| Source | Date | Story Title | Summary of Reports | Subject/Category | Page No./Weblink | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, October 27, 2021 | Paris Club Refund: We Will Not Accept Arbitrary Deductions From FG – Govs | The Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) will not accept arbitrary deductions of funds from the federation account. NGF Chairman and Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, stated this in Abuja on Tuesday, October 26 while addressing newsmen on the sidelines of the 27th Nigerian Economic Summit. The forum had consistently opposed the deduction of $418m from the local governments’ accounts to pay private consultants for the Paris Club refund who had claimed the amount as a percentage for the payment of services rendered to the state and local governments. The NGF had requested a forensic audit over the consultants’ claim. Governor Fayemi stated thus: “As far as states are concerned, they do not accept that funds belonging to the federation account are deducted arbitrarily without their input. We’re dealing with the issue. We will find the resolution to it. That is why they (governors) have insisted until this is clarified, we’ll rather leave the money in the pool until we all agree.” | Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), Paris Club Refund | https://dailytrust.com/paris-club-refund-well-not-accept-arbitrary-deductions-from-fg-govs | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, October 27, 2021 | UN Writes Nigeria, Kenya, Demands Explanation on Kanu’s Abduction, Extradition | The United Nations (UN) has made “pressing appeals” to Nigerian and Kenyan governments to explain the “unlawful arrest and extradition” of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. In the document dated, August 26, 2021, the UN stated that the Nigerian and Kenyan governments ought to provide it with details of how Kanu was arrested and extradited to Nigeria. In a statement sent to Sahara Reporters, Nnamdi Kanu’s brother, Kingsley Kanu, stated that he, working with attorneys, undertook interventions to the UN. | Nnamdi Kanu, United Nations | https://guardian.ng/news/un-writes-nigeria-kenya-demands-explanation-on-kanus-abduction-extradition/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, October 27, 2021 | Oransaye Report Implementation Being Frustrated by Politicians, Says FG | Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, has stated the the 'Oransaye' report is good for the nation, but quickly added that politicians with vested interests were ensuring it does see light of day. She explained that some aspects of the report had been implemented over the years, adding that the only remaining aspect was the scrapping and merging of agencies. Yemi-Esan spoke on Tuesday, October 26 while fielding questions from participants at the Aig-Imoukhuede Institute of Public Leadership Programme in Abuja. She, however, did not comment on the reported N900 billion budget for some of the affected agencies. Meanwhile, Yemi-Esan stated that the salary parity in the civil service was becoming wider and creating unnecessary tension by the day. She, nevertheless, pledged that the problem would be addressed before the end of this year. | Oransaye Report, Civil Service | https://guardian.ng/news/oransaye-report-implementation-being-frustrated-by-politicians-says-fg/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, October 27, 2021 | Senate Queries FG Over Plan To Borrow $200m For Mosquito Nets | Members of the Senate Committee on Health, on Tuesday, October 26, questioned the Federal Government over the plan to borrow $200 million for procurement of mosquito nets and malaria medicines.The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Mammam Mahmuda, had, in his presentation before the committee during budget defence session, stated that the loan had become necessary due to the high mortality rate of children under the age of five in Nigeria largely caused by malaria and inaccessibility to malaria treatments. He stated that the loan, if approved by the National Assembly, and accessed, would be used to procure mosquito nets and medicines to be distributed to 13 vulnerable states that have no access to malaria treatment. Irked by the submission, the committee chairman, Senator Ibrahim Oloriegbe (APC, Kwara), and other members lampooned the Permanent Secretary and Executive Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Faisal Shuaib. Specifically, the Chairman of the committee wondered why the Federal Government planned to borrow the $200 million to fight malaria despite the N450 million budgeted for the same purpose in the proposed 2022 budget. Oloriegbe also decried the plan to import the mosquito nets when there are local producers. Other members of the committee like Senators Adelere Oriolowo (APC: Osun), Abba Moro (PDP: Benue) also condemned the borrowing plan. They, therefore, demanded more details on the loan and asked the officials to return for continued hearing. | Senate, Federal Government, Ministry of Health | https://dailytrust.com/senate-knocks-fg-over-plan-to-borrow-200m-for-mosquito-nets | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, October 27, 2021 | South-West Governors Meet in Lagos, Discuss Security, Others | The governors of South-West States on Tuesday, October 26, met in Lagos State to deliberate on issues affecting their common heritage. The meeting, held at the Lagos House in Marina, was attended by Governors Rotimi Akeredolu (Ondo), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Gboyega Oyetola (Osun), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde was represented by his deputy, Rauf Olaniyan. Fayemi, however, left the venue before the team addressed newsmen. Chairman of the Forum, Governor Akeredolu, who spoke with journalists after the meeting, stated that part of their deliberations bordered on security situation in the region. Akeredolu stated that there was also discussion on Oodua Group, a company owned by all six South-West states, but declined to give further details. He further states that the Forum was not willing to share full information on the meeting. According to him, “We, the six governors of the South-West, under the South-West Governors’ Forum, met today. We deliberated on a number of common and personal issues. We also deliberated on our common heritage, which is the Oodua Group of Companies. At the end, we agreed on few things, which have to do with security. This short address is just to let you (newsmen) know we met today but we don’t want our decisions discussed in the open.” | South-West Governors, Security | https://guardian.ng/news/south-west-governors-meet-in-lagos-discuss-security-others/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Thursday, September 30, 2021 | INEC Worries About Insecurity in Anambra, Alerts on Impending Constitutional Crisis | Thirty-six days to the Anambra governorship election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed fears over worsening security challenges in the State. INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, expressed the concerns, on Wednesday, September 29 at a forum on ‘Inclusive Election in Anambra and Beyond’, organised by INEC Press Corp in Abuja. He noted that a constitutional crisis might ensue in the State if the commission is unable to conduct elections on account of insecurity. Represented by National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, the INEC Chairman explained that Section 178 of the Constitution has specified the period for the conduct of governorship elections. He noted that the tenure of the incumbent governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano would expire on March 17, 2022. Quoting relevant sections of the NIgerian Constitution, Yakubu stated that the earliest date for the election in Anambra is October 18, 2021, while the latest date is February 15, 2022. According to him, “The Commission needs a safe and secure environment for efficient and professional deployment of staff and materials. We must realise that young men and women doing their National Youth Service form the bulk of our Presiding Officers. No form of insurance can cover for the loss of one life and the Commission will on no account compromise on the safety and welfare of these individuals and all other staff that will be deployed for the election.” Yakubu, therefore, appealed to all critical stakeholders to cooperate with the Commission to avoid a constitutional challenge. | Anambra State Governorship Election, INEC, Insecurity | https://guardian.ng/news/inec-worries-about-insecurity-in-anambra-alerts-on-impending-constitutional-crisis/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Thursday, September 30, 2021 | FEC Okays Paternity Leave, N3 billion for Education, Communications Projects | The Federal Executive Council (FEC), presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, has approved paternity leave for federal civil servants. Briefing newsmen after the council’s meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday, September 29, Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HoSCF), Folashade Yemi-Esan, explained that,“henceforth, male federal civil servants will be entitled to a 14-day paternity leave like their female counterparts. This is to enable for proper bonding between the father and the new-born baby, especially at the early stage of the child’s life, which was hitherto enjoyed by only female civil servants.” Yemi-Esan stated that this extends to adopted babies of less than four months. Also, the FEC sanctioned N3.109 billion for projects in the Ministries of Education and Communications and Digital Economy. The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, who confirmed the development after briefing newsmen at the end of the virtual meeting, listed some of the projects to include, “Residence for the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State, as well as funding to augment the execution of five projects at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State.” | FEC, Paternity Leave | https://guardian.ng/news/fec-okays-paternity-leave-n3-billion-for-education-communications-projects/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Thursday, September 30, 2021 | INEC: We will Upload Anambra Election Results Online | The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday, September 29, declared that the November 6 governorship election result would be transmitted electronically in real time. The Commission, therefore, urged Nigerians to log in to view the results of the election online. INEC chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, who spoke at a workshop by the INEC Press Corps with the theme: “Inclusive Elections in Anambra State and Beyond”, was represented by INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye. Reading the address of the INEC chairman, Okoye stated that, “The Commission will also use its new technological device to upload polling unit level results to its central result viewing portal. Nigerians that have access to internet facilities can log in and view the results as they are being uploaded. For this, we have commenced elaborate voter education and publicity activities in the State. The Commission will also deploy relevant and appropriate technology for the conduct of the Anambra State Governorship election. To this end, the Commission will deploy the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) for the accreditation of voters. The bimodal accreditation system will use fingerprints or facials for efficient voter accreditation. Therefore, those engaged in identity theft must steer clear of the polling units in Anambra State as only voters that are properly authenticated using their fingerprints or facials will be allowed to vote.” | Anambra State, INEC, BVAS | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/30/inec-well-transmit-anambra-election-results-online/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Thursday, September 30, 2021 | Kalu's Retrial: EFCC Vows To Appeal Ruling | A Federal High Court in Abuja has stopped the Federal Government and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from the retrial of a former governor of Abia State, Orji Uzo Kalu, over alleged money laundering. Kalu had on December 5, 2019 been sentenced to 12-year imprisonment by a Federal High Court in Lagos, alongside Jones Udeogu and his company, Slok Nigeria Ltd, in 39-count allegations of money laundering to the tune of N7.6bn during his tenure between 1999 and 2007. Justice Inyang Ekwo on Wednesday, September 29, ruled that the moves to file fresh charges against Kalu after his conviction and sentence and subsequent Supreme Court acquittal alongside his company, Slok Nigeria Ltd, would amount to double jeopardy. The court upheld the ex-governor’s submission and ordered the retrial of a former Commissioner of Finance of the state, Jones Udeogu, who was earlier convicted along with Kalu. Meanwhile, the EFCC, in a statement on Wednesday, September 28 by its spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, said it would appeal the ruling. The Commission stated that the judge erred in the ruling as Section 36(9) of the 1999 Constitution is applicable only where the previous judgment was by a court of competent jurisdiction. The statement read: “In this case, the apex court had in the said judgment described the process that led to the conviction of Kalu as a nullity because the Judge came from the Court of Appeal to decide the matter. The Commission further avers that the court erred in its ruling that the Supreme Court did not order the retrial of Kalu; that it amounts to cherry-picking for Kalu to profit from the decision of the Apex court nullifying the conviction of his co-defendant, Ude Udeagu but is not prepared to face the burden of retrial.’’ | Oriji Uzor Kalu, EFCC | https://dailytrust.com/kalu-retrial-efcc-vows-to-appeal-ruling | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Thursday, September 30, 2021 | Senate Presses Buhari to Designate Bandits Terrorists | Worried by the criminal activities of bandits in many parts of the country, the Senate on Wednesday, September 29 asked President Muhammadu Buhari to declare a total war on the felons and declare them as terrorists. The Red Chamber resolved these at its Wednesday plenary. It called on Buhari to, as a matter of urgency, order the military to eliminate the bandits by bombing their hideouts. The Senate also told the President to immediately declare all known leaders of the bandits wanted, and track them wherever they are for arrest and prosecution. The resolutions followed the consideration of a motion on banditry in Sokoto State, sponsored by Senator Ibrahim Gobir. Presenting the motion on the floor of the Senate, Gobir lamented that Sokoto East Senatorial District had become a safe haven for bandits following a crackdown on them by the military in Zamfara State. He expressed worry that on Saturday, September 25, about 21 security men were killed in Dama and Gangara villages by rampaging bandits. Gobir stated, “This has gone to portray the seriousness of the problem, which requires concerted and urgent action by the declaration of total war on banditry. According to him, “Losing such numbers of trained security personnel will further deplete the numerical strength of the security personnel we have in the country, therefore, jeopardising the security architecture of the country.” | Senate, Bandits | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/30/senate-presses-buhari-to-designate-bandits-terrorists/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Thursday, September 30, 2021 | Oyo Seeks to Join Rivers’ VAT Suit Against FG | The Oyo State Government has asked the Court of Appeal sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, for joinder in the suit filed by the Rivers State government against the Attorney General of the Federation in respect of the bid by the state to take over the collection of Value Added Tax (VAT) from the Federal Government. This was disclosed in a statement released, on Wednesday, September 29 by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde, Taiwo Adisa. The suit, filed by the Attorney General of Oyo State, Prof. Oyelowo Oyewo, is seeking an order of the Appellate Court to enable Oyo State to join the suit as an interested party. In the suit, the government of Oyo State is seeking two orders, viz: an order of the honourable court joining the Attorney General of Oyo State as a respondent on the appeal with suit number FHC/PH/CS/149/2020 and appeal number CA/PH/282/2021, and any other order the court might deem fit. According to Oyewo, the government of Oyo State was unaware of the suit between the Attorney General of Rivers State and the Federal Inland Revenue Service at the Federal High Court until the judgment was delivered. Other grounds upon which the application was based include that the decision of the appellate court will affect the collection of VAT by the government of Oyo State, being one of the states, which the judgment of the lower court recognised as entitled to collect VAT within its territorial jurisdiction. | Oyo State, VAT, Court of Appeal | https://guardian.ng/news/oyo-seeks-to-join-rivers-vat-suit-against-fg/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Thursday, September 30, 2021 | NHRC To FG: Protect Schools From Attacks | The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Tony Ojukwu, on Wednesday, September 29, urged the Federal Government to protect schools from attacks. He made the call in Abuja at a pre-event for the forthcoming 4th International Conference on Safe Schools Declaration. He sstated that attacks on schools, especially killing and abductions of students, would affect education negatively. He further stated that the conference, which would be held for the first time in Nigeria, would critically look at the effects of insecurity on education and chat ways to make education better for the Nigerian child. | National Human Rights Commission, Education | https://dailytrust.com/nhrc-to-fg-protect-schools-from-attacks | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Wednesday, September 29, 2021 | Bill to Repeal Electricity Sector Act Passes Second Reading in Senate | The Senate has taken steps to improve the epileptic power supply in the country as a bill to repeal the 2005 Electricity Sector Reform Act scaled second reading at plenary on Tuesday, September 28. The bill, among others, seeks to consolidate all legislations in the power sector into one electricity statute, with the ultimate aim of improving Nigeria’s power generation capacity. The bill sponsored by Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power, Senator Gabriel Suswam, if passed into law would diversify the power sector to accommodate cleaner renewable energy sources, as well as boost investment from private sector participation. Leading the debate on the bill, the former governor of Benue State explained that the proposed legislation seeks to, among other reasons, repeal the Electricity Power Sector Reform Act, 2005, consolidate all legislations in Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) and enact an omnibus Electricity Act for the industry, to provide the ideal legal and institutional framework to guide the post-privatisation phase of the industry in Nigeria. He recalled that the Electric Power Sector Reform Act, 2005, provided the legal and institutional framework for the reform of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) initiated and implemented by the Federal Government between 2001 – 2013. According to him, the Act and other policy measures provided for the physical unbundling of the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) into 18 successor companies. | Senate, Electricity Sector Reform Act | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/29/bill-to-repeal-electricity-sector-act-passes-second-reading-in-senate/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Wednesday, September 29, 2021 | Buhari: Funding Police Remains Huge Challenge for Govt | President Muhammadu Buhari, on Tuesday, September 28, described the funding of the Nigeria Police as a huge challenge for government. Although Buhari stated that it was the reason government set up the Police Trust Fund, he maintained there was still need to source more funding avenues for the police in order to enhance the security of the society. The President spoke at the commissioning of a block of 66 flats built by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for officers of the Nigeria Police Special Protection Unit Base 6, at Omagwa, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State. He boasted that the Federal Government on his watch had invested significantly in the NDDC, as could be seen in the many projects across the Niger Delta states. However, Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, in his remarks, stated that the NDDC had become a cash cow for politicians. In his speech, Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, disclosed that NDCC was struggling to complete 13,777 abandoned projects across the Niger Delta states. Inspector General of Police Alkali Baba Usman commended Buhari for the police quarters, saying it is a key security project. Buhari, who was represented by the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, at the inauguration, advised that the resources pumped into the commission should be justifiable and must impact positively on the people of the region. The President further stated that the Nigeria Police had been effective in their role of protecting lives and property. He restated the Federal Government’s commitment to providing a fair and convenient ground for police personnel to operate in their fight against insecurity. | President Muhammadu Buhari, Police | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/29/buhari-funding-police-remains-huge-challenge-for-govt/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, September 29, 2021 | PVCs for New Registrants in Anambra Ready October 7 — INEC | The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) of new registrants in Anambra state would be ready for collection on or shortly after Octover 7. INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Festus Okoye, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, September 28 in Abuja. He stated that the decision was made at a meeting of the commission on the preparations for the conduct of the Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 6. Okoye further stated that the display of the preliminary register, arising from the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) had been done and it was being cleaned up. According to him, “In line with the Timetable and Schedule of Activities, the Commission will publish the official Register of Voters and the final list of nominated candidates for the election on October 7. The PVCs of the new registrants will be ready for collection on or shortly after October 7. Registrants will be notified accordingly through their respective email addresses and telephone numbers when their PVCs are ready for collection.” | Anambra State, INEC, PVCs | https://guardian.ng/news/pvcs-for-new-registrants-in-anambra-ready-october-7-inec/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, September 29, 2021 | 10 Months After: Obaseki Appoints 2 Aides, Nominates Commissioners | Ten months after he was inaugurated for a second term, Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has appointed two special advisers and forwarded the names of 11 commissioner-nominees to the State House of Assembly for confirmation. The Governor, in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, stated that the two special advisers are Crusoe Osagie and Sarah Esangbedo Ajose-Adeogun. He explained that Osagie, was appointed as Special Adviser, Media Projects while Ajose-Adeogun was appointed Special Adviser, Strategy, Policy, Projects and Performance Management. Osagie served as Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy in Obaseki’s first term while Ajose-Adeogun is a former employee of Shell Petroleum Development Company. Four of the commissioner-nominees, Monday Osagbovo, Marie Edeko, Mrs. Otse Momoh-Omorogbe and Moses Agbukor served in Obaseki’s first tenure as commissioners. Other commissioner-nominees are Oluwole Osamudiamen Iyamu, SAN; Prof. (Mrs.) Obehi Akoria; Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe; Osaze Ethan Uzamere Joseph Eboigbe; Isoken Omo and Andrew Emwanta. | Edo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki | https://dailytrust.com/10-months-after-obaseki-appoints-2-aides-nominates-commissioners | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, September 29, 2021 | Information Ministry, Others Rank Low on Compliance with FOI Act | Eighty-five ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), including the Federal Ministry of Information, National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and Ministry of Agriculture, have been ranked low on compliance with the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act. The 2021 FoI Act compliance ranking, which placed MDAs based on their proactive disclosure, level of responsiveness to request for information and level of disclosure, revealed that of the 213 agencies assessed, Federal Ministry of Information and 16 others scored 185th position. The Nigeria Investment Promotion Council (NIPC), Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), and National Orientation Agency (NOA) were, however, ranked first, second and third with 68.5 points, 60.5 points and 51 points respectively. The ranking was carried out by a coalition of six civil society groups comprising Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC), BudgIT, Right to Know, International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), Media Rights Agenda (MRA) and Basic Rights Watch. It aimed not to shame the MDAs but to encourage them to comply with the FoI Act. PPDC’s Chief Operating Officer, Gift Maxwell, in her opening remarks, stated that democracy could only function effectively when citizens are fully informed. She added that citizens can only participate in governance when they have unrestricted access to public information, as this would help them interrogate government. Mr. Maxwell Kadiri of Open Society Justice Initiative attributed low compliance with the FOI Act to lack of political will by the government, noting that there are a lot of indices in the legislation that could advance implementation. | Information Ministry, Freedom of Information Act | https://guardian.ng/news/information-ministry-others-rank-low-on-compliance-with-foi-act/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Tuesday, September 28, 2021 | INEC Insists on e-Transmission of Election Results | The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has asked the National Assembly to revisit the Electoral Bill, assuring that it has the capacity and technical knowhow to undertake electronic transmission of election results throughout the country. INEC declared that it was not subordinate to the National Communication Commission (NCC) or answerable to any government agency. In a similar development, former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, advised members of the Joint Conference Committee of the National Assembly to move fast in considering the different versions of the Electoral Bill passed by both chambers and let their decisions be guided only by national interest. That was as the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, a coalition of over 70 organisations, asked the Senate to quickly resolve the conflicting aspects of the Electoral Bill, so as to save the country from long-drawn litigations and uncertainty, which could put INEC’s preparations for the elections in jeopardy. INEC called on the Senate and House of Representatives to quickly amend Sections 63, 65 and other relevant sections of the Electoral Act, which bar the commission from collation of election results electronically. It insisted that electronic transmission of results was doable, and it would guarantee safety, honesty and transparency. INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education, Festus Okoye, insisted that the electronic transmission of results real time was the best guarantee of transparency. Speaking in a television programme on Monday, September 27, Okoye stated that INEC was determined to use electronic devices to improve Nigeria’s electoral process, and deliver free, fair and credible elections. He added that for such to become a reality, the National Assembly must show courage by amending the relevant sections of the Electoral Act. | INEC, Results Transmission | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/28/inec-insists-on-e-transmission-of-polls-results/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Tuesday, September 28, 2021 | Power Shift: Reactions As North Rejects Southern Govs’ Demand | Governors and monarchs from the 19 northern states on Monday, September 27 kicked against the insistence by governors from the southern part of the country for power shift to the region, describing the demand as unconstitutional. Daily Trust reports that the Southern Governors Forum had in July, demanded that power must shift to the south in the interest of equity and fairness. Last week, the Chairman of the forum, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, insisted that the southern governors would not support any political party that fielded a northerner as a presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections. However, arising from an emergency closed-door meeting between the northern governors and chairmen of Traditional Councils from the 19 northern states led by His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad III, at the Council Chamber of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna, the northern leaders described the position of the southern governors as contradictory to the provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999. Flanked by Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State, Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State and Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State, the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong, stated that though some northern states governors had earlier expressed views for a power-shift to the three geopolitical zones in the South, with a view to promoting unity and peace, the Forum unanimously condemn the statement by the Southern Governors Forum that the Presidency must go to the South. According to him, “The statement is quite contradictory to the provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999) as amended, that the elected President shall score the majority votes, secure at least 25 per cent of the votes cast in two-thirds of the states of the Federation. In the case of run-up, simple majority wins the election.” The leaders also stated that the position of the Southern Governors Forum on the controversy surrounding a Federal High Court judgement on Value Added Tax (VAT) shows that the governors are confusing VAT with sales tax. | Northern Governors, Southern Presidency | https://dailytrust.com/2023-north-rejects-southern-govs-demand-for-power-shift | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Tuesday, September 28, 2021 | COVID-19: FG Says Over 1.8m Nigerians Fully Vaccinated | The Federal Government has stated that six months after Nigeria commenced the vaccination of its citizens against the COVID-19 pandemic, over 1.8 million eligible people have been fully vaccinated. The Executive Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Faisal Shuaib, stated this on Monday, September 27 in Abuja at the national briefing of the Presidential Steering Committee (PSC). According to him, as of Sunday 26 September 2021, 4,734,769 eligible people in Nigeria had received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. He explained that, “This comprises 3,040,000 with first dose of AstraZeneca and 1,694,769 with the first dose of Moderna. This represents 4.2% of the 111,776,503 eligible populations who are targeted to receive full doses of the vaccines for Nigeria to reach herd immunity. Out of the total vaccinated, 1,892,092 eligible persons have received their second dose of which 1,825,739 have been fully vaccinated with AstraZeneca while 66,353 eligible persons have been fully vaccinated with Moderna.” He also added that a statement by the British High Commission in Abuja to the effect that the vaccines administered in Nigeria are recognized and approved by the British regulatory body, is a plus for Nigeria. Speaking on vaccine card racketeering, Shuaib warned unscrupulous elements in the society attempting to fraudulently acquire COVID-19 cards without receiving the vaccine that buying and selling of COVID-19 vaccines and cards is a criminal offence. He also stated that the Federal Government had provided the vaccines free of charge to all eligible persons and that officers in charge of every designated health facility would be held accountable for every vaccination card and QR code. | COVID-19 Vaccination | https://dailytrust.com/covid-19-fg-says-1-8m-nigerians-fully-vaccinated | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Tuesday, September 28, 2021 | COVID-19: Compulsory Vaccination Attracts Protest in Edo | Major streets of Benin City in Edo State were taken over by members of civil society organisations (CSO)and students to protest against the compulsory COVID-19 vaccination policy of the state government. With placards bearing various inscriptions, the protesters grounded vehicular movement in the metropolis. Some of the inscriptions on the placards included: ‘Hunger is killing us, not COVID-19’; ‘We need security in Edo, not vaccine’; ‘We will resist any form of executive rascality’; Share COVID-19 palliative’ ‘Obaseki obey court order’; ‘My body is my right’. The protesters, who stated on Monday, September 27 that, the action was just a warning, threatened to completely shut down government establishments and corporate organisations enforcing ‘no vaccine, no entry’ policies. Speaking at the secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State Council, the Coordinator of the Freedom Ambassador Organisation, Curtis Ogbebor, stated that they were out to express their displeasure over the compulsory vaccination in the state. According to him, other pressing issues such as security should be the Governor’s priority and not COVID-19 vaccination. | Edo State, COVID-19 Vaccination Policy | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/28/covid-19-compulsory-vaccination-attracts-protest-in-edo/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Tuesday, September 28, 2021 | Nasarawa Assembly Passes Judiciary Financial Autonomy Bill into Law | The Nasarawa State House of Assembly on Monday, September 27, passed into law a Bill for a Law to Repeal and Re-enact the Nasarawa State Judiciary Financial Management Law and other matters connected therewith. The Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi, announced passage of the bill into law during the Assembly proceedings in Lafia. They were optimistic that the bill, if assented to by the State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, will ensure the financial autonomy of the state judicial arm of government. According to him, “A bill for a law to repeal and re-enact the Nasarawa State judiciary financial management law and other matters connected therewith, is read third time and passed. The law is to assist the judiciary to carry out its responsibilities effectively.” The Speaker directed the Clerk of the Assembly to produce a clean copy of the bill for the Governor’s assent. | Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Financial Autonomy | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/28/nasarawa-assembly-passes-judiciary-financial-autonomy-bill-into-law/ | ||||||||
| Punch Newspaper | Tuesday, September 28, 2021 | Four killed in Anambra APC, APGA Campaigns | Gunmen went on rampage in two locations in Anambra State on Sunday, September 26, killing four persons and injuring several people at an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally. The hoodlums also set ablaze a car belonging to a leader of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo's Campaign team, Dr Nelson Omenugha. Soludo is the the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) governorship candidate in Anambra State. While the attack on the APC took place during the party’s rally at Uruagu, Nnewi, the attack on Omenugha occurred at Nnobi in the Idemili South Local Government Area of the state. It was gathered that an APC member, whose identity could not be ascertained, was killed in the attack at Nnewi with scores wounded, while the attack on the APGA chieftain took place in his home town, Nnobi, where three were reportedly killed. The state publicity secretary of APC, Mr Okelo Madukaife confirmed the Nnewi incident. He stated thus: “The attack led to the death of our committed party official and the hospitalisation of many others. Our party regrets the invasion of our office and attack on members who were gathered for a meeting in Uruagu Ward 3, Nnewi, by persons yet to be identified. We regret the loss and regard it as one violence too many in Anambra State that ought to be the safest state in Nigeria. We acknowledge security in Anambra State as an area that requires serious intervention.” | Anambra State Governorship Election, APGA, APC | https://punchng.com/four-killed-as-anambra-apc-apga-campaigns-turn-bloody/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Monday, September 27, 2021 | Nothern Governors Hold Emergency Meeting Over VAT, Others | Governors of states in Nigeria’s northern region are holding an emergency meeting in Kaduna on Monday over the sharing of Value Added Tax (VAT) and other issues. BBC Hausa service reported that Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai will host the meeting, which will be chaired by the Chairman of the Northern Governors Association and Governor of Plateau, Simon Lalong. Nigerian southern states and the country’s tax collection agency Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) have been at loggerheads over the collection of VAT with Lagos and Rivers state being at the forefront. A Federal High Court in Port Harcourt in August ruled that Rivers State had the right to collect its taxes. However, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has appealed the ruling. Lagos and River State houses of assembly have since passed bills empowering the state government to collect VAT in their states. Rivers State governor Nyesom Wike and his Lagos State counterpart Babajide Sanwo-Olu have signed the bills into law. The law passed by the Lagos State House of Assembly empowers the states to charge VAT at the rate of six percent on the value of goods and services in the state. The Federal Government currently collects 7.5% as VAT. | Nothern Governors, VAT | https://guardian.ng/news/nothern-governors-hold-emergency-meeting-over-vat-others/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Monday, September 27, 2021 | Anambra Police Command Seeks Public Partnership for Effective Policing | Mr Tony Olofu, Anambra Commissioner of Police, has called for quality partnership between the public and the command in order to achieve the enabling environment for economic and political activities of the state. Olofu made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Awka on Monday, September 27. He urged members of the public to coordinate themselves and cooperate with security agents in the course of discharging their constitutional duty so as to achieve desired safety and tranquility. “I sue for public order, public safety, peace and tolerance among all residents and political parties in the state for the command to serve the public optimally. “I implore the public to send factual information on happenings around their areas of residence to the nearest police station where they live. “The Police also urged the public not to take laws into their hands but at all times report any suspicious act to security operatives within the scene of action,” he said . Olofu reiterated his calls of peaceful political activities in the state to representatives of different political parties in Anambra as they engaged into electioneering activities. “The police command will not relent on its strategic plans to ensure that the public enjoys peaceful environment either during or after the Nov. 6 governorship election in the state,” he said. The Police boss assured the people of Anambra that the Command is committed to working with other stakeholders towards ensuring public order all through the political campaigns. | Anambra State, Commissioner of Police | https://guardian.ng/news/anambra-police-command-seeks-public-partnership-for-effective-policing/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Monday, September 27, 2021 | ‘UK Working towards Recognising Nigeria’s COVID-19 Vaccine Certificate’ | The British High Commission, Abuja, yesterday announced that the United Kingdom (UK) is collaborating with the Nigeria National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) towards “recognising Nigeria vaccines certificate.” It revealed this in a statement it issued on the new travel rules that takes effect from October 4. “Following pilot with the US and the European Union, the UK is working to recognise certificates from other countries as part of a phased review of many COVID-19 vaccine certificates issued across the world. “This include recognising Nigeria vaccines certificate and in the spirit of our long term partnership with we are working with NPHCDA) to ensure that this happens as soon as possible” the statement said. It said with effect from October 4, 2021, all Nigerian travellers to the UK from the majority of countries that are on the amber list, including Nigeria would be required to take a pre-departure COVID-19 test three days before travelling before they would be eligible for admission into the UK. The statement also noted that from the aforementioned date, the rules for international travel to the UK would change from the red, amber, green light system to a single red list of countries and simplified travel measures form arrivals from the rest of the world. | United Kingdom, COVID-19 | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/27/uk-working-towards-recognising-nigerias-covid-19-vaccine-certificate/ | ||||||||
| Punch Newspaper | Monday, September 27, 2021 | Congresses: PDP Extends Deadline for Forms Submission | The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has granted a nine-day extension for the submission of already completed nominated forms for state congresses. This was contained in a statement titled, ‘PDP Extends Submission Deadline for Already Completed Nomination Forms for State Congresses,’ signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Kola Ologbondiyan, in Abuja, on Sunday, September 26. It read in part, “The National Working Committee of the PDP has extended the submission deadline for already completed nomination forms for State congresses from the earlier announced date of Friday, September 23, 2021, to a new date of Friday, October 1, 2021. “For the avoidance of doubt, the affected states are Adamawa, Borno, Ebonyi, Kebbi, Kwara, Lagos, and Oyo. The decision of the NWC is pursuant to its powers under the Constitution of the PDP 2017 (as amended). “All critical stakeholders and members in states where state congresses forms have not been concluded are hereby guided accordingly.” | PDP, State Congresses | https://punchng.com/congresses-pdp-extends-deadline-for-forms-submission/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Monday, September 27, 2021 | FG Yet to Implement National Security Strategy on Ungoverned Spaces Two Years After | Two years after the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and other stakeholders launched the National Security Strategy 2019 document, the federal government has yet to fully implement the aspect of the document that dwell on addressing insecurity stemming from ungoverned spaces. Terrorists and armed bandits had operated largely from forests across the country, notably Sambisa Forest in Borno State, spanning many states in the North-east and neighbouring countries, Rigachiku Forest, Kaduna, Kankara Forest in Katsina and Gundumi Forest in Zamfara States, among others in the Southwest and Southeast. The 2019 NSS document was reviewed every five years, the last being 2014. Although there are ongoing military offensives in the North East and North West, which led to the surrender of thousands of insurgents and a similar operation in the North West, leading to the shutting of telecommunication networks, other aspects of the NSS document have not been implemented as there are also no specific timelines for measures outlined in the document. Terror groups, Boko Haram, ISWAP and armed bandits also operated from forests as depicted in recent kidnappings of school children in Katsina, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger States. The NSS further stated that ungoverned spaces “constitute critical fragility in Nigeria’s national security and are antithetical to the nation’s security system”. In his forward to the document, the National Security Adviser, Maj Gen Babagana Monguno (rtd), said, “The implementation of all the principles and ideas expressed in this document is crucial to our national security and general wellbeing. Concerted efforts will therefore be made to implement the National Security Strategy 2019. | National Security Strategy, Ungoverned Spaces | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/27/fg-yet-to-implement-national-security-strategy-on-ungoverned-spaces-two-years-after/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Thursday, September 23, 2021 | Senate Approves 2022-2024 MTEF | The Senate has approved the Federal Government’s revenue projection of N8.36 trillion and proposed expenditure of N13.98 trillion for the 2022 fiscal year. The lawmakers passed the 2022-2024 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF/FSP) ahead of the expected presentation of the 2022 Appropriations bill to the National Assembly by President Muhammadu Buhari. The endorsements came as President of the Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, backed the continuous collection of Value Added Tax (VAT) by the Federal Government until the final judgement of the Supreme Court on the matter. The passage of the 2022-2024 Medium Term Expenditure Framework was sequel to the consideration and deliberation of a report by the Joint Committee on Finance; Local and Foreign Debts; Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions; Petroleum Resources (Upstream); Downstream Petroleum Sector and Gas. Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Solomon Adeola, presented the Joint Committee report. Contributing to the debate, former Governor of Benue State and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power, Senator Gabriel Suswam, lamented increased government borrowing, stating that the country’s budget deficit has gone beyond “the threshold of the Fiscal Responsibility Act.” Suswam frowned at irrelevant waivers granted businesses, even as the country operated a deficit budget and expressed displeasure that the country was dishing out N2.4 trillion as waivers when it was having over N5.6 trillion deficit. He added that “In managing an economy, we need to combine fiscal policies with monetary policies.” The Senate also approved the daily crude oil production of 1.88 million barrels per day (mbpd), 2.23mbpd, and 2.22mbpd for 2022, 2023 and 2024, respectively. It also approved the benchmark oil price of $$57 per barrel; adopted the exchange rate of N410.15/$1 proposed by the executive for 2022-2024; and gave its nod to the projected Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 4.20 per cent; as well as 13 per cent inflation rate. | Senate, MTEF 2022-2024 | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/23/senate-approves-n13-98trn-2022-budget-projection-retains-n8-36trn-revenue-target/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Thursday, September 23, 2021 | FG, States, LGs Share N696.965bn Revenue For August | The Federal, State and Local governments have shared a total of N696.965 billion as revenue for August 2021. This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the virtual meeting of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) for September 2021. The N696.965bn total distributable revenue comprised distributable statutory revenue of N477.504bn; distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue of N166.228bn, Exchange Gain of N2.830bn, Excess Bank Charges Recovered of N0.403bn and N50bn from Non-Oil revenue. In August 2021, the sum of N72.295bn was the total deductions for the cost of collection, statutory transfers and refunds. The balance in the Excess Crude Account was $60.857m. The communiqué confirmed that from the total distributable revenue of N696.965bn, the Federal Government received N289.257bn; the State Governments, N217.183bn and the local government councils, N161.541bn. The sum of N28.984bn was shared to the relevant States as 13% derivation revenue. The distributable statutory revenue of N477.504bn was available for the month. From this, the Federal Government received N236.437bn; the State governments, N119.924bn and the Local governments, N92.456bn. The sum of N28.687bn was given to the relevant States as 13% derivation revenue. In the month of August 2021, the gross revenue available from the VAT was N178.509bn. This was higher than the N151.134bn available in the month of July by N27.375bn. The sum of N5.141bn allocation to the NEDC and N7.140bn cost of revenue collection were deducted from the N178.509bn gross VAT revenue, resulting in the distributable VAT revenue of N166.228bn. From the N166.228bn distributable VAT revenue, the Federal Government received N24.934bn, the State governments, N83.114bn and the Local governments, N58.180bn. | Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) | https://dailytrust.com/fg-states-lgs-share-n696-965bn-revenue-for-august | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Thursday, September 23, 2021 | Electoral Bill: Disquiet As Senate Raises Conference Panel | The Senate has constituted a seven-member conference committee on the Electoral Bill, 2021, passed by both chambers in July. Senate President Ahmad Lawan, who announced the committee during the plenary on Wednesday,September 22, named the Senate Leader, Abdullahi Yahaya as Chairman of the committee. Other members of the Senate committee are Kabiru Gaya (North West), Ajibola Basiru (South West), Danjuma Goje (North East), Uche Ekwunife (South East), Sani Musa (North-Central), and Mathew Urhoghide (South-South). The panel is mandated to meet the House of Representatives team to harmonise any contentious aspect of the bill. Different versions were passed by both chambers amid sharp division among lawmakers over clause 52 of the bill on election result transmission. Clause 52(3) in the Senate version of the bill provides for electronic transmission of results from polling units. The joint committee on INEC that worked on the bill had recommended that “The commission may transmit results of elections by electronic means where and when practicable”. But the Senate, during consideration and passage of bill, changed the section to read “The commission (INEC) may consider electronic transmission provided the national network coverage is adjudged to be adequate and secure by the Nigerian Communications Commission and approved by the National Assembly.” However, the House retained what was recommended by its committee on Electoral Matters and Political Parties. Many senators, especially from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had opposed the amended clause during consideration of the report, resulting in call for division by Senate Minority Leader, Enyinnaya Abaribe. Five of the Senate conference committee members voted in favour of the amended clause 52(3) which whittled down the power of INEC on electronic transmission of results. Only Senator Urhoghide voted against the amendment while Senator Ekwunife was absent during voting. | Senate, Electoral Bill 2021, Conference Committee | https://dailytrust.com/electoral-bill-fresh-dust-as-senate-raises-conference-panel | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Thursday, September 23, 2021 | UN Condemns Attack on Schools, Calls for More Efforts to Protect Students | The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria, Mr. Edward Kallon, has strongly condemned the incessant attacks on schools and kidnappings that have affected hundreds of children in a number of States in Nigeria. In his statement on the 2021 International Day to Protect Education from Attack, commemorated every September 9, Kallon noted that attacks on schools are a direct attack on the future generation, adding that it is traumatic for the children, undermines their individual dignity, and sometimes leads affected families to withdraw them from education entirely. He expressed displeasure over the attacks, calling on the Federal and State Governments to do more to protect schools from attack and to ensure that teaching and learning are safe and conducive in all schools in Nigeria. The Resident Coordinator observed that whenever teaching and learning are disrupted, the impact on human capital development is enormous as the recovery period is always tortuous and longer than the length of the initial disruption. According to him, Nigeria cannot afford to leave the situation of incessant attacks on schools to remain unabated. He stated that, “Children are traumatized; parents are scared; teachers and school administrators are afraid; attacks on schools are gradually spreading to areas not known to insurgencies. With education under attack, the collective future of Nigeria is under threat. This must stop now.” | United Nations, Nigeria, Schools, Attacks | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/23/un-condemns-attack-on-schools-calls-for-more-efforts-to-protect-students-2/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Thursday, September 23, 2021 | APC Postpones State Congresses to October 16 | The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has rescheduled State Congresses for October 16, 2021. The party had earlier slated October 2, 2021 for the exercise. Secretary of the APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee, Sen. John James Akpanudoedehe in a statement on Wednesday,. September 22, stated that an updated timetable/schedule of activities and guidelines for the conduct of the State Congresses would be released to the public in due course. | APC, State Congresses | https://dailytrust.com/apc-postpones-state-congresses-to-oct-16 | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Wednesday, September 22, 2021 | Buhari Proposes New Amendments to PIA, Nominates Regulatory Boards | Exactly 37 days after the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) was enacted, President Muhammadu Buhari has written to the Senate, requesting amendments to the law and expansion of membership of the board of the Upstream Regulatory Commission (URC). Buhari, in a letter read on Tuesday, September 21 on the floor of the Senate, also sought an increase in the membership of the board of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). The President hinged his desire to alter the new law on the need to ensure national balance in appointments into the board. Buhari further moved to fast-track the full operation of the newly signed Act, sending a list of nominees for the proposed URC, the regulator of the upstream of the Nigerian oil and gas industry as well NMDPRA, which would oversee the midstream and downstream sector. Buhari explained that the appointment of two non-executive members to the board of the midstream, downstream and upstream commissions, as provided for by the Act, did not reflect balanced geopolitical representation The latest requests came about 48 hours after the President, in his capacity as Minister of Petroleum Resources, triggered section 53(1) of the PIA, directing the incorporation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and approving the formation of a new board, which would be headed by Senator Ifeanyi Ararume. Buhari requested amendments to Sections 11(2)(b) and 34(2)(b), which provide for the administrative structure of the PIA 2021, to increase the number of the non-executive members from two to six on the upstream, as well as midstream and downstream boards. He noted that doing so would foster national unity and provide a sense of participation and inclusion to almost every section of the country in the decision-making of strategic institutions, such as the oil industry. In addition, the President proposed the deletion of sections 11(2)(f), 11(2)(g), 34(2)(f) and 34(2)(g) from the Act, which would see the removal of the Ministries of Petroleum Resources and Finance from both boards. | President Muhammadu Buhari, Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/22/buhari-proposes-new-amendments-to-pia-nominates-regulatory-boards/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, September 22, 2021 | Anambra Gov’ship: PWDs Urge INEC On Sign Language Interpreters | The Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) has urged Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide sign language interpreters at polling units (PUs) and registration centres (RCs) for the November 6 Anambra governorship election. IFA Executive Director, Ms Grace Jerry, made the call on Tuesday, September 21, in Abuja, at a news conference tagged: “Access Nigeria Campaign Final Observation Statement on the Accessibility of Anambra Continuous Voter Registration Process for PWDs”. She stated that this is to prevent voter apathy of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) and other recommendations to improve accessibility for PWDs in the Anambra election. She explained that providing sign language interpreters and PWDs specific instruction posters would assist residents with hearing impairments and other forms of disabilities to register during the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) and actual voting. According to her, “Access Nigeria observers reported that INEC did not provide sign language interpreters to assist citizens with hearing impairments to register in all 20 registration centres during the four-week observation period. The total absence of both sign language interpreters and PWD-specific instruction posters excluded and discouraged citizens with hearing impairments from registering as voters. During the period of observation, there was a clear absence of security officials at 14 out of the 20 registration centers visited.” She stated that if the CVR and other electoral processes were accessible to PWDs, it would increase the participation of the association in all phases of the electoral process. | INEC, Anambra State governorship election | https://dailytrust.com/anambra-govship-pwds-urge-inec-on-sign-language-interpreters | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, September 22, 2021 | Senate Passes Bill To Establish Nationwide Emergency Communications Service | The Senate on Tuesday, September 21 passed a bill seeking to establish the Nationwide Emergency Communications Service. It also approved 112 as the toll-free number for emergencies. This followed the consideration of a report by the Committee on Communications. Senator Biodun Olujimi, who presented the report, stated that Clause 2 of the bill sought to establish the Nationwide Emergency Communications Service. She explained that the agency when established, would be charged with the responsibility of deployment and coordination of a seamless and reliable end-to-end infrastructure for emergency needs throughout Nigeria. She added that Clause 5 of the bill was amended to vest the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) with the responsibility of formulating regulations and guidelines for the workings of the Nationwide Emergency Communications Service. | Senate, Nationwide Emergency Communications Service | https://dailytrust.com/senate-approves-establishment-of-nationwide-emergency-communications-service | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Wednesday, September 22, 2021 | House of Reps: Bill To Exempt Police From Pension Scheme Passes Second Reading | The House of Representatives at the plenary on Tuesday, Septmeber 21, unanimously passed for a second reading a bill to exempt the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) from the contributory pension scheme like their counterpart in the military and the intelligence agencies. The proposed legislation titled: ‘A Bill for an Act to Amend the Pension Reform Act, 2014 to Provide for Exemption of the Nigeria Police Force from the Contributory Pension Scheme, and for Related Matters’, was sponsored by Hon. Francis Waive (PDP, Delta). Leading the debate on its general principles, Waive lamented that retired police personnel are passing through difficult times after serving the country. He explained that the bill seeks to amend the Section 5(1)(a) of Pension Reform Act of 2014, to include the Nigerian Police Force as part of the categories of persons exempted from the scheme, “because their pension is meagre compared to other security agencies and the contributory pension is an impediment to their access to benefits.” The lawmaker opined that members of the police force, being the frontline security agency in the country, are exposed to danger on a daily basis than other security agencies, and as such, deserve better treatment during and after service. | House of Representatives, Police, Pension Scheme | https://punchng.com/inec-suspends-voters-registration-in-niger/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Wednesday, September 22, 2021 | Lawmakers Urge FG to Provide Relief Materials to Victims of Insurgency in Sokoto | The House of Representatives has urged the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide food and other basic necessities to the people of Isa/Sabon Birni Federal Constituency of Sokoto State who had returned to their homes after being displaced by insurgents. It also urged the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons to provide necessary assistance to the victims. The resolutions were sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Mohammed Sa’idu Bargaja, at the plenary on Tuesday, September 21. Moving the motion, Bargaja stated that the victims of banditry attacks in over 30 villages across Isa/Sabon Birni Federal Constituency of Sokoto State were displaced to various locations within the neighbouring towns and have started returning to their homes and villages, given a fair improvement in security situation in the area. He added that due to unavailability of food, shelter, farmland and business premises which were destroyed by insurgents, the returnees are living in abject poverty and untold hardship, which could continue if urgent intervention is not provided by the appropriate authorities. Adopting the motion, the House mandated its Committees on Internally Displaced Persons and Refugees and Emergency and Disaster Preparedness to ensure compliance. | Sokoto State, Insurgency | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/22/lawmakers-urge-fg-to-provide-relief-materials-to-victims-of-insurgency-in-sokoto/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Tuesday, September 21, 2021 | Reps Demand Reports On Assets Seized From Ex-Public Officials | The House of Representatives on Monday, September 20, ordered the Presidential Implementation Committee (PIC) on Landed Properties to produce reports of all assets seized from former Nigerian leaders. Members were more particular about the Late Gen. Sani Abacha whose property and money were recovered by the Federal Government. Hon. Ademorin Kuye, Chairman of the ad-hoc committee on abandoned properties stated that the House wanted a report on all assets seized from Nigerian leaders in and out of Nigeria, particularly Gen. Abacha. He stated this when the Executive Secretary of PIC, Bala Samid, appeared before the committee in Abuja. According to Kuye, “We need to know the state of those properties and to also know if the properties have titles of deed.’’ The committee also queried the sale of Federal Government’s assets held in trust by the PIC. Kuye stated that the committee discovered that some of the properties the PIC claimed to have sold were either not sold or were not paid for contrary to claims made by PIC. He directed the PIC to furnish his committee with up-to-date reports of Federal Government’s assets sold, amount realised from the sales, those yet to be sold and those under litigation. Kuye also asked the PIC to state the amount of money remitted to the Federal Government from the sales with evidence of remittance, adding that all assets pointed out to the committee but not included in its first report should be forwarded the House of Representatives committee. Responding, Samid explained that some of the people occupying government quarters had refused to vacate them, adding that as soon as the occupants were approached for payment or to vacate the houses they went to the court to obtain injunctions restraining the PIC. He further stated thus: “We approached the Federal Government to report them and the Federal Government said that we should give them time. We want to generate money for the Federal Government but in the process, we are losing money." | House of Representatives , Presidential Implementation Committee (PIC) | https://dailytrust.com/reps-demand-reports-of-assets-seized-from-ex-leaders | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Tuesday, September 21, 2021 | 2023: INEC To Display New Registered Voters, Fresh Registrants Hit 3m | The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that it will on Friday, September 24, display the details of the newly registered voters from the on-going nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR). The National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Festus Okoye, states this on Monday, september 20 in Abuja. He added that the first quarter of the exercise would end on Tuesday, September 28, as fresh registration hits three million. He recalled that the commission resumed the CVR on June 28 and has been given a weekly update apart from a detailed timetable indicating quarterly schedules for the exercise. According to him, the second quarter of the exercise would begin on October 4 and end on December 20, 2021. | INEC, Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) | https://dailytrust.com/2023-inec-to-display-new-registered-voters-fresh-registrants-hit-3m | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Tuesday, September 21, 2021 | SGF Reaffirms Government’s Seriousness on Mandatory Vaccination of Civil Servants | Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, has reiterated the seriousness of the Federal Government’s call for mandatory COVID-19 vaccination of civil servants. Speaking on Monday, september 20, at the unveiling of ‘Nigeria at 60 Photo Exhibition’ with the theme, “60 Years of Our Togetherness, in Abuja, the SGF, who was guest of honour, stated: “So, my sincere advice to Nigerians, who are yet to get vaccinated, is to do so urgently, because very soon, we will make it mandatory in all government establishments and functions, that civil servants are vaccinated.” | COVID-19 Vaccination, Civil Servants | DailyTrust Online | Tuesday, September 21, 2021 | Congress: Rancour In Lagos APC Over Consensus | There is uneasy calm in the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the forthcoming state congress, Daily Trust can report. Some aggrieved members are said to be warming up for a showdown over plans by the party leadership to elect new members of the State Working Committee (SWC) through a consensus. It was learnt on Monday, September 20, that two chieftains of the party have indicated interest to contest for the party’s chairmanship. They are Fouad Oki and Mustapha Dabiri. Sources within the party told Daily Trust that the decision of the two chieftains to contest is unsettling the party amidst moves to re-elect the incumbent caretaker committee chairman, Tunde Balogun. It was gathered that the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), the highest decision making organ in Lagos APC under the leadership of the National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has concluded plans to return Balogun. However, Oki, who is the leader of Lagos APC Democrats, a bloc within the party and had even organised parallel congresses during the ward and local government congresses, as well as Dabiri, have vowed to reject the congress. | Lagos State, APC, State Congress | https://dailytrust.com/congress-showdown-imminent-in-lagos-apc-over-consensus | |||
| DailyTrust Online | Tuesday, September 21, 2021 | Oyo PDP Crisis Festers As Faction Demands Makinde’s Resignation | Aggrieved leaders and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State on Monday, September 20, passed a vote of no confidence on the Governor of the State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, ahead of its Saturday congresses. At the meeting were the youth leader of the party, Asiwaju Adekola Adeoye; a former majority leader of House of Representatives, Mulikat Adeola; former Deputy Governor, Alhaji Azeem Gbolarumi; Alhaji Nureni Akanbi, Engineer Femi Babalola, Elder Matthew Abioye, Princess Aderonke Adedoja and Alhaji Bisi Olopoeyan. Others were Alhaji Sarafa Olaoniye, Alhaji Ahmed Aranse, Alhaji Ajinawo, Baba Elisa, Chief Odeyemi, Alhaji Somope, Alhaji Bola Akinyemi, Hon Michael Okunlade and a host of other members drawn from all the 33 local government areas of the state. The aggrieved members, in a communiqué at the end of the meeting, vowed to ensure they did everything to prevent Makinde from getting the party’s ticket for a second term. | Oyo State, PDP | https://dailytrust.com/oyo-pdp-crisis-festers-as-faction-demands-makindes-resignation | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Monday, September 20, 2021 | INEC Laments Razing of its Office in Enugu | The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Sunday, September 19, lamented the burning of its local government office in Awgu, Enugu State. According to a statement by the National Commissioner and Chairman Voter Education Committee, Mr. Festus Okoye, “Our Resident Electoral Commissioner for Enugu State, Mr. Emeka Ononamadu, reported an attack on the INEC office in Awgu Local Government Area of the State. The building was set ablaze this morning, Sunday, September 19, 2021, resulting in extensive damage to mainly the stores section where election materials are kept. Fortunately, all movable election materials had been evacuated following recent attacks on our offices in the state. There are no casualties in the incident.” He also stated that the identity or motives of attackers were unknown while the incident has been reported to the Nigeria Police Force for investigation. Okoye added that the commission appreciated the prompt response of the security agencies comprising the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well the Enugu State Fire Service and the Awgu Local Government Neighbourhood Watch. This unfortunate incident, Okoye stated, is the first since the last attack on our facilities four months ago in May 2021. | INEC, Enugu State | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/20/inec-laments-razing-of-its-office-in-enugu/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Monday, September 20, 2021 | Buhari Arrives New York for UN General Assembly | President Muhammadu Buhari has arrived in New York for the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly. The New York Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Buhari arrived at the JF Kennedy International Airport in New York at about 4 p.m. local time. The President was received by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment and the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the UN, Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande. Other Nigerian officials on the ground to welcome the President were Niyi Adebayo, Minister of State on Power, Goddy Jeddy-Agba, his Environment counterpart, Sharon Ikeazor, Director-General of National Intelligence Agency, Ahmed Abubakar, and Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States, Uzoma Emenike, among others. Buhari would be the second head of state to address the high-level session of the General Assembly on the fourth day of the General Debates at about 9 a.m. local time on Friday, Sept. 24, when he would speak on the theme of the conference and other global issues. The theme for the 76th session is, “Building Resilience Through Hope – To Recover from COVID-19, Rebuild Sustainably, Respond to the Needs of the Planet, Respect the Rights of People and Revitalise the United Nations”. The Nigerian leader is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with a number of leaders of other countries’ delegations and heads of International Development organisations. | President Muhammadu Buhari, United Nations General Assembly | https://guardian.ng/news/buhari-arrives-new-york-for-un-general-assembly/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Monday, September 20, 2021 | Buhari Orders NNPC’s Incorporation As Ararume Chairs Board | President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered the incorporation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited. Buhari, who is also Minister of Petroleum Resources, stated that the decision is in consonance with Section 53(1) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, which requires him to call for the incorporation of the state oil firm within six months of commencement of the law in consultation with the Minister of Finance on the nominal shares of the company. Consequently, NNPC’s Group Managing Director (GMD), Mele Kolo Kyari, has, therefore, been directed to take necessary steps to ensure that the incorporation of the organisation is consistent with provisions of the PIA. By virtue of Section 59(2) of the PIA, the President, in his dual capacity as the minister, also approved the appointment of the board and management of NNPC Limited, with effect from the date of its incorporation. The board chairman is Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, while Mele Kolo Kyari and Umar I. Ajiya are Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, respectively. Other members are Dr. Tajudeen Umar (North East), Mrs. Lami O. Ahmed (North Central), Mallam Mohammed Lawal (North West), Senator Margaret Chuba Okadigbo (South East), Constance Harry Marshal (South South) and Chief Pius Akinyelure (South West). | Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited | https://guardian.ng/news/buhari-orders-nnpcs-incorporation-as-ararume-chairs-board/ | ||||||||
| Vanguard Newspaper | Monday, September 20, 2021 | Decision on Zoning Will Be Taken At Appropriate Time – PDP | The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governors’ forum on Saturday, September 18, stated that a decision zoning of political offices would be made by the party at the appropriate time before the party convention, scheduled for October 30. The party and its governors’ forum stated this in separate statements issued in Abuja on Saturday, September 18, in reaction to a comment by Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State on the issue of zoning of presidency by the PDP ahead of the party's national convention. Umahi has accused the PDP of not being ready to zone its 2023 presidential ticket to the south. The PDP Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF), in a statement by its Director-General, Hon. C.I.D Maduabum, stated that the forum was outraged by Umahi, who left the PDP for the All Progressives Congress (APC), attempting “to turn truth on its head”. Maduabum advised Umahi, who he alleged to have sabotaged PDP in the 2019 presidential election in the state, to continue his role in the APC and leave the PDP alone. On the issue of zoning, Maduabum advised Umahi to face his issues in the APC and not drag PDP and its Governors into it. | PDP, Zoning | https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/09/decision-on-zoning-will-be-taken-at-appropriate-time-pdp/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Monday, September 20, 2021 | Audit: 39 Agencies Failed To Retire N2.2bn Advances To Federation Accounts — Senate | The Senate has stated that 39 Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) failed to retire about N2.2 billion advances to the federation accounts in 2014. The Red Chamber, in its resolution, demanded the sanctioning of accounting officers of the affected MDAs in accordance with the provision of Rule 3124 of Financial Regulations. The panel, chaired by Senator Matthew Urhoghide, based its findings on the 2015 report of the Auditor-General for the Federation. Agencies involved in the alleged infractions include: Ministry of Information, Budget Office, Ministry of Interior, National Industrial Court, Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, High Court of Justice, FCT, Sharia Court of Appeal, National Planning Commission (NPC), Federal Ministry of Water Resources. Others are Federal Ministry of Culture and National Orientation, Public Complaints Commission, Federal Civil Service Commission, Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Nigeria Immigration Office, Police Service Commission. The committee, in its report stated that, “Some MDAs showed increase in outstanding advances to the tune of N2,296,567,084.37 over 2014 comparative figures and others showing no movement contrary to the provisions of the extant regulations which require prompt retirement of advances. The above implies that there is a violation of Financial Regulations (2009) Nos.1404, 1405, 1416, 1419 and 1420 which require prompt retirement of advances. The MDAs that had previous year advances that were not retired were granting additional advances. The huge outstanding advances imply a breakdown of internal controls over the issuance of advances. The non-retirement of advances as and when due should be addressed by the Accountant-General of the Federation with strict sanctions.” | Senate, MDAs | v | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Thursday, September 16, 2021 | Senate Steps Down Presentation of 2022-2024 MTEF/FSP Report | The Senate at plenary on Wednesday, September 15, refused to consider the report on the 2022-2024 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper. The decision by the upper legislative chamber to defer its presentation and consideration of the report was sequel to a motion moved to that effect by the Senate Leader, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi and seconded by the Minority Leader, Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe. According to Abdullahi, the report on the 2022-2024 MTEF/FSP needed further legislative work by the Joint Committees on Finance; National Planning; Foreign and Local Debts; Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions; Petroleum Resources (Upstream); Downstream Petroleum Sector and Gas. He stated that, “The document needs further deliberation on, and, therefore, needs to be fine-tuned.” The presentation of the report was, thereafter, stepped down to allow the Joint Committee conclude further work on it. | Senate, MTEF 2022-2024 | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/16/senate-steps-down-presentation-of-2022-2024-mtef-fsp-report/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Thursday, September 16, 2021 | Buhari Swears in Three INEC Commissioners | The Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, on Wednesday, September 15 was preceded by the swearing-in of three National Commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) by President Muhammadu Buhari. Those sworn-in are Dr Baba Bila (representing North-East zone), Prof. Sani Adam (North-Central), and Prof. Abdullahi Abdu (North West). At a brief ceremony held, later, at the Commission’s headquarters to welcome the new commissioners, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, urged them to be firm and fair in their dealings with political parties and candidates. At the event, Sa’idu Ahmad, a professor of English Literature from Bayero University Kano, was also sworn-in as Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC). Ahmad, who is from Jigawa State, was deployed to Zamfara State. The INEC boss, who urged the new appointees to adhere strictly to provisions of the law, stated that, “Our success in this arduous task draws from our integrity as election managers. We must be strict in the application of the law, firm in handling the public trust bestowed on us, and fair in our dealings with political parties and candidates. We must remember that in discharging our responsibilities, Nigeria and Nigerians must always come first. We must abide by our oaths of office to defend the choice made by Nigerians at the polls in all elections and continue to protect the sanctity of the vote without which democratic election is meaningless.” He also urged them to quickly settle in and familiarise themselves with the rules, procedures, and responsibilities of their office. | INEC, National Commissioners | https://guardian.ng/news/buhari-swears-in-three-inec-commissioners-as-fec-okays-n38-4b-for-roads/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Thursday, September 16, 2021 | NEC Chairman: Delta’s Bye-election Was Historic With BVAS | The National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Mahmood Yakubu, on Wednesday, September 15, described as historic, a recent bye-election for Isoko South 1 State Constituency area of Delta State, using a new technology, the Bi-modal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). Yakubu, who hinted at this while swearing-in three National Commissioners and a Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), however, charged the new officers not to compromise their oaths office and adhere to the rule of law, because the credibility of any election was always to the extent of the integrity of the managers. According to him, the commission piloted the BVAS during the Delta bye-election and it turned out a huge success. He stated that, “We introduced the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) for efficient human recognition through a biometric verification mechanism using both fingerprint and facial recognition of voters. The result of the pilot in the 84 polling units was very encouraging indeed. It took an average of just one minute for the device to correctly locate the voter in the system and another two minutes to authenticate a voter. In terms of the ruggedness of the device and its battery life, no single BVAS was replaced due to discharge of battery throughout the voting period. Most importantly, the device was able to guarantee the credibility of voter accreditation by preventing the incidents of multiple voting or the use of stolen PVCs to vote." He, however, acknowledged that there were a few challenges, which included “Matching the voter’s live image against the image on the register was difficult in a few instances due to the quality of pictures of some voters arising from previous registration. Secondly, some polling units were not bright enough when taking the photo for the facial authentication. Thirdly, there was the age-old problem of thuggery during elections.” Nevertheless, he assured the people that the Commission would address the challenges, including the installation of a mechanism to disable and track the device in the event of theft by hoodlums. He explained that the mechanism would be activated ahead of the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election. | INEC, BVAS | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/16/inec-chairman-deltas-bye-election-was-historic-with-bvas/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Thursday, September 16, 2021 | FG Says Twitter’s Suspension to Be Lifted Soon | The Federal Government on Wednesday, September 15, disclosed that the suspension placed on the operations of international microblog, Twitter, in the country would soon be lifted. It assured that it was ‘very close’ to resolving the issues it had with Twitter which led to the temporary ban placed on the social media platform about 100 days ago. Speaking on the issue after the Federal Executive Committee meeting, Information and Culture Minister, Lai Mohammed, while fielding questions from newsmen on efforts to resolve the matter once again stated that in a matter of days, the issue would be resolved. He stated thus: “I think even Twitter itself two days ago gave what I will call a progress report on our talks with them. And I think if I want to quote them rightly, it has been productive and quite respectful. And as to how soon is soon, right? I want to assure you that between the time that Twitter operation has been suspended, and when it will be restored is by far, much, much shorter. What we’re trying to do is the changes that have been going on, but we need to dot the i’s and cross the t’s, but I can assure us that we’re mindful of the anxiety of Nigerians and both parties are working very hard to put a closure on the matter. And like Twitter itself said the changes have been very productive on both parties. It has not been advisory at all. And it’s quite respectful.” | Federal Government, Twitter | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/16/fg-says-twitters-suspension-to-be-lifted-soon/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Thursday, September 16, 2021 | APC Releases Timetable For State Congresses | The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has released the timetable for the conduct of state congresses slated for October 2, 2021. In a statement on Wednesday, September 15, the Secretary of the APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee, Sen John James Akpanudoedehe, stated that the sale of forms will commence on the same day and end on Monday, September 27, 2021. He stated that the screening of aspirants for state executive positions will take place from Wednesday, September 29 to Thursday September 30, 2021. He added that appeals arising from the state congresses are scheduled from October 9 to 16, 2021. He stated that: "On the cost of nomination forms, aspirants for the position of state chairman will purchase forms at the cost of N100,000. Deputy State Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer aspirants will pay N50,000. Aspirants for the position of Senatorial Chairmen are to purchase forms at N50,000; Senatorial Youth Leader N30,000 and other offices N30,000. Female aspirants and physically challenged aspirants are to pay 50% of the prescribed fees for each position. Equally, the party congratulates members on the just concluded local government area (LGA) congresses and urges those who may have been dissatisfied with the exercise to approach the Appeal Committees that have been detailed to resume sittings in various states. The Appeal Committees have been charged to ensure fair hearing as they attend to complaints.” | APC, State Congresses | https://dailytrust.com/just-in-apc-releases-timetable-for-state-congresses | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, September 15, 2021 | INEC Earmarks 25,000 Officials for Anambra Guber | The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that it will deploy 25,009 officials for the November 6, Anambra State governorship election. It also ruled out electronic transmission of results, adding that ballot boxes, ballot papers and result sheets will be deployed for the election. National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, who disclosed in Abuja, on Tuesday, Septmebr 14, added that the security situation in the state and the COVID-19 pandemic would be critical factors in deployment of the officials. | INEC, Anambra State Govenorship Election | https://guardian.ng/politics/inec-earmarks-25000-officials-for-anambra-guber/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, September 15, 2021 | Senate Orders Implementation of PIA as Buhari Transmits Two Bills | The Senate, on Tuesday, September 14, gave a marching order for the expeditious implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, in a welcome address to the lawmakers on returning from their yearly summer recess, directed the Senate Committees on Petroleum Downstream, Petroleum Upstream and Gas to start oversight work in that respect. He explained that the resolution was to ensure that Nigerians reap the benefits of the legislation as soon as possible. Lawal reiterated the resolve of the upper legislative chamber to review the 1999 Constitution and speedily pass the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2021. The Yobe-born politician pledged to work closely with all stakeholders to harmonise issues that could strengthen Nigeria as a more united and stronger federation. Lawal stated that he and his colleagues would bequeath a country where unity, faith, peace and progress are hallmarks. He pointed out that the National Assembly “is proud to be a major factor turning around the economic fortunes of the country.” | Senate, Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), Senate | https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/national/senate-orders-implementation-of-pia-as-buhari-transmits-two-bills/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, September 15, 2021 | Twitter Reaches Out, Commits to Restoration Plan in Nigeria | Embattled microblogging platform, Twitter, has reached out to assure Nigerians that it has not stopped engaging with the government on ways to resolve its ban in the country. The ban has lasted for 100 days as at Tuesday, September 14, with the economy loosing an estimated N246 billion. A 58-word chat sent to The Guardian, on Tuesday, September 14, attributed to Twitter spokesperson, read thus: “We continue to engage with the Nigerian government to discuss why Twitter has been blocked and ways to resolve the matter. We are committed to charting a path forward to the restoration of Twitter for everyone in Nigeria. Discussions with the Nigerian government have been respectful and productive. We look forward to seeing the service restored very soon.” | Twitter, Federal Government | https://guardian.ng/news/twitter-reaches-out-commits-to-restoration-plan-in-nigeria/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, September 15, 2021 | PDP Govs To N/Assembly: Delay In Electoral Act Amendment Threatens 2023 Polls | The PDP Governors’ Forum on Tuesday, September 14, told the National Assembly that any further delay in passing and assenting to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill would do grievous and irreparable damage to the 2023 elections. Therefore, the governors enjoined the parliament to immediately set up its conference committee that will harmonise the different versions of the Electoral Act Amendment bills passed by both chambers. Chairman of the forum and Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, in a statement issued Tuesday, September 14, urged them to harken to the wishes of Nigerians and be guided by the national interest, particularly on the issue of electronic transmission of results. The governors requested the Senate and House of Representatives conference committees when set up, to adopt the House version of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill on the issue of electronic transmission. The PDP Governors' Forum, which also asked the National Assembly Conference Committee to jettison the House of Representatives’ decision that has the effect of forcing all political parties to adopt only one method of conducting primaries, recalled that the House amended S.87 (1) of the Act, by deleting indirect primaries and mandating only direct primaries. The governors were of the view that political parties should be allowed discretion to adopt either direct or indirect primaries in their constitutions and in practice. The Senate President Ahmad Lawan, on Tuesday, September 14, stated that a Conference Committee would be set up to harmonise the two versions of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill passed by the Senate and House of Representatives in July 2021. Lawan, who said this in a speech to welcome senators back from two-month annual recess, added that the Senate conference committee will be announced soon. | National Assembly, Electoral Bill | https://dailytrust.com/pdp-govs-to-n-assembly-delay-in-electoral-act-amendment-threatens-2023-polls | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, September 15, 2021 | Buhari Transmits Bills On Gun Control, Importation Of Explosives To Senate | President Muhammadu Buhari has transmitted to the Senate, two bills that seek to control the proliferation of arms and regulate the importation and exportation of explosives in the country. They are: the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill 2021; and Explosives Bill 2021. Buhari transmitted the bill in two separate letters dated the 26th and 27th August 2021 and read during the commencement of plenary by Senate President Ahmad Lawan on Tuesday, September 14. Buhari, in the letter, stated that the Explosives Bill 2021 “seeks to repeal the Explosives Act 1964 and enact the Explosives Act, to regulate the manufacture, storage, possession, use, distribution, purchase, sale, transportation, importation, and exportation of explosives and for related matters.” In the second letter, Buhari stated that the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill 2021, was to curb the spate of insecurity across the country. The letter reads in part: “Pursuant to Section 58(2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), I forward herewith, the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill 2021 for the kind consideration of the Senate. The Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill 2021 seeks to transform the Presidential Committee on Small Arms and Light Weapons into a National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons under the office of the National Security Adviser." | President Muhammadu Buhari, Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill 2021, Explosives Bill 2021 | https://dailytrust.com/buhari-transmits-bills-on-gun-control-importation-of-explosives-to-senate | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Tuesday, September 14, 2021 | APC Appoints Adamu, Dogara, Others into National Reconciliation Committee | Despite the threat by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) that it was compiling the lists of litigants who had instituted legal suits against the party, the party has approved the composition of a National Reconciliation Committee to reconcile aggrieved members of the party. The constitution of the committee became pertinent following the increasing number of litigations instituted by aggrieved members against the party. This, however, was part of the troubleshooting strategy adopted by the party to ensure that cases instituted against the party by aggrieved members are withdrawn. The National Secretary, Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee, Senator John Akpanudoedehe, in a statement issued on Tuesday, September 14, stated that a date for the inauguration of the committee would be communicated to the public. According to him, “The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), Governor Mai Mala Buni, has approved the composition of a National Reconciliation Committee for the party. The committee has Senator Abdullahi Adamu as Chairman and Otunba Moses Adeyemo as Secretary, while Senator George Akume, Sullivan Chime, Ali Saad Birnin Kudu, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, Alhaji Suleiman Argungu, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluranti Adebule and Dr. Beta Edu are members.” | APC, National Reconciliation Committee | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/14/apc-appoints-adamu-dogara-others-into-national-reconciliation-committee/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Tuesday, September 14, 2021 | NDA Commandant Presents Report on Bandits’ Attack to House Committee | The Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Major General Ibrahim Manu Yusuf, on Tuesday, September 14, presented a report on the August 24 attack by bandits at the NDA headquarters in Kaduna State, to members of the House of Representatives Committee on Defence. Two officers were killed in the incident and another abducted when bandits attacked the military institution in Kaduna State. The Minister of Defence, Maj. Gen. Bashir Magashi, also briefed the lawmakers on the agreement between the Nigerian Government and the Russian federation on the fight against banditry, insurgency, kidnapping and all other vices and its implications on national security. Addressing journalists briefly before meeting the lawmakers behind closed doors, the commandant reiterated that efforts were in top gear to rescue the abducted officer and ensure such incident never occurs again. Earlier, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Babajimi Benson, stated that the report would shed more light on the incident, as well as measures being put in place to deter another occurrence. Meanwhile, the lawmakers who were scheduled to resume on Tuesday (today) after their two months annual vacation, adjourned plenary to Wednesday, in honour of their late colleague, Hon. Adedayo Omolafe, who died on August 15. | Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), House of Representatives | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/14/nda-commandant-presents-report-on-bandits-attack-to-house-committee/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Tuesday, September 14, 2021 | INEC Cautions Parties on Responsible Electioneering in Anambra | The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has advised political parties contesting in the Anambra State governorship election on November 6 to carry out responsible campaigns. The Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee of INEC, Festus Okoye, gave the advice on Monday, September 13, when he spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. Okoye urged political parties to carry out responsible campaigns in consonance with safety regulations, while considering the security situation in the country. He advised them to seek clarification from the Commission on matters of national security. According to him, INEC is working hard to deliver on its mandate of ensuring a credible governorship election in Anambra. Urging stakeholders to cooperate with the electoral umpire, the INEC Commissioner described the conduct and delivery of a good election as a multi stakeholders’ venture. He stated that, “The Commission is working assiduously to get its facilities and processes ready for the election. It has completed the first phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) in Anambra, wherein it devolved to the 326 Registration Areas (RAs), 21 local council offices and the state office. It is finalising arrangements to deploy its Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) to Anambra, and various enlightenment and voter education programmes are ongoing in the State. It is moving fast to rebuild its Anambra collation centre, storage facilities and office building, as well as facilities damaged by arsonists.” Disclosing that INEC would batch and distribute all non-sensitive materials from its Anambra office, he added that the sensitive materials would be delivered directly to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) office in Awka, the Anambra State capital. | INEC, Anambra State Govenorship Election | https://guardian.ng/politics/inec-cautions-parties-on-responsible-electioneering-in-anambra/ | ||||||||
| Punch Newspaper | Tuesday, September 14, 2021 | Buhari Seeks National Assembly Approval for Fresh External Loans | The President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, has requested the National Assembly to approve for it $4,054,476,863 and €710 million loan requests. Buhari is also seeking the nation’s legislature’s approval for grant components of $125 million in the 2018-2020 external rolling borrowing plan. This is contained in a letter addressed to both chambers of the National Assembly and read on the floor at the resumption of plenary by the presiding officers on Tuesday. Part of the letter read thus: “I write on the above subject and submit the attached addendum to the proposed 2018-2020 external rolling borrowing plan for the consideration and concurrent approval of the Senate for the same to become effective. The distinguished Senate President may recall that I submitted a request on 2018-2020 borrowing plan for the approval of the Senate in May 2021. However, in view of other emerging needs and to ensure that all critical projects approved by Federal Executive Council as of June 2021 are incorporated, I hereby forward an addendum to the proposed borrowing plan. The projects listed in the external borrowing plan are to be financed through sovereign loans from the World Bank, French Development Agency, EXIM Bank and IFAD in the total sum of $4,054,476,863 and €710 million and grant components of $125 million.” | President Muhammadu Buhari, National Assembly, Loans | https://punchng.com/breaking-buhari-seeks-national-assembly-approval-for-fresh-external-loans/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Monday, September 13, 2021 | CJN Refers Judge who Issued Criminal Summons to Soludo, to Disciplinary Committee | The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Muhammad, has ordered the Judicial Service Committee (JSC) of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to commence disciplinary action against an Upper Area Court Judge, who issued Direct Criminal Summons against a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Professor Chukwuma Soludo. The judge, whose name was withheld had recently issued criminal summosn against Soludo, candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) in the November 6 governorship election in Anambra State, over alleged serial abuse of office and breach of Code of Conduct for public officers while in office between May 29, 2004 and May 29, 2009. According to the summons, Soludo was to appear before the court and answer to charges bordering on perjury, corruption and false assets declaration, which was completely outside the jurisdiction of the Upper Area Court. Trial on criminal charges on false declaration of assets is exclusively vested in the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). However, the Upper Area Court Judge assumed jurisdiction contrary to the provisions of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution. The Acting Chief Judge of the FCT, Justice Hussein Baba-Yusuf, who is the Chairman of the FCT Judicial Service Committee, is expected to submit his findings on the matters to the CJN within 21 days. | Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/13/cjn-refers-judge-who-issued-criminal-summon-on-soludo-to-disciplinary-committee/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Monday, September 13, 2021 | 26 States Delay Judicial, Legislative Autonomy Laws, 54 Days after Deadline | No fewer than 26 states were yet to enact laws for the implementation of the financial autonomy for the state legislatures and judiciaries, THISDAY’s investigation has revealed. This is coming exactly 54 days after the expiration of the 45-day deadline reached in the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by the 36 state governors and the leadership of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) and the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) for the implementation of the financial autonomy for the two arms of the government. Investigation revealed that while some State Assemblies have passed the relevant bills, the governors of the affected states have not assented to these bills for implementation. The states include: Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Osun, Oyo, Benue, Niger, Kebbi, Kwara, Taraba, Nasarawa, and Akwa Ibom States, while States such as Edo, Kaduna, Kano, and Imo have not even prepared the bills. The bills are at various stages at the State Houses of Assembly in other states. However, Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State; Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; Governor Bello Matawalle of Zamfara State, as well as Governors Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State and Ben Ayade of Cross River State have signed the bills, for the implementation of the financial autonomy of the two arms of government. THISDAY gathered that following the expiration of the 45-day deadline, the committee set up by the National Judicial Council (NJC) to monitor the implementation has written to the 36 state Chief Judges (CJs) demanding the status of implementation in their respective states. Of the 36 states, only Lagos, Rivers and Bayelsa claimed that they have started the full implementation while Plateau State has commenced partial implementation. Hpowever, the Deputy President of JUSUN, Mr. Emmanuel Abisoye told THISDAY at the weekend that the 45 days had expired with only a few states enacting the laws. He stated that that none of the states has implemented the financial autonomy fully as agreed by the parties. According to him, “We are going to meet to review the situation after we must have received the feedback from the National Judicial Council (NJC) on the status of implementation of the financial autonomy agreement.” | State Judicial and Legislative Autonomy | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/12/26-states-delay-judicial-legislative-autonomy-laws-54-days-after-deadline/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Monday, September 13, 2021 | Ekweremadu Advises N’Assembly Against Legislating on VAT Collection, Stamp Duties | A former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has advised the National Assembly not to legislate on the collection of Value Added Tax (VAT) and Stamp Duties, which are subjects of litigation between some states and the Federal Government. He noted that allowing the litigations to run the full course could be a major step towards strengthening the nation’s federalism. In a statement issued on Sunday, September 12 by his Media Adviser, Uche Anichukwu, Ekweremadu, who recalled that he had for over a decade been warning the nation against what he had since termed a “feeding bottle federalism” in which states depend on redistributed resources of other federating units for survival, held that any Constitution amendment to transfer VAT collection to the Exclusive Legislative List, as reportedly requested by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), would amount to changing the goal post in the middle of a game. Ekweremadu, who chaired the Constitution amendment process in the Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Senate, stressed that since past legislative efforts to get things right had failed or been scuttled, it was natural and imperative to allow the judiciary to play its role in shaping the nation’s federalism. He stated that, “Although we achieved a number of successes, perhaps my worst experience at the helms of the Constitution amendment process was in the Seventh Assembly. We recorded the most elaborate amendments to our Constitution, including the rearrangement of the Legislative Lists to devolve more powers to the subnational governments by moving certain items like Aviation, Railway, Power, Stamp Duties, among others to the Concurrent Legislative List. Unfortunately, the amendments were denied assent by the President. But as a lawyer and lawmaker, I know that case law or judicial precedent is also a veritable source of law. So, I think we should allow the Constitution and the laws of our land to be tested in the courts of law. It is untidy for the Presidency or its agency to come through the backdoor to seek legislative intervention in its favour on the same matter that is prejudice. The ball is now in the court of the judiciary and all we should seek at this juncture is an expedited and courageous adjudication of the lawsuits.” Senator Ekweremadu, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Environment, also advised every state to look inwards to boost its revenues since every part of the country has what it takes to prosper. | Value Added Tax (VAT), National Assembly | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/12/ekweremadu-advises-nassembly-against-legislating-on-vat-collection-stamp-duties/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Monday, September 13, 2021 | Anambra Governorship: PDP Rejects Storage Of Electoral Materials In Imo | The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected the reported move by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to use its facility in Owerri, the Imo State capital, for the storage of electoral materials for the conduct of the November 6 Anambra State governorship election. PDP, while reacting on Sunday, September 12 through its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, stated that it held the stance “given the well-known electoral character of Governor Hope Uzodinma and the All Progressives Congress (APC).” The opposition party insisted that any attempt to hand over the materials to Governor Uzodinma or storing them in Imo State would amount to rigging the election before its conduct. PDP added that this could lead to a breakdown of law and order in the zone. The party fruther stated that, “Moreover, if INEC, for any reason desires to keep the materials in another state other than Anambra, the best choice ought to be Enugu State, given the availability of a functional airport, a more secure environment with regional security formations, as well as better storage facility at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in Enugu.” The party called on the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to save the situation “by speaking out, as well as taking steps to reverse the reported plan, should there be any of such.” In reaction, INEC stated that it will not be distracted by familiar but unfounded allegations about an imaginary plot to rig the Anambra pill. Mr Rotimi Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, told Daily Trust on Sunday, September 12, in Abuja that the allegations were spurious, adding that any political party with evidence of such a plot to rig the election should make it public. | Anambra State Governorship Election, PDP, Imo State | https://dailytrust.com/anambra-govship-pdp-rejects-storage-of-electoral-materials-in-imo | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Monday, September 13, 2021 | Kaduna Poll: APC, PDP Protest As Electoral Body Declares 4 LGs Inconclusive | The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are protesting the declaration of elections in four Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Kaduna State, as inconclusive in the local government elections conducted in the State on Saturday, September 4. The State Independent Electoral Commission (KADSIECOM) had conducted elections into 19 out of the 23 LGAs of the State. However, the elections in four LGAs were postponed to September 25 due to security reasons. APC won 14 LGAs out of the 19, as announced by KADSIECOM’s Chairperson, Dr Saratu Dikko-Audu. The main opposition party, PDP clinched the seat of Kaura LGA. The state electoral body declared the election of Jema’a, Kachia, Soba and Jaba LGAs inconclusive. The declaration of the inconclusive poll however triggered protests by chieftains of both APC and PDP in the State. The PDP State Chairman, Hassan Hyet, in an interview with BBC Hausa, stated that the outcome of the election was not the true picture of what happened at the polling units. According to him, the low turnout of voters was a clear sign that the people of the State rejected the ruling party. He accused the ruling party of manipulating the electronic voting machines, saying most of the e-voting equipment malfunctioned. State Secretary of PDP in Kaduna State, Ibrahim Wosono, also claimed that his party won the elections in his LGA, contrary to the claim by the electoral body. Meanwhile, the KADSIECOM’s Chairperson, Dr. Saratu Dikko-Audu, has expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the election. She stated that as far as the commission was concerned the election was free and fair. She advised those who have reservations to approach the election tribunal for redress. She explained that in Jaba LGA, there were conflicting results because two results were announced at the end of the election. According to her, the Returning Officer sent to the LGA was missing for hours until another officer was sent by the commission and later both officers announced separate results. In Soba and Jaba LGAs, she stated that the commission will only work with the judgment from the tribunal before it will announce the winners of the elections. | Kaduna State, Local Government Elections | https://dailytrust.com/kaduna-poll-apc-pdp-protest-as-electoral-body-declares-4-lgs-inconclusive | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Thursday, September 9, 2021 | Lawmakers Accuse AuGF of Reckless Spending of Budgetary Allocation | The House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts yesterday accused the office of the Auditor General of the Federation (OAuGF) of reckless spending of the approved budgetary allocation for 2019 to 2021. The lawmakers made the accusation during an oversight visit to the OAuGF headquarters in Abuja, led by its Chairman, Hon. Wole Oke. The Committee picked holes in financial reports which were without vouchers and other supporting documents. Some of the sub-heads queried by the lawmakers included: N1.9 million allegedly spent on new clinic; an additional sum of N3.967 million spent on drugs and medical supplies as well as N7.721 million spent on medical consulting, despite payment of N55.933 million as NHIS contribution as contained in the 2020 financial statement, as against N87.870 million NHIS contribution paid in 2019. The lawmakers also demanded for the staff nominal roll of the office of the Auditor General for the Federation over increase in the N1.977 billion personnel cost for 2019 to N1.991 billion was appropriated in 2020, despite the depleting workforce and the request for 500 new staff. The lawmakers further queried the sums of N120,304,830 spent on international travels & transport (audit of foreign mission, consular offices & 20 defence attaches); N40,710,380 spent on local travels & Transport (training), additional N286,881,055.18 on local travels & transport, others (hqtrs/State branch office and additional N100,093,600 spent on local travels as well as N35,710,812 spent on Auditors-General annual conference without specifying the location and vouchers. | House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts, Office of the Auditor General of the Federation | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/09/lawmakers-accuse-augf-of-reckless-spending-of-budgetary-allocation/ | ||||||||
| ThisdayLive Online | Thursday, September 9, 2021 | Breaking: ECOWAS Suspends Guinea | The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) suspended Guinea’s membership on Wednesday, September 8, following a weekend military coup that ousted President Alpha Conde and dealt the latest in a flurry of setbacks to democracy in the region. During a virtual summit, leaders from the 15-member bloc demanded a return to constitutional order and Conde’s immediate release, and also agreed to send a high-level mission to Guinea as soon as Thursday, September 9. Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister, Alpha Barry stated that, “At the end of that mission, ECOWAS should be able to re-examine its position.” He did not announce any immediate economic sanctions against Guinea, as ECOWAS imposed against Mali following a coup there in August 2020. | ECOWAS, Guinea | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/08/breaking-ecowas-suspends-guinea/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Thursday, September 9, 2021 | October Convention Sacrosanct, PDP Governors Insist | Governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have insisted that the October 30 National Convention must hold to elect new officers of the party. The 92nd meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party, which held two weeks ago, had ordered the leadership of the party to begin preparations for the October National Convention. However, forces loyal to the suspended National Chairman of the PDP, Uche Secondus had raised issues against the convention because of their belief that the convention would shorten Secondus’ tenure, which lapses December 9, 2021. | PDP, National Convention | https://guardian.ng/politics/october-convention-sacrosanct-pdp-governors-insist/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Thursday, September 9, 2021 | Security Agencies Requested Shutdown of Telecoms Services in Zamfara, Says FG | The Federal Government on Wednesday, September 8, stated that it approved the request to shut down telecommunications activities in Zamfara State following request by security agencies. Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, made the disclosure while addressing newsmen after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Pantami stated that contrary to insinuations in some quarters, the directive did not originate from his ministry, which supervises the sector. Rather, the decision was taken at the behest of security agencies who had argued that it would curtail the operation of bandits in the area. He explained, however, that government was willing to sacrifice economic gains in the telecoms sector to reap security benefits. He appealed to Nigerians to show understanding and support the efforts of security agencies. He noted that information from the security circle showed that the action was yielding results. | Zamfara State, Telecommunications | https://guardian.ng/news/security-agencies-requested-shutdown-of-telecoms-services-in-zamfara-says-fg/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Thursday, September 9, 2021 | Kano Assembly Joins Call For State Police, Devolution Of Powers | The Kano State House of Assembly has joined the call for the establishment of state police and devolution of powers to state and local governments. These two demands form part of the calls for “true federalism” at the recently concluded public hearing for the review of the Nigerian Constitution, Daily Trust reports.The State Sssembly made the call for the amendment of the 1999 Constitution to enable the creation of state police and other security outfits to address the current insecurity challenges in the country. The call was contained in a communiqué issued by the Assembly, signed by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Hamisu Ibrahim Chidari, at the end of a three-day retreat for members organised by LEGIS-37 in conjunction with the National Assembly. | Kano State House of Assembly, State Police | https://dailytrust.com/kano-assembly-joins-call-for-state-police-devolution-of-powers | ||||||||
| ThisDayLive Online | Wednesday, September 8, 2021 | COVID-19: 3.6 Million Nigerians Vaccinated, Says FG | The Federal Government on Tuesday, Sepember 7 put the total number of eligible Nigerians that have so far received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine at 3,600,858. Also, the government has explained the reason Nigerians who have been fully vaccinated are still required to isolate upon arrival in the United Kingdom is because the country was yet to meet criteria such as the percentage of population immunised and incidence rates of COVID-19 infection. According to the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Faisal Shuaib, “In diplomatic circles, this is often referred to as the principle of reciprocity. Nigeria alongside countries like France and the Netherlands are listed as amber countries by the UK Government based on criteria such as the number of populations immunised and incidence rates of COVID-19 infection. Individuals from countries listed as amber countries are required by the UK Government to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival and be quarantined for a few days." He added that, “Just like Nigeria, every country has its own COVID-19 travel rules, protocols and guidelines for travellers coming from other countries. So, this should be a motivation for all eligible Nigerians to get vaccinated, in order for us to increase our population coverage and return back to normalcy.” . While giving update on the progress so far made on phase 2 of the COVID-19 vaccination with Moderna and AstraZeneca vaccines, he stated that the exercise has now fully commenced in all the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory, FCT. | COVID-19 | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/08/covid-19-3-6-million-nigerians-vaccinated-says-fg/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, September 8, 2021 | PDP Governors Meet to Ratify Convention Chairman Ahead of NEC Meeting | The Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) Governors’ Forum will meet in Abuja, today, Spetember 8 to take a common position on the appointment of the Chairman of its convention planning committee. The 92nd meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the PDP, held last week, had asked for nominations from party organs and caucuses, with regards the chairmanship of the committee and other positions. Ahead of the party’s 93rd NEC meeting, scheduled to hold tomorrow, Thursday, September 9, the governors will meet today to take final positions. The meeting, it was learnt, will deliberate on which part of the country to zone the position of the National chairman. On the likely person to be appointed as Chairman of the convention, it was gathered that two governors have been nominated from the South South and North East. Confirming the governors’ meeting, the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, stated thst he had consulted with his colleagues and that it has been agreed that the meeting should hold today. Tambuwal’s statement, which was signed by the Director General of the Forum, C.I.D. Maduabum, disclosed that the meeting will discuss party matters and strategies to reposition the PDP ahead of the NEC meeting. The statement added: “The PDP governors re-assured all members, stakeholders and the nation of their commitment, determination and loyalty in the patriotic task of dislodging the failed APC government that has brought nothing but misery and pain to all Nigerians.” | PDP Governors' Forum | https://guardian.ng/politics/pdp-governors-meet-to-ratify-convention-chairman-ahead-of-nec-meeting/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, September 8, 2021 | 9 Months After Inauguration, Obaseki Yet To Appoint Commissioners | Nine months after he was sworn in for a second term, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State is yet to appoint commissioners, a development that is generating mixed reactions in the state. He was sworn in for a second term on November 12, 2020, but nine months after, he is yet to appoint commissioners and other aides. Following the squabble between him and his predecessor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Obaseki who was first elected in 2016 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the build up to the 2020 governorship election in the state. He was disqualified from the APC during the screening of governorship aspirants for the 2020 governorship election over discrepancies in his certificate. So far, the governor has only appointed the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and Chief of Staff. Shortly after he was sworn in, the governor stated that he would only appoint people who are ready to serve. A 15-man committee was constituted by the governor to screen political nominees for his cabinet. In the end, 129 commissioners, 113 Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and 576 Special Assistants (SAs) nominees were screened. Residents and political observers are of the view that the absence of commissioners and other aides is affecting governance in the state. | Edo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki | https://dailytrust.com/9-months-after-inauguration-obaseki-yet-to-appoint-commissioners | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, September 8, 2021 | FG Receives 1,123,200 Additional Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine Doses | The Federal Government has received additional 1,233,200 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for COVID-19 vaccination in the country. Executive Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Faisal Shuaib, told reporters in Abuja that the latest shipments were received late last Saturday, September 4 through the AVATT platform, coordinated by the African Union Commission, as part of the 39,800,000 doses procured by the government. Shuaib stated that, “The NAFDAC team has already taken samples for analysis and are currently scanning the codes to ensure proper serialization of the vaccine.” He added that as of Monday, September 7, a total of 3,600,858 eligible Nigerians had received their 1st dose of COVID-19 vaccine. | COVID-19 Vaccines | https://dailytrust.com/fg-receives-1123200-additional-johnson-johnson-covid-19-vaccine-doses | ||||||||
| ThisDayLive Online | Tuesday, September 7, 2021 | INEC: We’re at Crossroads Over e-Transmission of Results | Prelude to the 2023 general election and particularly, the November 6 governorship election in Anambra State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) stated that it was at crossroads over electronic transmission of results. Subsequently, the commission has announced the introduction of new measures, such as the Bi-modal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) to be used as fingerprint authentication to perform the functions of both the Smart Card Reader (SCR) and Z-Pad in the bye-elections. The INEC National Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, who disclosed these, however, commended the Chief Justice of the Federation, Hon. Justice Ibrahim Mohammad, for intervening in the conflicting orders often granted by courts of coordinate jurisdiction, saying that this has made the duties of the commission a lot more difficult. He also promised that the commission would start to discharge its responsibilities as a regulator in the affairs of political parties, especially as it concerns internal crisis in the parties, stressing that beyond being the electoral umpire, it was also a regulator of the activities of the parties. INEC also hinted that about 2,729,819 Nigerians had so far registered online, while some 717,947 others had completed real time registration as eligible voters. Speaking at a consultative meeting with leaders of political parties on Monday, September 6 in Abuja, Yakubu stated thus: “The reality is that technology always advances with the passage of time. Consequently, the Commission must keep pace with the ever-changing world of global information and communication technology. We are at one such crossroads at the moment.” He explained that, while working on the register of voters, the Commission has also been continuously innovating on how to strengthen the credibility of voter accreditation and result management during elections in Nigeria. According to him, the deployment of appropriate technology was crucial and desirable, adding that, “The introduction of the machine-readable PVC combined and Smart Card Reader (SCR) were important innovations. So, too, is the uploading of polling unit results in real-time on Election Day." | INEC | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/07/inec-were-at-crossroads-over-e-transmission-of-results/ | ||||||||
| ThisDayLive Online | Tuesday, September 7, 2021 | APC: We Won’t Recognise Parallel Congresses | The All Progressives Congress (APC) has stated that it would not recognise parallel Congresses, especially those not conducted by the officials of the party. Last weekend’s local government congresses witnessed parallel exercises in Osun, Akwa Ibom, Ogun, Kwara, Lagos, Adamawa, and Enugu States. The National Secretary of the party's Caretaker committee, Senator James Akpanudoedehe,while addressing journalists at the party secretariat on Monday, September 6 in Abuja, stated that he was not aware that there were parallel Congresses held in some States. According to him, “I don’t know why you are reporting what is not available as far as APC is concerned. We are very structured, we put up a committee and the committee has gone out to conduct the Congresses. The next step will be an appeal and anyone with the issue will go to the appeal and if you are not satisfied with the appeal, the caretaker committee will handle it. That is our structure." | APC Congresses | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/07/apc-we-wont-recognise-parallel-congresses/ | ||||||||
| ThisDayLive Online | Tuesday, September 7, 2021 | CJN Meets 7 Chief Judges Over Conflicting Orders | Three judges will any time from now appear before the National Judicial Council (NJC) to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken against them for alleged issuance of conflicting court orders. The decision to investigate the judges was taken by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Muhammad, after a meeting with seven State Chief Judges (CJs) on Monday, September 6 in Abuja. Muhammad had last week Monday, invited the CJs to explain the rationale behind the issuance of contradictory court orders and indiscriminate injunctions by judges in their jurisdictions. The invitation was sequel to a report by THISDAY on certain worrisome restraining orders against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and some contestants in the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State, as well as the leaderships of the major political parties in the country. A statement by the NJC’s Director of Information, Mr Soji Oye, disclosed that the CJN, after a marathon meeting with the Heads of Courts, which lasted for over six hours, decided to use the three judges as warning to others. Although disciplinary actions are usually taken against an erring judicial officer after investigation, based on petition from members of the public, in this instance, the NJC is on its own investigating the three judges. According to the statement, CJN had stated that “a damage to one jurisdiction is a damage to all and as such, they must put an end to indiscriminate granting of ex parte orders, conflicting judgements or rulings occasioned by forum-shopping. We shall make example with these three Judges and never shall we condone such act.” The statement further stated that, “Three of the Judges who granted conflicting ex parte orders have been invited to appear before the National Judicial Council to show cause why disciplinary action should not be taken against them for granting the conflicting ex parte orders.” | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/07/angry-cjn-meets-7-cjs-3-to-face-njc-investigation-over-conflicting-orders/ | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/07/angry-cjn-meets-7-cjs-3-to-face-njc-investigation-over-conflicting-orders/ | ||||||||
| ThisDayLive Online | Tuesday, September 7, 2021 | PDP Congresses: Makinde Inaugurates Local Organising Committee | Ahead of the ward, local government and state congresses of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, on Monday, September 6, inaugurated the Local Organising Committee for the exercise. This is just as he maintained that the party will allow internal democracy to reflect in the processes and all its actions. The governor while speaking at the caucus meeting of the party in the state held in Ibadan, stated that he had purchased all the nomination forms for the congresses, adding that anyone interested in taking the forms from the national secretariat should approach the national headquarters of the party. Present at the caucus meeting were stakeholders from all the organs of the party, such as serving and former National Assembly members, serving and former presiding officers of the House of Assembly, Board of Trustees (BOT) members, former aides of the President and members of the party’s State Working Cdommittee. The caucus reaffirmed its confidence in Makinde as the leader of the PDP in the state, while it equally appreciated the Governor for purchasing all the nomination forms for the congresses. A communiqué signed by the Chairman of the PDP in the state, Alhaji Kunmi Mustapha, and made available to journalists at the end of the meeting, stated that the caucus made a commitment to ensure a rancour-free congress that would bring unity to the party. | Oyo State, PDP Congresses | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/07/pdp-congresses-makinde-inaugurates-local-organising-committee/ | ||||||||
| ThisDayLive Online | Tuesday, September 7, 2021 | Buhari Appoints Adetifa New NCDC DG After Ihekweazu’s Exit | President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Dr. Ifedayo Morayo Adetifa as the new Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday, September 6 by presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu. This followed the appointment of the current NCDC Director General, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, as the Assistant Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in charge of Health Emergency Intelligence with effect from November 1, 2021. Ihekweazu would lead the work on strengthening pandemic and epidemic intelligence globally, including heading the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence in Berlin. The new NCDC DG, Adetifa is an Epidemiologist and Consultant Paediatrician who is currently an Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), United Kingdom, and Clinical Epidemiologist at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP) in Kilifi, Kenya. He is a graduate of the College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, and completed his specialist training in Paediatrics and Child Health at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, Lagos, to become a Fellow of the West Africa College of Physicians. | NCDC, Director General | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/07/buhari-appoints-adetifa-new-ncdc-dg-after-ihekweazus-exit/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Monday, September 6, 2021 | INEC Redeploys Five RECs, Others | The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has redeployed five Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs). National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, in a statement on Sunday, September 5, stated that the redeployments were part of the commission’s routine administrative postings. The affected officials are Olusegun Agbaje, who left Osun for Ogun, while Prof. AbdulGaniyu Olayinka Raji was moved from Ogun to Osun. The statement read thus: “REC Bayelsa, Dr. Cyril Omorogbe, will take up his new role as the REC for Cross River State, while Dr. Emannuel Alex Hart proceeds to Bayelsa as the REC from his former office in Cross River State. The REC, Zamfara State, Dr. Asmau Sani Maikudi, has also been redeployed to Kaduna State.” Okoye added that the commission’s Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Nick Dazang, has proceeded on terminal leave, adding that, “Consequently, Victor Ayodele Aluko has been reassigned from Director (Administration) to Voter Education and Publicity as Director, while Mikah Thabbal Lakumna is redeployed to Administration from his erstwhile position as Director (Security). Nduh Lebari Samson moves from the office of the Secretary to the commission to Director (Security). Yakubu Mohammed Duku, Director in the Electoral Operations Department, proceeds to Niger State as the substantive Administrative Secretary.” | INEC, Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) | https://guardian.ng/news/inec-redeploys-five-recs-others/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Monday, September 6, 2021 | Sokoto, Kebbi, Three Other States Witness Service Disruptions as Zamfara’s 2.1 Million Phone Users Lose Access | With mobile network operators (MNOs) having complied with Federal Government’s (FG) order to shut down services in Zamfara State, some 2.1 million subscribers in the state have been cut off from the networks. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that Zamfara has 2,177,431 active subscribers from 2,337,893 connected lines, while Internet users are around 1.59 million. By the FG’s directive, it means that for the next two weeks, these sets of subscribers won’t have access to any form of telephony services. Further implications of the blackout, which saw MTN, Globacom, Airtel and 9mobile shutting down their 248 base transceiver stations that service Zamfara communities, are that some parts of Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Niger and Kaduna States will be impacted greatly by the shut down. Industry experts explained that a service signal from a cell tower could reach up to 45 miles away, depending on the technology of the cellphone network. They claimed that every base station communicates with each other. By so doing, the impact on Zamfara will affect adjourning cities and communities in Northwestern Nigeria. The experts stressed that to achieve a total shutdown of service, the operators would also have to shut some of their sites in the neighbouring states as directed by the regulator. Recall that the FG had on September 3, citing rising cases of insecurity in Zamfara and adjourning cities, ordered the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to direct all telecommunications providers operating in the region to shut down services in the state. | Mobile Network Operators, Sokoto State, Kebbi State | https://guardian.ng/technology/sokoto-kebbi-three-others-witness-service-disruptions-as-zamfaras-2-1-million-phone-users-lose-access/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Monday, September 6, 2021 | Nigeria, ECOWAS Condemn Guinea Coup D’Etat | The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Nigerian Government have strongly condemned the coup d’état that occurred in the Republic of Guinea Conakry, on Sunday, September 5, describing the action as a clear violation of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. Demanding for the immediate return to constitutional order, Chair of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, condemned the action stating the demand of ECOWAS for the immediate and unconditional release of President Alpha Condé and others arrested. He stated thus: “ECOWAS notes with great concern the recent political developments which occurred in Conakry, Republic of Guinea. She condemns with the greatest firmness this coup attempt on Sunday, September 5, 2021. ECOWAS demands respect for the physical integrity of the President of the Republic, the Professor Alpha Condé, and his immediate and unconditional release, as well as that of all the personalities, arrested.” ECOWAS reaffirmed its disapproval of any unconstitutional political change in the region and asked the defense and security forces to remain in a posture Republican. It also expressed its solidarity with the Guinean people and Government. Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, stated that “The Government of Nigeria strongly condemns and rejects any unconstitutional change of government and therefore calls on those behind this coup to restore constitutional order without delay and protect all lives and property.” | Guinea Coup, Nigeria, ECOWAS | https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria-ecowas-condemns-guinea-coup-detat/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Monday, September 6, 2021 | Gunshots, Vote Buying Characterise APC Niger LG Congresses in Lapai | Gunshots and vote buying characterised the All Progressives Congress (APC) local government congresses in Niger State. Gunshots were fired for about 30 minutes in the night on Saturday, September 3 around Lapai Local Government Area Secretariat of Niger State, as the APC congresses turned violent. Sources hinted to our correspondent on Sunday, September 6, that the rivalry between the factions of an APC stalwart, Alhaji Abubakar Magaji and that of the Commissioner for Education, Hajiya Hannatu Jibril Salihu, was allegedly responsible for the violence. Also in Gbako and Agaie local government areas, there were cases of fights between supporters of different candidates. A delegate from Agaie told our correspondent that there were cases of vote buying, leading to fights between supporters. “Delegates were given between N10, 000 and N20,000 by contestants to vote for them which led to fights between supporters,” he explained. Meanwhile, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has called on stakeholders of the APC in the state to stop engaging in acts to win at all cost, but be patient and accommodate one other for the progress of the party. The Governor made the appeal at the maiden state APC caucus meeting held at the government house in Lafia on Sunday, September 5. | Niger State, APC, Local Government Congresses | https://dailytrust.com/gunshots-vote-buying-characterise-apc-lg-congresses-in-niger | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Monday, September 6, 2021 | Parallel Executives Emerge In Kano APC Despite Consensus Arrangement | Despite the consensus arrangement by the leadership/stakeholders of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Kano State, there were elections in at least two local government areas in the state. The parallel arrangement, which saw winners emerge after elections, was observed in Kano Municipal and Tofa local government areas during the party’s local government congress. These two local governments are the base of two House of Representatives members from the state, who are currently at loggerheads with Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. The lawmakers are: Sha’aban Sharada (Kano Municipal) and Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe (Tofa). According to Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe, “You don’t hold party election in your room or in government owned building (Govt House). You have to go back to the people, let them decide what they want. Every member of the party has to be part of the system. Once you ask people not to participate, that means we do not have democracy. And what we have been championing is the course of democracy." Also reacting, the member representing Kano Municipal Federal Constituency, Sha’aban Sharada stated that similar elections took place across all the 44 local government areas of the State. | Kano State, APC, Local Government Congresses | https://dailytrust.com/parallel-executives-emerge-in-kano-apc-despite-consensus-arrangement | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Thursday, September 2, 2021 | Rivers PDP Suspends Party's National Chairman, Secondus | Ward five of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ikuru town, Andoni Council of Rivers State, has suspended the National Chairman of the party, Prince Uche Secondus. Secondus, who is a prominent politician from Andoni, was the former National Chairman and former National Organising Secretary of the party in the State. Ward Chairman of the party, George Christopher, announced Secondus’ suspension at the party’s extraordinary meeting in Ikuru town, saying that 11 of the 17 executive members endorsed the suspension. Christopher stated that Secondus had not attracted development to the area in spite of his exalted political profile and also cited his inability to manage the affairs of the party. He stated as follows: “The Ward 5 executive of the PDP in Ikuru town on August 31, 2021, discussed issues affecting the party. The ward executives suspended Secondus after a duly constituted meeting convened by the Secretary on the instructions of the Chairman in accordance with the party’s constitution." The party at the Ward further reaffirm his suspension and thanked the party at the local government and state level for carrying out the suspension. Also speaking, former Chairman of Andoni Council and Chairman, of the party's Disciplinary Committee in the ward, Benson Alpheous, noted that Secondus was suspended for disobeying the party’s decision to step down as National Chairman. | Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Rivers State, Prince Uche Secondus | https://guardian.ng/news/rivers-pdp-suspends-secondus-as-national-chairman/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Thursday, September 2, 2021 | Court Restrains Buni, Others From Parading as APC National Committee Members | Justice Marshal Umukoro of an Asaba High Court has restrained Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, and other members from parading themselves as members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Caretaker Committee (NWC) until the determination of the suit on the matter before the court. Justice Umukoro also stopped the APC council congress in Delta State slated for October 4, 2021. Deputy Chairman of APC, Olorogun Elvis Ayomanor, who led other officials of the Delta APC, had approached the court following the July 10, 2021 ward congress, which was allegedly hijacked. In the ex-parte motion filed by the applicants' lead counsel, Ebipade Richard, they prayed the court to grant the seven-point reliefs sought, adding that continuing with the Saturday, September 4 congress in Delta State, would cause more damage to his clients. Principal among the reliefs sought by the Claimants/Applicants was an order of interim injunction of the court restraining the second and 14th defendant from further acting or parading themselves as the members of the Caretaker/ Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) of the 1st Defendant pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice already filed and served in the suit. Lead counsel to the respondents, Robert Emukpoeruo, challenged the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit, but argued that certain parties be joined as co-defendants. In his ruling, Justice Umukor adjourned the hearing on the suit to September 7, 2021. | All Progressives Congress (APC) , Mai Mala Buni | https://guardian.ng/news/court-restrains-buni-others-from-parading-as-apc-national-committee-members/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Thursday, September 2, 2021 | Disability Commission Moves to Establish Six Model Schools For PWDs | Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Mr. James Lalu, has disclosed that his agency will establish six model schools for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across the six geopolitical zones of the country. Speaking, on wednesday, September 1 during a press conference to mark the one-year anniversary of the Commission in Abuja, he explained that the agency is making efforts to ensure PWDs enjoy free education from primary to secondary school. He stated thus: “In 2022, scholarships would be provided for PWDs who are qualified to study within and outside the country. Our commitment to this made us talk to the British Commission for support. Some PWDs are preparing to leave Nigeria and a lot of them will be leaving for the UK next year on scholarship. Our commitment to this has led us to open partnerships with two universities in the United States to provide education for PWDs from Nigeria. Similarly, our commitment to international technology transfer is tied to education. We are strategising on how we can push our people to go and learn technical skills they can bring back to help the disabled.” He added that 55,000 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) have been enrolled in the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP). | National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Model Schools, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) | https://guardian.ng/news/commission-moves-to-establish-six-model-schools-for-pwds/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Thursday, September 2, 2021 | Fuel Subsidy Regime Remains Till 2022, FG Clarifies | Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mele Kyari, has stated that the Federal Government will sustain subsidisation of Premium Motor Spirit (popularly known as petrol) till 2022. Speaking at a stakeholders’ hearing organised by the Senate Joint Committees on Finance, National Planning, Foreign and Local Debts, Banking, Insurance and other financial institutions and Petroleum Resources on the 2022-2024 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF-FSP) in Abuja, Kyari stated that the decision to exit the subsidy regime would be determined by the outcome of the ongoing negotiations between the authorities and organised labour. Kyari, who acknowledged that an increase in the price of fuel would have a direct bearing on the wellbeing of the citizenry and national security, assured Nigerians that government would exit subsidising of product consumption once the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) becomes fully operational. The NNPC boss spoke against the backdrop of his admission during a ministerial briefing at the Presidential Villa recently, that the NNPC pays between N100 and 120 billion monthly to keep the pump price of petrol at N162 per litre. Acknowledging that the 60 million litres imported quantity was far above local consumption, the GMD added that the NNPC was constrained by illicit product smuggling to neighbouring countries. According to him, the corporation is sustaining the imports to avert scarcity. Kyari promised to abide by the 2.3 million barrels per day in deference to the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) 2022 quota for the security of oil installations in Nigeria. | Fuel Subsidy Regime, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) | https://guardian.ng/news/fuel-subsidy-regime-remains-till-2022-fg-clarifies/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Thursday, September 2, 2021 | FEC Approves Draft National Policy On IDPs | The Federal Executive Council has approved a draft national policy on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Nigeria. The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouk, announced this on Wednesday, Seotember 1 after the weekly federal cabinet meeting. She stated that the national policy on internal displacements provided a platform for all relevant actors in humanitarian and development space to key in and contribute towards a common goal. According to her, the overall goal of the policy is to strengthen institutional mechanism and frameworks for the realisation of rights, dignity and wellbeing of vulnerable populations through mitigation of impact and achievement of durable solutions to internal displacement in Nigeria. She stated that, “And with the approval of this policy today, a multi-sectoral structure will fully emerge, which will ensure a coordinated operational and strategic response to all the humanitarian challenges our nation is facing, providing practical and actionable solutions that will resolve internal displacement in the country.” She added that about N3bn had been spent on various intervention programmes for IDPs so far in the frontline states. | National Policy On IDPs, Federal Executive Council (FEC) | https://dailytrust.com/fec-approves-draft-national-policy-on-idps | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Thursday, September 2, 2021 | 73 Students Were Abducted In Zamfara – Police | A total of 73 students were abducted from Government Day Secondary School, Kaya, according to the police. Daily Trust had reported how gunmen invaded the school in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara on Wednesday, September 1. In a statement on Wednesday evening, Mohammed Shehu, the Police Public Relations Officer in Zamfara State, stated that security has been beefed up in the community where the incident occurred. According to him, “The Zamfara State police command wishes to confirm the abduction of 73 students of Government Day Secondary school, Kaya in Maradun LGA. The abduction followed the invasion of the school by large number of armed bandits that occurred today at exactly 1122hrs. The command under the leadership of CP Ayuba N Elkanah has deployed search and rescue team that was mandated to work in synergy with the military to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted students. Security has also been been beefed up at Kaya Village and environs to forestall further attack on the communities. Further development will be made known to members of the public.” The attack happened a day after Governor Bello Matawalle ordered the closure of some markets and roads. He had also directed filling stations to limit the amount of fuel sold to vehicles. Schools in Zamfara have been shut while a dusk-to-dawn curfew has been imposed in the State. | Abduction, Government Day Secondary School, Kaya | https://dailytrust.com/just-in-73-students-were-abducted-in-zamfara-police | ||||||||
| ThisDayLive Online | Wednesday, September 1, 2021 | Buhari Unveils Job Creation Initiative, to Employ 20,000 Graduates Annually | The Federal Government on Tuesday, August 31, announced the creation of the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme aimed at employing annually, 20,000 graduates, who recently concluded the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). The job scheme came as government stated that the 5.01 per cent growth the economy recorded in the second quarter of 2021 was due to the present administration’s policy consistency and innovation. Speaking while launching the programme, supported by the United Nations Development Programme and the European Union, at the State House, Abuja, President Muhammadu Buhari stated that it would also provide opportunity for mentors. He said that those who were already engaged in various industries, gained relevant experience, and built capacity over the years would have the opportunity to provide mentorship and support for young Nigerians. According to Buhari, “Beyond the skills and work experience, we will be building a new culture of mentorship and guidance that can chart a new course for skills development and work experience in our country." He added that, “We believe that as this programme creates new opportunities for 20,000 recent graduates annually, the beneficiaries will use the opportunities presented to them and maximise their 12 months of engagement.” The President added that the programme would provide a pathway for young Nigerians to gain work experience in top-tier organisations, gain relevant skills, and build the right networks for the future in various sectors, including information and communications technology, financial services, trade, manufacturing, agriculture, and agro-processing. | President Muhammadu Buhari, Job Creation Initiative | https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/01/buhari-unveils-job-creation-initiative-to-employ-20000-graduates-annually/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, September 1, 2021 | Uba Gets Buhari’s Endorsement in Aso Villa | Senator Andy Uba, the Anambra State candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the November 6 gubernatorial election, received the endorsement of President Muhammadu Buhari, on Tuesday, August 31. Uba was led to the Aso Villa, Abuja, by the Chairman, Caretaker and Convention Planning Committee of the party and Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni. They were accompanied by: Governors Gboyega Oyetola (Osun State), Yahaya Bello (Kogi), Hope Uzodimma (Imo) and Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos). Others included the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, and Minister for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, George Akume. President Buhari stated thus: “I am happy to formally welcome you. I certainly wish you the best of luck. I’m anxious for your success, and will closely follow.” Speaking to reporters after the mwwting, Governor Buni stated that, “Anambra is ripe for us and we will work together for victory,” adding that, “Many people are crossing over to APC, following our gubernatorial primaries. That attests to Mr. President’s performance, especially when you see the infrastructure he is putting in place across the country, especially in the South East. So, you can see for yourself that APC is accepted in Anambra State. And by the grace of God, we are going to win the election.” Furthermore, Senator Andy Uba insisted there was no rift between him and his brothers who have pitched tent with the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. | Senator Andy Uba, All Progressives Congress (APC) | https://guardian.ng/politics/uba-gets-buharis-endorsement-in-aso-villa/ | ||||||||
| The Guardian Newspaper | Wednesday, September 1, 2021 | FG Considers Sanction Against Nigerians Refusing COVID-19 Vaccination | Amid reactions to the declaration by Edo and Ondo states regarding restricted access to public places for unvaccinated residents, the Federal Government may sanction eligible Nigerians who refuse to COVID-19 vaccination. The hint was dropped on Tuesday, August 31 by the Executive Director of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Faisal Shuaib, at a briefing in Abuja. Shuaib stated that the government may “apply the basic rule of law” against such people because they will be endangering the lives of other people. He stated thus: “The Presidential Steering Committee and the Federal Ministry of Health is exploring ways of making vaccines more available to all Nigerians including federal civil servants and corporate entities. Once these vaccines are made equitably available to all Nigerians, we would need to have a frank discussion about justice, fairness and liberty that exist around vaccine hesitancy. If some individuals refuse to take the vaccine, hence endangering those who have or those who could not due to medical exemptions, then we have to apply the basic rule of law, which stipulates that your human right stops where mine begins. So, you have a right to refuse vaccines, but you do not have the right to endanger the health of others.” This is coming as a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Tuesday, August 31 granted an order restraining Edo Governor, Godwin Obaseki and the Edo State government from restricting unvaccinated persons from attending mass gatherings as from 15 September. Governor Obaseki had last week mandated people of the state to take the vaccine, warning that, as from September 15, anyone who has not been vaccinated will not be allowed into public places such as banks and worship centres. | Federal Government, COVID-19 Vaccination | https://guardian.ng/news/fg-set-to-sanction-nigerians-refusing-covid-19-vaccination/ | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, September 1, 2021 | Kaduna LG Poll: Police Deploy Over 11,000 Personnel | Ahead of Saturday’s local government election in the state, the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, CP Mudassiru Abdullahi, has announced the deployment of 11,000 policemen across the 23 LGAs. He made the disclosure on Tuesday, August 31 on the occasion of a peace accord meeting among stakeholders, political party leaders and aspirants at the Police Officers Mess in Kaduna. He stated as follows: “It is equally important at this juncture that I stand to inform all stakeholders that on our part as security agents and police in particular, we have made a deployment of over 11,000 personnel that will ensure a hitch-free exercise. We are ready to go into the election properly prepared to safeguard the lives and property of all citizens before, during and after the election. I have directed my officers to ensure that they conduct themselves in accordance with the provisions of extant laws and regulations guiding their conducts during elections and deal decisively with any person or group who may try to truncate the peaceful election process. The beauty of any democratic process is embedded in its awesomeness of availing people the unique freedom of choice which is firstly recognised during elections. Thus, if we cannot get it right in ensuring the people freely choose their leaders, then I doubt if we can make it right in subsequent democratic ideals.” Furthermore, Chairman of Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission (KADSIECOM), Dr. Saratu Dikko Audu stated that, “we are set for credible election.” | Kaduna State, Local Government Elections | https://dailytrust.com/kaduna-lg-poll-police-deploy-over-11000-personnel | ||||||||
| DailyTrust Online | Wednesday, September 1, 2021 | Ekiti Assembly Amends State Electoral Law | Ekiti State House of Assembly has passed an amendment to the state electoral law. The amendment tagged, “Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (third amendment) Bill, 2021,” was sponsored by a member representing Ekiti West State Constituency II, Bode Adeoye. The Assembly, at the plenary presided by the Speaker Pro – Tempore, Gboyega Aribisogan, passed the bill after an extensive debate on the need for the amendment. Adeoye explained that the bill was due to the recent development as regards to creation of Local Council Development Areas (LCDA) in Ekiti State. The amendment bill aimed to provide adequate legal framework and to empower the state electoral commission to operate smoothly and in tandem with current realities. In their separate remarks, the Deputy Leader, Tajudeen Akingbolu; Adeoye Aribasoye and Raphael Ajibade stated that the bill would further enhance the work of the commission. | Ekiti State House of Assembly, Electoral Law | https://dailytrust.com/ekiti-assembly-amends-state-electoral-law | ||||||||