
Lere Olayinka

How We Fund Projects Despite Recession: Gov. Ahmed

Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed says the State Infrastructure Development Fund (IF-K) has strengthened the capacity of the government to meet its obligations despite the current economic challenges.

The Governor said this on Tuesday while flagging off the construction of the School of Environmental Sciences of the Kwara State University at Osi in Ekiti local government area of the State.

He noted that with the development fund, his administration has made good on its commitment to initiate and complete new and ongoing infrastructure projects such as the Geri Alimi Diamond Underpass and a new campus for the Kwara State University at Ilesha Baruba.

The governor said that the three-campus model for Kwara State University (KWASU) as enshrined in its blueprint underlines the government’s determination to expand access to quality higher education while providing cutting edge skills and research for industry.

He also noted that in keeping with current local realities and global trends, the three campuses of KWASU are designed to run on a sustainable platform. Alhaji Ahmed further noted that the Ekiti campus will groom scientists and thinkers that will proffer practical solutions to the various problems that plague the country.  

According to him, the siting of the project will accelerate the socio-economic development of Ekiti Local Government and the State in general.

Additionally, Governor Ahmed said that four hundred mass housing units will be constructed in Osi by the African Nations Development Programme (ANDP) under its partnership with tha State government.

 He said this will not only boost the local economy and create jobs in the formal and informal sector, but will also attract other investments to the area thereby creating more opportunities for Kwarans.

Earlier in her address, the State’s Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Dr. Amina Ahmed disclosed that the project was awarded at a contract sum of N1.583b and is expected to be completed in 52 weeks.

She commended Governor Ahmed for his efforts and vision to make KWASU a leading institution in research and academics.

*What’s Up with Bukola Saraki?
by Benjamin Akunna*

If you listen to all the recent noise in the media about the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, all you will ever hear is the commotion of a sensationalized marketplace. However, if you choose to distill through the racket of the crowd, and pay careful attention, you will see for yourself, understand by yourself, and testify to both yourself and anyone that will listen that the man, Bukola Saraki, is one of Nigeria’s most competent public office holders.

Like a juggler in the circus, Saraki has singlehandedly outperformed his predecessors in the Senate, by steering the upper legislative chamber to record several historic achievements, while battling with powerful sections of an unfriendly sponsored press; and going through a politically-motivated case at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

I have heard this many times in both closed rooms and open forums, “A lesser man would have caved under all the pressure.” Yet, despite the constant barrage from all sides, Saraki has remained determined to his primary duty of legislating for the good of the common man.

In September 2016, on the heels of the announcement of Nigeria’s first economic recession, Saraki, as a first amongst equals, led the Senate’s charge to come up with 20-points that would help to get Nigeria out of the recession. In addition to this, the Senate came up with 11 priority bills that would help create over 7 million jobs across the country, and reduce poverty by double digits.

Immediately these Bills were announced and the recommendations were forwarded to President Muhammadu Buhari, the Senate went to work — debating and negotiating - their way towards the passage of the PIB and the other economic priority Bills.

After the laying of the Joint Committee Report of the PIB on the Senate Floor on Thursday, April 6th, 2017, the Bill which seeks to enhance Nigeria’s petroleum industry is at its farthest stage in 17 years, while the other economic priority bills, are all either at Conference Committee stage or Final Reading stage.

Yet, some elements in the media will tell you that the Senate is not working, or that Bukola Saraki is not doing anything for the country…

Is it just me, or do I smell a coordinated conspiracy?

*Benjamin Akunna writes from Lagos.*[sub][/sub]

Buhari Demands Details of Monetary, Asset Recoveries from EFCC, Others
April 8, 201752726



2
By Damilola Oyedele in Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari has directed the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ibrahim Magu, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Mr. Abubakar Malami, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele to provide a detailed submission on amount of monies recovered so far by the anti-graft agencies, in its anti-corruption war, since the inception of this administration in June, 2015.

Also directed to do same are the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Lawal Daura, the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Mr. Ekpo Nta and the National Security Adviser (NSA), General Babagana Monguno.



The agencies were also directed to submit a detailed inventory of assets seized,  including vehicles, jewelry’s and other valuables, latest by yesterday, Friday April 7, 2017. 

They were ordered to submit the details of recovered monies and assets in their possession also by yesterday.  THISDAY checks revealed that most of the agencies except the EFCC have since complied with the deadline given by the president. 

As at the time of filing in this report yesterday night, it was not certain if the EFCC Chairman, had complied with the directive which lapsed yesterday.

THISDAY gathered that the directive by the President was issued to the agencies two weeks ago. 

The source said that the directive was informed by the need to “place a value on the total recoveries made by the government, whose anti-graft prosecutors have been accused of being unable to secure convictions, but have been quick to announce their seizures, even temporary ones to the public.”

It added that the President needed the inventory to ensure transparency and accountability as rumours of untoward practices continued to swell round the recoveries. 

There have been allegations that some of the seized valuables like land documents, cars and vehicles had been stolen by some officials of the agencies that seized them.

The source said: “In fact, in several yards across the country, vehicles seized by EFCC like Range Rovers, Jaguars, Prado jeeps, and expensive cars are decaying. The cars are allowed to rot, leading to massive waste.”

“Also remember that certificates of occupancy seized from the home of an ex-governor were found in the market, where some EFCC officials were allegedly trying to sell them. The case is now with the police. Also at the Senate hearing for his confirmation, Magu was unable to put a figure or an estimate to the amount of monies, local and foreign currency, he has recovered so far, or provide a value to properties, cars and jewelries that have been seized,” the source added. 

When THISDAY contacted Senior Adviser to the President on Communication, Mr. Femi Adesina on details of directive, he stated that he was unaware of it but that the president had been receiving series of briefings since he returned to the country and that the said directive would be nothing out of the ordinary.

PROCEEDING OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF WEDNESDAY 5TH APRIL, 2017

Its a new Legislative day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu took the official prayer and led the Senate Leadership into Plenary.

Senator Marafa Kabir moved for the approval of Votes and Proceedings of Tuesday 4th April, 2017. Senator Philip Aduda seconded.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Senate Committee on 1999 constitution amendment are to meet after Plenary.

Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu welcomed the staff and students of Batrep Primary school, Nasarawa who were here to observe Plenary.

PETITIONS

1. Senator Mao Ohuabunwa raised a petition on the wrongful dismissal of his constituency member in the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

2. Senator Jide Omoworare raised a petition on the review of the implementation of 65year old retirement for the centre for management  development

3. Senator Hope Uzodinma raised 3 petitions.
-on the delayed pension of the former M.D of Nigerian railway cooperation.
-Customs office wrongful dismissal of officer.
- The traditional body of his constituent should adhere to the ruling of the Supreme Court.

POINT OF ORDER

Senator Peter Nwaoboshi cited Order 42, talked about amnesty and issue of mal-treatment of Nigerian children abroad.

MOTIONS

1. Re Committal of the National Assembly Budget and Research Office Bill, 2017 and the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria Bill, 2017 by Senate Leader.
The Senate resolved to:
Invoke Order 1 (b) of the Senate Standing Order as amended, 2015 to refer the Bills to the respective Conference Committee that had earlier worked on them to consider the observations raised by the Directorate of Legal Services and report back to the Senate within one week - Laid

2. Re Commital of the Dangerous Drugs Act (Amendment) Bill, 2017 and currency conversion (Freezing) orders Act (Amendment ) Bill,2017 by Senate Leader.
The Senate resolved to:
Constitute Conference Committee on the Respective Bills to consider the observations of Mr President C-in-C on the Bills.

CONSIDERATION OF BILLS - SECOND READING

1. A Bill for an Act to make Provisions for the suppression of Piracy and to provide for punishment for the offence of Piracy, 2017 (SB.254) by Senator Nelson Effiong.

"It's a highly technical bill which calls for professional handling"
-Senator Shehu Sani

Senator Akpabio called for gradual minimization of Piracy which will lead to total eradication.

Senator James Manager said It's a criminal activity, relief debate is very exclusive. He also said "We need to implement laws to punish Piracy and matters connected".

"It's a trend that is causing serious damage. The cost of this goes directly to the consumers"
- Senator Jibrin Barau.

"We need to reach out to the Ministry of foreign affairs and also consult all the relevant stakeholders"
-Senator Yahaya Abdulahi

Senator Foster Ogola suggested that the Bill be amended to read suppression of River piracy and maritime crime.

Senator Abdullahi Adamu stated that For years we have been engulfed with Acts of terrorism, we are starting to witness kidnaping then river piracy.,we should take appropriate measures so as to curb this,it could destabilize our economy and become a threat to security. He further stated that you don't have to be a habitant of the communities involved in order to feel the impact.

"I suggest very severe punishment for the culprits of this act because it is not a pardonable offence".
-Senator Matthew Urhoghide.

"We should look at empowering Maritime Police,it's not the job of the Navy to provide protection,we need a robust public hearing"
-Senator Na'allah

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said Goods coming from abroad has been affected by the pirates. These pirates and acts of terrorism has caused us National embarrassment.We have to give attention to this Bill,Ensure development in science and technology to monitor our maritime activities. He further stated that those who commit this crime should be apprehended and punished severely.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu referred the Bill to the Committee on Navy and to report back in 4 weeks.

2. A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Nigeria Postal Service Act CAP No.127 LFN 2004, to provide for the operations and development of postal services, the establishment of the Nigerian Postal Commission, 2017 (SB.437) by Sen. Gbenga Ashafa.

"In line with the 21st century we need to review the existing Act cause it is a straight forward Bill"
-Senator Ali Wakili

Senator Bassey Akpan lent his voice and supported the Bill.

"Transactions are made easier working with MasterCard,Money gram and the others,it keeps us at the same pace with other countries"
-Senator Dino Melaye

"The Nigeria Postal Service has a huge platform that can give rise to job creation and generate revenue.It will help Nigerians"
-Senator Stella Oduah

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said its necessary we update our ways of managing services because of the new technology era

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu referred the Bill to the Committee on Communications and to Report back in 4 weeks

3. A Bill for an Act to amend the Arbitration and Reconciliation Act CAP A18 LFN 2004, 2017 (SB.362) by Senator Monsurat Sunmonu

4. A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Arbitration and Conciliation Act CAP A18 LFN 2004 and Re-Enact the Arbitration and Conciliation 2017 for the modern regulation of Arbitration and Conciliation processes and recognition and enforcement of Arbitral Awards in International Commercial Arbitration,  2017 (SB.427) by Senator Andy Uba

Senator Kurfi Umaru and Senator Joshua Lidani lent their voices and support the Bill.

Senator Dino Melaye said it's a new introduction from the existing arbitration act,most cases people steal parts of installation of the properties. There's no winner or loser,we can avoid flimsy issues because most cases can be settled by arbitration instead of long court cases.

"This amendment should be carefully handled and looked into, in reference to Senator Monsurat Sunmonu and Senator Andy Uba"
 -Senator Na'Allah

"This Bill is coming at an important time in our National history. The need for arbitration, reconciliation and ADR is visible".
-Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu

The Bill is referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Human Rights for further legislative action to report back in 4Weeks.

5. A Bill for an Act to amend the Insurance Act 2003 to say minimum limit of compensation in the event of death, injury or loss of property of third party with respect to insurance of public buildings under construction, 2017 (SB.275) by Senator Umaru Kurfi.

Senator Francis Alimikhena and Senator Gershom Bassey lent their voices and support the Bill.

"Insurance sector is an important part of our economy, I support the bill."
 - Senator Burka Mustapha.

"insurance is good incase of an accident,insurance fees should be paid and 3rd parties should be given a reasonable amount"
-Senator Danjuma Laah

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu thanked Senator Umaru Kurfi for the incisive Bill on the Insurance Act and tasks the Banking Committee to expedite action.

The Bill is referred to the Banking Committee for further legislative action.

6. A Bill for an Act to provide for the establishment of the Armed Forces (Restriction on the use of Arms in certain Internal Security Operations,etc), 2017 (SB.341) by Senator David Umaru

Senator Shehu Sani said this Bill seeks to give us the necessary collaboration between the Armed Forces and simplify their do's and don'ts" . He stated that we have seen our Armed Forces have violated the enforcement of the law.

Senator Jonah Jang said the inadequacy of the police Force makes the soldiers to act the way they do.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu stated that it's necessary the matter goes for public hearing so all the forces and even victims involved can focus on their primary duties.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu referred the Bill to the Committee on Defence and to report back in 4weeks.

7. A Bill for an Act to provide for the Prevention, Control and Management of Sickle cell Anaemia, 2017 (SB.128) by Senator Sam Egwu

Senator Gbenga Ashafa said before you enter any marriage you must go through a medical certification to avoid the occurence of Sickle cell. The issue on this Bill is as a result of ignorance.

 "We used to call them 'Ogbanje' but now we know better. A lot need to be done regarding information and awareness."
-Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu

"I am aware churches don't consent to marriage without medical test, we should focus on creating awareness"
- Senator Stella Oduah

The Sickle Cell Anaemia Bill is referred to the Senate Health Committee for further legislative action.

8. A Bill for an Act to establish the Chartered Institute of Fraud Examiners, 2017 (SB.167) by Sen. Foster Ogola

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu asked what is the difference between an Auditor and Fraud Examiners.

Senator Ogola said Auditors are Forensic Expert for Accounting Frauds but Fraud Examiners have expertise in detecting other kinds of frauds.

Senator Dino Melaye spoke against the Bill, he cited the EFCC as basically a financial crime commission with a forensic department .He said the Chartered Institute should be involved  for training in gaining forensic experience.

Senator Adeyeye noted that Nigeria is not in trouble because of absence of good laws but due to multiple agencies and endless bureaucracies. He appealed to Senator Ogola to withdraw the Bill to establish the Chartered Institute of Fraud Examiners.

After consideration, Senator Foster Ogola moved the Motion for the withdrawal of the Bill. Senator Akpabio seconded and the Bill is withdrawn.

ADJOURNMENT

Senate Leader,Senator Lawan moved for the adjournment of plenary to the next Legislative day. Minority Leader Senator Akpabio seconded

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu commended all Distinguished Senators for a very productive day with the passage of 8 different Bills for Second Reading.

Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu adjourns plenary to Thursday 6th April, 2017.

#GavelBangs

#Just In : *CSOs Commend Senate Over Meningitis Response*

A coalition of over 40 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), that work to ensure equitable access to vaccines in Nigeria, has commended the 8th Senate for its resolution, which called for meningitis vaccination to be made free in public healthcare facilities across the country.

In a statement signed by Dr. Chizoba Wonodi, the national convener of the coalition - Women Advocates for Vaccine Access (WAVA) - the CSOs “noted with pleasure, the motion on the floor of the Senate calling for free Meningitis C vaccination for all Nigerians."

The group noted that the timely response of the Senate and its readiness to approve a supplementary budget to enable the executive tackle the menace shows that all relevant stakeholders are “responding to the epidemic by ensuring adequate coordination, awareness creation, social mobilization, case management, infection prevention and control, active surveillance, and reactive vaccination in the affected States.”

The National Convener of WAVA, Dr. Chizoba Wonodi said: “My heart bleeds for all Nigerians who have lost loved ones or have been hospitalized following the meningitis outbreak in the country.

"We at WAVA are however, consoled by the fact that all arms of government are working together to deal with the outbreak decisively. The resolution by the Senate to support free Meningitis C vaccination and supplementary appropriations to procure the vaccines is highly commendable.

"We urge the National Assembly to go further and appropriate sufficient funds for all vaccines as Nigeria transitions from Gavi support. We laud the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH), the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the state governments, the World Health Organization and other partners who are dealing with this outbreak.”

The National Convener of WAVA concluded by stating that, “the Meningitis C vaccine, like other vaccines, saves lives, prevents illness and saves the cost of treatment. Nigerians should cooperate with the outbreak response and avail themselves of the Meningitis C vaccine.

"Government has an important role to play in assuring that we have vaccines to protect the health of our people. This role is now more important than ever before, as Gavi gradually withdraws its funding support over the next five years. The government and people of Nigeria must rise to the occasion and raise the needed funding for vaccines.”

#CongratulationsOurLeader, Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki - On the Import Duty Scandal

Dear Your Excellency,

Permit me to begin this open letter by stating that you continue to make all of us in Kwara proud — despite the overwhelming political odds that have been stacked up against you since you assumed office on that historic day in June 2015.

You have had all sorts and all forms of weapons fashioned, formed and manufactured against you, yet, you continue to weather all storms; unfazed by the turbulence and difficulties of these testing political times.

Sir, I know that you know this already, however, I would be remiss if on behalf of all forward-thinking Kwarans I did not let you know that we all applaud your tenacity to fight for justice and the adherence to the rule of law; your compassion for the common-man, Kwaran or not; and your steadfastness to continue serving Nigerians as a whole as our Senate President. Congratulations in this regard.

This past month, again, while you were focusing on leading the charge towards the passage of the Senate’s historic INEC Electoral Reform Bill, political detractors attempted to strike a chink in your armor by dragging your name into an issue that the facts on ground showed that you knew nothing about — the importation of a Range Rover without paying necessary Customs Import Duties.

On the imported car, people like me who have been your keen followers right from your days as Kwara State Governor had no reason to believe the cheap blackmail. We have seen this time and time again, play out in the media, with fancy, false and futile allegations been leveled against you.

Your Excellency, please know, that as a man who has consistently shown that he abides by strict protocols, Kwarans know you to be a man that does not get involved or stick his hands in shoddy deals.

The whole issue of the imported car, made no sense to all of us here at home. This is because you stood to benefit nothing from the car. It was not purchased for you or by you. It was paid for by an institution of government, therefore, the only reason we could see for them dragging your name into this was to attempt (and fail) once again to shift the conversation from the great work that the Senate under your leadership is doing, and continues to do.

When the Senate investigative committee cleared you, after the Point of Order raised on the importation of the vehicle by your erstwhile ally, the suspended Senator representing Borno South constituency, Ali Ndume, myself and other young Kwarans began to understand that the recent coordinated attacks are truly an attempt to bring down a son of Kwara; our Iroko of Ilorin; the Oloye! We will not stand for this.

Therefore Your Excellency, albeit brief, this Open Letter is a call to action to both you and your supporters to remain unchanged in the mandate to deliver good governance, on the home front and on the national stage. It is a wake up call to all of us, that our leader, the highest political office holder in Kwara State, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, the Turakin Ilorin is unshakeable, irremovable and undeviating in his promise to make the 8th Senate, and by extension, the 8th National Assembly, people-centered by passing laws and policies that will positively improve all our lives.

With the visit by the high-powered Borno State delegation to beg for clemency for Senator Ali Ndume, it is now clear to all and sundry that the issue of the import duty is over. Done and dusted, they were wrong, you were right! But knowing that those that see your no-nonsense presence on the National Stage as a threat to their impractical plans to control this government — by hook or by crook — will not stop at nothing to pull you down, we will continue to stand by you. We will continue to fight by you. Come what may, you will continue to win. You will continue to marshal the legislature to pass the promised economic reform laws that will create over 7million new jobs for young Nigerians around the country. As you do this, we will continue to celebrate you. The chants of “Congratulations Our Leader” will be heard across Kwara as you continue to make us glow with pride and look onto you as a mentor and role model.

On this note, for you, I pray that the hard times will never last. I pray that our Turaki Ilorin shall thrive. I pray that the Oloye! shall continue to lead. FInally, I pray, that you, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, our man, shall continue to be congratulated and celebrated.

Therefore, “Congratulations My Leader!”

I remain very and truly yours,


Abdulrahman Abdullahi Kayode
Founder, Kwara Legacy Frontiers

*Nigerians In US Commend Senate For Passing Diaspora Commission Bill*

Nigerians in the United States have commended the 8th National Assembly for keeping to its promise by passing the Diaspora Commission Bill.

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, had vowed during a courtesy visit by the group to the National Assembly last year for the Diaspora day, that his leadership would ensure the bill is passed without further delay.

Persistently, Nigerians in the Diaspora have been contributing money in billions and other resources home to assist the Federal Government boosting the nation’s economy with available statistics showing over 35 Billion dollars was remitted last year

While lauding the Senate for the quick passage of the bill, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Attorney, Samuel Adewusi, said the bill would provide for legitimate budget item to address Diaspora issues with seriousness and engagement of Nigerians in diaspora in the policies, projects and participation in the development of Nigeria.

Mr. Adewusi, in a statement made available to reporters on Friday, specifically added that the bill would also go a long way in boosting the economic growth of Nigeria, considering the huge amount remitted by Nigerians every year.

“Congratulations to the 8th Senate under the leadership of Distinguished Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki and Senator Rose Oko - Chairman Senate Committee on Diaspora & Civil Society - for passing the Diaspora Commission Bill as promised.

“The efforts by the NIDO Worldwide Leadership should also be appreciated. During its visit to the Joint Plenary Session in February 2016, this is one of the major requests that were tabled to the Senate and the House.

“Much appreciation to all those involved in the past and present, such as Hon. Rita Orji, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, prior NIDO leadership, and our friends in the 8th National Assembly such as Bamikole Omishore and many more,” said Attorney Adewusi.


He, however, assured that NIDO would continue to contribute its quota to the development of the country and calls on lawmakers to also immediately start working on the Bill to allow Nigerians in Diaspora to Vote in the next general election.

The bill is expected to be forwarded to Mr President Muhammadu Buhari for his assent.

END

*Petroleum Industry Bill*

Senate To Receive Final Report on PIGB April 25


Barring any last minute changes, the Senate Joint Committee on Petroleum (Upstream, Downstream and Gas), will on 25th April lay the final report of the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill (PIGB) before the Senate for consideration and approval.

According to a schedule on the final stages of the committee's work, members of the committee will on Tuesday 4th April, 2017, hold their final joint meeting at a one-day retreat in Abuja.

During the session, the committee members, among others, would receive further input, deliberate on their findings and recommendations, and conclude their report for submission to the Senate.

Furthermore, they are expected to submit the final printed copy of the report to the Senate on April 6, 2017, while the main report is expected to be laid before the Senate on April 25, 2017 for final consideration and approval.

It could be recalled that the PIGB, according to the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, during a three day public hearing organized by the Committee in December 2016, is meant to create efficient and effective governing institutions with clear and separate roles for the petroleum industry.

Besides, he stated that the PIGB also seeks to establish a framework for the creation of commercially oriented and profit driven petroleum entities that ensures value addition and internationalization of the petroleum industry; promote transparency in the administration of the petroleum resources of Nigeria; and create a conducive business environment for petroleum industry operations.

END

*#TodayInPlenary*

*PROCEEDINGS OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF WEDNESDAY 29TH MARCH, 2017*

Welcome to a new Legislative day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Senate President Bukola Saraki took the official prayer and led the chamber into the day's proceedings.

Senator Umaru Kurfi moved for the approval of the Votes and Proceedings of Tuesday, 28th March, 2017. Senator Ahmed Ogembe seconded.

*EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION*

Senate President Bukola Saraki read a letter from President Muhammadu Buhari for the Confirmation of Professor Stephen Ocheni and Suleiman Hassan from Kogi and Gombe state respectively as Ministerial Nominees.

*PETITIONS*

1. Senator Mao Ohuabunwa raised a petition on wrongful dismissal of a lecturer in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Enugu state and seizure of car.

2. Senator Ben Uwajumogu raised a Petition on the death of a person from his Constituency in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC.

*POINT OF ORDER*

1. Senator Jibrin Barau cited order 43 and stated that Daily Trust Newspapers has retracted their earlier publication about him.

2. Senator Ibn Bala Na'Allah reacted to a Publication in the Punch Newspapers where he read that the "Senate is irresponsible and childish for not confirming the Resident Electoral Commissioners for the Independent National Electoral Commission".

This matter was referred to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions.

*CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS*

1. Report of Parliamentary Visit of the Nigerian Senate led by the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki to Berlin, Germany from 8th - 10th March, 2017 by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe read the report on the Parliamentary visit to Germany and the recommendations taken.

2. Report of the Parliamentary visit of the Nigeria Senate led by the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki to Rabat and Dakhla, Morocco from 16th - 18th March, 2017.

Senator Adamu read the. Parliamentary report on the Moroccan trip and the recommendations taken.

Senate President Bukola Saraki thanked the Senators who were part of the trip and stated that the Moroccan Parliament are keen on working with Nigeria.

3. Report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions by Senator Samuel Anyanwu in respect of a Matter of Privilege raised by Senator Ali Ndume on:

a. The insinuation that the invitation of the Comptroller-General of Customs was informed by the seizure of the a Bullet Proof SUV vehicle belonging to the Senate President purportedly cleared with fake documents.

b. The Alleged First Degree Saga of Senator Dino Melaye.

Senate President Bukola Saraki stepped aside for Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu to preside as Senate considers this report.

Senator Anyanwu read the Committee's report on statements obtained from Senator Ali Ndume on the alleged imported SUV and Dino's certificate issue.
The Committee's report confirmed that:

1. Senator Dino Melaye passed his courses and graduated from the Ahmadu  Bello University, Zaria.

2. The Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University also said Senator Dino Melaye was admitted and graduated in the year 2000.

3. He presented his result and also did his National Youth Service Corps Programme.

4. He officially changed his name from Daniel Melaye to Dino Melaye.

5. The dealer said he was not consulted by Senate President Bukola Saraki or the Nigerian Senate to import the car.

6. The car had been cleared since 2015 and the allegation on Senate President Bukola Saraki was cooked up.

7. Senator Ali Ndume being a former Senate Leader failed to conduct proper investigation before the allegations.

The Committee recommendations was to:

1. Suspend Senator Ali Ndume and noted hat dilligence should be the watchword.

2. The Suspension starts today, 29th Match, 2017 to last for 181 Legislative days.

"When we see anything against another Senator, we must bring it to the floor of the Senate before making hurtful statement."
 - Senator Jibrin Barau.

Senator Abubakar Yusuf said "A wrong has been done to the Senate President Bukola Saraki, Senator Dino Melaye and the Nigerian Senate as an institution". He further stated that Senator Ndume acted on what was carried on the papers and pleaded that Senate should ask him to apologise to Senate President Bukola Saraki and Senator Dino Melaye. Senator Yusuf Abubakar said as a first offender, Senator  Ndume should be suspended from Committee activities and not outright suspension.

Senator Mathew Urhoghide pleaded with the Nigerian Senate to reduce Senator Ali Ndume's suspension to 6 Months.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said "Lessons has been learnt from this, and going forward we should investigate matters first before drawing conclusions". He put the question and Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South Senatorial District is suspended from the Nigerian Senate for 6 Months.

Senate President Bukola Saraki continues presiding over Plenary.

4. Report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions by Senator Samuel Anyanwu in respect of:

a. Petition from Oluchukwu Ulasi, Esq. and Associate on behalf of the family of late Arerebo Dressman against the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) for alleged brutal killing of Arerebo Dressman by Officials of the Company.

b. Petition from Cpl Maxwell Bibakedom (Rtd.) against the Nigerian Army over his non-inclusion in the payroll of the Directorate of the Military Pensions Board after retirement.

The Senate in its recommendation resolved to decline CPL Maxwell request because he voluntarily retired without reaching retirement age.

c. Petition of Lawright Associated against the Department of Parks and Recreation, Federal Capital Territory Administration.

5. Report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions by Senator Samuel Anyanwu in respect of:

a. Petition from Chinedu Obi Esq. on behalf of Tony Onuora against the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) over Tony Onuorah's Missing Container at Tin-Can Island Port.

b. Petition from Owoeye Bosede Funmilola against the West African Examination Council (WAEC) for alleged non-issuance of her Senior School Examination Certificate.

c. Petition from Usman Umar against the Nigerian Army for alleged wrongful dismissal.

Senate President Bukola Saraki thanked the Committee on Ethics and Privileges for getting the matters resolved amicably.

6. Report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions by Senator Samuel Anyanwu in respect of:

a. Petition from Mr. Anthony Joe Ikpeme against First Bank of Nigeria Plc for Extrajudicial Termination of his Appointment by the Bank

b. Petition from Association of Federal Government Doctorate Degree Students in Russia against the Federal Ministry of Education/Federal Scholarship Board for delay and non-payment of their Stipends.

for delay and non-payment of their Stipends.

c. Petition from Mr. Ndubuisi Heidi against First Bank of Nigeria Plc for alleged unlawful Termination of his Appointment by the Bank.

d. Petition from PC Vembe Abraham against the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) for alleged wrongful Dismissal from the Force.

Senate President Bukola Saraki stated that the Federal Ministry of Education and the Scholarships Board should give priority to the students. He urged the Federal Government to release funds for the scholarship board.

c. Petition from Mr. Ndubuisi Heidi against First Bank of Nigeria Plc for alleged unlawful Termination of his Appointment by the Bank.

d. Petition from PC Vembe Abraham against the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) for alleged wrongful Dismissal from the Force.

*CONSIDERATION OF BILLS - SECOND READING*

1. A Bill for an Act to establish the Chartered Institute of Auctioneers of Nigeria to provide for the control of its membership and to promote the practice of Auctions in Nigeria, 2017 (SB. 446) by Senator Hope Uzodinma.

Senator Utazi Chukwuka supported the bill and said that there are vehicles at various Police Stations that can be auctioned to increase revenue.

Senate President Bukola Saraki thanked Senator Hope Uzodinma for the bill and those who contributed to its success.

Senate President Bukola Saraki said "regulating the process of auctioneers will go a long way in areas of the economy, ease of doing business and clarity". He also stated that he hopes the Committee will work on this bill properly and bring it back for further input.

2. A Bill for an Act to provide for the Establishment of Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, 2017 (SB. 399) by Senator Alasoadura Omotayo.

Senator Jibrin Barau said the bill is a straightforward one and similar bills have been passed previously.

Senator Urhoghide also supported the Establishment of Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, Ondo State. The bill is referred to the Committee on Tertiary Education and Tetfund.

*ADJOURNMENT*

Senate Leader moved that other items on the Order Paper be stepped down to another Legislative day. Minority leader seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Thursday 30th March 2017.

#GavelBangs.

*FOLLOW THIS LINK TO WATCH THE PROCEEDINGS*:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aX2FRhpAQQA and Follow on Instagram via https://twitter.com/NGRSenate/status/847106618416402432

*#TodayInPlenary*

*PROCEEDINGS OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF TUESDAY 28TH MARCH, 2017*

Welcome to a new Legislative day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Senate President Bukola Saraki took the official prayer and led the chamber into today's proceedings.

Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi moved for the approval of Votes and Proceedings of Thursday 23rd March, 2017. Senator Duro Faseyi seconded.

*EXECUTIVE SESSION*
Senate now moved into an Executive Session.

Senate resumed from its Executive Session and Senate President Bukola Saraki Reported Progress that at the executive session Senate deliberated on issues bothering on the workings of the Senate and the National Assembly in general.

The Senate also discussed issues bothering on its Constitutional duties and resolved to defend the integrity of the Senate as an Institution.

*ANNOUNCEMENTS*

1. Senate President Bukola Saraki announced that Chairmen of Committees should ensure they submit their Committee Reports on the #2017Budget to the Appropriation Committee latest by Thursday.

*PETITIONS*

1. Senator Alasoadura raised a petition on the unlawful dismissal and non payment of salaries of a member of his constituency.

2. Senator Jibrin Barau in his petition said he got a text from a Daily Trust reporter last night and he made effort to reach the reporter who refused to answer his calls. In their publication today, He said it was reported that 13 Vehicles without Custom Duties were found in his house. He further stated that they claimed no one owned the vehicles and wonders why the Media is carrying #FakeNews all about.

3. Senator Emmanuel Paulker in his petition discussed the non-payment of pensioners since 2015. He said if urgent steps are not taken to pay pensioners, the scheme may eventually collapse. He also urged the leadership of the Nigerian Senate to liaise with President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently intervene in the scheme by providing a bail out fund.

In furtherance, Senator James Manager said Nigeria does not lack the appropriate laws as the laws are there but it's how to adhere to these laws. He stated that these people are suffering because they are being owed as "its not easy to serve and retire alive".

Senator Abdullahi also advocated for timely payment of pensioners; He says "their family depend on the money for their survival".

Senator Utazi said there is no way you encourage civil servants to work for 30 or 35yrs and at the end deprive them their pension.

Senate President Bukola Saraki thanked Senator Paulker for a well deliberated issue and stated "that the issue of pension arrears is one we need to take seriously. We must ensure and follow up to see the outstanding amount of 2016 is released". Senate President Bukoka Saraki added that "We will take more of the prayers and ensure we follow with the Speaker and Mr. President".

The Petitions laid were referred to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions for further investigation.

*PRESENTATION OF BILLS -FIRST READING*

1. National Orientation Agency Act (Amendment) Bill 2017 (SB. 333) by Senator Dino Melaye

2. Medical and Dental Practitioners Act (Amendment) Bill 2017 (SB. 266) by Senator Olarewaju Tejuoso.

3. Nigerian Reinsurance Corporation (Amendment) Bill 2017 (SB. 439) by Senator Philip Gyunka

4. Mandatory Haemoglobin-Genotype Test Bill 2017 (SB. 414) by Senator Ogembe Ahmed.

*PRESENTATION OF REPORTS*

1. The Report of the Parliamentary Visit of the Delegation of the Nigerian Senate led by the President of the Senate to the German Parliament from 8th ti 10th March, 2017 by Senator Monsurat Sunmonu is laid.


2. The Report of the Parliamentary Visit of the Delegation of the Nigerian Senate led by the President of the Senate to Rabat and Dakhla, Morocco from 16th to 18th March, 2017 by Senator Abdullah Adamu is laid.

3. The Report of the Committee on Trade and Investment on the Consumer Protection Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2017 (SB. 257) by Senator Fatima Raji-Rasaki is laid.

*CONFIRMATION OF NOMINATION*

1. The Consideration of the request of President Muhammadu Buhari on the Confirmation of Nomination of persons for appointment as Resident Electoral Commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commission in accordance with Sections 14 (3)(a) of the Third Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Senator Peter Nwaoboshi suggested that Senate may step down the Confirmation since they are acting and President Muhammadu Buhari's appointees disrespect the Senate.

Senator Matthew Urhoghide also wanted the request to be stepped down. He cited Ibrahim Magu's case that after the decision of the Senate, he is still acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crime and other related offences Commission (EFCC).

Senator Adamu Aliero supported the nomination and begged his colleagues to look into the list and allow the screening to go on.

"If the Senate is ridiculed our institution has been ridiculed, we will try as much as possible to promote this institution". - Senator Samuel Anyanwu.

"Lets hear from President Muhammadu Buhari on Magu's case, Magu is terrorising us, because we disqualified him" - Senator Francis Alimikhena.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said there is a time frame to stand down the confirmation and asked Senate President Bukola Saraki to convey their feelings to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Senate President Bukola Saraki put the question and the Confirmation of INEC Resident Electoral Commisioners is stepped down for two weeks.

*ADJOURNMENT*

Senate Leader now moved  that other items on the Order Paper be stepped down to another Legislative day. Minority leader seconded.

Plenary is now adjourned to Wednesday 29th March, 2017. 

#GavelBangs.

Senate Has Been Vindicated On Magu's Case, Says Sabi Abdullahi

Spokesman of the Senate, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi has stated that the leaked report of the Directorate of State Security (DSS) sent to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN, on the integrity of Mr. Ibrahim Magu has vindicated the decision of the legislative chamber to reject his nomination as chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a statement he signed today in Abuja, Abdullahi stated that : "Following several calls made to me today by journalists seeking my comments on the leak report on Mr. Ibrahim Magu which was more damning than the one submitted to us, I can only say that myself and my colleagues have been vindicated.

"From that report which is now public, it is obvious the DG SSS even tried to give Magu soft landing in the report that was sent to the Senate. The recent report is messier and shows that our decision not to confirm his nomination was right.

"We therefore call on all Nigerians to continue to have full confidence and trust on the Nigerian Senate as it discharges its responsibilities according to the letter and spirit of the Nigerian constitution", he stated.

Signed
Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi
Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs.

The trial of Senate President Bukola Saraki continued yesterday at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) with the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) admitting that Saraki did declare his assets and those of his family members.

The third prosecution witness and a staff of CCB, Mr. Samuel Madojemu, also admitted before the tribunal during cross-examination that Saraki equally declared the assets of his wife, Mrs. Toyin Saraki, both in Nigeria and abroad, as well as those of his children whose names were not read out.

At the resumed trial of the defendant on alleged false declaration of assets, the witness admitted that Saraki’s assets were recorded in the Assets Forms he submitted to CCB at various times.



Led in the cross-examination by Saraki’s counsel, Paul Erekoro (SAN), Madojemu was meant to read out the list of assets declared by Saraki in his name, those of his wife and his children, when he held office as Kwara State governor and upon his assumption of office as a senator.
The witness told the tribunal that the investigation, which led to the arraignment of Saraki in 2015, was actually carried out by the operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He noted that his role and those of CCB were limited to the review of EFCC report and compared same with the defendant’s Assets Declaration Form.

He added that he was invited orally into a team that reviewed the EFCC report and compared the asset form of Saraki, and that CCB has no written report on the outcome of the revision of the EFCC report.

Answering further questions, he maintained that former Lagos State Governor, Senator Bola Tinubu who was equally investigated on assets declaration enjoyed the privileged of being invited by CCB to clarify l discrepancies in his asset forms submitted to the Bureau.

When asked why same gesture was not extended to Saraki when his asset forms were been investigated, he stated that CCB cannot be blamed for not inviting Saraki because it saw the need to limit its investigation to the asset forms endorsed by Saraki on oath.

On the alleged double salary received by Saraki after he had left office as Kwara State governor and when he was in the Senate, the witness pointed out that CCB did not consult with the Kwara State government to confirm the claim but only based its acceptance of the claim on the report of the EFCC and a bank account of Saraki with the Access Bank.

He said that he would not know whether it was pension that was being paid to Saraki by Kwara State government, as he had no access to the Kwara State law on pension scheme for ex-political office holders.

But when asked to point out in the Access Bank statement of account where double salaries were allegedly paid to Saraki, the witness replied: “I just cited a statement of account of the defendant. I did not study it. So, I will not be in position so say more on the salary issue.”



Madojemu also told the tribunal that there was no provision in the CCB Asset Declaration Form for any declarant to declare properties owned by the declarant’s companies and that there was no provision for cash lodgment in the asset forms.
On his earlier evidence that Saraki did not declare his property in London in respect of any mortgage, the witness said: “I did not consult with Fortis Bank of London to know whether the six-bedroom bungalow at South West London was redeemed with the bank loan.

He however admitted that the six-bedroom bungalow was declared by the defendant in 2011 and that Saraki also claimed in his asset form that he acquired a property from proceeds from sales of rice, sugar commodities and bank loan.

At the end of the cross- examination, the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs applied for an adjournment to enable him re-examine the witness.

The counsel told the tribunal that he needed the adjournment because the witness was cross-examined for four days by the defence.
The tribunal has however adjourned trial till April 5for re-examination of the witness by the prosecution.





http://m.guardian.ng/news/saraki-declared-assets-ccb-affirms/