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…ask Nigerians to be patient with Tinubu’s government
The House of Representatives on Thursday resolved to support the Federal Government with N648 million for six months by cutting down their salaries by 50% to support food sufficiency across the country and to address the high cost of food.
This is also as the lawmakers begged Nigeria to exercise more patience with President Ahmed Tinubu’s led administration in addressing challenges and hardships faced by citizens.
The House further mandated it’s Committee on Appropriation, Humanitarian affairs, Finance and Budget to ensure compliance.
The resolutions followed the adoption of a motion moved on the floor of the House tittled “An appeal to the proponents of proposed nationwide protest to maintain peace, eschew violence and open the windows for meaningful engagements with the government at all levels in order to address their issues”, by Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka (APC- Ogun State) during plenary in Abuja.
Moving the motion, Isiaka said though Nigerians have the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest to address their grievances, the house presents with a humble plea, a plea for reason, understanding, and unity in the face of adversity.
According to him, maintaining peace and engaging in constructive dialogue with the government is crucial for the resolution of issues facing the nation.
“This honourable House appeals to the proponents of the proposed nationwide protest in Nigeria to consider a different path, a path of patience, dialogue, and collaboration, prioritize peace and open channels for meaningful engagements with the government at all levels.
“All stakeholders should uphold the principles of democracy, respect human rights, and uphold the rule of law in their actions and engagements; we trust that through peaceful engagement and dialogue, we can collectively work towards building a better and brighter future for Nigeria.
He further admitted that it is undeniable Nigeria is facing significant challenges, challenges that have plagued the nation for far too long, adding that the issues of insecurity, unemployment, and poverty weigh heavily on the hearts of every Nigerian.
“Further aware that the challenges we face are not unique to Nigeria alone. These are issues that countries across the globe grapple with on a daily basis. In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, no nation is immune to the complexities of governance and development.
“The road to change is not easy, and the journey towards a brighter future is often fraught with obstacles. But we must not lose sight of the incremental steps that have been taken, the reforms that have been implemented, and the strides that have been made towards a more prosperous Nigeria. Belief that change does not happen overnight It requires patience, perseverance, and a commitment to working together towards a common goal. While peaceful protest is a fundamental right in a democratic society, it is also important to allow the government the space and opportunity to consolidate the progress that has already been achieved.
“Let us engage in constructive dialogue, let us seek solutions through peaceful means, and let us stand united as one nation, one people, with a shared vision for a better Nigeria. Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie before us. Together, we can build a future that we can all be proud of.
“We plead with our fellow Nigerians to consider the broader perspective, to act with wisdom and foresight, and to support efforts towards a more stable, secure, and prosperous Nigeria. Let us reason together. let us listen to one another, and let us work hand in hand towards a brighter tomorrow.
Contributing to the motion, the Deputy Speaker of the House, Benjamin Kalu who moved the motion for lawmakers to support the federal government with 50% of their salaries for six months said Protest is not a Solution to solving the problem of hunger in the country.
He said “Solution not found in raising placard, Rome is not built in a day. Let us give support to all policies of govt to better the lives of citizens.
“This time is calling for sacrifice. People here are willing to make sacrifices. Please bear with the government a little. Let’s make sacrifices with our salaries.
On his part, Ahmed Jaha (APC- Borno) said that it takes a reasonable period to correct what has been damaged for a reasonable period.
He said “Remember, tough times do not last forever for tough men. And there is always a light at the end of every struggle. Mr Speaker, Honourable members, this government is doing what we have hoped. We are appealing to our young men to give the government the benefit of the doubt. Bearing in mind the people’s oriented policies, and programs that are laid down for this government to pursue especially in the area of school and student loans.
“Just yesterday, the President launched, under the distinguished leadership and chairmanship of a distinguished financial engineer and banker, Jim Hogan. And he stated categorically that in the next one or two weeks, students will be allowed to have access to apply to that and that has been transmitted or presented to some schools in the country.
“Secondly, Mr Speaker, Honourable Members, we should understand that President Tinubu can not do anything to destroy his hard-earned reputation and theocratic capabilities.
“We should give him and any other stakeholder in this government the benefit of the doubt. So that at the end of the day, we can come out of the cock-map the country is in. In addition to this, I am calling on the collaboration between the tiers of government, the federal, the state and the local government to be on the same page, to bring an end to the current crisis we are facing.
“Lastly, I want to use this opportunity to tell us that if you compare the cost of living, even among West African countries, you will appreciate the cost of living in Nigeria.
“We must appreciate this. Last two months, I cooked breakfast. I had to pay 25 pounds. In Nigeria, that particular breakfast cost me less than 2,500 naira. So what I’m trying to say is actually, it’s a global issue. It’s not peculiar to Nigeria at all. Our young men should understand this. We are appealing.
“We are pleading on our knees. As young men, we are pleading for peace in the country. So that at the end of the day, we will be out of our current situation.
Another lawmaker, Hon Usman Basiru (Sokoto- APC) said organizing protests will undermine the peace and unity of the country.
According to him, the young people who are calling for the protest have not taken the necessary steps to make their own money. In that way, most Africans are calling protests directly to the streets.
“We must consider the atmosphere that we call a protest and a peaceful protest. The present atmosphere, whose demonstration, any story, or any form of demonstration that is organizing protests is undermining the peace and unity of our dear country.
“It is contrary to how you must consider the national interest about individual or group interest. Most Africans, these people that are calling for protests, I believe don’t know what will happen when they go ahead to call for the protest.
“Yes, we have a lot of challenges. But at this very critical time, it is a matter of fear. What I want you to do, is understand the situation and allow the policies to drive and see where there is a way forward.
“We ask people to please exercise plenty of patience to see where the police’s direction of the present administration is heading before taking any further compensation. Please consult with the foundation before taking any further compensation.
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and sister unions have bowed to pressure and accepted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s N70,000 Minimum wage offer.
Their acceptance follows the approval of a new national minimum wage of N70,000 for Nigerian workers on Thursday.
The labour unions had rejected the government’s previous offer of N62,000 national minimum wage.
The organized labour leaders have however confirmed their acceptance.
Recall that the organized labour were demanding N494,000 pay for workers.
The government had argued that the N494,000 wage being demanded by organized labour, which cumulatively amounts to the sum of N9.5tn bill, was “capable of destabilizing the economy and jeopardizing the welfare of over 200 million Nigerians.”
But after reaching an agreement in a meeting with the Minister of Information Mohammed Idris, President of NLC, Comrade Joe Ajaero, confirmed that the unions had accepted Tinubu’s offer.
The President of TUC, Comrade Festus Usifo and other representatives of Nigerian workers were all present at the meeting.
Ajaero explained that organized labour accepted the offer because of other incentives attached.
He disclosed that part of the agreement was that the N70,000 wage would be reviewed every three years.
Since the creation of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria on July 29, 2010 about N1.96tn has been recovered from debtors of banks with toxic assets.
The Managing Director of AMCON, Gbenga Alade said this when the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Banking and Other Ancillary Institutions, Hon. Eze Nwachukwu Eze,visited the Corporate Head office of AMCON on its 2024 oversight visit.
It is the first oversight visit of the Eze-led Committee to the Corporation since the new AMCON EXCO assumed office in February.
The Corporation had been under pressure in recent times to recover the toxic loans inherited from banks that were liquidated estimated at over N5tn.
With the recovery of about N1.96tn, it means that the Corporation is still indebted with about N3tn.
Of the total recovery, cash represents 43 per cent (N842.8bn), sale of bridged banks 13 per cent (N254.8bn) sale of proprietary shares 11 per cent (N215.6bn), clawback and repurchases nine per cent (N176.4) sale of property assets & rentals nine per cent (N176.4bn), investment income seven per cent(N137.2bn), while others represent about seven per cent (N137.2bn).
The nation’s banking sector ran into a financial crisis in 2008 and 2009 – a problem that was partly triggered by the global financial crisis.
AMCON’s seed investment was secured from the capital market through the Central Bank of Nigeria. Subsequently, its operations were funded with levies imposed on commercial banks.
The corporation is funded with 0.5 per cent charge on banks’ total assets on and off-balance sheet items. The levy is a statutory charge imposed by the CBN on all banks operating in the country.
Experts have said that with the performances of companies indebted to AMCON falling below par, even as they struggle to find their feet amid endless litigations, the corporation may lose some of the money spent repurchasing toxic assets from troubled banks and other entities.
This comes as values of the companies taken over by the corporation have been eroded by challenges, ranging from poor management to a harsh economic environment.
According to experts, some of the companies have become a burden to AMCON with the possibility of turning them into profitable ventures becoming increasingly difficult.
Speaking on the development, the AMCON MD/CEO who hosted the Committee with his Executive Directors – Dr Aminu Mukhtar Dan’amu, and Mr Adeshola Lamidi among other senior staff of the Corporation told the Committee that despite the shaky start-off model, the Corporation, with the support of the National Assembly, has made considerable recoveries.
Alade said, “To date, the Corporation has made recoveries in the sum of N1.96tn. Of the total recovery, cash recovery represents 43 per cent, sale of bridged banks 13 per cent, sale of proprietary shares 11 oer cent, clawback & repurchases nine per cent, sale of property assets & rentals nine per cent, investment income seven per cent while others represent about seven per cent.”
The AMCON boss who took the members down memory lane of what led to the creation of AMCON and the many battles the Corporation had to deal with since its establishment informed that AMCON has disposed of proprietary assets worth about N651bn from inception to date.
In addition, Alade said the Corporation has made a total repayment of N2.929tn to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from 2013 to 2023, which includes contributions to the Sinking Fund by other Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), and AMCON recoveries.
The Chairman said that once transparency, accountability, and efficiency remain the cornerstones of AMCON’s operations, as legislators, the committee members will be committed to providing the necessary support through appropriate legislative frameworks and oversight functions to ensure AMCON fulfills its recovery mandate effectively.
Eze added, “Moreover, we recognize that AMCON cannot achieve its mandate in isolation. Collaboration with the National Assembly, which this Committee represents, other financial institutions, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders is crucial.
“As representatives of the people, we are committed to fostering an enabling environment that supports AMCON’s efforts and promotes the stability and growth of our financial system.
“As we navigate through the current economic landscape, marked by global uncertainties, and domestic challenges, the role of AMCON becomes even more critical. Resolving non-performing loans, recovering debts, and managing acquired assets are key to ensuring the stability and resilience of our banking sector. It is essential that AMCON remains steadfast in its mission, adopting innovative strategies and leveraging technology to enhance its operations.
“AMCON, since its inception, has played a pivotal role in stabilizing the Nigerian financial system. In the aftermath of the 2009 global economic crisis, AMCON was established to address the non-performing loan crisis that threatened the stability of our banking sector.
“Today, as we reflect on the journey thus far, we acknowledge the significant strides made by AMCON in fulfilling its mandate. This visit aims to ensure that AMCON operates within the legal framework established by the National Assembly and achieves its objectives effectively and efficiently.”
He added that the visit to AMCON is part of their legislative functions, as enshrined in sections 62, 88, and 89 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), which empowers the National Assembly to oversight all Government Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs) and Government owned Enterprises (GoEs) for judicious utilization of Government Funds.
It is also in line with Order 21(2) of the House Standing Orders, Eleventh Edition (as amended), which placed AMCON under the oversight jurisdiction of the Committee.
Last week, the Honourable Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of Ondo State, Dr Kayode Ajulo SAN, joined the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Hon Justice Ayedun Odusola as well as other stakeholders in the administration of Justice to visit the Correctional Centers across the State where a total number of 57 inmates were released.
During the visits, 15 inmates were released in Akure; 18 in the Ondo male facility; six at the Ondo female facility, and 18 at Okitipupa, unconditionally.
According to the Chief Judge of Ondo State, it was the first visit ever by any AG of Ondo State for such a purpose.
Those who were pardoned in Olokuta Custodial Centre include an 81-year-old man, Isiaka Momodu, who had been standing trial for two years and three months over unlawful carnal knowledge; the duo of Odeh Friday, 35 and Peter Ufomadu, 30, awaiting trial for alleged robbery and conspiracy for more than five years; Ismaila Abdulrasaq, 36, standing trial for three years was released for lack of witnesses; Emmanuel Ianna, 32 standing trial for two years over conspiracy.
Other inmates released include 65-year-old Prophet, Taiwo Komolafe, Dele James, 38”; Danladil Kuku, Peter Sunday, Emmanuel Isaac, Ayomide Oladeji, Wale Olaolu, Ola Ojo, Joseph Amos,45; and a teenager, Essan Doland, all charged for stealing.
In Ondo, 57-year-old, Ayo Odunsi and Sola Ayemibo who were standing trial for alleged murder were pardoned based on legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), while Training Ebegbe and Okutu Elokumo, 32 charged with kidnapping were released unconditionally on critical health ground.
At the female custodian centre in Ondo, those released were; a 29-year-old nursing mother, Grace Akinsanmi charged with stealing and was released on humanitarian grounds, Yusuf Sherif 39, who was standing trial for concealing the death of a newborn baby for two years while Opeyemi Oguntimoju, 32; Olasunkanmi Kolawole, Joy Anthony and Bukola Oyatunde who were charged for stealing were pardoned.
Others released were: Adams Isiaka, 33; standing trial for unlawful possession of firearms, Edet Ezekiel, 25; charged for beach of peace, Samuel Kastin, Gbenga Dadeni, 44; Mukaila Yisa, 28; Tunde Ibrahim, 41, Philip Samuel, 28; Samson Paul, 25; Joseph Okon, 25; Emmanuel Okuti, 34; Emmanuel Peter,22; John Fanen, 34; Biliaminu Muhammed, 42 all charged for stealing.
In Okitipupa, a 63-year-old Muhammad Basiru charged with kidnapping was pardoned on health grounds, while Sunday Miracle, 20; Segun Adeniran, 30; James Anthony, 23; Goodness Sunday, Ibrahim Isaiaka, Adeluwoye Imoleyin, 21; Eze Emmanuel and other 10 inmates standing trial for stealing were released unconditionally.
This act highlights the State government led Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring fair treatment within the correctional system. It is a progressive approach to justice and rehabilitation within Ondo State, marking a new chapter in the State's commitment to humane and equitable legal practices.
The pardon not only offers a second chance but also reflects the government's dedication to upholding the principles of justice and fairness.
[PRESS RELEASE] Lagos State Government vs Fredrick Nwajagu: The Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) calls for impartiality and non-discrimination in criminal justice administration
Admin![[PRESS RELEASE] Lagos State Government vs Fredrick Nwajagu: The Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) calls for impartiality and non-discrimination in criminal justice administration](/media/k2/items/cache/d355a330e02c73d5763dc68e724ec4a4_M.jpg)
Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) is a loose network of individuals and different organizations working on different issues, but collectively committed to defending the civic space in the country.
The Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) urges the Lagos State Government to uphold impartiality and non-discrimination in its criminal justice administration, especially with respect to the criminal charges brought against Fredrick Nwajagu, aged 67, known as 'Eze Igbo' of Ajao Estate”. Mr. Nwajagu was arrested in April 2023 for allegedly threatening to invite members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to Lagos to protect Igbo properties. This ‘statement’ was made in response to the persistent threats and attacks on Igbos and their properties in Lagos during the Lagos State governorship election in 2023. In a viral 49-second video, Nwajagu called on IPOB to protect Igbo shops and properties against these incessant violent attacks.
Arrested by the Department of State Services on April 1, 2023, Mr. Nwajagu was charged with misconduct likely to cause a breach of peace. The police prosecution claimed that Mr. Nwajagu’s statements inviting IPOB to Lagos contravened Sections 168 (d) and 411 of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015. A Lagos magistrate ordered his remand pending legal advice, and the case was adjourned to May 3, 2023. The Lagos State Government later charged him with terrorism under Sections 12(a) (c), 18, 21, and 29 of the Terrorism (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022.
What remains visible in Nwajagu’s case is the glaring shadow of selective application of security laws, inconsistent with the principles of impartiality and non-discrimination. Nwajagu issued the alleged threats in response to the violent attacks on Igbo people in Lagos State by certain persons that remain free till date. These provocative and violent attacks aimed at disenfranchising the targeted ethnic groups and influencing political choices during the 2023 elections in a particular direction. It is absurd that while Nwajagu languishes in prison, the initial attackers have neither been arrested nor prosecuted. In contrast, the Nigeria Police downplayed the initial threats and attacks, dismissing them as a joke.
The Nigerian constitution expressly prohibits discrimination and envisions a society founded on justice, equality, and non-discrimination. Nwajagu’s case not only demonstrates a brazen disdain for constitutional protections, but exemplifies deeply-entrenched application of selective justice and ethnic discrimination in Nigeria’s criminal justice system. The failure to arrest and prosecute those who attacked Igbos in Lagos in the first place, while swiftly arresting and prosecuting Nwajagu, fuels suspicion of ethnic bias. Selective justice undermines the rule of law, breeds resentment, and fuels social strife. The authorities must ensure that all individuals who break the law, regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation, are held accountable.
Therefore, the AGFCS calls on the Lagos State Government to demonstrate impartiality and non-discrimination in its criminal justice administration by withdrawing all charges against Mr. Nwajagu and releasing him, as he has already spent over 15 months in prison awaiting trial. We urge the Governor of Lagos State to direct the Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General to enter a nolle prosequi in the case, ensuring Mr. Nwajagu's immediate release from prison.
Signed:
1. Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre, Lagos
2. Centre for Community Empowerment in Conflict and Peacebuilding, Kaduna
3. Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development FENRAD Nigeria, Abia State
4. Partnership for Social and Environmental Development Initiative- P4SEDI. Cross River State.
5. Centre for Justice, Empowerment & Development (C4J), Port Harcourt, Nigeria
6. Open Society on Justice Reform Project, Lagos
7. Citizen Centre for Integrated Development and Social Rights - CCIDESOR, Imo State
8. Foundation for Livelihood Advancement, Imo State
9. Vision Spring Initiatives, Lagos
10. Ojena Foundation, Imo State.
11. Spaces for Change, Lagos
12. Human Rights Social Development and Environmental Foundation (HURSDEF), Rivers State
13. Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS), Aba, Abia State
14. Global Organization For Youth Enlightenment and Development GOYED, Anambra state.
15. Institutional and Sustainable Development Foundation, FCT Abuja
16. Initiative for Safety Security and Educational Development in Nigeria. IPSSED Network, Enugu
17. Divine Era Development and Social Rights Initiative (DEDASRI), Enugu
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has affirmed Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the duly nominated and authentic governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State.
In a Judgement delivered by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, on Wednesday, the Court declined jurisdiction in the Edo PDP candidate's case involving a forged voter's card.
The Court held that the allegation of a forged voter’s card is not one of the requirements for disqualifying a governorship candidate under the Nigerian 1999 Constitution.
The suit was filed by the impeached deputy governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, Anselm Ojezua, and one other.
Justice Omotosho held that the suit, being a Pre-election case, was filed outside the 14 days allowed under Section 285(9) of the Constitution.
The judge ruled that even though forgery or non-possession of a voter’s card was a disqualifying factor under Section 182 of the Constitution, the plaintiff failed to prove that Ighodalo forged his voter’s card as alleged by the plaintiffs.
The honourable justice therefore dismissed the case for lacking in merit.
Recall that Asue Ighodalo emerged as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a keenly contested primary election that held on February 22, 2024, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo state.
He polled a total of 577 votes, beating 10 other aspirants to clinch the party’s ticket.
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has affirmed Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the duly nominated and authentic governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State.
In a Judgement delivered by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, on Wednesday, the Court declined jurisdiction in the Edo PDP candidate's case involving a forged voter's card.
The Court held that the allegation of a forged voter’s card is not one of the requirements for disqualifying a governorship candidate under the Nigerian 1999 Constitution.
The suit was filed by the impeached deputy governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, Anselm Ojezua, and one other.
Justice Omotosho held that the suit, being a Pre-election case, was filed outside the 14 days allowed under Section 285(9) of the Constitution.
The judge ruled that even though forgery or non-possession of a voter’s card was a disqualifying factor under Section 182 of the Constitution, the plaintiff failed to prove that Ighodalo forged his voter’s card as alleged by the plaintiffs.
The honourable justice therefore dismissed the case for lacking in merit.
Recall that Asue Ighodalo emerged as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a keenly contested primary election that held on February 22, 2024, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo state.
He polled a total of 577 votes, beating 10 other aspirants to clinch the party’s ticket.
Stakeholders currently participating at the 2024 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) policy meeting were rattled when the Minister of Education, Prof Mamman Tahir, announced that candidates seeking admission into higher institutions must be 18 and above.
Immediately after the Minister made the comment in his address and policy directive, the crowd roared “no, no, no” but Tahir insisted that it is already a policy which the government has keyed into because it is the expectation that candidates are much more mature at 18 years old.
He said if anyone was aggrieved, they can approach the National Assembly for an amendment.
The JAMB policy meeting is an annual event where stakeholders from the various tertiary institutions in the country sit to decide on appropriate cut-off marks for admissions in the current academic year.
Recall that Mamman had previously condemned a situation where students find themselves in higher institutions of learning, but fall prey to negative vices because of their premature stage.
Details later…
Nigerian aviation expert and youth activist, Isaac Balami, has dumped the Labour Party, LP, and returned to his former party, the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Balami, a former National Deputy Campaign Manager for Obi/Datti in the 2023 presidential election, made this known on Wednesday while addressing journalists in Abuja.
Balami, who dumped the ruling party in 2023 over the Muslim-Muslim ticket of President Bola Tinubu and his vice, Kashim Shettima, said the president’s administration has proved him wrong.
He said the Muslim-Muslim ticket was the major crux of crossing to the Labour Party, but he has now seen that it actually means nothing.
The former National President for Aircraft Pilots and Engineers said, “No president has ever worked with the Middle Belt like President Bola Tinubu,” he highlighted areas where the administration has done well, including appointing credible Nigerians with more emphasis on equity.
Balami said: “That was not what I saw when I left. I now see a better party and a better government. I can see a Nigeria that, in a few years, will thrive and I think it is only important for us to work with APC in its effort to rescue this country.
“Consequently, after consulting widely with leaders across Nigeria, the middle-belt caucus, my parents and my immediate family, it becomes expedient that I resign from the Labour Party. I will now return to the APC.”
A former National Vice Chairman North-west of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Salihu Lukman has tackled President Bola Tinubu over the decision to remove Senator Ali Ndume as the Chief Whip of the Senate.
According to Lukman, removing Ndume was an indication that President Bola Tinubu has resolved to do one term in office.
Recall that on Wednesday, Ndume was removed as Chief Whip of the Senate and replaced with Senator Tahir Monguno following a directive contained in a letter sent to the APC Caucus in the Senate signed by APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje and National Secretary, Senator Basiru Ajibola, over alleged rabid outbursts against the president.
Lukman, in a statement issued Thursday titled, “Fanatical Mindset,” lamented that everything is being done to suspend free speech in the country, adding that it was almost as if the country were back in the Abacha era, or even worse.
The former APC chieftain said as it is, personal liberties of citizens are being threatened, fair hearing is no longer guaranteed, stressing that the country has democracy without democrats.
He said there was nowhere in APC Constitution where the National Chairman, National Secretary, or any official, or even the National Working Committee, is given the powers to summarily remove any principal officer of the National Assembly
He said it was a shame that the APC Senate Caucus would permit such an act of illegality, adding that by doing so, they have set a precedent that would further erode the independence of the National Assembly
Lukman: “The way things are, it is almost as if President Asiwaju Tinubu has resolved that he will only be a one term President. Under his watch, the living conditions of Nigerians is continuously getting worse. Instead of making effort to develop clear plans to address the situation, the government is becoming more intolerant to criticism.
“Any democracy that cannot accommodate criticism is no democracy. A democracy that subverts fair hearing is a dictatorship. A democracy that permits a ruling party to demobilise its organs and inadvertently expels its members is worse than a military government.”
“So long as APC, its leadership and Asiwaju Tinubu’s government have taken the self-destructive path, which is equivalent to a declaration of working end their tenure in 2027, patriotic Nigerians must help them to ensure their defeat in 2027!”
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the suit filed to invalidate the nomination of Olumide Akpata as the Labour Party candidate for the September 21 gubernatorial polls in Edo State.
In a recent decision, Justice Omotosho affirmed the position taken by Akpata’s legal counsel, Johnson Usman (SAN), who argued that the plaintiffs did not possess the legal standing to initiate the lawsuit.
The lawsuit was initiated by Anderson Asemota, Monday Mawah, a candidate for deputy governorship, and Lamidi Apapa, who was serving as the acting national chairman of the Labour Party at the time.
The defendants in the case were the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Olumide Akpata, and the Labour Party itself.
Justice Omotosho determined that the plaintiffs had no legal right to approach the court, as they had not participated in the February 23, 2024, primary election from which Akpata was selected as the Labour Party’s candidate.
Furthermore, the judge concluded that the issue at hand pertained to the nomination of a candidate, which falls within the purview of a political party’s internal affairs.
He further asserted that it is the responsibility of the party to decide on its candidate, and as such, the court lacked the jurisdiction to adjudicate on the matter.
Moreover, Justice Omotosho opined that even if the court were to exercise its jurisdiction, the merits of the case needed to be revised.
He also pointed out that, contrary to the plaintiffs’ assertions, the Court of Appeal had previously nullified orders issued by the Federal High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), including an order that restrained the party’s leadership led by Julius Abure.
The judge said, “This means that the third plaintiff (Apapa) and those who were in acting capacity with him immediately had all their decisions nullified and non-existent.
“Thus, any letter written by the said acting executives, or any decisions including the purported consensus primary election which produced the 1st plaintiff (Asemota) are all non-existent, void and of no effect whatsoever.
“It is a trite principle of law that you cannot put something on nothing and expect the same to stand.
“The entire foundation upon which the plaintiff’s claim rests has been thoroughly demolished by the decision of the Court of Appeal.
“The argument that the decision of the high court of the FCT was valid as when the primary election was conducted may be true to some extent, especially if the Court of Appeal had yet to hand down its judgment.
“The judgment, however, destroys this argument and ensures that the first plaintiff, for all intents and purposes, cannot be deemed to be a candidate who emerged from a valid primary election.
“Thus the 1st plaintiff cannot claim that the ist defendant should accept his name as candidate of the 3rd defendant for the governorship elections in Edo state in 2024.”
The plaintiffs had submitted a petition to the court, requesting that it issue orders to various entities, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to officially announce Asemota as the victor of the Edo Labour Party Governorship Primary Election.
This was in light of Asemota’s position as the consensus candidate and the winner of the primary election held on February 22, which was organized by the primary election committee established by the party’s national working committee (NWC) under the leadership of Apapa.
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The bill seeking to amend the 1999 constitution to provide for a single term of six years for the Offices of the President, State Governors and Local Government Chairmen scaled first reading at the House of Representatives on Wednesday, July 17.
The private member bill, sponsored by the member representing Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency, Imo State, Ikenga Ugochinyere and 50 other lawmakers, seeks to curb wastages occasioned by four years periodic elections.
The proposed bill seeks to alter Sections 7, 135, 137, 180 and 182 (1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Clause 2 seeks to amend Section 7 of the Principal Act by inserting a new subsection (5) immediately after the extant subsection 4 and before the extant subsection 5 as follows, “(5) A holder of the office of a Local Government Chairman shall vacate his office at expiration of a period of six years commencing from the date such holder was elected into office.”
Clause 3 of the bill seeks to amend Section 135 subsections (2), (2A) and (3) of the Principal Act by replacing the word “four” with “six” to read:
“(2) Subject to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, the President shall vacate his office at the expiration of a period of six (6) years single tenure commencing from the date, when – (a) in the case of a person first elected as President under this Constitution, he took the Oath of Allegiance and the oath of office; and (b) in any other case, the person last elected to that office under this Constitution took the Oath of Allegiance and oath of office or would, but for his death, have taken such Oaths.
“(2A) in the determination of the six years term, where a re-run election has taken place and the person earlier sworn wins the re-run election, the time spent in the office before the date the election was annulled, shall be taken into account.
“(3) If the Federation is at war in which the territory of Nigeria is physically involved and the President considers that it is not practicable to hold elections, the National Assembly may by resolution extend the period of six (6) years mentioned in subsection (2) of this section from time to time; but no such extension shall exceed a period of six months at any one time.”
Clause 4 of the bill seeks to amend Section 137 of the Principal Act by deleting paragraph (b) and renumbering appropriately.
Clause 5 of the proposed legislation l seeks to amend Section 180 of the Principal Act by deleting the extant subsections 2 and 3 and replacing it with new subsections 2 and 3.
It reads, “(2) Subject to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, the Governor shall vacate his office at the expiration of a period of six (6) years single tenure commencing from the date when — (a) in the case of a person first elected as Governor under this Constitution, he took the Oath of Allegiance and oath of office; and (b) the person last elected to that office took the Oath of Allegiance and oath of office or would, but for his death, have taken such oaths.
“(3) If the Federation is at war in which the territory of Nigeria is physically involved and the President considers that it is not practicable to hold elections, the National Assembly may by resolution extend the period of six years mentioned in subsection (2) of this section from time to time, but no such extension shall exceed a period of six months at any one time.
Clause 5 of the bill seeks to amend Section 182 (1) by deleting paragraph (b) and renumbering appropriately.”
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Lagos State, Joe Igbokwe has vowed that no protest against President Bola Tinubu will hold in the Southwest part of the country.
He added that some states in the Southeast and Southsouth will also not join any protest against Tinubu.
The APC chieftain stated this while noting that President Tinubu is not a failure.
Posting on his Facebook page, Igbokwe urged Nigerians to support Tinubu because his plans would make Nigeria great.
According to him, “Believe me: This man has great plan for Nigeria. All he needs from us is our undiluted and unflinching support, trust him, encourage him, pray for him.
“Let no one expect any protest in the South West for obvious reasons: PBAT is not a failure.
“I know that some states in South South and South East may not join too. Those who want to protest should avoid Lagos for obvious reasons.”
Recall that activist, Omoyele Sowore had called for a massive protest against the Nigerian government in August over the hardship in the country.
However, as part of efforts to tackle the hardship and hunger, the Nigerian government had rolled out measures to tackle food insecurity within 150 days.
The measures, announced by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari included a 150-Day Duty-Free Import Window for food commodities.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi has appealed to the people of the Southeast region of the country not to join in the calls for protest against the Tinubu-led administration.
The minister made this appeal on Wednesday, July 17, during the unveiling of President Bola Tinubu's legacy road projects to stakeholders and residents of the state.
Umahi emphasized that President Tinubu is taking significant measures to alleviate the country's hardships and has made difficult decisions for the nation's betterment. "The president is doing everything possible to ameliorate and end the hardship. Let us support him, he is doing everything to unite Nigeria, put food on our tables, and develop the health, education, and other sectors. Pray for him and support him," Umahi stated.
He highlighted the support from governors in the region, confirming that there would be no demonstrations against the President in Ebonyi and the southeast. Umahi pointed out that the southeast has significantly benefited from numerous ongoing road construction projects under President Tinubu's administration, addressing long-standing neglect from previous governments.
"The southeast today under President Tinubu has benefitted from numerous road construction projects ongoing to develop the southeast, which has suffered many years of neglect in previous administrations. So we need to support him," Umahi said.
The Minister also noted a marked improvement in the region's security since President Tinubu took office. "Security has been highly improved in the southeast under President Tinubu. The little security lapses being noticed now are self-inflicted and I commend the governors of the region for what they are doing in this regard," he added.
Umahi called on Nigerians to refrain from making divisive statements, stressing the need for a peaceful atmosphere to foster development. "We should stop fanning the embers of division. We are paying for the past years of neglect and mismanagement. We failed to plan properly in the past and we have to accept our past mistakes and find ways to start correcting them, and this is what the President is doing," he concluded.
The Labour Party, LP, has expressed displeasure over the removal of the lawmaker representing Borno South senatorial district, Ali Ndume as the Chief Whip of the Senate.
On Tuesday, July 17, the Senate President Godswill Akpabio read a letter from the leadership of ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) demanding the removal of Ndume as a principal officer in the 10th senate.
The party also asked Ndume, who has been very critical of President Bola Tinubu, to resign and join any opposition party of his choice.
Reacting to Ndume's removal, the National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, Obiora Ifoh, said the decision clearly signified that speaking truth to power is now a crime in Nigeria. According to him, the humiliation of Ndume by the senate is portraying dictatorial inclination.
“The crime of Senator Ndume was his bold expression of his concerns regarding the escalating cost of living and food scarcity in Nigeria, and his revelation that President Bola Tinubu has chosen to play the ostrich even in the face of acute starvation being witnessed in Nigeria.
The dimension this administration is taken is grave. Few months ago, Senator Abdul Ningi exposed the rot in the government where the Senate leadership and the executive collaborators allegedly padded the budget. That got him suspended and intimidated out of his lawful representative role as a senator.
It is needless talking about the economic crisis on going in Nigeria even where a few cabal are massively enriching themselves. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) recently said that food inflation has risen to 40.66 percent.
Even with all these glaring and scaring challenges, the government is said to have paid about N150bn for a presidential jet, building roads that have no direct bearing with the economic crises in Nigeria,” Ifoh said.
He wondered what could be called democratic about the party in government making decision for an independent legislative arm on who takes up leadership role in the nation’s legislature.
“This is clear a tyranny of a cabal against the legislative autonomy. Nigeria is gradually descending into dictatorship and we are calling on the citizens to be on an alert and put up a defence against the starvation weapon being deployed by this administration.” he said