Fight Against Corruption: Senate Passes Federal Audit Services Bill


Today, the 8th Senate passed another landmark Bill in the fight against corruption. The Bill, known as the Federal Audit Service Commission Bill, 2018 ( HB. 107), which was passed for concurrence, is aimed at: establishing the office of the Auditor-General for the Federation and provide additional powers and functions to the office; establishing the Federal Audit Service Commission; repealing the Audit Act 1956, the Public Accounts Committees Act; and enacting the Federal Audit Service Bill, 2015.

Speaking on this development, President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki said: “Today is a landmark achievement in the fight against corruption. This is will bring accountability and probity in the finances of the government and the fight against corruption.

“I must commend all the members of the National Assembly, both the Senate and the House of Representatives. This will go a long way in ensuring the independence of the office of the Auditor-General and will ensure that the Auditor-General has access to different parastatal agencies.

“We truly have to block all the various leakages. We have to ensure that we get this to Mr. President to get his assent. We have gone a long way in this administration in our fight against corruption, and it is commendable that the National Assembly are the sponsors and movers of this very important Bill, which we can see has been outdated for many years. We will continue to play our part in this fight against corruption for the sake our country,” he said.

Press Release
February 22, 2018

IPI World Congress: Saraki Seeks Partnership between the Press and Parliament

Ahead of the International Press Institute (IPI) World Congress being hosted by Nigeria in June this year, the President of the Senate Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Thursday called for a closer collaboration between the press and the parliament in the overall interest of the nation's democracy and better dividends for the people.

Saraki, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu, in Abuja, made the call when the Executive Director of the IPI and members of the local organizing committee of its forthcoming world congress comprising media proprietors, and senior reporters and editors visited him in Abuja.

He said that he is excited that Nigeria is hosting this year's edition of the world congress of the IPI and described the upcoming event as a great opportunity not only for the global press to have a better understanding of the country "but to give us an opportunity to be able to interact more in the interest not only of understanding issues here in Nigeria, Africa and the global world because to some of us we really believe that the growth and stability of the world today depends on what happens in Africa and in Nigeria.

"I believe that when the world start getting accurate information about what happens in Nigeria, I think the world will be a better place for it," he said.

He added: "I must appreciate your remarks. Apart from the issue of the freedom of the press, there is a point you kept on hammering about which is the issue of quality reporting and accurate reports.

"These are issues that I believe that as our democracy strives to ensure freedom of expression and freedom of the press, which is very good here in Nigeria, I think the responsibility we keep in asking the media is how also do we improve on the quality of reporting.

"I think it goes a long way to strengthen our democracy when we strengthen the quality, not just of free press but quality free press. I think that is an area that is very important.

"I use this opportunity to also say that the strengthening of democracy of the country will rest not only in the media but also the legislative arm of government because we do basically the same thing in a way.

"The legislature ensures that the executive arm of government is accountable to the people the same way that the media ensures that all those who are in government are accountable to the people.

"So, we really should be partners in progress and work closely together. That is still not happening and I think that there is need for us to continue to do that based on the understanding that we are on the same side.

"And I think what is important is that institutions like ours must be strengthened and when we strengthen our institutions and not individuals because some of us would come and go, we must strengthen those institutions if we want to strengthen our democracy.

"I want to use this opportunity to seek that we should continue to see how closely the press and parliament can work more closely as institutions and not as individuals. I think this will go a long way in ensuring that our people are better served and benefit from the whole process," Saraki stated.

Earlier the Executive Director of the IPI, Barbara Traofi, said the visit was both meant to get the support of the local media and government for the proposed event.

Traofi said: "The space that the state can offer to quality journalism is vital not only in the sense of being hands off, but also in the sense of proactively giving the journalism community the safety they need to work professionally to get the information they need about the decision of the state, the decision of the Senate, and the decision of the government so that they can come cover it in a most accurate way.

"In view of all these I am most thankful to you and I am very glad to know that you and the institution you represent is in support of this event.

"I reiterate the request and the hope that you will consider joining not only the congress but also addressing our esteemed delegates during the course of the congress, I think that when the world editors and journalists come to Nigeria, because they want to understand the progress that this country has been doing.

"So what we in our communication about the upcoming congress have been sharing, we feel this is the right moment for IPI to be in Nigeria because so much has been happening in the right direction and Nigeria is certainly Africa's most populous country and one of the world's leading economies.

"So I think it is time the world not only covers what is going on in Nigeria, but covers it accurately having been in contact with the most trusted sources from the country," she stated.

The IPI is a network of global journalists, editors and publishers, dedicated to the promotion of free press and good governance from around the world.

END

Signed

Sanni Onogu
Chief Press Secretary to the President of the Senate

SARAKI’S CCT TRIAL: SUPREME COURT ANGRY WITH FG LAWYER OVER INCOMPETENT APPLICATIONS


The Supreme Court on Wednesday berated the federal government counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs SAN for filing an incompetent application in the appeal that emanated from false assets declaration suit brought against the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Saraki by government.

The Counsel in a trinity application before the Apex Court challenging the ruling of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) and the Court of Appeal failed to file appropriate exhibits of the two lower courts along with other processes he filed in the court.

Apparently angered by the development at the resumed hearing of the appeal, the presiding judge, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed told the federal government counsel, that the court is disappointed that a lawyer of his standing could file such as incompetent application knowing what the extant rules of the court are before such applications are filed.

Justice Mohammed said, "This court is disappointed that a lawyer of your standing should file such an incompetent application", adding that the Supreme Court did not expect such an application from him.

Efforts to salvage the situation by the counsel failed as the panel of justices of the Apex Court insisted that the application was incompetent.

The federal government's lawyer had earlier told the court that the exhibits are part of the records of the court filed, but he was berated that it is untenable excuse as he ought to know better the rules of governing the practice of the court.

Later, he accepted and acknowledged the errors of the application and pleaded that he be allowed to file the necessary affidavits with the exhibits.

As a result of his pleading, Justice Mohammed gave him 24 hours to file the correct affidavits with the exhibits.

The Supreme Court adjourned hearing in the appeal indefinitely stating that the counsel on both sides would be communicated on the next hearing date.

Saraki had through his counsel Mr. Kanu Agabi SAN approached the supreme court to set aside part of the Court of Appeal decision which ordered him to defend 3 out of the 18 count charges on false assets declaration brought against him by the Federal Government.

The Court of Appeal had partly upheld the decision of the Danladi Yakubu Umar led Code of Conduct Tribunal by nullifying 15 out of the 18 count charges against the Senate President for being frivolous and unsustainable.

Saraki in his appeal is praying the Apex Court to uphold the decision of the Code of Conduct Tribunal made in his favour by nullifying and setting aside the entire 18 count charges against him.

However, the Federal government in his cross appeal filed through Mr. Rotimi Jacobs SAN is praying the court to restore the entire 18 count charges against Saraki on the ground that both the CCT and Court of Appeal erred in law in arriving at their decisions.

#ElectoralAct: INEC, NASS and Reversal of the Election Timetable
https://leadership.ng/2018/02/18/inec-nass-reversal-election-timetabl/


#ElectoralAct: CNPP Backs NASS on the Order of the 2019 Election
https://guardian.ng/politics/cnpp-backs-national-assembly-on-order-of-2019-general-elections/


#ElectoralAct: Afenifere Backs NASS on Election Sequence
http://dailypost.ng/2018/02/14/2019-afenifere-reacts-reordering-election-sequence/


8 Benefits of the #ElectoralAct
http://dailypost.ng/2018/02/14/national-assembly-8-things-note-amendment-electoral-act/amp/


Catholic Bishops Back Reordering of the #ElectoralAct
https://www.google.com.ng/amp/www.thebreakingtimes.com/catholic-bishops-back-reordering-of-election-timetable/amp/


#ElectoralAct: Why Does it Matter Who Enters the Exam Hall First?
https://elombah.com/index.php/analysis/23635-why-does-it-matter-who-enters-exam-hall-first-by-emmanuel-onwubiko


#ElectoralAct: The Furore Over INEC Timetable, By Adewale Kupoluyi
https://theeagleonline.com.ng/the-furore-over-inec-timetable-by-adewale-kupoluyi/


#ElectoralAct: Needless Furore Over Election Sequence, By Zainab Suleiman Okino
https://opinion.premiumtimesng.com/2018/02/14/needless-furore-over-election-sequence-by-zainab-suleiman-okino/

*Saraki Mourns Death of 21 Bauchi Students, 3 Teachers, Driver*

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has expressed deep grief over the untimely death of 21 students of Government Secondary School Misau, Bauchi State. The accident also claimed three teachers and a driver.

The students and their teachers were on excursion to Kano when they got involved in the crash near Gaya village in Kano.

Saraki, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, commiserated with the parents and families of the students, teachers and driver who lost their lives.

He also condoled with the authorities of the affected school and the people and government of Bauchi State, especially Senator Isa Hamma Misau, in whose constituency the affected school is located.

"As a father, I know what it means to lose a beloved child most especially in this kind of unfortunate circumstances," Saraki said. "This is not a loss to Bauchi State alone. The entire country has lost a generation of future leaders."

Saraki prayed to God to grant the souls of the departed eternal rest and their parents and loved ones the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

END

Signed

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

9 BENEFITS OF THE JUST CONCLUDED AMENDMENT TO THE ELECTORAL ACT BY NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

On Tuesday, February 14th, 2018 the National Assembly approved changes to Nigeria’s electoral act. Here are 9 things you need to know about it:

1. INSTANT ELECTRONIC (NO MORE MANUAL) TRANSMISSION OF RESULTS: The overarching objective of this new electoral act is to reduce human interference in the electoral process and minimize corruption. In this regard, the Electoral Act amendment mandates the immediate transmission of voting results from polling units to collation centers. This will help to give real-time results and updates and reduce the opportunity for rigging election significantly.


2. SECTION 15: ONLINE PUBLICATION OF VOTER REGISTERS: This amendment provides a fair and more level playing ground for all contestants by mandating INEC to publish all voter registers 30 days before the election. This will end the manipulation of voter registers. In the case of missing names on the voter register, voters have 30 days to complain to INEC.

3. NEW SECTION 49 FULL BIOMETRIC ACCREDITATION: The Electoral Act amendment gives INEC powers to utilize full biometric accreditation of voters with smart card readers and/or other technological devices, as INEC may introduce for elections from time to time.

4. REMOVES UNFAIR QUALIFICATION PROCESSES: The Electoral Act amendment ensures that political parties can no longer impose arbitrary qualification criteria on candidates. This will encourage younger voters to contest, promote competition in the process, and make elections more free and fair.

5. CONFLICT RESOLUTION MECHANISMS: The Electoral Act amendment sets out a more rigorous process for the determination of candidates, as well as creates dispute resolution mechanisms that will allow those who are aggrieved to petition quickly.

6: NEW SECTION 87 (3) MAXIMUM EXPENSES: The Electoral Act amendment sets out the maximum expenses that can be incurred by every politician who is seeking election, as well as designates the fees that aspirants will pay to political parties to purchase forms. This means that our elections will no longer be about money and politics, but about competence.

7. NEW SECTIONS 33-38 SUBSTITUTION, RESIGNATION & REPLACEMENT: The Electoral Act amendment ensures that the names of candidates must be submitted not earlier than 90 days before the election, and not later than 60 days before the election. Additionally, candidates can only be substituted not later than 30 days before the election. Additionally, in the case of resignations, the person who is resigning must do so physically (in-person) — and his/her resignation letter will be transmitted to INEC.



8. NEW SECTION 33-34 DEATH: The Electoral Act amendment specifies that in the case of a death occurring before an election, such election will be suspended for 21 days and a replacement will be done within 14 days (after new primaries) — the remaining the 7 days will be used for campaigning.



9. NEW SECTION 87 REMOVAL OF IMPOSITION OF CANDIDATES

the new amendments will see to the death of imposition of candidates by parties. Under this nw section the procedures imposed for nomination and holding of primaries will ensure that whoever emerges will only do so as a result of the decision of the members of the party not a few persons.

8 Things You Should Know About the National Assembly’s Amendment to the Electoral Act

Today, the National Assembly approved changes to Nigeria’s electoral act. Here are 8 things you need to know about it:

1. INSTANT TRANSMISSION OF RESULTS: The overarching objective of this new electoral act is to reduce human interference in the electoral process and minimize corruption. In this regard, the Electoral Act amendment mandates the immediate transmission of voting results from polling units to collation centers. This will help to give real-time results and updates and end election malpractice.


2. ONLINE PUBLICATION OF VOTER REGISTERS: This amendment provides a fair and more level playing ground for all contestants by mandating INEC to publish all voter registers 30 days before the election. This will end the manipulation of voter registers. In the case of missing names on the voter register, voters have 30 days to complain to INEC.

3. FULL BIOMETRIC ACCREDITATION: The Electoral Act amendment gives INEC powers to utilize full biometric accreditation of voters with smart card readers and/or other technological devices, as INEC may introduce for elections from time to time.

4. RESTRICTS ARBITRARY QUALIFICATIONS: The Electoral Act amendment ensures that political parties can no longer impose arbitrary qualification criteria on candidates. This will encourage younger voters to contest, promote competition in the process, and make elections more free and fair.

5. CONFLICT RESOLUTION MECHANISMS: The Electoral Act amendment sets out a more rigorous process for the determination of candidates, as well as creates dispute resolution mechanisms that will allow those who are aggrieved to petition quickly.

6: MAXIMUM EXPENSES: The Electoral Act amendment sets out the maximum expenses that can be incurred by every politician who is seeking election, as well as designates the fees that aspirants will pay to political parties to purchase forms. This means that our elections will no longer be about money and politics, but about competence.

7. SUBSTITUTION, RESIGNATION & REPLACEMENT: The Electoral Act amendment ensures that the names of candidates must be submitted not earlier than 90 days before the election, and not later than 60 days before the election. Additionally, candidates can only be substituted not later than 30 days before the election. Additionally, in the case of resignations, the person who is resigning must do so physically (in-person) — and his/her resignation letter will be transmitted to INEC.

8. DEATH: The Electoral Act amendment specifies that in the case of a death occurring before an election, such election will be suspended for 21 days and a replacement will be done within 14 days — the remaining the 7 days will be used for campaigning.

8 Things You Should Know About the National Assembly’s Amendment to the Electoral Act

Today, the National Assembly approved changes to Nigeria’s electoral act. Here are 8 things you need to know about it:

1. INSTANT TRANSMISSION OF RESULTS: The overarching objective of this new electoral act is to reduce human interference in the electoral process and minimize corruption. In this regard, the Electoral Act amendment mandates the immediate transmission of voting results from polling units to collation centers. This will help to give real-time results and updates and end election malpractice.


2. ONLINE PUBLICATION OF VOTER REGISTERS: This amendment provides a fair and more level playing ground for all contestants by mandating INEC to publish all voter registers 30 days before the election. This will end the manipulation of voter registers. In the case of missing names on the voter register, voters have 30 days to complain to INEC.

3. FULL BIOMETRIC ACCREDITATION: The Electoral Act amendment gives INEC powers to utilize full biometric accreditation of voters with smart card readers and/or other technological devices, as INEC may introduce for elections from time to time.

4. RESTRICTS ARBITRARY QUALIFICATIONS: The Electoral Act amendment ensures that political parties can no longer impose arbitrary qualification criteria on candidates. This will encourage younger voters to contest, promote competition in the process, and make elections more free and fair.

5. CONFLICT RESOLUTION MECHANISMS: The Electoral Act amendment sets out a more rigorous process for the determination of candidates, as well as creates dispute resolution mechanisms that will allow those who are aggrieved to petition quickly.

6: MAXIMUM EXPENSES: The Electoral Act amendment sets out the maximum expenses that can be incurred by every politician who is seeking election, as well as designates the fees that aspirants will pay to political parties to purchase forms. This means that our elections will no longer be about money and politics, but about competence.

7. SUBSTITUTION, RESIGNATION & REPLACEMENT: The Electoral Act amendment ensures that the names of candidates must be submitted not earlier than 90 days before the election, and not later than 60 days before the election. Additionally, candidates can only be substituted not later than 30 days before the election. Additionally, in the case of resignations, the person who is resigning must do so physically (in-person) — and his/her resignation letter will be transmitted to INEC.

8. DEATH: The Electoral Act amendment specifies that in the case of a death occurring before an election, such election will be suspended for 21 days and a replacement will be done within 14 days — the remaining the 7 days will be used for campaigning.

Senate Should Not Be Used as a Platform for Accusations, Saraki tells Senator

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Tuesday stated that the Senate must not be used as a platform for making baseless accusations or settling personal grievances.

Read more here: https:///5k6MyU

For National Assembly, a youthful legacy beckons

In the last two decades, the last three years has gone down in annals of Nigeria’s politics as the epochal period whereby the young populations in Nigeria got a heavy dose of attention from the topmost echelons of the national parliament.
The combination of two young Nigerians as the President of the Senate in the person of a United Kingdom – trained medical doctor, Mr. Bukola Saraki, a Prince of the Ilorin Emirate Council and the Tafawa Balewa local government area of Bauchi State- born lawyer, Mr. Dogara Yakubu may have accounted for the significant focus to youth-oriented legislations that have sailed through in both chambers of the Nigerian parliament.

Specifically, the not too young to run for political offices legislation has entered the history book deservedly as the most admirable youth- friendly legislation ever made in Nigeria since 1960. The relevant sections of Nigerian Constitution relating to age qualifications for elective offices would soon be altered to bring them up to speed to comply with the aspects of the Not too young to run for political offices that abridged the age requirements.

Expectations are indeed high that these revolutionary steps would be achieved to create the needed legal frameworks to properly mainstream the Nigerian youth’s participation in the political leadership of Nigeria in line with global trends. Also the National Assembly is looked up to as they revisit the all important issue of transparent and an accountable funding profile of such youth impactful schemes that have the inherent capacities to empower the youth with enterpreneural skills to make them self reliant and wealth creators even as they serve Nigeria their fatherland.

Perhaps the nearest to this piece of legislation which incidentally is the focal point of this reflection is the stop gap after graduation-based scheme known as the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC) which has become the most enduring pro-youth legacy ever created by the political authority of Nigeria since Independence.

In both speeches and advocacy activities, the offices of the speaker of parliament and that of the chairman of the National Parliament and Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki have made so much impacts in the areas of promoting policy and legal frameworks that mainstreams youth participation in politics.

To underscore the aforementioned claims, an observer needs to take a quick look at one of the speeches recently delivered by the Senate President at an African continental parliamentary youth event last year September.

This is what Saraki said about his youth agenda as a leader of the National Parliament.

Hear him: “The agitations of Young Members of the National Assembly, youth groups and Civil Society organizations for the inclusion of young persons in leadership and in the decision making process, is not just one of those instruments adopted by pressure groups to attract attention but a demand for initiating and sustaining good governance and development.

Therefore, when these agitations were expressed in form of a request for the reduction in the qualification age for running for Public offices, the leadership of the National Assembly saw it as an opportunity to change the leadership temperament in developing societies, an opportunity to prepare for the future of Africa as a socio-economically and politically developed continent.

It gladdens my heart that the National Assembly reduced the age qualification for running for Public offices to as low as 25 years and we believe this will be enshrined in our Constitution after the entire amendment process must have been completed.”

Saraki also said: “Inclusiveness as it relates to the theme of this Conference is a panacea to achieving peaceful societies, however where injustice, poverty and lack of political will for reform are paramount, political engagement and inclusiveness of youth will achieve very little or none at all.”

He continued: “As members of parliaments, we will have to be more committed to enacting legislations and giving legislative backing to policies that will eradicate poverty, exhume and expunge injustice in our society and help in the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”

Saraki who has nearly half his members of staff as very young Nigerians further stated as follows: “Obviously in Africa, the concentration of political leadership must shift from playing “politics of perpetuation” to developing the education sector, building a sustainable, localized and industrialized economy that can create jobs for the teeming population of Africa’s youth. It is shocking to note that according to the African Development Bank Report, over 25% of African youth population is still illiterate”.

On his own, the speaker of parliament does also have immense soft spots for pro-youth legislations.

He too has a fair share of young aides working to help him realize his packed legislative agenda.

Dogara is also an advocate of the need to set a functional political agenda in Africa so as to avoid what he termed as dire consequences.

His words: “Any nation that fails to set an agenda for its youth must have wittingly or unwittingly outsourced that responsibility to the youth to set one for themselves and that nation should be ready to bear the dire consequences in terms of social and political costs. This is a luxury African nations cannot afford because Africa has the fastest growing and most youthful population in the world at the moment.”

As aforementioned, the current session of the Nigerian parliament has made law to permit greater participation of the young persons in politics.

From all available data, there are glaring evidences that this political epoch is at a vantage position to deepen the scope and the operationalisation of national schemes that have over the years been established to cater for the young.

Consolidating the functionality, efficiency and effective administration of the NYSC scheme will be the best legacy both the Senate and House of Representatives’ hierarchies can bequeath to generations yet unborn.

One of such notable schemes as earlier mentioned is the National Youth Service Scheme which kick-started in the early 70’s with the national mandate to properly bring about comprehensive national integration amongst the youthful populace.

But the NYSC scheme has faced challenges especially in the area of ensuring that it gets the enhanced budgetary appropriations to drive the process of youth engagement for national service to greater heights.

Onwubiko is head of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA).

https://guardian.ng/politics/for-national-assembly-a-youthful-legacy-beckons/amp/#click=https:///ml6IDkFNgR

From @NGRSenate’s moves to curb exorbitant charges from banks; to the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki’s lecture on ‘Separation of Powers’ and the visit of 7 young Nigerians to the Red Chamber. Here's your recap from @SPNigeria!

Read now: https:///2yjgOZJOMn

*10 Things Saraki Said on ‘Separation of Powers’ at the National Defence College, Abuja*

On Tuesday, January 30th, 2018, the President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, delivered a lecture at the National Defence College, Abuja on ‘Separation of Powers and National Security in Nigeria.’

Saraki explained why Nigerians need to understand the doctrines and principles behind ‘Trias Politica’ — otherwise known as separation of powers, as it directly affects the way that they are governed.

These are 10 major highlights from his speech.


*1. ON THE DOCTRINE OF ‘SEPARATION OF POWERS’*
“I may have a fairly involved perspective on Separation of Powers in Nigeria at this historical moment. Therefore, I take it as a point of duty to share my insights on the broad theme, and then – with any luck – to anchor those insights in the intersection between the doctrine as applicable in Nigeria, and the hot button issue of National Security. It is my hope that this lecture will serve as a timely reminder regarding the core principles of Separation of Powers. For it does appear, on occasion, as though we are in need of reminding, in order to better appreciate just how pivotal the doctrine is to our system of government, to democracy – and crucially in these testy times – to national security. I say this because we seem to be labouring under a serious misapprehension on that front.”


*2. ON THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY NOT BEING A ‘RUBBER STAMP’*
“For one, it jars when the National Assembly strives to carry out its legislative functions as mandated by the Constitution, only to be met with discordant tunes or administrative intransigence. I am not certain that we are sufficiently mindful of the simple fact that the National Assembly is not some rubber-stamp of executive action. Quite the contrary, the Legislature is a co-equal of the Executive and the Judiciary.”


*3. ON THE RULE OF LAW*
“…our Presidential system has at its core the principle of ‘Trias Politica’ – otherwise known as Separation of Powers, the corollary of which is the Rule of Law. We hear the Rule of Law cited often enough – many like to pay lip service to it but only a precious few demonstrate the commitment to truly uphold it. But what exactly is the Rule of Law? What does it do, what does it include, and what does it occlude?”… we must do everything in our power enthrone the Rule of Law, whatever the dispensation.


*4. ON CHECKS AND BALANCES*
“…each organ of government can only act within the ambit allowed by the Constitution. As the 19th century English politician, Lord Acton, declared, “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” No self-respecting secondary school student of Government will ever forget that immortal line. But, I am saying, this is precisely the reason why we have Separation of Powers: to ensure accountability, prevent autocracy and dictatorship; and to uphold freedoms. For where there is autocracy or dictatorship, there can be no freedom. In view of the corrupting nature of power, therefore, it becomes necessary for power to be checked by power in order to enthrone freedom and liberty.”


*5. ON WHY CHECKS AND BALANCES ARE IMPORTANT IN NIGERIA TODAY*
“Separation of Powers and the concomitant Checks and Balances enable the Legislature to ensure that national security is properly maintained for peace and development – and for the public good. I make bold to say that this function of the Legislature becomes even more of an imperative at the present time in which restiveness and agitation seem to be omnipresent. Through its interpretation of laws and administration of the system of justice, the Judiciary also exercises Checks and Balances on the other two arms of government – just as the Judiciary itself is subject to similar from its co-equals.”


*6. ON THE CONFIRMATIONS OF EXECUTIVE NOMINEES*
“The refusal of the Senate to confirm certain nominees of Mr. President has drawn undeserved ire in many quarters; these are people who misconstrue the role of the legislative arm, because we are perfectly within our bounds under the Nigerian constitution. In any case, if the Senate confirms two nominees and rejects one –should we be seen as attacking the Executive? Or, should we not ask whether there are weighty questions to answer on the part of the nominee? Why is the Legislature vilified when the occasional nominee fails to scale through?”


*7. ON WHY POWER IS VESTED IN DIFFERENT ARMS OF GOVERNMENT*
“We really should ask ourselves the tough questions, rather than parroting the fallacy about the Legislature not playing along with the Executive. Ask yourself what kind of democracy we would have if all powers resided solely in one arm of government. That is why I sometimes marvel at the hypocrisy of some vociferous voices who claim that they are fighting for democracy and yet they keep quiet when one arm of government repeatedly imposes its will on the judgement of a co-equal arm of government.”


*8. ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE LEGISLATURE AND THE EXECUTIVE*
“The joint presentation of the Budget to both Houses, now done for two years in a row, is evidence of cordiality between the two arms of government. This is the way forward. After all, when there is a cold war between two arms of government, who loses out? The country loses out – in terms of stability, governance, development, peace and security. We must also always keep in mind the fact that the ultimate Check and Balance is exercised by one party – the people – at the ballot box.”


*9. ON GOVERNANCE BEING ABOUT INSTITUTIONS, NOT INDIVIDUALS*
“I repeat, it is not about the individual; it is about the institution if we are to ensure the survival of our democracy. Therefore, the constitution itself has made provision for the process of the removal or appointment of the leadership of these institutions, in order to ensure that the integrity of the institution remains inviolable. The key purpose here is not the protection of the individuals who occupy these offices temporarily but rather, the protection of our democratic norms.”


*10. ON WHY HE WILL CONTINUE TO FIGHT FOR THE SEPARATION OF POWERS*
“We cannot have it both ways. I always say that, today, we have an honest and transparent President – but it is no reason not to defend the principles of Separation of Powers – for who is to say what the next occupier of that office will be like? We fight today with an eye on posterity, in order that the future may be more assured. Therefore, I charge you all to go and learn as much as you can about the doctrine of Separation of Powers and its implications for leadership, governance, democracy and national security.”

Pressure Release
January 29, 2018

Saraki Tasks Immigration Boss on Availability of Passport booklets

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Monday, urged the authorities of the Nigeria Immigration Service to work to ensure the availability of the international passport in view of the hardships often encountered by Nigerians who daily apply for the document.

Saraki who gave the charge while commissioning a new passport office at the National Assembly, described as worrisome a situation where Nigerians who apply for international passports have to wait for a long time before the passports are delivered to them.

The President of the Senate, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu, however lauded the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Muhammad Babandede, for the "good initiative" of locating a passport office at the National Assembly.

Saraki noted that the establishment of the passport office at the National Assembly "will help to further strengthen the relationship between the legislative arm of government and the executive."

"Be that as it may, I believe that what is important to us as we get to understand their challenges is the concern we have as representatives of the people over the unavailability of passports where Nigerians have to wait a long time for passports to be delivered to them and the efficiency of it too," he added.

"I hope that the Comptroller General of Immigration will work to see how we can improve on this so that Nigerians can have their passports as at when due," Saraki said. "I have traveled to a few countries and one of the complaints we get is the issue of unavailability of passport booklets."

He commended the CG of of NIS for the initiative and would continue to support the agency to improve on its services and ensuring that adequate passports are available for Nigerians who need them.

"We will continue to support you to see what we can do in improving your efficiency and making the passport booklets readily available to Nigerians as at when they need passport renewal," Saraki said.

On his part, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Muhammad Babandede, thanked the President of the Senate for commissioning the centre, an initiative he said is meant to further strengthen the good relations between the executive and the legislative arms of government.

"Now that the Senate President has commissioned this Passport Office, it will now be easier for members of the National Assembly to get their passports issued or renewed. They no longer need to come to our office along the Abuja Airport Road for that," Babandede said.

END

Signed:

Sanni Onogu
Chief Press Secretary to the President of the Senate

Pressure Release
January 29, 2018

Saraki Tasks Immigration Boss on Availability of Passport booklets

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Monday, urged the authorities of the Nigeria Immigration Service to work to ensure the availability of the international passport in view of the hardships often encountered by Nigerians who daily apply for the document.

Saraki who gave the charge while commissioning a new passport office at the National Assembly, described as worrisome a situation where Nigerians who apply for international passports have to wait for a long time before the passports are delivered to them.

The President of the Senate, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu, however lauded the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Muhammad Babandede, for the "good initiative" of locating a passport office at the National Assembly.

Saraki noted that the establishment of the passport office at the National Assembly "will help to further strengthen the relationship between the legislative arm of government and the executive."

"Be that as it may, I believe that what is important to us as we get to understand their challenges is the concern we have as representatives of the people over the unavailability of passports where Nigerians have to wait a long time for passports to be delivered to them and the efficiency of it too," he added.

"I hope that the Comptroller General of Immigration will work to see how we can improve on this so that Nigerians can have their passports as at when due," Saraki said. "I have traveled to a few countries and one of the complaints we get is the issue of unavailability of passport booklets."

He commended the CG of of NIS for the initiative and would continue to support the agency to improve on its services and ensuring that adequate passports are available for Nigerians who need them.

"We will continue to support you to see what we can do in improving your efficiency and making the passport booklets readily available to Nigerians as at when they need passport renewal," Saraki said.

On his part, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Muhammad Babandede, thanked the President of the Senate for commissioning the centre, an initiative he said is meant to further strengthen the good relations between the executive and the legislative arms of government.

"Now that the Senate President has commissioned this Passport Office, it will now be easier for members of the National Assembly to get their passports issued or renewed. They no longer need to come to our office along the Abuja Airport Road for that," Babandede said.

END

Signed:

Sanni Onogu
Chief Press Secretary to the President of the Senate

From the Senate's 7-day ultimatum to NNPC to end the #FuelScarcity across the nation; to the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, announcing the Conference Committees on the #PIGB and the #ElectoralAct; all the way to the submission of the ISA and CAMA Act Reports by the Technical Committee, here's everything you need to know from the Office of the Senate President this week.

Read here now: https:///G832XT

Winter Olympics: Saraki Celebrates Nigerian Bobsledding Team

Ahead of the 2018 Winter Olympics, scheduled to hold in PyeongChang, South Korea, the President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has thrown his weight behind Nigeria’s female bobsledding team who are set to make history as the first African team to compete in the sport at the winter olympics.

In a tweet on his personal Twitter handle, @BukolaSaraki, the President of the Senate expressed pride at the accomplishments of the girls, stating that their journey to the Winter Olympics defies all odds.

The Senate President said:

“I am super proud of Seun Adigun, Ngozi Onwumere and Akuoma Omeoga.

“These 3 young women are defying all odds and making history by representing Nigeria in Bobsledding at the Winter #Olympics!

“Keep flying the flag ��! We will continue to support you.”

For more information, you can visit the handles of the Senate President at:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bukolasaraki/status/955155482720768000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bukola.saraki/posts/10156102527749962

From the passage of the #PIGB by @NASSNigeria; to @NGRSenate’s response to the #BenueKillings and the #FuelScarcity, here’s your recap from the Office of the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki (CON).

Read now: https:///BNaivR

*#TodayInSenatePlenary*

*PROCEEDINGS OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF WEDNESDAY, 17TH JANUARY, 20178.*

Welcome to a new Legislative Day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, led the Principal Officers into the chambers; took the official prayers; and began the day’s proceedings at 10.41am.

Senator Yele Omogunwa moved for the approval of votes and proceedings of Tuesday 16th January, 2018. Senator Obinna Ogba seconded.

*PETITIONS*
Senator Aliyu Sabi raised a petition on behalf of a member of his constituency on wrongful dismissal by the Nigerian Police.

Senator Sam Anyanwu, Senator Suleiman Adokwe, Senator Dino Melaye, and Senator Matthew Urhoghide also raised petitions.

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki referred the petitions to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions to report back in 2 weeks.

*POINT OF ORDER*
Senator Emmanuel Bwacha cited Order 43 and spoke on the gruesome murder of a Member of Taraba State House of Assembly, Barrister Hosea Ibi on 30th December , 2017 by unknown gunmen.

*Senators comments on the Point of Order*
“Armed herdsmen ravaging Lau LGA, Taraba State has led to several loss of lives. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) should deploy relief materials and Federal Government should deploy more security to that particular region”.-Senator Shuaibu Lau.

“It seems Nigeria is becoming a lawless country where lawlessness has no consequences. If the security cannot do their jobs then the leadership should be questioned and changed”.- Senator Ben Murray Bruce.

Senator Kabir Marafa cited Order 14 and said: “ I received a call from my hometown that members of my constituency were kidnapped by unknown militia who are threatening to kill them unless they pay a ransom.”

“Foreigners are afraid to come and invest in Nigeria because of these multiple killings all around the Country, in some parts people are killed and eaten”.- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

“So many security-related appointments in this country are unmerited... They are not performing their basic duties of protecting lives and properties." -Senator Isah Misau.

“Distinguished Senators every contribution should be a long-lasting solution to these security issues. Right now, we need to look into solutions and the way forward.”- Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

*Senate resolved to:*
-Call on the Senate to send a high power delegation in conjunction with the State Government to find a long lasting solution to the problem,
-Direct the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) as a matter of urgency to release relief materials,
-Urge the Federal Government to deploy more security forces in the affected areas; Army, Police,  Department of State Services (DSS) and Civil Defense,
-Urge Federal Government to mount a comprehensive surveillance on the Taraba- Adamawa border to deter future occurrences.

Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu adds a prayer that Senate should suspend plenary Wednesday and Thursday next week for a National Security Summit.

*PRESENTATION OF BILLS- First Reading*
1. National Road Funds (Est, etc.) Bill, 2018 (HB. 49 & 163) by Senate Leader.

National Road Funds (Est, etc.) Bill, 2018 (HB. 49 & 163) was read the First Time.

2. Institute of Environmental Practitioners of Nigeria (Est, etc.) Bill, 2018 (SB. 559) by Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

Institute of Environmental Practitioners of Nigeria (Est, etc.) Bill, 2018 (SB. 559) was read the First Time.

3. Electronic Deeds Registration System Bill, 2018 (SB. 595) by Senator Hope Uzodinma.

Electronic Deeds Registration System Bill, 2018 (SB. 595) was read the First Time.

*PRESENTATION OF A REPORT*
1. Conference Committee Report on the Environmental Managers Registration Council of Nigeria (Est, etc.) Bill, 2018 (SB. 88) by Senator Emmanuel Paulker.

The Conference Committee Report on the Environmental Managers Registration Council of Nigeria (Est, etc.) Bill, 2018 (SB. 88) was LAID.

*PRESENTATION AND CONSIDERATION OF A REPORT*
1. Report of the Committee on Downstream Petroleum on the Investigation of the Lingering Premium Motor Spirit (Fuel) Crisis across the Country by Senator Kabir Marafa.

“I sincerely commend Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki who rose up to the occasion to get off recess and mandated the Committee on Downstream Petroleum to address this fuel scarcity. I don’t think this report meets the requirements”.- Senator Atai Aidoko.

“Fuel scarcity has become a reoccurring dilemma, I suggest we set aside this report and properly debate on it. It’s unfair and a bad report”.- Senator Stella Oduah.

“I commend Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki for the step taken during the recess as regards the fuel scarcity... Hundreds of millions of dollars have been used in the oil sector that have not been appropriated for”.-Senator Dino Melaye.

“There’s fraud in NNPC, Ministry of Finance that needs to be investigated. We need a full blown investigative hearing because they are syphoning Nigeria’s money”.- Senator Adeola Solomon.

"I sincerely commend Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki’s efforts on the fuel scarcity situation. The Chairman of the Committee on Petroleum Downstream should withdraw his report, as it doesn't meet the requirements."- Senator Godswill Akpabio.

"I support the Motion of investigating what has happened in the oil sector. We must ensure that no penny is used by the oil and gas sector that has not been appropriated by National Assembly." -Senate Leader

“In the seventh senate, this issue of fuel subsidy is a topic that I spent a lot of time on. It was my Motion that brought this topic to the national discourse. So, it is something that I can speak on.”- Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

“There are three issues here that we need to separate: even as we speak now, there are still queues. The issue of the ongoing scarcity is one problem that the Committee needs to go back to look into so that Nigerians can be reassured that this will not reoccur. Problem number two is that the subsidy is important, however, based on the figures that have been presented, it is clear that there is a bigger fraud that is being perpetrated. This is because the amount of PMS that is allegedly coming into Nigeria cannot be consumed by Nigerians. At the end of the day, it is Nigerians that are paying for this subsidy fraud because it is not transparent, and it is only being run by one organization.”- Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

“At the end of the day, it is Nigerians that are paying for this subsidy fraud because it is not transparent, and it is only being run by one organization. The third problem deals with the principle of MDAs incurring expenditures without approval by the legislature.”-Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

“Therefore, in order to get to the bottom of these pressing issues, we will be to break up the issues.
The issue of the subsidy and how it came about; as well as the issue of the scarcity that is still ongoing and the fraud of the volumes will go back to the Downstream Committee for a more comprehensive report.While the issue of unauthorized spending in the sector will be looked into by the Public Accounts Committee.”-Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

*ADJOURNMENT*
Senate Leader moved that all other items on the order paper be stood down to another Legislative day. Minority Leader seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Thursday, 18th January, 2018.

#GavelBangs.

*Signed:*
New Media Department,
Office of the President of the Senate,
Federal Republic of Nigeria.

8 Things Saraki said to the Senators in the Senate’s 2018 Resumption Speech

On Tuesday, January 16th, 2018, the 8th Senate resumed its plenary activities for the year. The Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, in his resumption speech, discussed the work of the Senate and the way forward. These are 8 of the major things that he said.

1. On the Fuel Scarcity: “When one part of the body is hurting, the whole body hurts, and this holds true for the entire nation.”
I am not unmindful of the sobering fact that the new year has met many citizens in a reflective mood. Many were on the queue for petrol; many households are grief-stricken. This mood of reflection is also one from which no lawmaker is immune; what affects one, affects all. When one part of the body is hurting, the whole body hurts, and this holds true for the entire nation.
 
We have all been witnesses to the hardships with which many Nigerians saw in the new year, stuck on fuel queues tailing from petrol stations in many of our cities. It has been disheartening to see, especially during the festive period when Nigerians should have been enjoying carefree time with their loved ones, with enough petrol in their tanks to make that cherished journey to the various hometowns.
 
2. On the Fuel Scarcity: “We, as representatives of the people, feel the pain of the people.”
We, as representatives of the people, feel the pain of the people. Things being the way they were, we could not but respond to the crisis. I therefore had to direct members of the Senate Investigative Panel on Fuel Scarcity cut short their recess to commence hearings into the lingering problem; and that work is ongoing. I commend the committee for their prompt response and the work carried out.
 
We seek the cooperation and understanding of Nigerians as we try to get to the bottom of this issue. My own estimation of the fuel scarcity phenomenon is that it is man-made. We thought we had left the problem of fuel queues firmly in the past in this country, but sadly, that appears not to be the case. In any event, there is a problem, and it must be solved. We await the findings of the Investigative Panel on Fuel Scarcity, firm in our resolve that whoever is responsible must pay the price for visiting this needless hardship upon our people.
 
3. On the Benue Killings: “We condemn these killings in the strongest terms, and we declare that mindless bloodletting has no place in our society.”
Distinguished colleagues, you will agree with me that even more sober reflection attends the killings in some parts of the country, particularly recent tragic events in Benue State. We condemn these killings in the strongest terms, and we declare that mindless bloodletting has no place in our society. I offer our sincerest condolences to the people of Benue, and indeed to all who have suffered the loss of their loved ones as a result of these wanton acts.
 
Human life is sacred. We state without equivocation that Nigerian life must become sacred. When we fail in our duty to protect Nigerian lives, it is a tragedy and an indictment on us all. We as the 8th Senate stand ready to help find solutions to assuage the hurt to affected parts, to bring the perpetrators to justice and to enthrone peace in all four corners of this country.
 
Let me state that the 8th Senate is disturbed by these unfortunate incidents, and we have been for some time. We were concerned enough to have inaugurated the Ad-Hoc Committee on Security in November of last year. And so it was that, with the shocking reports from Benue, Rivers and other places, the Security Committee members also cut short their recess to resume sitting, with a view to fast-tracking their investigations, in order to present an interim report for the Senate’s consideration immediately on resumption.  I really must commend the committee for their swift action in this regard; and I am happy to note that the Interim Report is ready for the consideration of this chamber.


 4. On the Work of the Senate: “We cannot lose momentum, nor can we afford to rest on our oars.”
We are a people-oriented Senate, and I believe I speak for us all when I pledge that we shall continue to demonstrate similar dedication to our duties this year, as worthy representatives of the people who voted us into office.
 
Distinguished colleagues, the 8th Senate has continued its historic run, because by the end of 2017, we had passed 140 Bills over a period of 30 months. The landmark Economic Bills we passed, helped to propel the country’s emergence from recession, powering us upwards in the Ease of Doing Business Report. While the legislative feats of the year gone by shall go down in the annals of lawmaking in this country, what is also true is that we cannot lose momentum, nor can we afford to rest on our oars.


5. “This is Nigeria’s time. Let us devote ourselves to her service.”
Going into the new year, I can only wish each and every one of us the best as we prepare for the task ahead. It is a crucial year. As you all know, this, in all probability, will be the last productive year before we go into the 2019 electioneering period. Not only is there a need to up the ante in terms of productivity, it is important we keep our eyes on the big picture. Let us not be caught in the political fray before due season. To each and every thing under the sun, its own time. This is Nigeria’s time. Let us devote ourselves to her service. It is therefore imperative that we speed up consideration on the various bills on which legislative work remains outstanding – particularly economic bills. Calling for similar attention are the other parts of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) related bills still to be passed, namely: the Petroleum Industry Fiscal Bill and the Petroleum Host Community Bill.
 
6.“We must not allow the upcoming 2019 elections to overshadow our work for the people.”
Distinguished colleagues, it is my appeal to each and every one of us, that our legislative duty to Nigeria and her people, must be uppermost in our minds. We must not allow the upcoming 2019 elections to overshadow our work for the people that elected us - or distract us from that which we are mandated to do by the constitution and the trust reposed in us by the people.
 
This is my appeal: it is too early for 2019 politicking to override the legislative agenda and the larger work of governance. We have begun a good thing with the economic core of our agenda; let us see it to its proper conclusion. It would be most insensitive to the needs of the people of this country if we were to do otherwise. I am directing this appeal not only to us in the chamber but to the National Assembly as a whole, as well as to the Executive and indeed all political actors.
 
7. “Let me opine that 2018 will be defined by the collaboration between the two chambers of the 8th National Assembly"
Distinguished colleagues, let me opine that 2018 will be defined by the collaboration between the two chambers of the 8th National Assembly as regards the number of items due for concurrence. We must work to build on the very cordial relationship between the two chambers as witnessed so far, and elevate the level of cooperation, for the benefit the people. To this end, I urge you all to reach out to our counterparts in the House, so that we can fulfil the lawmaking function in the most expeditious manner. This will help streamline the process - and clear the way for the passing of various legislations – making for improved synergy and joined-up working between the two chambers.
 
8. On the Way Forward: “We will not relent in our efforts…”
Currently, distinguished colleagues, there are two major ongoing issues before us – namely the Constitutional Amendment process and the 2018 Appropriation Bill. It is encouraging to see that the Assemblies in the States have already started work on the Constitutional Amendment; I urge us all to keep a keen eye on developments on that front. With regard to the 2018 Budget, let me take this opportunity to give a word of encouragement to the Committee as they work to ensure the proper conduct of the process.

*"We are Proud of Saraki" Kwara Poly Students Hold Rally to Express Gratitude After School Fees Reduction*

Students of the Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, yesterday staged a peaceful protest to express their appreciation to the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, for his timely intervention that led to the reduction of their tuition fee.

The students equally thanked Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and Speaker, Kwara State House of Assembly, Dr Ali Ahmad for their swift intervention that led to the prompt reduction of about N19,000 from their tuition and an end to the tuition crisis.

The elated students carried placards with inscription such as, “We are proud of Bukola Saraki”, “The poor also deserves affordable education”, “Thank you ABS”, “We are grateful to ABS, ” among others.

Speaking with journalists during the event in Ilorin, the Vice President, National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), Comrade Olugbode Damola, however advised all students to make full payment of their school fees before the end of the month.

The students’ leader also urged the students to maintain peaceful co-existence in order to sustain uninterrupted academic activities in the school.

According to him, the intervention of Saraki in achieving a reduced tuition fee attested to his love and concern for the masses in Kwara State and Nigeria at large.

“We also appreciate the entire members of the eighth Kwara State House of Assembly led by Dr. Ali Ahmad for their fair hearing and sincere disposition on the matter.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to members of the executive/legislative joint committee set-up to look into the issue for coming up with merciful resolution that reduced the tuition fees far beyond our expectations.

“A big thank you to Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and members of his cabinet whose input further contributed to quick resolution of the crisis.”

Also speaking, a Computer Science student, Comrade Ola Michael Muyiwa, assured that henceforth students of the polytechnic will continue to explore machinery of dialogue to ensure peace in the school.

Press Release
January 11, 2018

Missing Drug Containers: NDLEA Responds To Saraki's Query

Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Col. Muhammed Abdallah (rtd) has responded to the allegations of missing containers impounded by the agency raised by some stakeholders during the Senate Round-Table On Substance Abuse held in Kano City last December.

The response was as a result of a directive by the President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, that a formal report on the incident as raised by some stakeholders should be submitted for Senate's consideration.

A lecturer at Bayero University, Kano, Dr. Bala Muhammad, had at the roundtable alleged that containers containing Tramadol and other restricted drugs were impounded in January 2016, July and November 2017 could neither be accounted for by the NDLEA while suspects arrested in connection with the illegal importation were allegedly set free.

Based on the allegation, the President of the Senate directed the chairman of the NDLEA to within two weeks submit a comprehensive report on the incidents to the Senate.

"This should not be swept under the carpet. Certainly someone or some people must face the wrath of the law. We must not continue this way. We will ensure that those involved and their collaborators are punished according to our laws," Saraki said.

END

Signed:

Media Office of the President of the Senate

New Year Killings: We Must Remain United Against Violence, Says Saraki

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has condemned the recent killings in Benue, Rivers and Kaduna States that left countless Nigerians dead, describing the attack on the affected communities as ‘heinous’ and ‘reprehensible’, and called on all Nigerians to remain united in their condemnation of violence.

He said: “The recent killings in this new year that have left many families without their loved ones, and several communities in distress was a reprehensible act of violence. As Nigerians, we must all remain united in our condemnation of violence. Such actions have no place anywhere in our culture . The killers and perpetrators of this callous act must be caught and brought to justice. The Senate will continue to render all necessary support to ensure that this happens.

“I call on our security forces to continue to work around the clock to ensure the safety of the affected communities — and all communities across the nation. Such random and widespread acts of hate and disorder are part of the reasons why last year, we inaugurated an Ad-Hoc Committee to Review Nigeria’s Security Infrastructure for better delivery across the board.

“The committee is still at work, however, now it is clear that we need to review, re-vamp and reposition our security apparatus across the nation to be able to respond to the diverse nature of the crises and concerns of various communities. I still believe that the intelligence gathering aspects of our security system is not measuring up to standard.
"We need to ensure that our security system could gather relevance intelligence and analyse them to prevent activities of hoodlums and insurgents so that we don't always cry after the milk is split. These killings, like those that occurred in Benue, Rivers and Kaduna are becoming too recurrent and the relevant Senate committees will hold discussion with the Senators from the affected states with a view to having a proper understanding of what the issues are and make appropriate recommendations to the executive", he stated.

The Senate President further Commiserated with the families who lost their loved ones as well as the government and entire people of Benue, Kaduna and Rivers States on the sad incident.

Signed:

Yusuph Olaniyonu
Special Adviser (Media and Publicity) to the Senate President

*#SarakiConstituencyProjects; Saraki Flags Off Rehabilitation Of SobiDam Waterworks, Inspects AgbaDam Waterworks*

The constituency office of the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, today flagged off the rehabilitation of Sobi Waterworks. It is noteworthy that the waterworks which was built about three (3) decades ago to serve some communities in Ilorin East, Ilorin South and Moro local government areas of the state, with the maiden design of delivering two million (2,000,000) gallons per day, has been operating on its twenty five percent (25%) efficiency in the last 15 years, thereby resulting in the shortage of pipe borne water in the beneficial communities. Hence, the need for its rehabilitation for higher efficiency for the domestic and industrial benefits of the constituents and Kwarans by extension.


Shortly before the project was handed over to the contractor by Engr. Aremu, the Managing Director of Lower Niger River Basin, which is the MDA in charge of the the project, the Director General of ABS Mandate Constituency Office, Alhaji Musa Abdullahi, disclosed that the Senate President is committed to the welfare of his constituents and ready to bring to an end the sufferings that emanate from the insufficiency of water supply through the rehabilitation of old and construction of new surface and underground waterworks. He proceeded by making it known that his principal has about two hundred (200) ongoing constituency projects in which there are more than twenty communal road projects that are eighty percent (80%) completed and will be commissioned soon across the four local government that make up the Kwara Central Senatorial District being represented by Sen. Saraki at the Senate. He therefore concluded by assuring Kwarans of the hundred percent (100%) completion of all the projects facilitated by the Senate President and that more of such people oriented projects are in the pipeline.


According to the Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Water Resources, Hon. Ali Bahago Ahman Pategi, who was present at the flag off event, the National Assembly under the Chairmanship of Sen. Bukola Saraki wants to discourage the incessant digging of boreholes but invest more on water dam construction and reticulation in order to ensure every household in the country has access to healthy and drinkable water. He went further by appreciating the Senate President for his interest in ensuring monumental projects are captured for Kwarans in the 2018 national budget. "He is indeed a responsible and responsive leader and blessing to Kwara state", Hon. Pategi Added.


After the project was handed over to the Contrator by the Lower Niger River Basin and the site possessed by the constituency office of the Senate President, the CEO of Deco Nigeria Ltd, made it known that all the equipment to be used for the project are to be imported from Germany and assured that the project will be hundred percent (100%) completed in six (6) month.


Breifly after the flag off of Sobi Dam, the constituency office of the Senate President also had an inspection tour to the nearly completed AgbaDam waterworks expansion site, a multimillion naira project which was flagged off last year. The inspection team was impressed by the level of works done on the dam and optimistic that in the next few months, water will run on every household in Ilorin metropolis.


Also present during the flag-off and inspection outing are; The state Chairman of Kwara APC, Alhaji Ishola BF, the three Senatorial Chairmen of APC, Alhaji Jimoh Balogun, Alhaji Jimoh Adeshina, Alhaji Isiaka Oniwa respectively, the Kwara state Commissioner for water resources, Barr. Abdulrasaq Akorede, Kwara Water Corporation GM and Engineers, Directors and other staff of ABS Mandate Constituency Office, Team of Engineers from Lower Niger River Basin, the APC state executive member, the council chairmen of Ilorin East and Ilorin South local government areas and many others.

Press Release
January 3, 2018

Kaita's Death, A Great Loss to the Nation, Says Saraki

President of the Senate, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has described the death of a former governor of old Kaduna State, Alhaji Lawal Kaita, as a great loss not only to Katsina and Kaduna states but to the entire nation.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki described late Kaita as a courageous, experienced and consummate politician, who was always frank in his views and honest in his political activities.

"I consider the death of Alhaji Kaita as a personal loss to me and my family considering his long mutual and beneficial relationship with my late father, Dr. Abubakar Olusola Saraki, which he graciously extended to me.

"As a father, I benefitted immensely from his wise counsel and support at different times. His death has robbed the nation of a gentleman, fearless and honest politician who thrived on building good relationships for the purpose of better serving his people", he stated.

Saraki extended his condolences to the immediate family of the late politician, President Muhammadu Buhari, the Emir of Katsina and the people and government of Katsina and Kaduna States. He also prayed the almighty Allah to grant the late elder statesman a place in Aljannah firdaus.

Signed

Yusuph Olaniyonu
Special Adviser (Media and Publicity) to Senate President

*Saraki Calls On Nigerians to Join the Fight Against Drug Abuse*

The President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on New Year’s Eve called on Nigerians across the nation to join the fight against drug abuse.

Reacting to reports that the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) is set to inaugurate a ‘Codeine Control and Other Related Matters Working Group (CCRWG)’, Saraki stated on his personal Facebook and Twitter pages that it was encouraging the see the PCN taking an active stance against the use and distribution of illegal substances.

He said:

“It’s great to see the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) taking an active stance against the abuse of codeine and other drugs after the #SenateTacklesDrugAbuse Roundtable. This is a welcome development.

“As the PCN constitutes this group to control the distribution of codeine and other drugs in Nigeria, my colleagues and I in the 8th Senate will continue working to provide the necessary legislative interventions to fight #DrugAbuse across the nation.

“As we begin a new year, I call on other groups to join this fight to curb the widespread abuse of drugs in communities across the country. The more people that we have saying no to drugs — the more multifaceted Nigeria’s approach to fighting #DrugAbuse will be.”

Follow these links to learn more:
https://www.facebook.com/bukola.saraki/posts/10156044928649962
https://twitter.com/bukolasaraki/status/947512671473164288

Press Release
December 31, 2017

Saraki to Nigerians at New Year: Let Us Pray for an Improved Economy in 2018

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has extended his heart felt good wishes to all Nigerians in the New Year, with a clarion call on them to pray for a full recovery of the economy in 2018.

Saraki in a New Year message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, said a strong economy would enable government to achieve physical development and improved standard of living of the people.

He added that God has blessed Nigeria with all the potentials necessary for her to have a strong economy that would take care of its growing population but that it was unfortunate that there is still so much underdevelopment in the country.

He noted that most of the problems now threatening the unity, progress and peace of the country were rooted in the poor state of the economy and that there was need for the government and Nigerians to work together in Year 2018 to ensure the success of policies initiated to rebuild the economy, create employment, attract investment opportunities and make the nation self-sufficient.

He said that government alone cannot make the economy to work but that it requires the co-operation, prayers and change of attitude on the part of the people to develop the country and make 2018 a more fruitful and beneficial year for the citizenry.

"I wish all Nigerians overflowing happiness on this joyful occasion," Saraki said. "The end of one year and the beginning of another is always a time that is full of hope. While 2017 was challenging for many Nigerians, we must look back on the year with the knowledge that better days are ahead.

"Although we still have so much to do to achieve our desired individual and national objectives, let us rise up with courage and determination to make the situation better", he stated.

While lauding the resilience of Nigerians in the face of national challenges and their avowed love for the unity and greater progress for the country, he noted that every Nigerian deserve a better deal.

"All of us deserve a chance to live a better life. This is why the Senate and indeed the 8th National Assembly will continue to collaborate with the executive to ensure that all the policies and programmes of the present administration targeted at making life more meaningful for the people are realized.

"The National Assembly will not spare efforts in passing more laws that will serve as catalyst for our economic stability and growth. Laws that will help make our businesses thrive. Laws that will enhance the creation of jobs and put more money in the pockets of our people", he stated.

He wished Nigerians a happy and blessed 2018.

END

Signed

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

Boko Haram: Saraki Lauds US over Sale of Fighter Jets to Nigeria

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has commended the United States government for its support for Nigeria's bid to defeat the Boko Haram insurgents in the North-east zone through the approval of the sale of A29 Super Tucano fighter jets to the Nigerian Air Force.

Saraki was responding to Wednesday announcement by the Nigeria Air Force that the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Stuart Symington had presented Letters of Offer and Acceptance which represents the official American government's offer to sell defence articles and services to Nigeria during a visit to Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sidique Abubakar.

The President of the Senate said the development was a positive indication that the Americans are genuinely desirous of helping to enthrone peace in Nigeria and ending the insurgency in the North-eastern part of the country.

While promising that the Senate would support the plan by the Buhari Adminstration to purchase high powered security equipment in order to strengthen the armed forces, Saraki recalled that on August 28 when he received an eight-man US Congressional delegation headed by Senator Christopher Coons of Delaware, the issue of the need to lift embargo on sale of weapons to Nigeria by the United States was a major point of discussion.

"My gratitude and that of my colleagues goes to Senator Coons and other members of his delegation for giving Congressional backing to this arms sales arrangement. They have kept their words and back it up with action. During that visit, they promised they would help to ensure the arms sales embargo against Nigeria was lifted. Now, we can see that they are true partners in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria.

"It is obvious that if the Congress had vetoed the arm sales deal, we won't be talking of this expected new fighter jets which will definitely help us to finally defeat the Boko Haram insurgents and fully restore the confidence of our fighting force", he stated.

The President of the Senate further commended Ambassador Symington for demonstrating consistent commitment to helping Nigeria fully restore peace in the troubled North-east zone. "Since his first meeting with me after he resumed, Ambassador Symington had promised that he would make the lift of the US ban on sale of military hardware to Nigeria one of his priority deliverables. Now, he has shown he is a true partner in Nigeria's counter-insurgency campaigns", he added.

He also called on Nigeria's partners across the world especially in Europe to emulate the United States by also supporting the anti-insurgency campaign of the present administration in the country through gestures like sale of arms and provision of assistance towards the rebuilding, reconstruction and rehabilitation of the war-ravaged areas in the North east.

Saraki urged the Buhari administration to move speedily to conclude all the formalities and make payment in respect of the 12 A29 Super Tucano Aircraft so that the nation's military could be stronger in confronting the insurgents and giving confidence to the fighting soldiers.

Signed

Yusuph Olaniyonu
Special Adviser (Media and Publicity) to the President of the Senate

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has explained how Senate President Bukola Saraki helped him to become speaker in June, 2015.
Both Saraki and Dogara emerged as leaders of the National Assembly against the wish of their party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in keenly contested elections. They defeated Sen. Ahmad Lawan and Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila respectively, who were the party’s choice.

Recounting how he emerged speaker, Dogara said, during a book launch to mark his 50th birthday in Abuja on Tuesday, that Saraki was key to his victory as the Senate President and donated both ideas and money to him.
“The story of my emergence as speaker is a story of national consensus. It’s a meeting of people across board. My brothers and sisters sat in the National Assembly and said ‘look, we’ll make you speaker’.
“Members made me speaker against all odds. I’m sorry I have to remind us of this. Virtually everything was done against the project. From the party to even resources at our disposal.
“I know I’ve not said this before, but the Senate president played a key role. Whenever we ran into trouble during the campaigns, we would go to him. He contributed a lot of ideas and even money, although I’m not going to mention how much.
“My victory reassured my faith in project Nigeria. That made me to say everything is possible in this country,” Dogara said.
Speaking on how to move the country forward, Dogara said Nigeria must invest heavily on education to have the right kind of leaders that would take the country to the desired destination.
“If we want to have the right kind of leaders, we must invest in education. In other countries, they have Ivy League universities that train their leaders. In Africa and Nigeria, we must also do that,” he said.
The speaker said he has chosen to celebrate his 50th birthday for the first time in his life in order to review his journey in life and make an impact in the lives of others, especially people like internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the less-privileged.

Press Release

December 28, 2017



*Fuel Crisis: Saraki Directs Senate Committee to Suspend Recess*

....As Senate Summons Kachikwu, NNPC's GMD, Others

In a bid to end the ongoing fuel crisis and the untold hardship it is presently unleashing on Nigerians, President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Thursday, directed the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) to cut short its recess and immediately convene a meeting with industry stakeholders.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Senator Kabiru Marafa, who disclosed this in Abuja, said following the directive, the Committee has summoned the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mr. Maikanti Baru and other relevant stakeholders in the petroleum sector to a crucial meeting on Thursday January 4, 2018.

He further added that the meeting which will be held in the Senate Hearing Room 221 and its proceedings aired live on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), is meant to address the lingering fuel scarcity bedevilling the nation in the last few weeks with a view to put a complete stop to the unsavoury development.

The Senate, which is presently on Christmas and New Year break is billed to resume Committee work for budget defence on January 9, and commence plenary on January 16.

END

Signed

Media Office of the President of the Senate

#SenateIn2017
“... as we take stock of the year, here are some of those memorable bills through which our senators have demonstrated that their service and fealty do indeed rest on the interests and wishes of the people.”

http://leadership.ng/2017/12/26/things-senate-make-nigerians-proud-2017/

Kwara South: No Fake Media Arrangement Will Stop the People's Senator, Dr Rafiu Ibrahim 




It's quite unfortunate that some scrupulous elements, who are allegedly said to be employed by an errand boy to top Media Aide in the State, have embarked on fruitless mission to discredit the Kwara South Senator, Dr Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim, to pave way for him to continue benefitting from the structure he has no contribution.

Without distorting the fact, Senator Rafiu Ibrahim remains one of the best politicians that has ever been produced in Kwara South. Senator Rafiu Ibrahim, a political Son and product of the Saraki dynasty, who endears himself with his people and community development.

Kwara South people are very sophisticated politically across party lines, and we believe our people will make their choice of who represents them in 2019. These errand boys should be warned not to cause political tension where non exist. The entire Kwara South youth condemn in totality and they should be reminded that Kwara Southerners are peace loving people and any attempt to disrupt the known peace is unacceptable.


The fact still remains that Kwara APC has a formidable structure under the leadership of the Nigerian Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki. It should be stated clearly that the supremacy of the party is key and whoever the party picks and anoints shall remain the only candidate for all.

We acknowledge the leadership prowess of the Nigerian Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, and his managerial skills in holding the party together for the development of our people and our state.

We, in Kwara South, know our sons and daughters, who have the people at heart and have contributed to the yearning and development of our Senatorial District.

We owe no apology to say that, we are proud of the outstanding performance of our Senator, Dr Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim, in his legislative business at the National Assembly and that he has performed excellently well with his constituency projects and other developmental projects through his RIB Foundation in rural road network, rural electrification, provision of potable water, renovation of library, provision of public toilets in prime markets, training, scholarship and educational support, etc

We want to urge others who are juggling for the Kwara South Senatorial seat to come out open and state what they have done for the people rather standing on the "bring him down syndrome" to get public sympathy.

God bless Kwara South Senatorial District!!!
God bless Kwara State!!
God bless Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!


Hon. Wasiu Awoniyi
Federation of Kwara South Youth

Press Release
December 24, 2016

Saraki Greets Christians At Christmas
....Urges Prayers for Peace, Unity

http://www.abubakarbukolasaraki.com/press-release-saraki-greets-christians-at-christmas-urges-prayers-for-peace-unity/