₦airaland Forum

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdI9gIeY4n4

A video of a passionate plea by House of Representatives member Ahmad Satomi has gone viral on social media. The representative of Jere Federal Constituency, Borno State, vocally challenged his colleagues regarding the recently passed National Anthem bill, questioning its relevance to Nigeria's pressing issues.

In the video, Satomi addresses his colleagues, questioning the practicality and impact of the bill, which mandates reverting to the old National Anthem, “Nigeria we hail thee.” His concerns highlighted the disconnect between legislative actions and the real-world problems faced by Nigerians.

“Me, I do not know how this National Anthem will affect the well-being of the common man in Nigeria. Let's be realistic. How will this support either hunger, banditry, or improve insecurity?” Satomi queried. He emphasized the need for legislation that directly benefits the populace, rather than symbolic gestures.

Satomi urged his colleagues to prioritize development-oriented policies that would attract positive international attention and foster growth. He expressed frustration over the focus on the National Anthem while the world advances in technology and innovation.

“There is a saying that goes, ‘Countries that rely on prayers will rely on the ones that do think.’ Please, let's think of something that will bring progress, stability, and prosperity to the economy of this nation and improve the lives of the common man,” Satomi implored.

Despite his objections, the House of Representatives, on Thursday, May 23, passed the bill with accelerated consideration, spearheaded by the Majority Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonbvere. The bill's passage has sparked debate among the public and lawmakers about legislative priorities amid the nation’s ongoing struggles with hunger and insecurity.

I won’t vacate office on June 16, Rivers LG Chairman dares Fubara

The Chairman, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, Dr Samuel Nwanosike, has vowed not to vacate his office at the end of his tenure on June 16.

In a viral video circulated on Thursday, Nwanosike directly addressed the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, stating his intention to remain in office beyond the stipulated date.

He cited an extension of tenure by state lawmakers under the leadership of Martin Amaghule as justification, due to the state government’s failure to conduct local government elections.

In the two-minute video, Nwanosike asserted that he would continue in his role based on the lawmakers’ directive.

He warned that the people of Ikwerre LG would resist any attempt to remove him from office.

He declared, “Let them come and try to remove me if they dare. The countdown begins—23 more days to go.”

Nwanosike also challenged those questioning the authority of Martin Amaewhule, stating, “Who are you to say Martin Amaewhule is not the Rivers House of Assembly Speaker?

“If Amaewhule declares that the governor’s failure to conduct local government elections means I should remain in office, then I will stay in office. This is the law in Rivers State.”

He further warned potential challengers, “We don’t wear jeans in Ikwerre Local Government. We wear white, we tie wrappers, we wear Ogbakata. Come and disobey the law, we will wait for you. The law of Nigeria is the law passed by Martin Amaewhule. If you have the courage, show your face.”

The chairman’s statements have sparked widespread reactions as the situation unfolds.

He added, “Who are you to say Martins Amaewhule is not the Rivers House of Assembly Speaker? If Amaewhule says that because the governor of Rivers State failed in his duty to conduct local government elections.

“And that, I, Dr Nwanosike Samuel, whose tenure by the oath of office I took and the certificate of return I was issued when I contested my second tenure election should remain in office. So shall we remain in the office in Rivers State!

“We are sending a message to those who are threatening them to wear their jeans – do like this, don’t do like that. We don’t wear jeans in Ikwere local government. We wear white, we tie wrapper we wear Ogbakata. Come and disobey the law, we will wait for you. The law of Nigeria is the law passed by Martin Amaewhule. If dem born you well, show your face. Thank you.”