Cloned Nigerian Anchor

Author: Caroline Ameh

  • Senate Unanimously Votes for Recall of Senator Abdul Ningi

    Senate Unanimously Votes for Recall of Senator Abdul Ningi

    In a unanimous decision, the Nigerian Senate has voted to recall Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, back to the Senate following a period of suspension. The motion for his recall, titled “Unconditional Recall of Senator Abdul Ningi,” was introduced by Senator Abba Moro, the Minority Leader and senator representing Benue South Senatorial District.

    Senator Ningi was suspended on March 12, 2024, for a duration of three months due to his involvement in making unverified allegations concerning the 2024 budget. In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Hausa Service on March 9, Senator Ningi alleged that the budget had been padded to the tune of N3.7 trillion.

    The motion for his suspension was initially presented by Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, citing infractions of legislative rules, misconduct, and unethical behavior.

    Senator Moro’s motion, tabled on Tuesday, sought the reconsideration of the resolution from the Votes and Proceedings of March 13, 2024, to recall Senator Abdul Ningi and reinstate him for his legislative duties. Notably, the Senate Minority Leadership, under Senator Moro’s guidance, assumed full responsibility for Senator Ningi’s actions and extended apologies on his behalf.

    The prayer set forth by Senator Moro garnered unanimous approval from the Senate, leading to the immediate recall of Senator Abdul Ningi. This decision underscores the Senate’s dedication to upholding legislative standards and fostering accountability among its members.

  • Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Withdraws Lawsuit Against APC, Aiyedatiwa …says President Tinubu intervened

    Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Withdraws Lawsuit Against APC, Aiyedatiwa …says President Tinubu intervened

    Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, representing Ondo South under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has made a surprising announcement, withdrawing his lawsuit against the APC, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    The lawsuit, originally filed in response to alleged irregularities during the governorship primary election, has been withdrawn by Senator Ibrahim as a gesture of respect for President Bola Tinubu.

    At a press briefing held in Abuja, Senator Ibrahim disclosed that his decision to withdraw the lawsuit came after President Tinubu’s intervention, which involved both telephone conversations and a lengthy physical meeting at the Villa lasting over an hour.

    He stressed that the withdrawal was not a personal matter but a pursuit to safeguard internal party democracy, which he believed was compromised during the primary election.

    The primary election, conducted on April 20, 2024, across Ondo State’s 18 local government councils, saw Governor Aiyedatiwa declared as the winner. However, Senator Ibrahim contested the outcome, leading to legal action against the APC, Governor Aiyedatiwa, and INEC.

    Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for his guidance and assurance during their meeting, Senator Ibrahim highlighted the president’s commitment to enhancing internal party democracy. He also acknowledged Governor Aiyedatiwa’s prior visit to his residence in Asokoro before the withdrawal of the lawsuit.

    “I cannot disobey the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria because the issue I am fighting for is not personal. It is simply to improve internal democracy, to which the President has pledged commitment. My respect for the President is unwavering,” the Lawmaker affirmed.

  • Lawmaker Commends President Tinubu’s Initiative for Local Government Autonomy

    Lawmaker Commends President Tinubu’s Initiative for Local Government Autonomy

    Senator Sulaiman Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila, representing Kano South Senatorial District, has publicly praised President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his recent announcement concerning local government autonomy.

    In a statement signed by the senator he expressed his approval of the decision, citing its potential to alleviate the hardships faced by the Nigerian populace.

    Senator Sumaila commended President Tinubu for aligning with the senators’ collective efforts to uplift local communities from their current challenges.

    He described the decision as a significant stride towards empowering grassroots governance and stimulating economic growth, especially in rural areas.

    “I am pleased with President Tinubu’s commitment to granting autonomy to local governments, as stipulated in the constitution,” Senator Sumaila remarked. “This move is poised to foster development in our rural areas and bolster the nation’s economy by enhancing revenue generation through agricultural and commercial activities.”

    However, while acknowledging the importance of local government autonomy, Senator Sumaila raised concerns about the integrity of local government elections. He emphasized the need for addressing the manipulation of electoral processes by politicians for personal gain, urging President Tinubu to take decisive action to ensure the fairness and transparency of such elections.

    “The conduct of local government elections has been plagued by interference and manipulation, undermining the democratic process,” Senator Sumaila highlighted. “President Tinubu’s attention to this issue is paramount to complementing the autonomy granted to local governments and ensuring that democracy flourishes at the grassroots level.”

    Furthermore, Senator Sumaila extended appreciation towards the collaborative efforts of the legislative and executive branches in advocating for local government autonomy. He called upon the judiciary to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities in resolving the matter.

    “We, at the National Assembly, have championed the cause of local government autonomy, and I am grateful for the support of the executive in this endeavor,” Senator Sumaila stated. “Now, it is imperative for the judiciary to uphold democratic principles and the rule of law in adjudicating on this issue”, the State concluded.

  • Senate Calls for Conversion of Abandoned Shell Airstrip into Air Force Base

    Senate Calls for Conversion of Abandoned Shell Airstrip into Air Force Base

    In a bid to revitalize dormant infrastructure and bolster national security, the Nigerian Senate has endorsed a proposal to transform the disused Shell Airstrip in Oloibiri oil well, Bayelsa State, into a modern Air Force base. Sponsored by Senator Sunday Agadaga of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), representing Bayelsa State, the motion garnered widespread bipartisan support during its deliberation.

    Senator Agadaga highlighted the historical significance of the Shell Airstrip, which served as a crucial asset for oil exploration and personnel transportation following its construction in 1958. He expressed concern over its abandonment since the decline of Shell’s operations in the region, citing the detrimental impact on local livelihoods and environmental degradation.

    “The land itself appears to have been sentenced to perpetual condemnation as no agricultural activity, which is the economic mainstay of the local dwellers, can be carried out anymore due to the concretized topography of the soil,” remarked Senator Agadaga.

    Contributing to the discourse, Senator Isah Jibrin of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Kogi State raised apprehensions regarding the financial implications of the project. While refraining from outright opposition, he cautioned against overlooking the substantial costs involved.

    In contrast, Senator Adams Oshiomole of the APC representing Edo State underscored the strategic advantages of repurposing the airstrip into an Air Force base, particularly in enhancing security measures in the region.

    Echoing similar sentiments, Senator Maidoki Garuba of the PDP from Kebbi State emphasized the critical role of the conversion in fortifying national security and combating illicit activities such as oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

    Senator Victor Umeh of the Labour Party (LP), representing Anambra State, emphasized the importance of preserving historical landmarks like Oloibiri. He emphasized that the conversion would not only bolster security but also elevate Oloibiri to a national monument, commemorating its historical significance.

    In his concluding remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio stressed the imperative of preserving historical assets like the Oloibiri Shell Airstrip. He underscored the potential of converting it into an Air Force base to bolster security and emergency response capabilities, particularly given its proximity to the Gulf of Guinea.

    Akpabio expressed optimism that the government would prioritize the reconstruction of the airstrip into an Air Force base to address emerging challenges effectively.

  • INEC to Release Details of Ondo Gubernatorial Candidates Ahead of Election

    INEC to Release Details of Ondo Gubernatorial Candidates Ahead of Election

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to disclose the personal particulars of candidates and their running mates contending in the Ondo State governorship election. The release is scheduled for Saturday, May 25, 2024.

    Sam Olumekun, the INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of Information and Voter Education Committee, affirmed that the publication of candidates’ personal details is a consequential step following the conclusion of party primaries.

    Olumekun clarified that seventeen political parties had adhered to the deadline by successfully submitting their candidates’ nomination forms for the Ondo State gubernatorial race before May 20, 2024. Notably, the dedicated portal for submissions automatically closed at 6:00 pm on the specified date.

    This forthcoming action is in accordance with Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act 2022, delineated as item 4 on the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the election.

    INEC will prominently display copies of Form EC9, alongside all academic credentials and other pertinent documents submitted by each candidate. These displays will be accessible at the INEC state headquarters in Akure and the 18 local government offices across the state.

    Olumekun urged Nigerians to meticulously examine the documents provided. He clarified that any aspirant who participated in their party primaries and harbors reasonable suspicions regarding the accuracy of information provided by a candidate or running mate, has the prerogative to challenge the nomination in a Federal High Court. This recourse is stipulated in Section 29(5) of the Electoral Act 2022.

  • Nigerian Senate Debates Reverting to Old National Anthem

    Nigerian Senate Debates Reverting to Old National Anthem

    Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, representing the APC Ekiti Central, introduced the National Anthem Bill 2024 (SB. 461), advocating for the restoration of Nigeria’s original anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which was first adopted at the nation’s independence in 1960.

    Senator Bamidele passionately extolled the historical and ideological significance of the erstwhile anthem, emphasizing its pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s collective identity and fostering unity among its citizens. With a nostalgic tone, he invoked memories of a bygone era when the anthem served as a symbol of patriotism, instilling pride and solidarity in Nigerians.

    Amidst the turbulence of contemporary times, Senator Bamidele argued that it is imperative for the nation to utilize all available means to cultivate unity and patriotism. He asserted that reinstating the former anthem would signify a resurgence of national pride and inspire citizens to work towards a more cohesive and prosperous Nigeria.

    In a poignant gesture, Senator Bamidele recited the verses of the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” in their entirety, underscoring its themes of brotherhood, justice, and prosperity. He urged his esteemed colleagues to rally behind the bill, highlighting its alignment with the administration’s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate national values and consciousness.

    However, amidst the fervent support for the old anthem, dissenting voices arose, cautioning against the abandonment of the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” which was adopted in 1978. These senators acknowledged the historical significance of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” but emphasized the importance of considering the contemporary symbolism embodied in the existing anthem.

    Following extensive debate, the Bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Federal Character for further review, with a mandate to report back within four weeks.

  • Off-cycle Elections: INEC Unveils Plans to Distribute Uncollected Voters Cards

    Off-cycle Elections: INEC Unveils Plans to Distribute Uncollected Voters Cards

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled its comprehensive strategy to ensure the availability of Uncollected Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) ahead of the upcoming off-cycle elections later this year. The announcement came during the Commission’s second quarterly meeting with the media held at its headquarters in Abuja.

    During the meeting, the Chairman of INEC reiterated the Commission’s unwavering commitment to facilitating robust voter participation in the electoral process. As part of this initiative, the Commission disclosed plans to publish the list of uncollected PVCs both in its offices and on its official website in the coming days. This measure aims to streamline the process for voters to locate and collect their cards efficiently.

    Emphasizing the significance of personal collection, the chairman underscored that no PVCs would be collected by proxy, urging registered voters to retrieve their cards in person. Furthermore, the Commission clarified that the final list of candidates for the upcoming off-cycle elections in Edo has been published following the conclusion of party primaries and the withdrawal/substitution period.

    Campaign activities by political parties in public commenced on April 24th, 2024, and will conclude 24 hours before the election date as mandated by law. In preparation for the Edo elections, media organizations have been urged to promptly apply for accreditation to cover the event. The Commission stressed the importance of adhering to the designated deadline and meeting accreditation criteria to ensure smooth processing.

    Addressing outstanding bye-elections, the Commission announced vacancies in four states, including State Assembly and Federal Constituency seats. Dates for bye-elections in these constituencies will be announced once preparations are finalized.

    Additionally, the Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) exercise is set to take place in Edo and Ondo States simultaneously from May 27th to June 5th, 2024. Eligible citizens who are not registered voters will have the opportunity to register, while registered voters can transfer their registration or replace lost/damaged cards. To accommodate the limited time before the elections, the registration will occur at ward levels and state headquarters, totaling 397 walk-in registration centers across the two states.

    In preparation for the CVR exercise, training for at least 794 officials will commence soon. Detailed information on registration centers and procedures has been made available on the Commission’s website and social media platforms.

    The chairman emphasized the pivotal role of the media in mobilizing prospective registrants for the CVR exercise, urging early registration to avoid last-minute rushes.

    Collaboration with the media was also solicited to ensure the success of the registration exercise and subsequent electoral processes, highlighting the importance of voter participation in shaping the democratic process.

  • Cybersecurity Levy Targeted at Financial Institutions, Telecoms, Not Individuals, Senator Buba clarifies

    Cybersecurity Levy Targeted at Financial Institutions, Telecoms, Not Individuals, Senator Buba clarifies

    Senator Shehu Umar Buba, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, has clarified that the recently imposed cybersecurity levy announced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is not targeted at individuals or ordinary bank customers.

    The Senator who sponsored the amendment bill told Economic Confidential that the levy is aimed explicitly at financial institutions and telecom companies, the most vulnerable sectors to financial crimes and cyber fraud, to enhance cybersecurity measures and national security in the country.

    He noted that the relevant section of the Cybercrime Act is very clear about the businesses that are required to pay the levy, not the citizens.

    “The Act is very explicit about who is responsible for the payment, not Nigerian citizens or individuals. The relevant Section of the Cybercrime Act 2015 listed the businesses required to pay the levy: telecommunications companies, Internet Service Providers, Banks, Insurance Companies, the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and other Financial Institutions.

    “The organisations in the sectors have been listed in previous circulars by the Central Bank of Nigeria, especially in 2018. The new circular by the CBN further provided many exemptions.”

    Senator Buba also clearly explained the amount payable as a cybersecurity levy. “It is either 0.005 or 0.5% arithmetically. The figure in the principal act was 0.005 as a fraction, which was converted to the percentage that became 0.5% in the amendment. Therefore, the statistics in fractions and percentages are the same.

    The legislator highlighted that the passage of the amendment bill was a collaborative effort of various stakeholders.

    “The passage of the amendment bill was a collaborative effort involving the government, industry players, civil society, and academia in the contributions and active participation in the public hearing before and endorsement by the two chambers of the National Assembly. After rigorous processes, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the bill into law in February 2024.”

    The Senator acknowledged the concerns of Nigerians, civil groups, and other stakeholders about the current economic situation but was reassured that implementing the cybersecurity law was not meant to punish citizens. He emphasised that the levy is a collective effort to protect national security and the economy, with the financial burden primarily falling on the specified businesses.

    The Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024, which President Tinubu signed into law in February, imposes a 0.5 percent (0.005) levy equivalent to half the value of all electronic transactions by the businesses specified in the Second Schedule of the Act. The levy will be remitted to the National Cybersecurity Fund, which the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) shall administer.

    The circular announcing the levy also exempted some transactions from the cybercrime levy, including loan disbursements and repayments, salary payments, intra-account transfers, and other financial transactions.

  • President Tinubu Commissions Lithium Processing Factory in Nasarawa

    President Tinubu Commissions Lithium Processing Factory in Nasarawa

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Friday, unveiled a Lithium processing factory constructed by Avatar New Energy Materials Limited, a Chinese company.

    The event, held at Kama Otto in Nasarawa Local Government Area, exemplified a robust partnership between the federal government, the state, and private investors.

    Dignitaries at the event included the Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, federal lawmakers, former state leaders, and traditional rulers.

    President Tinubu, in his address, hailed the collaboration as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to economic diversification. He emphasized the strategic significance of the Lithium Company, foreseeing its role in positioning Nigeria as a major player in the global Lithium market.

    Tinubu stated, “Realising the benefits of Lithium and other mineral resources, our administration will continue to pay particular attention to the maximum utilisation of the product for the benefit of our people.”

    Furthermore, he articulated the government’s aspiration for comprehensive value chain processing of Lithium and other minerals. Tinubu urged both domestic and international companies to engage with Avatar Company, emphasizing its pivotal role in Nigeria’s growth trajectory.

    Acknowledging the support received during the previous Presidential election, Tinubu expressed gratitude to the people of Nasarawa with the tangible contribution of the Lithium processing factory. He underscored the transformative impact of Nigeria’s participation in the production value chain of Lithium, heralding a new era of technological partnership and empowerment.

    Governor Abdullahi Sule commended President Tinubu and the local communities for their instrumental support in attracting such investment to Nasarawa. He highlighted the remarkable transformation of the region, previously plagued by security challenges, into a conducive environment for industrial development.

    The Minister, Dele Alake emphasized the profitability and feasibility of similar ventures, noting the increasing interest from investors. He advocated for robust protection of Lithium battery companies from foreign competition, citing their pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic resurgence.

  • Senate Approves Death Penalty for Drug Traffickers

    Senate Approves Death Penalty for Drug Traffickers

    The Nigerian Senate has made a bold move by approving a bill that mandates the death penalty for individuals found guilty of drug trafficking within the nation’s borders. The decision, which followed a presentation by Senator Tahir Monguno representing Borno North.

    The bill, which passed its third reading in the Senate chamber, seeks to modernize existing laws governing drug offenses and strengthen the operations of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

    Key provisions include updates to the list of prohibited substances and the enhancement of drug testing laboratory facilities.

    The decision to introduce the death penalty came as an amendment to Section 11 of the current NDLEA Act, which previously stipulated a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for drug trafficking offenses.

    Senator Ali Ndume spearheaded the amendment, arguing for tougher penalties to deter drug-related activities effectively.

    During deliberations, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin oversaw a clause-by-clause examination of the bill. Despite objections from Senator Adams Oshiomhole regarding the gravity of the decision, the amendment to impose the death penalty was put to a voice vote and passed with a majority in favor.

    While Senator Oshiomhole expressed concerns about the weightiness of matters concerning life and death, the decision had already been made, as no immediate call for division was made following the ruling.

    The Senate’s endorsement of the bill underscores Nigeria’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and related offenses. Proponents argue that stricter penalties are necessary to stem the tide of illicit drug activities, while critics warn of the potential for miscarriages of justice and human rights violations.

    With the bill cleared by the Senate, it now awaits further deliberation and potential amendments in the House of Representatives before it can be enacted into law, pending the President’s approval.