A legal practitioner Wilfred Molokun has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to refrain from its inglorious media trial of immediate past governor of Kogi State Alhaji Yahaya Bello over attempt to arraign him in court.

The constitutional lawyer said it is absurd for an agency charged with responsibility for the enforcement of all economic and financial crimes laws to threw over board the rule of law in its desperation to persecute, prosecute and humiliate a former governor.

Molokun made the call while fielding questions on judgment of Kogi State High Court delivered on April 17 , 2024 by Justice Isa Jamil Abdullahi who granted an order restraining the EFCC “from continuing to harass, threaten to arrest or detain” Bello based on the criminal charges now pending before the federal high court in Abuja.

He said that decorum and decency should be the order of the day , stressing that EFCC should allow the trial court judge of the Federal High Court who is seized of the matter to make a ruling on Bello application seeking to vacate the warrant of arrest, essentially as the court has now been adequately addressed by both parties on the issues.

According to him,the rule of law should reign supreme in the conduct of citizens including corporate bodies like EFCC.

Recalled that the Federal High Court had fixed May 10 for ruling on Yahaya Bello’s application seeking to vacate the arrest warrant made on April 17, 2024.


Bello application was argued on April 23, 2024 before justice Emeka Nwite by Adeola Adedipe, SAN, while Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, who represented the EFCC vehemently opposed it.

In his argument, Adedipe had pointed out the need for the court to set aside the arrest warrant.

According to the Senior Advocate, the arrest warrant order, having been made before the charge ought to be set aside suo motu (on its own accord, without any request by the parties involved).

Particularly, as the agency had on April 18, made an application for a substituted service of its bundles of charge and proof of evidence against Bello after the ex-governor’s lead lawyer, Abdulwahab Mohammed, SAN, declined to receive the documents in the open court.

The senior lawyer further argued that contrary to Pinheiro’s submission that the ex-governor must be in court first before any application could be entertained being a criminal case, the anti-graft agency had made an application on April 18 after the warrant arrest was issued to EFCC on April 17 and that the court granted it.

According to Adedipe, the complainant made an application for substituted service on 18th day of April after the arrest warrant had been issued on 17th day of April and my noble lord granted it.

The defendant counsel said, “The court must satisfy itself that the defendant (Bello) will not be prejudiced in fairness if the warrant of arrest continues to hang on his neck, having been made before service of the charge contrary to Section 394 of ACJA.”


https://sunnewsonline.com/stop-persecution-of-ex-gov-yahaya-bello-legal-activist-tells-efcc/?amp

This is very bad...

From Abuja, Kenneth Udeh


Additional School building projects have been constructed in Abia-North Senatorial District by the Lawmaker representing the zone at the 10th National Assembly , Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.



The former Abia Governor's latest infrastructural action is the commissioning of a newly constructed Ultramodern Classroom Blocks at Agborji Community Primary School, Abiriba; Amamba Ukpo Community Primary School, Amaogudu Abiriba and Ndi Agbo Community Primary School, Nkporo, all in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State.



The new project is accompanied with a furnished reading desk, teaching boards, electric fans and other learning and infrastructure equipments to facilitate teaching and learning processes.




Senator Kalu was represented by his Senior Legislative Aide for Abia North, Barr Victor Etie, accompanied by the Legislative Aide for Ohafia LGA, Barr Mbila Uma Ayi.


Speaking on behalf of the lawmaker, Barr Etie, informed the communities, teachers and pupils that the lawmaker’s intervention in education is because of his belief that education is the greatest form of empowerment and upliftment.


He said; " The classroom blocks and others were undertaken in furtherance of Senator Kalu’s avowed commitment towards ensuring a conducive learning atmosphere in public schools within his constituency".


The lawmaker further charged the teachers and pupils to make use of the facilities for its purposes which is to enhance the quality of education for the pupils.


In separate remarks, the Traditional Ruler of Ndi Agbo Community in Nkporo, Eze Chief Uche Arunsi; PTA Chairman and NUT Chairman of Ohafia LGA, Elder Comrade Imo Nwankwo; President Generals, including the various staffs of all the schools, expressed gratitude to the Chairman Senate Committee on Privatisation his numerous projects and interventions in education sector.


They recalled that the two term Lawmaker had earlier distributed free educational materials like school bags, text books, exercise books and other instructional materials to virtually all the schools in Abia North.


The emphasised that Kalu replicated his performance during his tenure as Governor in which he provided free education and prompt payment of teachers’ salaries.



Also present at the events we’re Hon Ojisi Iro Ogbaja, The OUK Movement State Chairman Abia State; Honourable Robinson Otuwe, the APC Candidate for Ohafia North State Constituency, Mr Basil Offor, The OUK Movement Chairman Umunneochi LGA, Engr Agbai, the APC LGA Secretary for Ohafia LGA, Mrs Ezinne Uduma, the State woman leader for Ohafia LGA and Mr Godswill Uduma, the OUK Movement Secretary for Ohafia LGA.


The Highlight of the events includes the prayers offered to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu by the benefiting communities.

https://sunnewsonline.com/abia-north-sen-kalu-intenfies-schools-construction-in-abiriba-nkporo-communities/?amp

Very good !!!

From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja

Executive Director of Galaxy Backbone Limited, Hon Olusegun Olulade, has said that the operational activities of the Federal government-owned ICT agency is in tandem with the essence of the Steve Oronsaye Report which specifies a much leaner and more efficient government while cutting the cost of governance in the process.

Oluade who heads the agency’s Customer Centricity and Marketing Unit explained how the organisation has deployed world class ICT technologies to trim the cost of governance across government ministries, departments and agencies.

Stressing that the Oronsaye Report specifically recommended the continued existence of the Agency, the former Epe Constituency II Lagos Assembly member highlighted the state of the art ICT services rendered by Galaxy Backbone.

In this interview, Oluade explains that individuals, private and government institutions do not need to seek ICT services from foreign companies because Galaxy Backbone offers services of global standards.

What challenges does Galaxy Backbone face in achieving its mandate?

We created a new narration immediately after we came into office, because the major challenges we had were “perception” and the “visibility” of Galaxy Backbone, which hindered it from meeting up with its complete mandate as expected.

One of the mandates is to ensure that there is a reduction in the cost of running ICT in all government agencies and institutions and also to reduce the cost of ICT governance by providing that backbone for seamless operations and unifying purposes of our ICT drive.

Unfortunately, we have seen the better and unpalatable periods in Galaxy Backbone but with the new sheriff in town championed by President Bola Tinubu, who has used technology to address challenges when he was governor of Lagos State, he has really helped in focusing and having the round peg in the round hole in the industry through the appointment of a fantastic Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, the person of Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, who is topnotch, hardworking and ready to add value the system.

We also have in Galaxy Backbone a professor (Ibrahim Adeyanju) who knows his onions, very vast and specialist in the ICT sector. Considering the team that is working now in Galaxy Backbone, there has been a lot of improvement.

We are opening new frontiers for Galaxy Backbone to be known and more visible and ensure that we make all our customers the king that they are and ensure that they get the best services that they can ever get anywhere in the world.

When it comes to data management the sovereignty of our nation is key; the data that we have being stored outside this country is not helpful at all and Galaxy Backbone is there, being a government agency has a Data Centre that is fortified in tiers three and four, which is the best you can get anywhere in the world today.

We are involved in cloud sales, hosting of Web sessions, we engage in connectivity that a lot of people are not even aware of here, we will continue to roll out those information to the populace so that they can understand and get involved. We understand that we spend a lot of dollars in foreign exchange doing licencing that we can easily get here in Nigeria at lower cost.

You don’t need to build any data centre, you don’t need to build servers all over and occupy spaces that can be used for other meaningful purposes.

You can just talk to us at Galaxy Backbone and we shall provide it for you at very minimal cost and we have a fibre optic cable that is also the backbone of connectivity laid across 29 states in Nigeria and still counting, including Abuja.

You can imagine that sort of massive infrastructure that Nigeria can be proud of that is owned by the Nigerian Government. You’ll be amazed at the state-of-the-art infrastructure we have at Galaxy Backbone.

Those services that you’re searching for outside the country are just here. You’ll be doing yourself a lot of disservice when you go outside to deal with companies outside the country because you pay in FX and the sovereignty of that data you’re storing is very likely to be compromised; that is why people need to do business with Galaxy Backbone and we are in all the six geopolitical zones.

The world is talking about AI (Artificial Intelligence) today but you can rest assured that Galaxy Backbone is also playing a major role in that as we speak.

We can customize your challenges, we have solution engineers that are within who can provide you with any solution that will make your business, agency or organisation to be more efficient and productive.

We also organise training because we have an academy where we can train your ICT staff or young Nigerians. We are involved in what the Honourable Minister is doing to empower young people across the country and we are partnering and supporting the Honourable Minister in achieving his goals.

With regards to the presidential directive for the implementation of the Steven Oronsaye Report, do you agree with the Senate’s view that your organisation, NITDA and USPF perform similar roles?


We don’t play similar roles with NITDA (National Information Technology Development Agency and USPF (Universal Service Provision Fund). This is a limited liability company and we are registered under CAMA (Companies and Allied Matters Act) and aside from that we are empowered through the Oronsaye Report.

If you go through the report you will see that it specifically empowered Galaxy Backbone by recommending that we should continue to exist, because we do a lot to reduce the cost of governance and that is a major aspect that everyone is talking about and it’s the main reason President Tinubu directed the implementation of that report.

The report was emphatic in stating that Galaxy Backbone must be empowered to continue to exist as the Number One agency of government that deals with ICT in this country.

If we are properly positioned and strengthened as expected, the cost of operations of governance in Nigeria will be reduced by 80 to 90 percent. Because we have everything anybody can think of as long as ICT is concerned and we also host some bank data and we do cloud for some of them and I can assure you that the private sector are now doing business with us, they now have that trust to work with us.

How are you keeping in touch and impacting with your Lagos constituents in Epe as a former lawmaker?


Though it’s a different ball game now, I can’t detach myself from my people. My people are still my people and I still represent them. I am a Nigerian and that is what qualified me to be appointed here by Mr President.

Democracy is government of the people by the people and for the people. Everything I am doing here is for the people that include my constituents. I can assure you that I can never disconnect from my constituents.

Now I have a bigger platform. Before I was operating at the state level but today I am at the national level but the people are still my major concern. That is why there is talk about reducing the cost of governance in the area of ICT and the empowerment of the youth. Empowering the young ones still involves the people. If you go through my profile I’ve mentored mostly young people. As a former lawmaker, I have made an impact in the life of so many young ones, not only in my constituency but across the state and even the country. As a lawmaker I organized programmes of international recognition that attracted participants from Ghana, neighbouring nations and across the country. My focus has always been about the people and when you’re doing things for the people, they will look out for you wherever you are. I believe that in my current position I have a role to play to ensure that the young ones embrace digital technologies.

Briefly give us an insight on how you ventured into politics.

I was fortunate to come from a political family. In fact, my mother and father were politicians. My father was a member and leader of UPN and mother was in NPN. At some point they were in SDP and NRC respectively. I was the youngest individual where the former governor of Lagos, Sir Michael Otedola held his first political meeting to become governor.

I used to be the one involved in arranging chairs for meetings whenever the political members of my parent’s political parties were coming to our house. Through that I started learning public service management and political tolerance, because my parents never had issues despite their different political parties.

I was also fortunate to start working with our current President from 1998 when we started his political movement. I was part of the first people to join his political campaign and I was coordinating the students and youth arm.

As you can see, I have always been there. By the time I was done with my university education, I ventured into business and I attempted to contest and I became a lawmaker in 2011 till 2019.


It will be unfair to say Lagos East has not been fortunate enough. Lagos East is where we have the free trade zone today and it’s going to be the new Lagos anyhow you decide to look at it. It is also where they are citing the new airport, film city and food hub coming up. If we look at Epe, we have about one third of the total landmass in Lagos State; that is where development will end up no matter the background of whoever is in government. That is where we have enough landmass to build infrastructure, every Government must continue to look at Lagos East. Though we may have not been fortunate enough to lead the state, I believe that the party will look into it and the future of Lagos East is very bright.

How would rate the performance of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the effects of President Tinubu’s policies?

Lagos has always been blessed with governors and Governor Jide Sanwo-Olu is fantastically delivering on the expectations of Lagosians and we are proud of his leadership and we believe that he will continue with the same pace to deliver more.

When we talk about the economy of Nigeria today, we are blessed to have the President, we are confident that he will deliver on economy, security, health, agriculture, education and infrastructure because he did in Lagos. Before he became governor in Lagos, armed robbers would write letters to you before coming to a street on Tuesday and they will be there on that day, they would rob everybody and nothing would happen.

Before he came in, NURTW caused violence in parks and garages and people were affected and they lost goods worth millions of Naira and a lot of people lost their lives but today all those things have become a thing of the past. Before now Lagos used to be dirty but now it’s one of the cleanest cities to live in globally, so Lagos has moved. We had a lot of ghost workers but he introduced the Oracle software like he is doing now with Nigeria, and that became a thing of the past.

President Tinubu has the capacity. Unfortunately we have a lot of sabotage going on in the system now. Saboteurs are in all sectors, especially in the oil industry and the forex industry. We know those people are increasing the rates of dollar abnormally. Also, we have people increasing the prices of goods and services in Nigeria. That is now the Naira is appreciating you can’t see a corresponding reduction in the price of commodities. Unfortunately, we are not in a military government era. Issues like these are guided by the rule of law. Systematically and strategically the President is returning the direction of the country to a more prosperous and secure nation. You will see the success we are making in security and don’t forget it’s a global problem and the ease of doing business in Nigeria is getting better on a daily basis. I can assure you that in the next year people will come in to ask how we did it.


https://sunnewsonline.com/were-providing-worldclass-ict-services-to-reduce-governance-cost-olulade-galaxy-backbone-boss/

The Labour Party Senator Kingibe Ireti Heebah representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the 10th National Assembly has facilitated about 3000 employment opportunities for her constituents from the National Commission for the Coordination and Control of the Proliferation of Small Arms, Ammunitions and Light Weapons (NATCOM).

On ground on Wednesday to supervise the recruitment process of the constituents was Adejare Adegbenro, the Director-General of NATCOM.

He urged the beneficiaries to give their best and not to disappoint the country and constituency in the discharge of their duties.

One of the beneficiaries, Ms Angela Kajola described the gesture as welcoming and timely, the native of Gbagi showered accolades on the FCT Lawmaker.

According to her, the employment opportunity is coming at the right time amidst the prevailing economic hardship. She promised that her and hundreds of other constituents would give their best.

She said ; "This is a welcome development considering the situation of the country and the need to create more jobs for the teeming unemployed youths, with a view to reducing poverty, crimes, and to help stabilize the economy by growing the country’s GDP.


Another beneficiary John Akabundu expressed that he had been jobless since graduation, saying that the job would no doubt go a long way in alleviating the hardship he and his family are currently facing.

He said; "Senator Ireti kingibe has by this singular action demonstrated uncommon passion for human capital development; a gesture that is worthy of emulation".



https://citypost.com.ng/2024/04/27/pictorial-giant-strides-of-pragmatic-senator-ireti-heebah-kingibe/

From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja

Ogbuefi Gerald, a prominent youth stakeholder of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed concerns over the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) handling of the case against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

Gerald believes that the extraordinary tactics deployed by the EFCC to bring Bello to justice over allegations of money laundering involving over N80 billion may be politically motivated. He urges President Tinubu to intervene and ensure that the EFCC adheres to due process in accordance with the court’s orders.

Despite Bello’s efforts in ensuring Tinubu’s victory in the 2023 elections, Gerald notes public insinuations that Bello’s current situation may be due to his stance during the APC presidential primaries, where he contested against Tinubu. Gerald argues that Bello performed better than other APC governors in delivering the state for the party and suggests that his travails may be orchestrated by political enemies of the APC and the Tinubu-led administration.

In a recent interview with Trust TV, Gerald highlighted the concerning actions taken by the EFCC, including the siege on Bello’s Abuja residence, threats to involve the military, and the withdrawal of his security details. These actions, despite a restraining court order, suggest that the EFCC is determined to arrest Bello at all costs.


Gerald urges President Tinubu to prevail on the EFCC to respect the rule of law. He emphasizes that the EFCC’s disregard for due process is concerning and damaging to its reputation.

“What is happening is beyond embarrassing,” Gerald stated. “As an APC youth stakeholder, watching all these happen simply explains why, aside from Bobrisky, you can count how many people the EFCC has defeated in court by not following the rule of law.”

Gerald further questions the lack of evidence against Bello and the EFCC’s actions in light of the court order. He emphasizes that Bello has a valid court order and that the EFCC should have waited before attempting to arrest him.

Responding to questions about the potential political motives behind Bello’s case, Gerald believes this is the right time for the President to intervene and call the EFCC to order. He highlights the public perception that the case is politically motivated, with some suggesting that certain individuals within the Presidency are targeting Bello.

Gerald emphasizes that Bello delivered better results for Tinubu in the 2023 elections than other APC governors who asked him to step down during the primaries. He argues that Bello’s unwavering support for Tinubu and his contributions to the party’s victory should be acknowledged.



https://sunnewsonline.com/efccs-handling-of-yahaya-bellos-case-raises-concerns-of-political-motivation/

...insists on rule of law


The immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has denied that he refused to honour an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The EFCC had said the embattled former governor was invited for an interrogation on January 27 this year, but shunned the summon, thereby declaring him a fugitive after the attempt to arrest him in his Abuja residence failed.

Reacting to the statement on Tuesday, Bello, through his media office, said the allegations were blatant lies, daring the anti-graft agency to produce a copy of the invitation letter.


It read, “Our attention has been drawn to a publication/press statement with the above title, issued by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday, 22nd April, 2024, and signed by Wilson Uwujaren, its Acting Director of Public Affairs.

“In the said statement, which the Commission carefully circulated widely as usual, Mr. Uwujaren, who we have to believe is not a lawyer, continues the EFCC’s ongoing unconscionable lies against the former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Yahaya Bello, CON, by labelling him as a fugitive from justice in order to disingenuously justify their established and willful pattern of defying lawful court orders.

“Contrary to Mr. Uwujaren’s claims, official records and court documents relating to their hounding of Alhaji Yahaya Bello establish a clear timeline of events.

These documents are endorsed with dates and times of filing and payments, which are endorsed on court processes – all of which testify to the true sequence of events.”

In a statement signed by Ohiare Michael, the ex-Kogi governor media office said faulted the EFCC claims against him, adding that it has only resorted to using intimidation and harassment.

The statement added that Bello is not afraid of the EFCC, but the rule of law must prevail and be respected over the issue.


https://abntv.com.ng/news/you-didnt-invite-me-ex-kogi-gov-yahaya-bello-counters-efcc/

On #JusticeForNamtira

Just like Lead British School Abuja, 90% of Top Private schools in Nigeria serve as safe zones where failed & useless Parents send their dreadful raised offspring to.

Unfortunately, nothing can be done because the people in Government who are supposed to fight this "Anarchy" run and patronize these cesspit of badly trained children called schools.

Till date Schools like Dowen College , Premiere Academy where Sylvester Oromoni and Keren-Happuch were killed by their fellow students are still running and admitting more students Even their alleged Killers have been set free !

Maryam the lead bully who repeatedly slapped Namrita is just one of thousands of badly trained children perpetrating their evil acts other private schools. Such children should never need to have been born.

The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Monday did not sit to hear the appeal lodged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against the order of a Kogi High Court which restrained the anti-graft agency from arresting the immediate-past governor, Yahaya Bello.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Kogi court, in a ruling on April 17, restrained the EFCC from arresting, detaining and prosecuting Bello.

The judge, I.A Jamil, gave the order in a two-hour judgment delivered in suit no HCL/68/M/2020 in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, on Wednesday.

The judgment coincided with the ”siege’ nvasion of Bello’s home in Abuja by EFCC operatives in a bid to arrest him.

The EFCC is seeking to arraign the former governor on 19 counts bordering on alleged money laundering, breach of trust and misappropriation of funds to the tune of N80.2billion.

The anti-graft agency determined to get Bello to face the law for his alleged crime, approached the Federal High Court in Abuja on the same day to get an arrest warrant.

.The warrant was issued following an ex parte motion filed by the EFCC.

In his ruling on the motion, Justice Emeka Nwite also directed that the former governor be produced before him on Thursday, April 18, for arraignment.

He said, “It is hereby ordered as follows:

That an order of this honourable court is hereby made directing and/or issuing a warrant for the immediate arrest of the defendant to bring him before this honourable court for arraignment.

“That case is adjourned until April 18 for arraignment.”

Recall that, the former Kogi State Governor contested in incumbent Nigerian , President Bola Tinubu in the keenly contested Presidential primaries of the All Progressives Congress , APC in which he polled 47 votes against the former Lagos Governor's 1,271 votes.

Prior and during the Presidental primaries heavy pressures were mounted on the Yahaya Bello and 12 other aspirants to discard their ambitions in favour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

However, Yahaya Bello resisted the pressures maintaining that all aspirants should be allowed a fair ground to contest in line with tensts of democracy.

Bowing to the pressure the race which began with 23 aspirants saw nine withdrew shortly before the commencement of voting at the convention.

They included Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohnenye, Dr Felix Nicholas, former Gov. Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom now Senate President, former Gov. Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun, former Speaker Dimeji Bankole, Sen. Ajayi Boroffice, Gov. Muhammad Badaru of Jigawa, Sen. Ken Nnamani and Gov. Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State.

Meanwhile Aside Bello others who did not step down include Former Vice President Osinbajo, Mr Chukwuemeka Nwajuba, Pastor Tunde Bakare, Sen. Ahmad Yarima, Sen. Rochas Okorocha, Mr Tein Jack Rich , Gov. Ben Ayade , Gov. David Umuahi, Dr Ahmad Lawal,Mr Rotimi Amaechi, Mr Ogbonnaya Onu and Chief Ikeobasi Mokelu.



https://journalist101.com/2024/04/22/appeal-court-fails-to-hear-efcc-suit-against-order-restraining-yahaya-bellos-arrest/

...4 Ex - Govs,21 other Senators Sponsor Zero Bill in 10 Months


Kenneth Udeh from Abuja

Lawmaker representing Abia North Senatorial District, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has sponsored the highest number of bills among the list of former Governors in the Senate.

According to a document published by Daily Trust newspaper, The Chairman Senate Committee on Privatisation is the only Lawmaker who sponsored the highest number of bills among 13 ex Governors in the Senate in the last 10 Months.

Among the entire 109 Senators , Four of the 13 Governors and 21 other Senators are yet to sponsor any bill since June 13, 2023 when the 10th National Assembly was inaugurated, Daily Trust’s findings revealed.

Of all the former governors in the Senate, Senator Orji Kalu (APC-Abia North) has five bills to his name: the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023; the Armed Forces Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024; the Compulsory Free Universal Basic Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024; the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Agency Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

The ex-governors in the Senate are Senate President Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom), Aliyu Wammako (Sokoto), Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara), Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto), Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe), Abubakar Bello (Niger), Orji Kalu (Abia), Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), Adamu Aliero (Kebbi), Danjuma Goje (Gombe), Gbenga Daniel (Ogun) and Simon Lalong (Plateau).

The document further revealed that from June 13, 2023 to March 14, 2024, twenty five senators, including four former governors, have not sponsored any bill.

The former governors on this list are Senators Seriake Dickson (PDP-Bayelsa West), Adams Oshiomhole (APC-Edo North), Abdulaziz Yari (APC -Zamfara West) and Simon Lalong (APC – Plateau South).

Other senators, who are also yet to sponsor any bill within the period under review are Victor Umeh (Anambra Central), Titus Tartenger Zam (Benue North West), Anthony Ani (Ebonyi South), Imasuen Neda Bernards (Edo South), Oluwole Fasuyi Cyril (Ekiti North), Okechukwu Ezea (Enugu North), Chukwu Chizoba (Enugu East), Kaila Samaila Dahuwa (Bauchi North), Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central), Khabeeb Mustapha (Jigawa South West), Rufai Hanga (Kano Central), Abdulaziz Yar’adua (Katsina Central), Mohammed Dandutse Muntari (Katsina South), Peter Jiya (Niger South), Adegbonmire Adeniyi Ayodele (Ondo Central), Oyewumi Kamorudeen Olalere (Osun West), Pam Dachungyang (Plateau North), Onyesoh Allwell Heacho (Rivers East), Ibrahim Lamido (Sokoto East), Manu Haruna (Taraba Central) and Musa Mustapha (Yobe East).

However, Ani, Dachungyang and Mustapha were inaugurated into the Senate at later dates.

Following the former Abia Governor closely is Senator Gbenga Daniel (APC-Ogun East) who has four bills to his credit they are :the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024; the Federal College of Aviation Technology (Establishment) Bill, 2023; the Terminal Illness Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2023 and the Media Practitioners Registration Council of Nigeria (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former governor of Akwa Ibom State has sponsored the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2023 and the National Institute for Electoral Studies (Establishment) Bill, 2023.

Senator Danjuma Goje (APC-Gombe Central), former governor of Gombe State, has so far sponsored two bills in this Assembly: the Federal University of Horticulture Dadin-Kowa, Gombe State (Establishment) Bill and the Federal Medical Centre Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023.

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Another former governor of Gombe State, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo (PDP- Gombe North), has sponsored the Federal University of Education (Technical), Gombe (Establishment) Bill, 2023 and the Federal College of Forestry, Wawa Zange, Dukku, Gombe State (Establishment) Bill, 2023.

The immediate past governor of Niger State, Senator Abubakar Bello (APC- Niger North), has also sponsored two bills: the Institute of Information and Communication Technology, Wushishi, Niger State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 and the Agriculture Research Council of Nigeria Act (Enactment) Bill, 2023.

A former governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aliyu Wammako (APC-Sokoto North), has also sponsored two bills: the National War College Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and the Pension Reform Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

The immediate past governor of Sokoto and former speaker of the House of Representatives, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal (PDP-Sokoko South), is the sponsor of the Federal Housing Authority Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023.

A former governor of Kebbi State, Senator Adamu Aliero (PDP-Kebbi Central) has sponsored the Federal University, Birnin Kebbi (Establishment) Bill, 2023.

Findings also showed that while none of those four senators has sponsored any bill yet; nine others have at least a bill each to their credit. It reported that between June 2023 and March 14, 2024, a total of 279 bills had been sponsored in the Senate.

When contacted for comments Senator Oshiomhole said that he was working on a bill and would soon present it to the floor of the Senate. His media aide, Victor Oshioke, told the press that his principal had sponsored a motion on the Benin-Auchi Road. “So, he is sponsoring his own bill very soon too,” he said

Senator Lalong’s media aide, Simon Makut, in a text message, said: “The distinguished senator will sponsor bills.”

Senators Dickson and Yari did not respond to requests for comment. Dickson neither answered phone calls nor responded to SMS and WhatsApp messages sent to him for comment since Friday and subsequent reminders were also ignored.

Political analysts, who commented on the matter , advised the former governors yet to sponsor bills to wake up.

Aminu Yakudima, said having former governors in the National Assembly is expected to deepen aggregate governance quality in the country.

“But, it will be bad if the former governors are there without performing. So, such former governors should be advised to improve their effectiveness and efficiency so that the country will move forward.

“What we are looking for now is patriotism and nationalism. We have high expectations of them. So, they should be advised to wake up from their slumber and improve,” he urged.

Another political analyst, Jackson Lekan Ojo, also said the former governors in the Senate must step up and deliver on their mandates to remain relevant or face more criticisms from Nigerians.

“While it is obvious that they retired from the office of governor to the Senate to keep their political career alive and remain relevant in the scheme of things, they should also contribute to the growth of their zones and Nigeria through impactful legislation,” he stated.

https://sunnewsonline.com/10th-nass-orji-kalu-leads-with-most-number-of-bills-as-4-of-13-ex-governors-sponsor-none/?amp

Didn't they wear their APRONS ??

Kenneth Udeh from Abuja


The Federal Government has reacted to the tragic boat accident which claimed the life of popular Nollywood actor, Junior Pope, and three crew members.



The Presidency through the Nigerian Film Corporation on Thursday also reacted to the unfortunate passing of other movie Actors particularly Saratu Gidado which occurred within the week which it said has left Nigeria's movie industry in a state of mourning.



It will be recalled that the film industry a few weeks ago also lost one of Nigeria’s finest screen actors and Nollywood icon John Okafor aka Mr. Ibu, who was laid to rest, recently.



The NFC in a statement issued by its Director of Public Affairs vowed to intensify its advocacy for the implementation of safety working conditions in the motion industry.



Dr. Ali Nuhu, NFC’s Managing Director/Chief Executive, described the deaths as heart wrenching for colleagues and film industry stakeholders.



NFC, Dr. Nuhu averred, will continue to advocate and support film industry policy initiatives that promote friendly and safety working conditions including medical, health and life insurance schemes for stakeholders.



He said "stakeholders have been pained by the frequent and recent losses, robbing the country of legendary filmmakers who have impacted and contributed greatly to the growth of Nigeria’s film industry.



"Saratu Gidado, caught the fancy and interest of Nigerians, particularly as a lead character in several of Kannywood films – such as Linzami Da Wuta, Gidauniya; and was a Zuma Film Festival, 2023 LifeTime Achievers Award, but sadly succumbed to death in the early hours of Tuesday April 9th 2024.


"John Paul Odonwodo’s role in showcasing the professional competencies and screen delivery by actors is remarkable as could be found in Honey Money, Blood Affair and Wrong Initiation, while John Okafor’s deliveries that evoked laughter and comic reliefs leaves behind a gap to be filled. Both refined gentlemen shall be greatly missed.



Dr. Ali Nuhu, commiserates with the immediate families, friends and associates of the deceased, as well as the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN).


https://sunnewsonline.com/junior-pope-fed-govt-reacts-to-nollywood-deaths-vows-to-enforce-safety-measures-in-sector/?amp

Idiots will always support idiots

Nice couple

Yesterday April 6th all roads lead to Uke Idemmili North of Anambra State as Peter Eze a senior Aide to ranking Abia North Senator Orji Uzor Kalu fulfilled the traditional rights to Wed his Lover Iruoma Ezeugo.


Peter Eze a native of Aji , Igbo Eze North LGA of Enugu State was accompanied by 50 groomsmen to Anambra State to take home his heartthrob, a Medical doctor by profession and graduate of Igbinedion University, Okada.


The former Abia Governor's Aide who also holds an International Masters Degree in Business administration from the University of International Business and Economics, Beijing had earlier shared lovely pre-traditional wedding photos of himself and his lovely wife to be adorning blue and white themed traditional attires.


According to reports the 46 groomsmen are friends and associates of Kalu’s Aide drafted from all walks of life in public and private sectors who teamed up to throw their weight behind their cherished friend who many have described as jolly and generous fellow with a large heart.


Eze's groomsmen left no stone unturned at ensuring that the traditional marriage remained a reference point of glitz and glamour in Uke Town.

Decked in stunning sea blue native attires , the groomsmen rallied round their exuberant groom was in turn adorned in a white native attire …

Throughout the event, Peter Eze and his beautiful Bride blushed at each other as they carried the different traditional rites to seal their union.

On ground were traditional dancers, Savy DJ , exquisite caterers at the lavishly decorated venue to give the event the A class status that it deserves.

At Uke , the event hosted different personalities from different political, economic and business walks . Eze an Economics graduate of the famous University of Nigeria is showcased the colour traditional rites such as the formally request for the bride’s hand in marriage, Traditional Dance, vibrant shades of Igbo Cultures, bride price payment, resplendent attires and of course array of sumptuous cuisines.


Recall that the Aide to the Senate Committee Chairman on Privatization and Commercialization left Netizens drooling when he proposed to his Lover in Abuja.

Eze shared a lovely video and sweet photos on his social media page that got people talking. He announced to the public that his beautiful woman had agreed to marry him on Valentine’s Day.


He shared the lovely video and photos from the proposal and it showed the couple holding on to each other as they posed for a photo behind a “ Will you be Mine Forever” backdrop. The proposal had in attendance a few close friends of the couple adorned in smart ‘all white’ outfits.

https://news.band/over-40-groomsmen-grace-senator-kalus-top-aide-peter-ezes-traditional-marriage-in-anambra/

President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio incurred the anger of the Christian Association of Nigerian , CAN and some of his colleagues for hosting Muslim Ramadan Iftar on the same day as the Christians are celebrating Easter Monday to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.


Faulting Akpabio’s event, a member of CAN James Ahmed described the Senate President’s move as irresponsible, hypocritical and ill timed saying that it disrespectful to both religions.


Speaking angrily via telephone chat from Lafia , James said that hosting an Islamic event on the same day in which Christians were celebrating their own showed how irresponsible Akpabio is.


Contrastingly, the clergy also lampooned Akpabio stressing that the event was also inconvenient to the Muslim Lawmakers as most of them had traveled out of the country to observe the 2024 Ramadan Umrah in Saudi Arabia.


The Senate President had sent out invites to the 109 Senators to attend the Iftar fast-breaking evening meal of Muslims at his Maitama official guest House in Abuja.


Faulting Akpabio further James stated that such a function ought to have been held within 3 days of the commencement of the Ramadan fast, adding that it is useless to host such an event when the Muslims have less than 10 days to conclude their fasting.


Journalists who were invited to cover the Iftar ceremony disclosed that Iftar was poorly attended with about 14 Senators in attendance out of the 109 Lawmakers.

James carpeted Akpabio;

“It is very irresponsible for Akpabio to call for Ramadan fast break during Easter Monday, he could have done it 3 days to the beginning of Ramadan fast. It makes no sense to hold such an event on the day that Christian are celebrating Easter Monday".


“Those that advised him to host Iftar today are ignorant , it's an insult to the Christians and Muslims. The Senators that went are not up to 14, that attended, it's the wrong timing. Many Muslim Senators are not around and many have traveled for Umrah while others are engaged.


Though reasons behind the poor attendance could not be ascertained, findings revealed that some Lawmakers asked to be excused from the function.


Similarly, Lawmakers who attended complained that the event wasn't necessary, asking not be named a North Central Senator said that Akpabio had sinister motives as the ceremony was disrespectful to both religions.


The latest criticism of Akpabio comes amid the lingering crisis in the Senate between loyalists of the President of the Red Chamber, Godswill Akpabio and Northern lawmakers shifted to governors and other political leaders from the North.


The crisis which led to the suspension of Senator Abdul Ningi from Bauchi Central Senatorial District, started weeks before the emergence of Akpabio as President of the 10th Senate in 2023


According to reports Almost three weeks after the suspension of Ningi for granting an interview with the BBC Hausa Service where he made some startling revelations.

He had claimed that Tinubu was operating two national budgets, one approved by the National Assembly, and the other unknown to the Parliament.

It was gathered that ranking senators from the North and some governors, have now stepped in to mediate and resolve the lingering crisis in the upper legislative chamber.

A senator from the North West who is one the key facilitators of the peace move, told reporters in confidence that the issues would have been resolved without suspending Ningi if the three lawmakers from South West, Bamidele, Olamilekan and Ibrahim had not mounted pressure on Akpabio to act.

The lawmaker said some governors who were worried about the ethnic dimensions of the crisis, reached out to Akpabio to apply caution and recall Ningi, who they said has the backing of leading politicians from the North.


https://thewhisperer.ng/2024/04/01/outrage-as-akpabio-hosts-iftar-on-easter-monday/

From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja

Prominent stakeholders in Abia have called on the Governor of Abia state, Dr Alex Otti to expand roads Dr Orji Uzor Kalu built in Aba while he reigned as Abia governor between 1999-2007

A notable community leader in Obingwa, Chief Samuel Okorie while speaking to newsmen on Easter Saturday lamented that the neglect of the ring roads in Aba which Kalu built between 1999–2007 contributed to the poor outlook of Aba

He decried that after Kalu left as governor, his successors neither invested in new roads nor maintained the ones they met on the ground.

“That’s why we will no longer keep mute and watch other roads go bad. We are calling on the governor to consider revisiting all those roads that were built but abandoned. All the linking roads like Obu Ohia , Ohanku , Asa triangle which were built by Orji Kalu should be considered for expansion. Government is a continuity and for us to enjoy Aba again, there should be rehabilitation and expansion.” He said

For his part, the President of Abia Renaissance Forum, Dr Ogwo Sylvester Ogwo has also appealed to Otti to expand more roads in Aba for easy access. He said the government needed to find ways to expand and rehabilitate access roads

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According to Ogwo, “ It is pertinent to acknowledge that the government has embarked upon strategies towards improving transport and businesses in Aba

“This is particularly in the area of access roads which are key to whatever we will do in Aba. Equally, what is important is for some existing roads to be expanded. Some of these roads were built over 20 years ago when Orji Uzor Kalu was Governor.

“You will agree with me that the vehicular traffic situations and bad roads we have around Aba have been a major challenge for business growth.

“ The concern is do we have room for further expansion of roads in Aba? The road is getting choked up and saturated. We need to find other ways to have a smooth flow of traffic in and out of Aba “ He said

In a similar light, a former Transition Committee Chairman of Isiala-Ngwa North local government, Barrister Chuks Okoroafor called on the governor to bury the idea of building new hospitals

He advised the governor to rehabilitate and expand 17 hospitals former Governor Orji Kalu built across the 17 local governments rather than building new hospitals at a very expensive cost.

https://sunnewsonline.com/dont-forget-aba-roads-built-by-orji-kalu-stakeholders-urge-otti/

From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja

Commendations came the way of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu representing Abia North Senatorial District on Monday as the former Abia Governor graced the wedding ceremony of one of his domestic staff who works as Driver.


Kalu alongside his personal Aides attended and participated actively at the nuptial event which took place in Abuja, The Nation's capital.


According to a video posted on the official social media page of the Lawmaker, the staff identified as Mr. Julius serves as the Driver to the Wife of the Abia Senator jolted into excitement on citing the arrival of his boss.


In the video Kalu who chairs the Senate Committee on Privatisation was seen dancing and intermittently exchanging joyful pleasantries with the couples and guests


Taking to his official Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram handles , Kalu congratulated the couple wishing them a Marital Bliss.
He wrote; "Congratulations to my wife’s driver, Mr Julius on his church wedding held in Abuja. May God Increase their faith and trust in Him. May God also bless their marriage with peace and happiness, and make their love beautiful for His glory".


The post elicited Torrents of positive accolades as hundreds of Netizens showered accolades on Senator Kalu, describing his action as a rare display of humbleness and worthy of emulation. Most of them commented that it is rare to witness a personality of Kalu's societal status attend such an event.


One Kingsley Oruidu wrote; "Congratulations 🎉.. you're so humble to recognize him.. and also be present for him.. it will means a lot for him..


Emmanuel Azubuike; "Congratulations to your driver,
Sen Orji Uzor Kalu is a man with a good heart, thanks for giving your domestic staff a sense of belonging".

Nnamdi Nwaeze; "Very commendable sir... You rarely can find such a man of your calibre celebrating a driver's wedding..I'm impressed sir."


Abdullahi Danule commented;"You're indeed a good man, you show kindness for attending the wedding ceremony. God bless you Excellency".

David Okechukwu Smart; "God bless you for supporting your wife driver..not all boss can do that".

Ibrahim Baba Abdullahi; "God bless you sir,You are such a wonderful person, not everyone in your personality will have time for low people the way you have done. I'm proud of you".

Abdullahi Abdullarim said; "Attending the wedding in person shows how kind you treat your domestic staffs as your family. Keep it up Senator Orji Kalu".



Chukwudi Ndigwe wrote; "One thing i love about you is that you leave a common life not minding your position and wealth congratulations to the couple…".


https://www.citypost.ng/accolades-as-sen-kalu-graces-domestic-staffs-wedding-ceremony/

Senator Uche Ekwunife CON has called on Nigerians to love one another and pray for good governance in the spirit of Easter season.

Ekwunife made this known in her Easter message, noting that Nigeria can only work if the citizens show faith, and make positive remarks about their country.



The Director General of the South East Governors Forum assured that amidst the trials, economic and security challenges Nigerians must seek divine protection and relief in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.



Speaking through a statement issued by her Media Aide Tony Ezike on Sunday, Ekwunife pointed out that in observing the Easter celebration it is important to reflect deeply on the profound significance of Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross.



The 9th Senate Anambra Central Lawmaker emphasized that Christ’s Love knew no bounds as He willingly gave His life for our salvation. In the face of adversity, His message of love, unity, and sacrifice resonates more than ever.

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While Addressing South Easterners and Nigerians at large Ekwunife harped on the importance of peaceful coexistence and compassion.

She said; “In the spirit of Easter, we must stand united as one people, regardless of our differences, and work together towards a brighter future for our beloved state, region and our great nation, Nigeria.

“I am deeply aware of the hardships many of us are facing, and I want to assure you that brighter days lie ahead. Even in the darkest of times, it is crucial to hold onto hope, for it is hope that fuels our resilience and strengthens our spirit.



Ekwunife who equally rallied support for President Tinubu also revealed plans of the SouthEast Governors to develop the region.

She noted; “The administration of President Tinubu is already leading the crusade, by implementing the FG Presidential Palliative Grant, among other social schemes.

“Fellow Nigerians, we have to be intentional about speaking well of our country, bearing in mind that we cannot continue to make negative comments about Nigeria and expect positive results, because the voice of man is the voice of God. We must endeavour to uphold the sanctity of our country irrespective of our expectations or level of anger.

The unity among the governors has become stronger, and the understanding more commendable. In the next few years we will be able to compete with other major regional blocks across the globe, in terms of economic stability and infrastructural development.

“All the five Southeast states would be connected by rail and equipped with reliable power supply through the region’s industrialization and key infrastructural roadmap. These and more attests to the unity of purpose that underscores the lofty goals and work-plan of the South East governors under the leadership of Senator Hope Uzodimma.


https://sunnewsonline.com/easter-ekwunife-harps-on-patriotism-compassion/?amp

Kenneth Udeh from Abuja

Nigerians have been urged to imbibe the spirit of Humanity , Tolerance and empathy in order to achieve a better Nation desirable by all.

According to an Easter Message delivered by Senator Stella Oduah to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, building a great nation requires sacrifice and endurance, adding that citizens need to put themselves in each other's shoes before taking any action.


The Federal Government had declared Friday, March 29, and Monday, April 1, 2024, as public holidays for the celebration of Good Friday and Easter Monday, respectively.


Stella who represented Anambra North in the 9th Senate enjoined Christians and other Nigerians to support the government in driving economic growth.


In her goodwill message issued from her Media office in Abuja, the season of Easter reminds us that Jesus Christ sacrificed his life for humanity urging Nigerians to use the occasion to preach religious tolerance, love for our neighbours and commitment to civic responsibilities.

The message read partly;

"Sacrifice, endurance and hope are greatly needed to build a nation that we all desire, despite our tribal and religious differences we must cohabit together in unity and harmony as humans".


"As we all know Christ died to set us free from the shackles of sin , on that note , I congratulate the entire Christian faithful on the occasion of this year’s Easter celebration.

"As we conclude 40 days of fasting and abstinence let us emulate the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ. I congratulate my dear constituents and Nigerians at large. I urge usball to continue to support the government in its efforts to provide security and an enabling environment for economic growth and prosperity.


https://sunnewsonline.com/easter-stella-oduah-preaches-selflessness-empathy/?amp

Brown Roofers on the beat again, they never disappoint.

Oga stop all these disguise, come out with your full chest and embrace Hamas and terrorists because thats who you are

God1000:
I stand against the massacre of innocent women and children, I stand against the worst genocide of the 21st century with over 32,000 people dead, you supporters of such carnage will not make heaven

I stand with the good people of Palestine, not Hamas

No RIP , you renounced Nigeria!

From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja

The Nigerian Senate raised an alarm on Wednesday that the out of school children in the country estimated to be over 20 million risk being recruited into the folds of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram, banditry, kidnappers and other criminal entities terrorising the country.

Following a motion brought to the Red Chambers by Senator Adebule Idiat Oluranti (Lagos West), the lawmakers expressed fears that out of school children risk joining criminal gangs if concerted efforts are not put in place to ensure that they complete their basic and secondary education.

Adebule who premised her lead debate on the 2022 report of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) noted that about 20 million Nigerian children are out of school which represent 10 percent of the estimated Nigerian population of 200 million people and also represents the highest number of Out of School Children from any country globally.

The Lagos West lawmaker sadly expressed that the social impacts of having about 20 million out of school children include impediment to achieving some of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially goal (4) which is to ensure inclusiveness and equitable quality of education and promotion of lifelong learning opportunities for all.

On criminality Adebule informed the Senate that the situation subject more Nigerians may become ill-equipped to climb out of the poverty bracket and other social problems that might arise from this condition are gender inequality, early/child marriage, general socio-political instability.

She also lamented that efforts of the past administration of President Buhari to combat the scourge yielded minimal results.

She said; “the past successive administrations made several efforts to deal with the out of School Children problem and the last being the deployment of home-grown school feeding programs by the Muhammadu Buhari administration and supported with other programmes by development partners like the World Bank’s sponsored “Better Education Service Delivery For All” programme.

“However, all these efforts have had little impact on the surging number of Out of School Children, and we therefore need new thinking and more aggressive strategy to deal with this menace.

While calling for urgent solutions, Senator Tahir Monguno (Borno North) in his contribution said that the issue of insecurity may spiral out of control if the out of school children are not brought back to school.

He said; “Education is the panacea any society can use to dribble out of poverty but a veritable tool a society can use to achieve its development objectives.



“All hands must be on deck to ensure that over 20 million out of School children go back to school, so that groups like Boko Haram will not have a veritable ground to recruit these people.

The failed Nomadic Education programme was described as a major factor fueling banditry in the country by Senator Simon Lalong (Plateau South).

Lalong who was the immediate former chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum gave a startling revelation; “we don’t have to wait for the world bank. We cannot leave anyone who is not educated. When Nomadic education was introduced, a lot of politics came into it and it would have saved us from the banditry we face today.”

Deputy President Barau Jibrin also raised alarm that the out of school children may be recruited into terrorist groups, he expressed; “Bandits may recruit these children to whatever they want to do against the State”.

Former President of the Senate , Senator Ahmed Lawan (Yobe North) said that if properly checked the out of school children are actually 30 million not 20 million.

He said; “The issue of our school children is both a social and security problem for us and we have more than 20 million out of school children because what about those who have finished JSS 3 and are not able to go to SS1 ?? and that is a huge population so we are looking at over 30 million.

“We must do everything possible to deal with this issue and it will continue to provide the conduit pipe for the insecurity we are suffering from.

Accordingly the Senate resolved to; Mandate the Committee on Education (Basic & Secondary) to engage the Federal Ministry of Education with a view to paying special attention to the issue of Out of School Children with the ultimate objective of drastically reducing the number.

The Senate also urged the Ministry of Education, its related parastatals and agencies such as the Universal Basic Education stakeholders including non-governmental organizations severally and jointly bring up new strategy to effectively deal with Out of School Children problem as well as rekindle the national consciousness through sensitisation and advocacy on the importance of education to the growth and development of our country and the benefits of having majority educated population and to also set a time limit of two years for the diligent implementation of the UBE Act as stipulated in section 2 (2).

The lawmakers also urged governments at all levels to implement targeted intervention programmes that will address all the factors militating against free access to quality and basic education particularly multidimensional poverty and insecurity Equally urge the Judiciary in the 36 States of the Federation to take steps towards setting up mobile courts for the enforcement of the UBE ACT.

https://sunnewsonline.com/terrorists-may-recruit-over-20-million-children-senate/?amp

From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja

The Director General of the South East Governors Forum, Senator Uche Ekwunife, has described the two years stewardship of Governor Chukwuma Soludo as impactful to the people of Anambra State.

Ekwunife stated this on behalf of the South East Governors while celebrating the Governor’s two year stay in office via a statement made available to newsmen on Monday.

Ekwunife listed the achievements of the former Central Bank Governor describing them as remarkable in various sectors, especially road infrastructure.

According to the former Senate Committee Chairman on Science and Technology Soludo’s achievements are not only commendable, but worthy of emulation.


Anambra State Ekwunife expressed “can now boast of having a robust framework for effective development of the state through your administrative ingenuity”.

The immediate past governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, extends his warm congratulations to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on his remarkable two years in office as Governor of Anambra.

The statement read partly; “Viable schemes and reforms in education, youth empowerment programs (“one youth, two skills initiative”), and health sector interventions, including employment of five thousand teachers and the ongoing move to employ another three thousand for public schools are very notable achievements.

“Again, your insight and resourcefulness in the distribution of 20,000 computer laptops to head teachers / principals of public schools across the state are equally very commendable achievements, and by extension, a boost to the development plans of the SouthEast region.

“As you mark this productive two years anniversary in office, our thoughts and prayers are with you in view of advancing our democracy and delivering more dividends that meet the expectations of Ndi Anambra.”


https://sunnewsonline.com/south-east-governors-celebrate-soludo-2-years-into-office/?amp

A community in Abia State, Umuakpaeme Item, has lauded Senator Orji Kalu, for embarking on unprecedented transformative initiatives in the community.

Among the many transformative initiatives of the Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial district, is the newly constructed three classrooms block and installation of solar power lights to boost education in that community.

In a statement by a leader of the community, Chief Chukwuemeka Mba, the action of the former governor of Abia State has shown that he is a servant leader, one who is concerned about the welfare of the people.

Mba and Umuakpaeme Item community, expressed their appreciation for Senator Kalu’s transformative initiatives and unwavering support.

“The community is overflowing with joy as it witnesses the positive impact of Senator Kalu’s dedication to uplifting and transforming lives. The newly constructed three classroom blocks and installation of solar power lights have brought immense joy and hope to the community, with expectations for more development projects, such as a borehole and a ring road to alleviate the sufferings of the people.

“Senator Kalu’s commitment to supporting agricultural activities, including the cultivation of palm oil and other crops, is particularly lauded for enhancing food security and alleviating scarcity in the community. The community of Umuakpaeme, Item, is blessed to have a leader like Senator Kalu, whose dedication to uplifting and transforming lives is evident in the positive impact he has made in this community,” he said.

The outpouring of gratitude and support serves as a testament to the positive impact of Senator Kalu’s leadership and dedication to the progress and development of the community in particular, and Abia State, in general.




https://sunnewsonline.com/abia-community-lauds-kalu-for-transformative-initiatives/?amp

…. As Yarigbe accuses ranking Senators of receiving N500m


Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele Tuesday raised alarm over a plot to unseat the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio and the leadership of the 10th Senate from office before the expiration of their four year Tenure.



The Ekiti Central Senator made the allegations during Tuesday’s plenary in which Bauchi Central Senator, Abdul Ningi bagged a Three Month suspension from office for allegedly saying that the Senate padded the budget of N3 trillion in the N28.7 trillion 2024 Appropriation Act and that the budget passed by the National Assembly for 2024 fiscal year is N25 trillion while the one being implemented by the Presidency is N28.7 trillion.



Opeyemi made the comments following a motion by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, APC, Ogun West under Senate orders 9, 10, 41, and 5 on the need to address the allegations raised by Ningi.



In his submission, Opeyemi described Ningi’s actions as a “civilian coup plot” adding that the Bauchi Central Lawmaker attempts to ride on the heels of the Northern Senators Forum by using his position as the Chairman of the group to achieve his ambition.



Urging the Senate President to be on alert, Opeyemi pointed out that some Senators who lost out in the leadership tussle that produced the 10th Senate leadership led by Akapbio are still aggrieved and hell bent on ousting them from office.



Calling on his colleagues to take disciplinary measures on Ningi , Opeyemi told those involved to put a stop to such antics saying that the Southern led Senate President must be allowed to lead in peace just as the previous Northern Senate Presidents were allowed to lead in peace.



He said; “ What Ningi said or planned to do , is tantamount to a civilian coup and planned to use the Northern Senators Forum. 63 Senators voted for Akpabio and 46 against him, It is not about North and South, it’s about the people. A few people who felt they won’t give you more than one year on that chair are doing everything possible to remove you”



“Why are all these controversies always about Akpabio? A few people want to do everything possible to remove you (Akpabio) from that seat. The last time the South South had the chance to be Senate President was over 40 years ago.



“Senators Ahmad Lawan and David Mark had peaceful tenures as Senate President. Even Senator Bukola Saraki with all he did served out his tenure.



“Why are these controversies all about Akpabio? Senator Ningi wants to use the name of the Northern Senators Forum against Akpabio.”



On the statement made by Senator Jarigbe Jarigbe (PDP, Cross-River North) that ranking senators got the sum of N500m, Opeyemi concured but however stated that the funds were meant for constituency projects and is unapologetic about it.



Earlier in his lead debate, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Olamilekan Solomon dismissed the allegations made by Ningi.



According to him the committee on Appropriation submitted its harmonized budget report was submitted and passed on Saturday 30th December, 2023 a Budget of N28.77 Trillion and was assented by the President C in C on the 1st January, 2024.



On the allegations of the budget increase Solomon explained that an additional increase of N1.2 Trillion was what was presented by the President who came during the appropriation process through additional funding requests.



He clarified that some items of expenditure to the committee that were not included in the bill as submitted by the President because they are on the first line charge and were meant to address additional funding for the Judiciary, Agriculture and Food Security, Works, Science and Technology, Education, Water Resources, National Assembly, Health and National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme.



Senator Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) urged the Senate to give room for Senator Ningi to defend himself citing section 36(2a) of the Senate rule book. He said; “I come under this order because fair hearing is a fundamental human right in our constitution. It is right to give him a chance to defend himself”.



Defending himself, Ningi stood his ground, however he stated that only 80 percent of his statements were true. Addressing his colleagues, Ningi debunked the statement allegedly signed by him in which the Lawmaker was alleged to have said the Senate and the Federal Government were operating two separate budgets of ₦25tn and ₦28tn respectively.



Ningi also absolved himself from the statement which accused him of saying that President Tinubu dislikes the North. Armed with documents to back his claims Ningi restated his earlier statement that the budgetary allocations to Senatorial Districts were lop-sided.



“I rushed to the assembly and countered what was said with documented evidence. Mr President, if you and your agents had listened to the interview I said categorically that the President’s powers stop as he proposed the budget.



“I said there is no way the National Assembly will add anything on the budget and it becomes padding. We discovered humongous repetitions and anomalies. We discovered some Senatorial Districts have N120bn and my Senatorial District has only N1.2bn. In this budget that Senator Yayi presented to you I have facts constituency by constituency some have 120 Billion.



“Mr President As I speak to you I don’t know your take home pay or that of the Principal officers. You made provisions for cars but I don’t know how spent on the purchase of your cars and that of the Principal officers.



In his response Akpabio admitted that Ningi and some Northern Senators had previously met over the matter concerning lopsided allocations; he however faulted Ningi for going to the press to discuss the matter.



According to Akpabio , Ningi told the Senators who attended the meeting that he had already paid 30 Million naira to some consultants to come up with facts on the skewed budgetary allocations. Akapbio noted that he told Ningi to meet with him whenever his facts are ready, adding that he promised the Bauchi Central Lawmaker that he would address the matter.



The Senate President said; “And if there is any addition to the Budget, it is to the sum of 1.2 trillion and the mover of the motion has given us the break down of where the additions went to and also for me that you are saying that you don’t know how many Aides the Senate and Deputy President have that it’s in the budget. We have nor seen anywhere in the budget where the Aides of the President and the Senate President are listed out.



“This is not the speech that I expected, I was expecting a speech where you will say that you were misquoted and apologise but you went back to Arise Television and justified your position that you have documents and that those documents are with you but no single Senator here knows or Nigerians but at the same time Nigerians are bashing the Senate. The integrity of this Senate has been badly damaged and we expect you to repair it with your speech but instead of that you said you have more documents to prove what you are saying.



Blaming Ningi for bringing the matter to the public domain through the media Senator Jarigbe Jarigbe (PDP, Cross-River North) revealed that all ranking senators got the sum of N500m.



Jarigbe stated that the missing N3.7tn, as alleged by Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), had been clarified under the Government Owned Enterprises and first line charge.



He said, “I thought this issue should have ended when the chairman of Committee on Appropriation, explained that the N3.7tn were under GOEs and the first line charge.



“That explains everything but if we want to express our grouse, I also have mine and we are all culpable. After all, all the ranking senators got N500m each. I am a ranking senator and I didn’t get it.”



On his part Senator Sani Musa said that Ningi erred by going to the media. The Chairman Senate Committee on Finance stated that despite being a ranking Senator from the North, Senator Ningi never carried him along on the issues concerning the Northern Senators Forum.



However Sani Musa also blamed the hurried state in which the 2024 budget was passed as the root cause of all the issues raised by Ningi during the BBC interview (Hausa).

He said; “I am disappointed not only in the way and manners we present ourselves to national discourse.

“The 2024 budget came on the 30th of Nov 2023, and we had only one month to look at it. If I will go by parliamentary standards we have the right to decide when to pass our budget.

“On what parameters did we pass those budgets, did we sit and decide as a Senate on those parameters , if anyone comes to say that this budget is at default that means all of us are at default.



“I have been maligned as a Senator and I was told that I was given an allocation of 55 billion as a project and that video in Tick Tock as we speak.



“If anyone said he has seen anything, provide the evidence and it should be given to the Senate President, not the press. We should have acted like Senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We must deal with our ethical standards at the Senate.



Shortly after returning from its rowdy session Senator Jimoh Ibrahim moved an amended motion for the suspension of Ningi for 12 months while adding that Senator Sumaila Kawu (Kano South, NNPP) be warned.



Senator Chris Ekpeyong (Akwa-Ibom North-West, PDP) opposed this by moving a motion of amendment that the suspension be reduced to six months, and it was seconded.



Another senator, Garba Maidoki (Kebbi South), however, made further amendment, asking that Ningi be suspended for three months.



However, Senator Sani Musa (Niger East) while seconding the motion made an amendment and appealed that the suspension be reduced to three Months only.



After putting the amended motion to a voice vote, Akpabio ruled, “Senator Ningi is hereby suspended from the Senate for a period of three months”. The Senate also resolved that if Senator Ningi writes to apologize during the period, he shall be recalled to resume his legislative activities.



Another Senator who escaped suspension was Senator Suleiman Kawu (NNPP, Kano South), a member of the Northern Senators Forum who was accused of posting the audio copy of the interview and translated copy of the Ningi’s interview Senators WhatsApp platform.



Kawu in his defense disassociated himself saying that he only made the post on the platform to bring the attention of the Lawmakers to the trending news not to spread fake news as alleged by Senator Olamilekan. Kawu was subsequently asked by the Senators to tender a letter of apology to the Senate.



Pleas by some Senators to refer the matter to the Senate Committee on Ethics and privileges were shunned, immediately after the pronouncement was made, Ningi was led out of the floor of the Senate by one of the Sergeants-at-arms.





https://sunnewsonline.com/opeyemi-alleges-plot-to-sack-akpabio-as-ningi-bags-three-month-suspension/?amp

Plans are said to have been concluded by the leadership of the United Nigerians in the Diaspora (UND) to demand the resignation of the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.


The group stated on Monday that it will embark on massive street protest to some Nigerian embassies in Washington DC, some other US cities, London and other major cities in Europe and Asia nations to press home their demand for the immediate resignation of Akpabio and the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmoud Yakubu.


The diaspora group pointed out that the INEC chairman should resign over what they described as “the conduct of a shambolic 2023 general elections” while Senate President Akpabio should step aside over the allegation of budget padding raised against him by some Senators.


In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, signed by its President worldwide, Ambassador Yusuf Adeyinka, and its general secretary worldwide, Comrade Johnson Acheme, the group solicited co-operation of the International Community during the protest periods and also urged foreign nations who practice ideal democracy like the great Britain, United States and other nations of the world to bar the INEC National Chairman and his team members, Senate President, Akpabio and indeed, the top echelon of the Nigerian Judiciary who partook in deciding the 2023 elections petitions tribunal matters from entering their countries.


The diaspora group also commended Senator Ningi for his courage to expose budget padding in the National Assembly.


“We, the leadership of United Nigerians in the Diaspora, UND- an umbrella body of diaspora groups comprising of Nigerians living in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, some European and Asian nations wish to alert Nigerians and the entire international community on our resolve to hit the streets and Nigerian Embassies in Washington DC, some other US cities, London and other major cities in Europe and Asia nations where our members are domiciled to protest the conduct of a shambolic 2023 general elections by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Mahmoud Yakubu and his rogue team.


“As a body, we have carefully watched the antecedents and actions of the National Chairman vis-a-vis the current happenings and realities in Nigeria and wonder what the hell he is still waiting for to resign from that position. To put the records straight, the 2023 elections where the ineptly corrupt Commission claimed it spent a whooping N300 Billion Naira was not only the most expensive but also the most incredible in our recent history.


“We recall first and foremost how the National Chairman and his Commissioner in charge of Public Affairs, a certain Dr. Festus Okoye graced every available national and international platforms assuring Nigerians and the rest of the world of a most transparent election using the Biometric Voter Accreditation System, BVAS machines that would automatically transmit elections results and data from the various Polling Units across the country to the Commission’s central server.


“These rather noble technological innovations were applauded as we all believed it would curb the electoral manipulations and malpractices which our electoral system has been known with through the manual accreditation and collation of elections results.”


According to the statement, the most disconcerting is the fact that the said Professor Mahmoud is yet being strategically positioned by the Tinubu administration to possibly perfect another fraudulent charade in the guise of elections for the incumbent government come 2027.


“For emphasis, this global body while commending some of the Northern Senators like Senator Ningi for their courage to speak up on the alleged padding of N3 trillion Naira into the initially approved N25 trillion Naira by the President gives the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio only 48 hours to honourably resign his position and face immediate prosecution. Should he fail to heed, we encourage members of the National Assembly to immediately commence a process of his impeachment as he has manifestly demonstrated incapacity, corruption and collusion with the Executive arm of government he was ordinarily elected to checkmate in line with the principles of checks and balances as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.


“We also knock the Nigerian Judiciary for stamping the fraud and illegality dubbed 2023 elections by Mahmoud and cohorts. That arm of government has since then lost the honour, dignity and respect of many Nigerians who had relied on it as ordinarily the last hope of the common man to remedy the wrongs and defects in the 2023 elections.”


The group, however, resolved to “commence peaceful protests in major cities and Embassies in Washington DC, New York, London, Paris and numerous other cities where our members reside in their numbers. Through messages on our placards, we shall INSIST on the immediate resignation of the INEC National Chairman, Mahmoud Yakubu and respectively, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.


“We shall continue our global protests and will not QUIT or STOP until Mahmoud and Akpabio resign their positions as the National Chairman of INEC and as President of Nigeria’s Red Chambers. We also urge the United Nations, the European Union and other world bodies to stop them from making or getting any form of international honour, recognition or participating in its activities and engagements.


“Finally, we solicit the usual cooperation of the International Community during these periods and also urge foreign nations who practice ideal democracy like the great Britain, United States and other nations of the world to bar the corrupt INEC National Chairman and his rogue team members, Senate President, Akpabio and indeed, the top echelon of the Nigerian Judiciary who partook in deciding the 2023 Elections petitions tribunal matters from entering their countries. They should confiscate their International passports, those of their wives and families and ensure there is no hiding place for the Nigerian 2023 election robbers, their accomplices or their obviously corrupt enobblers.”


https://tribuneonlineng.com/diaspora-group-schedules-protest-to-demand-akpabio-inec-boss-resignation/

Senator Stella Oduah has urged Muslims in Nigeria to use the fasting exercise provided in the Holy month of Ramadan to intensify their prayers for the country to overcome its challenges

Stella Oduah, who represented Anambra North in the 9th Senate, said that the spiritual exercise avails the Muslim ummah the right opportunity to make supplications to God on behalf of the country and its leaders across the country.

In her goodwill message issued from Abuja on Monday, Stella Oduah encouraged the Muslims to imbibe and practice the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammed (SAW) in their daily lives , she enjoined them to remain steadfast to the spiritual obligations that come with Ramadan.


Stella advocated for peace just as she lauded religious leaders for preaching peace , tolerance, honesty and forgiveness stressing that those qualities are most needed in the country especially in its current economic situation.

Stella advocated for peace ; ” One of the five important pillars of Islam is Ramadan and it provides the opportunity for our dear Muslim brothers and sisters and all Nigerians to reflect on our daily lives and make amends , especially in areas of peace, tolerance, forgiveness and honesty.

“Our nation is no doubt currently faced with challenges from insecurity, economic instability, hunger and so on , but they can be surmounted if we come together and unite against negative vices and pray for our leaders to do what is right.

“As a nation we must support one another regardless of religion and tribe, the Ramadan season opens up the Golden opportunity for Muslims to intensify their prayers for the country. May Allah grant them the strength as they embark on this spiritual exercise while I wish our dear Muslims a spiritual fulfilling Ramadan fast.


https://thewhisperer.ng/2024/03/11/ramadan-intensify-your-prayers-for-nigeria-stella-oduah-urges-muslim-faithful/

[sub][/sub]Senator Stella Oduah has urged Muslims in Nigeria to use the fasting exercise provided in the Holy month of Ramadan to intensify their prayers for the country to overcome its challenges

Stella Oduah, who represented Anambra North in the 9th Senate, said that the spiritual exercise avails the Muslim ummah the right opportunity to make supplications to God on behalf of the country and its leaders across the country.

In her goodwill message issued from Abuja on Monday, Stella Oduah encouraged the Muslims to imbibe and practice the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammed (SAW) in their daily lives , she enjoined them to remain steadfast to the spiritual obligations that come with Ramadan.


Stella advocated for peace just as she lauded religious leaders for preaching peace , tolerance, honesty and forgiveness stressing that those qualities are most needed in the country especially in its current economic situation.

Stella advocated for peace ; ” One of the five important pillars of Islam is Ramadan and it provides the opportunity for our dear Muslim brothers and sisters and all Nigerians to reflect on our daily lives and make amends , especially in areas of peace, tolerance, forgiveness and honesty.

“Our nation is no doubt currently faced with challenges from insecurity, economic instability, hunger and so on , but they can be surmounted if we come together and unite against negative vices and pray for our leaders to do what is right.

“As a nation we must support one another regardless of religion and tribe, the Ramadan season opens up the Golden opportunity for Muslims to intensify their prayers for the country. May Allah grant them the strength as they embark on this spiritual exercise while I wish our dear Muslims a spiritual fulfilling Ramadan fast.


https://thewhisperer.ng/2024/03/11/ramadan-intensify-your-prayers-for-nigeria-stella-oduah-urges-muslim-faithful/

We all know the truth, that Orji Kalu’s travails started when he opposed Obasanjo's third term. This is a man who is still the only Politician and Business man recognized by forbes , that tells you how genuine he's wealth is.

The case should just be closed already, the man is innocent. Even when Justice Idris was elevated Orji Kalu asked that another judge should take-over, but it was still the same EFCC that insisted that Idiris must conclude the case due to to their hidden agenda, and they succeeded in jailing the man for nothing. Today the same EFCC are asking the court to do what Orji Kalu asked them to earlier. This just tells how Politically motivated this case is.