In any democratic society, the Constitution reigns supreme, serving as the cornerstone for governance, accountability, and the protection of civil liberties. Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) is unambiguous in its directives: public officeholders must adhere strictly to its provisions to safeguard the integrity of our democratic institutions. Today, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, President of the Senate, and Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, stand at a pivotal juncture, where their fidelity to constitutional principles is under scrutiny.

 Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa of Edo State must vacate their legislative seats in the National Assembly as required by Section 68(1)(d) of the Constitution. Their continued occupancy of these positions constitutes not only a constitutional violation but a direct affront to Nigeria’s democratic ideals. This matter is a litmus test of the commitment of our legislative leaders to uphold the rule of law and justice.

 Key Constitutional Issues

1.      Violation of Section 68(1)(d):

Section 68(1)(d) of the 1999 Constitution mandates that any National Assembly member who assumes an executive office—whether as Governor, Deputy Governor, Minister, or Commissioner—must vacate their legislative seat. This provision is unequivocal. It exists to prevent the simultaneous holding of legislative and executive powers, thereby mitigating conflicts of interest. The continued presence of Okpebholo and Idahosa in the Senate and House of Representatives is a flagrant breach of this constitutional mandate.

 2. Obligation of Leadership Under Section 68(2):

Section 68(2) imposes a clear duty on the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House to declare such seats vacant upon receiving satisfactory evidence of an executive appointment. This is not a matter of discretion; it is a constitutional imperative. Chief Akpabio and Speaker Abbas are constitutionally bound to act decisively. Their failure to do so erodes the credibility of the National Assembly as a guardian of constitutional governance.

 Safeguarding Democratic Integrity

 3. Erosion of Representation:

Democracy thrives on accountability and representation. By refusing to resign, Okpebholo and Idahosa deny their constituencies rightful representation, thereby undermining the democratic foundations of the National Assembly. This is not merely a legal infraction—it is an affront to Nigeria’s democratic ethos, weakening public trust in the institutions designed to serve them.

 4. Immediate Call for Bye-Elections:

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must act promptly to conduct bye-elections for these now-vacant seats. Such elections are essential to restoring both the legitimacy and functionality of the legislative body. The ongoing retention of these positions by ineligible individuals establishes a dangerous precedent that must be addressed immediately to prevent further erosion of the rule of law.

 Implications for Democratic Governance

 This situation transcends the specific case of Edo State and speaks to the broader imperative of upholding the Constitution as the ultimate arbiter in governance. If this breach is allowed to persist, it risks entrenching a culture of impunity, where elected officials believe they can flout constitutional mandates without consequence. Nigeria’s democracy is resilient but not invulnerable. Its strength lies in the unwavering adherence to the rule of law by those entrusted with leadership.

 6. Global Scrutiny and Accountability:

 As Africa’s largest democracy, Nigeria is under international observation. The world is watching how this constitutional impasse is resolved. Chief Akpabio and Speaker Abbas, the choice before you are clear: honor your constitutional duty, declare these seats vacant, and permit INEC to organize bye-elections for the constituents of Esan Central and Ovia Federal Constituencies.

 A Moment of Constitutional Reckoning:

 History will judge the actions taken in this critical moment. Will you choose to uphold the Constitution and serve as stewards of justice, or will you allow the rule of law to be compromised under your leadership? The people of Nigeria, democracy itself, and the global community demand decisive action.

 The time to act is now.

 Fellow Compatriot,

Clifford Ogbeide

Public Policy Analyst

Lake District, Alberta, Canada

Swiss building materials giant, Holcim AG has announced the sale of its Nigerian business to China’s Huaxin Cement Co. in a deal valued at $1 billion.

This transaction involves Holcim’s 83.81% stake in Lafarge Africa PLC, and it is expected to close in 2025, pending regulatory approvals.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by Holcim on Sunday.

The company is divesting its stake in Lafarge Africa as part of its strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on core markets.

“Holcim has signed an agreement with Huaxin Cement Ltd to sell its entire 83.81% shareholding in Lafarge Africa PLC, at an equity value of USD 1 billion on a 100% basis.  

The transaction is expected to close in 2025, subject to customary and regulatory approvals,” the company stated.

Details of the deal 

The divestment in Nigeria aligns with Holcim’s plans to spin off and list its North American business in the US next year.

• The company aims to capitalize on strong demand in the North American market driven by a housing shortage and regulatory pressures for sustainable construction materials.
• The deal forms part of the company’s broader strategy to streamline its portfolio by shedding non-core assets.
• The sale is in line with Holcim’s focus on optimizing operations and expanding in markets where demand for its products, such as roofing and energy-efficient building materials, is growing rapidly.

Previous disposals in Africa 

This sale is not Holcim’s first divestment on the continent. In 2021, Holcim closed the sale of its business in Zambia, representing a 75% stake in the company, to the Chinese cement group Huaxin for an enterprise value of USD 150 million for 100% of the company.

The deal was closed following approvals from Chinese and Zambian authorities.

Holcim’s CEO, Jan Jenisch, described the divestment as part of the company’s transformation towards becoming a leader in sustainable building solutions, enabling investments in growth opportunities, and praised Huaxin as a trusted partner suited to advancing the Zambian business.

“This divestment is another step in our transformation to become the global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions giving us the flexibility to continue investing in attractive growth opportunities. Huaxin has been a trusted partner for many years and we see the company as an ideal owner to further develop the business in Zambia.” 

The sale of Holcim’s business in Zambia follows the divestment of the Indian Ocean cluster, which was closed at the end of October 2021. Since 2019 the company has achieved over USD 3.1 billion in divestments.

What you should know 

• Holcim AG is a Swiss-based global leader in building materials and sustainable construction solutions.
• The company specializes in cement, concrete, aggregates, and innovative building products, with a strong focus on sustainability and recycling.
• The company has over 70,000 employees worldwide.

[Nairametrics]

Popular actress, comedian, and influencer, Chinonso Ukah, a.k.a. Nons Miraj, is set to launch a dating App to help singles discover genuine relationships.

This was contained in a statement issued and made available to journalists on Sunday by Nons Miraj’s Brand Manager, Becky Joe,

Joe said the Hunt Games dating App to be launched on December 4 in Lagos is designed for singles to find their perfect matches.

“At its core, this app is about bringing people closer together in a way that feels natural, exciting, and secure.

“We’re creating a space where users can meet people who truly align with their values and interests, without the superficial barriers.

“It is all about bringing singles together in a real and meaningful way. It’s set to be the ultimate go-to, for finding genuine connections.

“It is fresh, it is fun and it is here to help you find your perfect match in today’s fast-paced digital world,” the statement said.

According to Joe, the App combined cutting-edge technology with a user-friendly interface, adding that it will be available for download on both iOS and Android devices.

“Unlike traditional dating platforms, it incorporates unique features that foster authentic connections, including interest-based matching, privacy, and verified user profiles to ensure safety and transparency,” she added.

She said the App’s official launch would coincide with an exclusive event featuring live entertainment, and networking opportunities for singles and influencers alike.

Nons Miraj is the host of one of the biggest shows in Nigeria, ‘The Hunt Games Show’, which started in 2023.

She took part in the Next Movie Star, Nigerian TV reality show and became the first runner-up

She began her acting career in mid-2015, starring in the Nollywood horror film Quiet and began full time acting in 2017, after gaining admission into the university.

Nons Miraj has also featured in several other Nollywood movies including, Imperfect (2019) Pandora’s Box (2020), Our Wife (2019), The Third Wheel (2021) Hustle (2021), among others.

Bayelsa State government has expressed worry over the vandalisation of over 253 electricity transformers in different communities around Yenagoa, the state capital, as Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) is set to restore power to the state after four months blackout.

The entire state was on July thrown into darkness as vandals destroyed 132kv double circuit line, which affected over 19 electricity towers, in Ahoada, Rivers State that supply light to the state from the national grid.

The state Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, while giving an update on the power situation in the state during a press briefing on Monday, said though the vandalised power towers were federal government’s property, the state fixed them for the benefits of the residents.

She disclosed that the state government would soon inaugurate a task force that will be going round stores, shops and other places to uncover those selling second hand armoured cables.

She urged community leaders to take the responsibilities of protecting the government property in the areas against vandalsiation.

He said: “We are here again today to provide an update on the power situation. Like we all know, about four months ago, vandals actually destroyed three towers in Bayelsa State, initially 13 between Ahoada-Mbiama. Later another three went down, a total number of 16, and three in the Bayelsa end. For the past four months, we have been in darkness in Bayelsa. The towers are not the property of the Bayelsa State government, all those towers belong to the Federal Government, and they are the one that are responsible for maintaining those towers, but because of the situation we found ourselves, the state government has committed a lot of funds in repairing those towers.

“The update we are bringing is that the power towers have been completed. We will have power this week, we also observed that out of more than 500 transformers we have, about 253 have been vandalised again, some armoured cables removed. We have the responsibility of protecting the government property that we benefit from. Today (Monday), some parts of the state will have light, as soon as we hook up to the light, while some will not have light.

“The government will soon inaugurate taskforce to go round shops and anywhere the vandals are hiding. If we see anybody selling second hand armoured cable, they must be able to tell where they get it from.”

Also Speaking, the Managing Director/CEO of Bayelsa State Electricity Company Limited, Engr. Olice Kemenanabo, explained that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) was able to restore power to Ahaoda and was working in Mbiama to connect Bayelsa State.

Regional Manager, PHED in Bayelsa State, Engr. Lawrence Emeyi, appreciated the state government’s effort in fixing the vandalised towers, stating that the company is ready for business in the state.

[DailyTrust]

Ebonyi State governor, Francis Nwifuru, has given workers in the state 72 hours ultimatum to resume work or face dismissal.

The governor also threatened to replace them after their dismissal from duty.

Nwifuru’s action followed a seven days warning strike embarked on by the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Ebonyi State wing.

Addressing newsmen on Monday in his office at the new Government House, Centenary City, Abakaliki, Nwifuru said the state government is not owing any worker.

He stated that the state government has approved N75,000 as minimum wage and has already started paying.

The NLC, Ebonyi State, had on Sunday commenced a seven days warning strike over the non-implementation of the new minimum wage in the state.

However, reacting to the strike, Nwifuru said, “If you don’t go to work, not only that I will not pay you salary, but I will replace you within 72 hours in your office.

“If I don’t see you in your office, consider yourself sacked. So far I am not guilty, I am not owing you.

“I am paying you what is supposed to be paid. And according to the agreement and the Constitution, I am not owing you. If you don’t go to work within 72 hours I will replace you.

“And I have called the state chairman of the Civil Service Commission. I have directed all the commissioners to go to their offices. All the agencies, all the departments of government must be in their office and record the people that come to work. And that is the people I will pay through table payment.

“I will pay you by the number of days you attended to your duty in your office. If you don’t want to come to work, you will forget about the state government.”

[DailyPost]

The Former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Kalu, has revealed that the Federal Government made a mistake not to have carried the National Executive Council (NEC), Nigeria Governor’s Forum, and the Council of State along in its tax reform bills.

Orji Kalu who spoke on Monday in an interview with Arise Television opened up on the controversial tax reform bills, saying the bills are very progressive and would bring back fiscal federalism in Nigeria.

New Telegraph recalls that Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, the Northern Governor’s Forum, the National Economic Council, and others have openly opposed the tax reforms.

The Senator representing Abia North, had faulted the initiators of bills for not carrying key stakeholders along saying, “As I told you before, the bill is very progressive. It will bring back fiscal federalism.

“Many senators have not been briefed. I think the federal government made a mistake. The initiators of the bills would have briefed the National Economic Council, Governors’ forum”.

Recall tax reform bills, including the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, were sent to the National Assembly for passage since October 2024.

The bills gained momentum last week when they secured second-reading passage at the Senate.

This comes after the Northern Governor’s Forum and National Economic Council called for the bill’s withdrawal.

[newtelegraphng]

Grammy-nominated singer Davido has shared how his father’s teachings on faith have profoundly influenced his life and resilience.

Speaking on a recent Rollingout podcast, Davido opened up about growing up in a Christian home where his father, a prominent businessman and church elder, instilled strong values of trust in God. 

According to him, among the lessons he learnt from his father, one stood out: never question God’s plans.

He revealed that this advice has been a cornerstone in helping him navigate life’s challenges, including the heartbreaking loss of his son, Ifeanyi. 

Davido credited his father’s wisdom for providing him the strength to endure difficult times.

Davido emphasised that his father’s lessons have taught him to trust in God’s plan, even in the face of adversity. 

He encouraged others to adopt a similar mindset, reminding them that God is always working in their favor.

He said: “My dad is very successful, but he’s an elder in the church. I grew up as a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. I attended a Christian college.

“I overcame a lot of challenges because of my dad. Initially, I did not understand, but now I’ve come to the realization. I was angry. Sometimes, I was like, ‘Why do bad things happen to good people?’ And my dad told me that you can’t question God.

“I was like, ‘What do you mean you can’t question God?’ And then a year later [after the death of my son, Ifeanyi], we had twins, the biggest album of my career came, and my first Grammy nominations came. Then it started to make sense. People go through different challenges, but just know that God has your back,” he said.

[TheNation]

Ruud van Nistelrooy said he was “astonished” by the number of offers he received following his brief spell as Manchester United’s interim manager, as he plans how to keep Leicester in the Premier League.

The Dutchman had four games in caretaker charge at Old Trafford – two of them against Leicester – after Erik ten Hag’s sacking at the end of October. He left the club when Ruben Amorim arrived last month.

Speaking at his first press conference since replacing the sacked Steve Cooper at Leicester, Van Nistelrooy said offers had flooded in.

“What happened after the games and the amount of interest, the options that suddenly appeared for me, and the offers that came in, I was a little bit astonished,” he said on Monday.

“It was four games, and I managed a full season at PSV Eindhoven, where I won the cup and the charity shield. I have been coaching with the (under) 19s and the national team (with the Netherlands), but it never received this kind of reaction from the football world.”

“It provoked these reactions, and I was happy with that – to have conversations with different parties and be able to make a decision that felt right for me. I am happy to be here.”

He said he had enjoyed his “intense” spell in the Old Trafford hot seat and had helped “steady the ship”.

“I really enjoyed it, being responsible, creating a connection with the team, with the supporters, and turning the momentum for the club for a while,” he added. “That’s our job, and it felt great to do it. Now, it feels even better to be in this position to do it again.”

Van Nistelrooy, whose first game in charge of Leicester is against West Ham on Tuesday, takes over a side just one point above the relegation zone after 13 games.

Caretaker boss Ben Dawson oversaw Saturday’s 4-1 loss at Brentford, the team’s third straight defeat.

Van Nistelrooy, a former striker for United and Real Madrid, said he was proud to have been given the opportunity to manage the former Premier League champions, where “expectations are clear”.

“It is a challenge we face, to maintain our place in the Premier League, and that is the big target for everyone,” he said.

The 48-year-old added: “In two days, it’s difficult to make many changes, but we have started making changes in style of play, training sessions, and structure, gradually building the foundation of a highly motivated team that can compete in this league.”

[Punch]

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing the Edo North senatorial district, has expressed strong support for the financial autonomy of local governments in Nigeria.

Oshiomhole’s comments came in response to the July 11, 2024, Supreme Court ruling that upheld the financial autonomy of local governments.

Speaking at a forum on local government autonomy organized by the House of Representatives on Monday, the former Governor of Edo State emphasized the importance of character in governance and accountability.

He highlighted the significant responsibilities of local government chairmen, given their proximity to the people, and advised them to allocate resources wisely for essential infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and other public services.

On a lighter note, Oshiomhole remarked, “It’s better to have 774 local government chairmen who are thieves than one big thief,” adding that with this every local government in Nigeria will produce one or two billionaires, rather than having just one billionaire in the state.

[Vanguard]

Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house of representatives, has described the conduct of local government elections in the country as “disgraceful”. 

Abbas spoke in Abuja on Monday at the national dialogue on local government and constitution amendment.

Represented by Benjamin Kalu, his deputy, Abbas said local governments, being the closest to the people, have a vital role in delivering services, promoting community development, and ensuring citizens’ voices are heard at all levels of governance.

Abbas said for local governments to function effectively, they must have a certain level of autonomy that enables them to respond promptly and appropriately to the specific needs of their communities.

“One of the most pressing issues we must deal with is the poor quality of elections into local government councils across our states,” he said.

“This situation not only undermines the very essence of democracy but also raises serious concerns about the integrity and functionality of our local governance structures.

“When elections are characterised by a lack of competitiveness — wherein the ruling party sweeps all positions — it becomes evident that we are witnessing a mockery of democratic principles.

“This scenario is not merely an embarrassment, it poses a significant threat to our democracy. It fosters an environment where undesirable elements infiltrate these councils, often lacking the necessary capacity and vision to govern effectively.

“Consequently, local governments have become mere appendages of state governments or pawns in the hands of so-called godfathers who manipulate political outcomes for their gain.

“The recent supreme court judgment mandating the conduct of elections into the councils and direct disbursement of funds to them has provided a significant legal framework that supports the autonomy and functionality of local governments across the country.

“This landmark decision is a testament to our collective commitment to uphold democratic principles at all levels of governance.

“However, while we celebrate these advancements, we must also acknowledge that the need for comprehensive reform has never been more urgent as some of the nagging issues persist.

“Importantly, we must confront the disgraceful and poor conduct elections into the councils. We must find a way of instilling transparency, fairness and openness in the conduct of elections in local governments. Doing this would require the understanding and collaborative efforts of the State governors and houses of assembly.

“We must find a way of convincing them that a strengthened local government system would relieve the States of unnecessary burdens and lead to grassroots development.”

Abbas said constitutional reforms are essential to addressing the challenges facing the local governments.

The speaker said the advocacy for “greater financial autonomy” for local governments must continue to ensure that they get adequate funding directly from federal allocations without excessive state control.

He said inadequate funding remains one of the most significant obstacles to local government administration, noting that they operate on budgets that are “insufficient to meet their responsibilities”.

“This financial constraint limits their ability to deliver essential services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and sanitation. As a result, many communities continue to suffer from poor living conditions and lack access to basic amenities,” he said.

Abbas said more mechanisms must be explored to empower local governments with decision-making authority over their affairs.

Over the years, the conduct of local government elections by various state independent electoral commissions (SIECs) has been fraught with controversies, as ruling parties in the states often dominate the polls, winning almost all available seats.

In 2020, Mike Igini, resident electoral commissioner of Akwa Ibom state at the time, said local government elections in Nigeria are “nothing but organised crime”.

“Local government elections are nothing but organised crime. They should not be calling them elections at all. They are nothing but coronation ceremonies that we have across Nigeria,” he said.

In March, Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice, proposed that SIECs should be scrapped.

Fagbemi recommended that the powers of SIECs should be transferred to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

[TheCable]