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Tag: NASS

  • Speaker Abbas slams weekend killings in Kaduna, other states

    Speaker Abbas slams weekend killings in Kaduna, other states

    … mourns victims, urged security forces to rescue abductees

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Abbas Tajudeen has lamented the series of recorded attacks in Kaduna, Borno, Katsina, Plateau, Kwara and other states over the weekend, resulting in the killings of innocent citizens.

    Describing the killings as gruesome and unfortunate, Speaker Abbas called for decisive action against criminals and criminality by the security forces, warning of the implications of insecurity for the socioeconomic stability of the country.

    The Speaker demanded a decisive action from the military and intelligence agencies, recalling the standing orders by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for them to quell the activities of terrorists and bandits.

    At least seven people were reportedly killed and 11 others injured in an attack by bandits on Wake community in Agunu Ward of Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Sunday. The gunmen also abducted an unspecified number of residents.

    In Borno State, suspected Boko Haram terrorists’ attack on Darajamal community, Bama Local Government Area, on Friday night claimed many lives, including soldiers and civilians.

    Seven people were reportedly killed in Katsina State as bandits launched an attack on Magajin Wando village in Dandume Local Government Area on Friday night.

    Similarly, bandits launched an attack on Shagbe community in the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State over the weekend, killing two and kidnapping eight persons.

    Gunmen, on Saturday night, invaded a mining site in Wang community in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing no fewer than six miners.

    The Speaker condemned the killings in the strongest terms, lamenting that the losses were too many. While calling for the rescue of the abductees, he charged the security forces with apprehending the perpetrators and prosecuting them.

    Speaker Abbas commiserated with the families of the victims, the affected communities, and the people and the government of the respective states.

  • Again, HoR minority caucus asks FG to release Osun LGAs funds now or face legislative action

    Again, HoR minority caucus asks FG to release Osun LGAs funds now or face legislative action

    Again, the House of Representatives Minority Caucus has demanded for the immediate release of Osun State Local Government funds or face legislative action.

    Recall that the Caucus had earlier issued a statement dated August 2nd 2025 entitled: ‘Let Osun LGAs Breath’ and signed by its leaders: Rep. O.K Chinda
    Minority Leader
    Rt. Hon. Dr. Ali Isa J.C
    Minority Whip
    Rt. Hon. Aliyu Madaki
    Deputy Minority Leader
    Rt. Hon. George Ozodinobi
    Deputy Minority Whip
    stating that:

    “The Caucus will use the only weapon it has which is its legislative action as that seems to be the available option to drive home its message if the funds are not released.

    Hear the Caucus:

    “The Caucus of the House of Representatives is deeply concerned by credible reports that the Federal Government has been withholding statutory allocations meant for the Local Government Councils in Osun State since February 2025.

    “There is no legal basis for this action. Section 162 of the 1999 Constitution is clear that local governments are entitled to their allocations from the Federation Account.

    “The Supreme Court has also affirmed in A.G Lagos State vs. A.G Federation (2004) that the President has no power to suspend or withhold such funds.

    ” The withholding of these allocations is not only unconstitutional but also a blatant disregard for the rule of law and judicial pronouncements.

    “This action, which violates the 1999 Constitution and judicial rulings, with severe political and socio-economic implications, undermines the autonomy of local governments, erodes public confidence in our democratic institutions and sets a dangerous precedent for impunity.Political Implications .

    “The withholding of these funds undermines the democratic process and the rule of law. It disregards clear judicial pronouncements from the Court of Appeal on February 10, 2025, and June 13, 2025, as well as the Osun State High Court’s judgment on February 21, 2025, which affirm the elected officials of the People’s Democratic Party, sworn in after the February 22, 2025, elections, as the legitimate representatives entitled to manage these allocations.

    The Caucus further stressed that: “These elected officials, under the law, are the legitimate authorities entitled to administer the councils and to receive their due allocations.

    ” This interference risks escalating political tensions, fueling distrust in federal institutions, and creating an impression of partisan overreach.

    ” It sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden similar actions against other states, weakening Nigeria’s federal structure and eroding public confidence in democratic governance.

    “Implications for Families and Local EconomiesThe withholding of these allocations has dire consequences for families of local government workers and the economies of Osun State’s local government areas.

    “These funds are critical for paying salaries, pensions, and other entitlements, as well as funding essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Without them, thousands of workers face financial hardship, unable to meet basic needs such as food, housing, and medical care.

    ” This places immense strain on families, exacerbating poverty and social unrest. Local economies suffer as reduced purchasing power stifles small businesses, markets, and service providers’ dependent on workers’ incomes. Delayed projects and services further hinder development, leaving communities without vital amenities and deepening economic stagnation.

    “The Constitution, under Sections 7 and 162, guarantees local government financial autonomy, and the Supreme Court in A.G of Lagos State vs. A.G of Federation (2004) ruled that the President has no authority to withhold these funds. Our DemandWe call on the Federal Government to respect the Constitution, uphold court rulings, and immediately release the allocations to the duly elected officials in Osun State.

    “This is critical to restoring trust in governance, alleviating the suffering of workers’ families, and reviving local economies.

    “We call on the President and Commander in chief to immediately direct all relevant authorities to release all funds meant for Local Government Councils in Osun State without further delay and advise all government authorities to abide by the rule of law and justice.

    SEE PREVIOUS RELEASE BELOW:

    Press Statement by the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives on 2nd August 2025Let Osun LGAs breath.

    The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives is deeply concerned by credible reports that the Federal Government has been withholding statutory allocations meant for the Local Government Councils in Osun State since February 2025. There is no legal basis for this action. Section 162 of the 1999 Constitution is clear that local governments are entitled to their allocations from the Federation Account. The Supreme Court has also affirmed in A.G Lagos State vs. A.G Federation (2004) that the President has no power to suspend or withhold such funds.

    The withholding of these allocations is not only unconstitutional but also a blatant disregard for the rule of law and judicial pronouncements. This action, which violates the 1999 Constitution and judicial rulings, with severe political and socio-economic implications, undermines the autonomy of local governments, erodes public confidence in our democratic institutions and sets a dangerous precedent for impunity.Political ImplicationsThe withholding of these funds undermines the democratic process and the rule of law. It disregards clear judicial pronouncements from the Court of Appeal on February 10, 2025, and June 13, 2025, as well as the Osun State High Court’s judgment on February 21, 2025, which affirm the elected officials of the People’s Democratic Party, sworn in after the February 22, 2025, elections, as the legitimate representatives entitled to manage these allocations.

    These elected officials, under the law, are the legitimate authorities entitled to administer the councils and to receive their due allocations. This interference risks escalating political tensions, fueling distrust in federal institutions, and creating an impression of partisan overreach. It sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden similar actions against other states, weakening Nigeria’s federal structure and eroding public confidence in democratic governance.Implications for Families and Local EconomiesThe withholding of these allocations has dire consequences for families of local government workers and the economies of Osun State’s local government areas.

    These funds are critical for paying salaries, pensions, and other entitlements, as well as funding essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Without them, thousands of workers face financial hardship, unable to meet basic needs such as food, housing, and medical care. This places immense strain on families, exacerbating poverty and social unrest. Local economies suffer as reduced purchasing power stifles small businesses, markets, and service providers’ dependent on workers’ incomes. Delayed projects and services further hinder development, leaving communities without vital amenities and deepening economic stagnation. The Constitution, under Sections 7 and 162, guarantees local government financial autonomy, and the Supreme Court in A.G of Lagos State vs. A.G of Federation (2004) ruled that the President has no authority to withhold these funds. Our DemandWe call on the Federal Government to respect the Constitution, uphold court rulings, and immediately release the allocations to the duly elected officials in Osun State. This is critical to restoring trust in governance, alleviating the suffering of workers’ families, and reviving local economies.We call on the President and Commander in chief to immediately direct all relevant authorities to release all funds meant for Local Government Councils in Oyo State without further delay and advise all government authorities to abide by the rule of law and justice.Signed:

    Rep. O.K Chinda
    Minority Leader

    Rt. Hon. Dr. Ali Isa J.C
    Minority Whip

    Rt. Hon. Aliyu Madaki
    Deputy Minority Leader

    Rt. Hon. George Ozodinobi
    Deputy Minority Whip

  • Attack on Katsina mosque, killings condemnable, Speaker Abbas mourns worshippers

    Attack on Katsina mosque, killings condemnable, Speaker Abbas mourns worshippers

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has condemned in strong terms the killing of worshipers in Katsina State by bandits, describing the attack as barbaric and gruesome.

    The death toll from the attack on a mosque in the Unguwan Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, in the dawn of Tuesday during Fajr prayers has reportedly risen to 32, though the police confirmed 17.

    The Speaker said the attack was not only unfortunate but also daring, especially being on worshippers who were out to pray at a holy place meant to be safe and secure. He added that it is painful to have lost scores of people to the dastardly act.

    While calling for the arrest and prosecution of the attackers by security forces, Speaker Abbas said killers must be made to face the wrath of the law.

    The Speaker commiserated with the families of the deceased, the Unguwan Mantau community, the people, and the government of Katsina State while praying to Allah (SWT) to grant the slain worshippers Jannatul Firdaus.

  • Legislating litanies of inanities – By Owei Lakemfa

    Legislating litanies of inanities – By Owei Lakemfa

    The Nigerian National Assembly, NASS, while earning one of the highest incomes in the world, has one of the lowest qualities of any parliament in the universe.  Lawyers are wont to  submit that he who alleges must prove.  So, let me submit my proofs on both claims and, you judge   if they are true.

    One of the best kept secrets I know, is the income of the Nigerian legislator.  But now and again, there are slips right inside the NASS.  Senator Shehu Sani  in March, 2018 revealed that  his total income in the Senate was N14,250,000 per month.  On August 14, 2024, Senator Sumaila Kawu, Kano South gave an update; his total income   as a Senator,  was N22 million monthly .

    Apart from the official income, parliamentarians collect huge sums  of money annually as   “Constituency Projects” These monies are not subject to standard accounting procedures, transparent contract awards or proper supervision.   The NASS budget records show that in 2024, N20 Billion was allocated to Senate President Godswill Akpabio for projects.  Senator Agom Jarigbe,  Cross River State, South, revealed on the floor of the Senate that each  ranking  Senator was paid N500 million as Constituency Project.

    There is also the tradition of the NASS padding the annual budget of the country. Former President Muhammadu Buhari  used to cry out annually about this blatant short changing of the Nigerian people.

    In 2024, Senator Abdul Ningi  revealed that the budget had been padded by N3.7 Billion. For making this revelation, his fellow Distinguished Senators suspended him.

    But the income of NASS Members is not my primary focus here. Rather, it is that despite the humongous   appropriation   by the NASS for  itself, the country does not   get quality legislation. In fact, in some cases, the bills raised by parliamentarians,  are subversive of the country.

    I will restrict myself to bills by the  Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D and, Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu  which respectively sought to violate the fundamental rights of the Nigerian people and, cause political conflagration in the country.

    Before addressing the counterproductive bills of the House leaders, let us consider a subversive and incendiary   one from the Senate. Moved by Senator Simon  Bako Lalong,  former Speaker and   ex-Governor of Plateau State and, onetime  Minister of Labour and Employment, it  seeks to create  a National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria.

    First, I do not see what  business  the Senate has  in a club of unelected persons.  But more importantly, the bill seeks to impose two of such persons; the Ooni of Ife and Sultan of Sokoto  as joint permanent chairmen of the club.

    In a multi-ethnic, multi-religious and large  population like Nigeria with diverse  languages, customs and traditions, the attempt to elevate two unelected leaders above all others, is an  invitation to chaos.

    How did the Distinguished Senators supporting the bill reach the conclusion that the Sokoto Sultanate established in the 19thCentury, is senior  to the Benin Kingdom created in the 11th Century?  Who told them that the Sultan is superior to the Shehu of Borno or, the Ooni  to the Alaafin of Oyo?  How is the Sultan of Sokoto  or Ooni of Ife superior to the Attah of Igala whose ruler ship  in pre-colonial times extended to parts of current  Enugu, Anambra and Delta States?

    How did the Distinguished  Senators reach the conclusion that the Sultan of Sokoto is a traditional ruler? If he is, whose traditions does he rule over; Fulani, Gbagyi, Hausa, Bachama, Jukun or Tiv or, a combination?  On the other hand, if he is not a secular, but religious leader as his Sultanate title or that of Sarkin Musulumi may suggest,  why would he be included in a bill of traditional rulers?  Why would a religious leader be placed as the leader of  the  Och’ Idoma  or,  Pere of Kabuowei Kingdom which spreads across Bayelsa and Delta States? What informs the Senators that the Ooni must preside at meetings over the Amayanabos of  Rivers State or the Shehu of Borno?

    I have raised these questions not because the bill is worthy  of debate, but to let the Senators know that they are igniting  unnecessary rivalries and fires in the country.

    Another incendiary bill is the one on Indigene-ship   by Deputy Speaker Kalu. It seeks to amend Section 31 of the Constitution   by adding that any Nigerian citizen  can become an  indigene of any  state  if he were born in that state, and had lived there for at least 10 years or, had  lived in any part of the state   for at least 10 years or, had been  married to an indigene of that state for at least five years.

    It means that  if an Ikwere marries a Kanuri for five years, he becomes an automatic indigene of Bornu State. If an Ijebu  were married to a Zuru lady for five years, he qualifies as  a Kebbi State indigene or, an Hausa man marries an Ijesha, after five years, he becomes an automatic  indigene of Osun State.  The bill if passed, would  create commotion in the country including claims of land grabbing by some ethnic groups. Ironically, Kalu claims the bill’s aim is to promote  national unity, equity and inclusiveness.

    Speaker Abass had his own crazy bills which like that of his Deputy he has been forced to withdraw. On July 23, 2024,   he tabled the “Counter Subversion and Other Related Offences Bill” under which Nigerians that do not sing the National Anthem  were to be sent to jail for ten years or fined N5 million, or both!

    Also under the bill, he proposed jail for persons  who embarrass or disrespect government officials. This is similar to the draconian Decree 4 of 1984 by the Buhari-Idiagbon regime. Under that discredited decree, persons or journalists whose report, be it true or not, embarrassed a public official,  were sent to jail.

    The second Abass bill was titled: ‘A Bill for an Act to Amend the Electoral Act 2022 to Make It Mandatory for all Nigerians of Majority Age to Vote in All National and State Elections and for Related Matters’ It sought to jail for six months or impose a fine of N100,000 on any registered voter who fails to vote in any election. The bill sought  to violate the right to freedom of choice. It did not matter to Abass whether the votes count, there is good governance, trust in the electoral system or if the voters were even safe.

    In all of these, the law makers have not deemed it fit  since 1999, to make the   constitutional provisions of the “Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy” which guarantee  the basic rights of Nigerians, justiciable.

  • NASS New Media Forum congratulates Rawlins Agada on his appointment as Senate Clerk

    NASS New Media Forum congratulates Rawlins Agada on his appointment as Senate Clerk

    The National Assembly New Media Forum (NANMF) has extended warm congratulations to Mr. Rawlins Agada Emmanuel following his recent elevation to the esteemed position of Clerk of the Senate.

    In a brief but meaningful presentation at the National Assembly Complex, the Forum, led by its Chairman, Mr. Clement Nwabuko, presented a congratulatory card to Mr. Emmanuel, commending his dedication and long-standing service to the legislature.

    Speaking on behalf of the Forum, Mr. Nwabuko described the appointment as “well-deserved,” noting that it stands as a testament to Mr. Emmanuel’s hard work, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public service.

    “This appointment is not just a personal achievement, but also a recognition of your years of diligent service to the National Assembly. It is a proud moment not only for you but also for all those who have worked alongside you and witnessed your dedication,” Nwabuko stated.

    He further emphasized that the NANMF considered it important to personally congratulate Mr. Emmanuel, particularly in recognition of the supportive role he played during the inauguration of the Forum in May 15, 2019 as the then Director of Information under the Omolori-led management of the National Assembly.

    “Your contributions at the time laid a solid foundation for what has now become a vibrant platform for new media professionals covering the National Assembly. We will continue to appreciate your support and encouragement,” Nwabuko added.

    He also assured of the Forum’s solidarity and commitment to ensure he succeeds in his new position.

    Receiving the journalists on behalf of his principal, Mr Mari Mohammed, Chief of staff to the Senate Clerk expressed gratitude to the Forum for the kind gesture, assuring them of his continued support and cooperation in strengthening the relationship between the Senate management and the media.

    He urged them to continue to carry out their duties professionally and in line with the ethics of journalism.

    The NANMF comprises journalists and media professionals leveraging digital platforms to report on and promote transparency within Nigeria’s legislative processes.

  • Speaker Abbas holds strategic meeting with IPU’s Sec-Gen in Geneva

    Speaker Abbas holds strategic meeting with IPU’s Sec-Gen in Geneva

    …lists Nigeria’s legislative strides on gender inclusion, others

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, alongside the President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, held a high-level meeting with the Secretary-General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Mr. Martin Chungong, at the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva.

    The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliaments.

    In his opening remarks, Mr. Chungong expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s enduring commitment to parliamentary diplomacy and praised the leadership of both presiding officers in advancing legislative engagement on the global stage. He recalled the success of past collaborations, including Nigeria’s pivotal role in the “Not Too Young to Run” campaign.

    The meeting centred on strengthening IPU’s partnership with the Nigerian National Assembly in two key areas: climate change and gender equality. The Secretary-General commended Nigeria’s pioneering legislative efforts and urged the National Assembly to lend its full support to pending bills that seek to enhance the political participation of women. He also invited Nigeria to join the IPU’s global “More Youths in Parliament” campaign.

    In his response, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen expressed gratitude for the IPU’s consistent support, particularly its recent $25,000 donation towards the capacity-building programme of the House Committee on Climate Change.

    He outlined Nigeria’s legislative strides on gender inclusion, including the Reserved Seats Bill, which is backed by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The bill proposes three reserved seats per state in the House of Representatives, while a complementary Senate initiative seeks to reserve two seats per geopolitical zone.

    The Speaker highlighted Nigeria’s 2021 Climate Change Act—West Africa’s first—and noted the country’s 2025 budgetary allocation of $400 million to climate-related initiatives. He stressed the importance of active private sector participation and affirmed the National Assembly’s oversight role in ensuring accountability.

    On inclusion, the Speaker reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to advancing the rights of women, youths, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

    Speaker Abbas announced the establishment of a Standing Committee on Youths in Parliament as a model for fostering intergenerational dialogue, and expressed concern over the adverse effects of shifting global health priorities, including the recent withdrawal of USAID funding for HIV treatment. He assured that the 2025 budget makes robust provisions to mitigate this impact.

    The Secretary-General lauded Nigeria’s leadership and pledged continued IPU support in countering disinformation surrounding inclusion-related legislation.

    He confirmed that IPU’s advocacy for climate justice and inclusive governance will remain prominent, particularly in its presentation at the forthcoming COP32.

    At the end of the meeting, there were mutual expressions of commitment to deepening parliamentary cooperation across climate action, youth engagement, and inclusive representation.

  • Deputy Speaker, Kalu withdraws Indigeneship Bill for further legislative engagements

    Deputy Speaker, Kalu withdraws Indigeneship Bill for further legislative engagements

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has withdrawn the indigeneship bill before the parliament for further legislative engagements.

    In a statement on Tuesday night, Kalu said that the withdrawal has become necessary in the light of the concerns and constructive feedback received from various stakeholders regarding the bill.

    He added that the Bill Analysis Report, forwarded by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) also made it imperative for him to step down the bill at this time.

    Although the intention of the bill was to promote national unity, equity, and inclusiveness among all Nigerians, regardless of where they reside, part of the report stated that the State Houses of Assembly should make laws that will make settlers in different states enjoy the same rights and privileges by the indigenes.

    “States should make laws that would allow settlers to benefit same rights and privileges enjoyed by indigenes without any form of discrimination as rightly provided for in the constitution.

    “Though the Bill seeks to achieve some commendable objectives, however, this can be achieved through enactment of law. If this Bill is passed, it would pose challenges with time especially on the issue of double or multiple indigenship,” the report stated.

    Kalu who is the also chairman of the Constitution Review Committee of the House said that he is committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the wishes of the people.

    “As leaders and Representatives, we remain committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the aspirations of the people we serve.

    “The Constitution Review process remains an open, inclusive, and participatory exercise, and no provision or proposal will be pursued without adequate dialogue and consensus-building.

    “I therefore call on citizens to continue engaging constructively with the House Committee on Constitutional Review as we work together to build a more just, united, and prosperous Nigeria”, he said.

  • Edo: PDP demands removal of REC ahead of NASS by-elections

    Edo: PDP demands removal of REC ahead of NASS by-elections

    Ahead of the National Assembly by-elections, the Edo chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for the immediate removal of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr Anugbum Onuaha.

    Chairman of Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, Dr Anthony Aziegbemi, made the call during a press conference on Tuesday in Benin.

    Aziegbemi said the REC allegedly acted in a compromised manner during the last governorship election, leading to a loss of confidence in his neutrality.

    Recall INEC had fixed Aug. 16, for the bye-elections in Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Connstituency to fill two vacant legislative seats vacated by Sen. Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa.

    According to Aziegbemi, Onuaha’s continued presence poses a threat to the credibility and fairness of the upcoming bye-elections.

    He accused the REC of playing an ignoble role in the previous polls, undermining the integrity of the entire electoral process in Edo.

    The PDP urged the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu to act swiftly by redeploying the REC and restoring public trust in the process.

    The party also called for the removal of certain Electoral Officers (EOs) who served during the 2024 gubernatorial election in Edo.

    “We also demand that the EOs who were in Oredo, Ikpoba-Okha, Egor, Etsako West, Etsako East, and Akoko Edo should steer clear of the bye-elections.

    “Their involvement in the irregularities that marred the last governorship election makes their participation unacceptable,” he said

    Aziegbemi emphasised its commitment to free and fair elections, reaffirming the slogan “One Man, One Vote” as a PDP guiding principle.

    The party warned against any attempt to manipulate the outcome and called on INEC and security agencies to guarantee transparent conduct.

    Addressing recent defections from the party, Aziegbemi wished the defectors well but remained confident in its strength and grassroots support.

    He stressed that political dynamics, like nature, were governed by natural laws that eventually restored balance and justice.

    He urged voters to remain vigilant, participate fully, and vote for PDP candidates capable of delivering democratic dividends to the people.

    He thanked the public and reaffirmed the party’s unwavering commitment to protecting democracy in Edo and beyond.

    Speaking on the party’s preparedness for the bye-elections, Aziegbemi stated that the PDP was confident of victory.

    “In line with our constitution and under the guidance of the National Working Committee, the party conducted screening, congress, and primaries to select candidates.

    “The process was transparent, inclusive, and credible, and it was accepted by a majority of PDP members across the affected constituencies in the state.

    “Prince Joe Okojie emerged as the PDP candidate for Edo Central, while Johnny Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi won the Ovia Federal constituency ticket.

  • How NASS honoured Buhari at special plenary

    How NASS honoured Buhari at special plenary

    The Senate on Wednesday called on the Federal Government to immortalise the late former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, by naming a national monument after him.

    The resolution followed a motion moved by the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, during plenary.

    The upper chamber also commended the Federal Government for organising a befitting State Funeral for the late President and observed a minute’s silence in his honour.

    In his motion, Bamidele expressed deep sorrow over Buhari’s passing, describing him as a leader who left an indelible mark in Nigeria’s history.

    He said it was important for the Senate to honour the former President, whom he described as a patriot of great significance.

    “As I move this motion today, I am reminded of the transient nature of human life.

    “However, our consolation is that our former President led a successful and fulfilled life, both as a gallant soldier who rose to the peak of his military career, and as a democrat who served two uninterrupted terms as President,” Bamidele stated.

    He recalled Buhari’s political journey, noting that he contested for the presidency in 2003 and 2007 under the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), and again in 2011 under the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC).

    “His persistence paid off in 2015 when he won the election under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was re-elected in 2019.

    “As President, he embarked on numerous reforms that contributed to the socio-economic development of the country,” Bamidele added.

    He regretted that on Sunday, July 13, Buhari passed away at a hospital in London, marking the end of an era that, he said, would remain etched in the minds of Nigerians.

    “May his legacy continue to guide and inspire future generations, and may his soul rest in peace,” he said.

    Bamidele also noted that, following Buhari’s death, President Bola Tinubu had declared seven days of national mourning and had directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast across the country.

    “The Senate, in turn, suspended plenary for one week in his honour,’ he said.

    In his contribution, Sen. Abdul’aziz Yari (APC-Zamfara) described Buhari as a man of integrity, incorruptible, and God-fearing.

    Similarly, Sen. Seriake Dickson (PDP-Bayelsa) hailed Buhari’s rare opportunity to serve as both military Head of State and later as a democratically elected President.

    He also commended President Tinubu for the respect accorded to Buhari in death, describing it as setting “a basic minimum national standard to honour a deceased President.”

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his remarks, said the nation would continue to miss Buhari for years to come.

    House pays tribute to Buhari

    Similarly, the House of Representatives on Wednesday paid tribute to former President Buhari, who died at 82 after a long illness.

    Leading the tribute, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen described Buhari as a statesman who left an enduring impact on Nigeria’s democratic and legislative development.

    He praised Buhari’s lifelong service, noting his dedication and sacrifices for the growth and unity of Nigeria.

    Tajudeen commended Buhari’s strong belief in separation of powers, especially his insistence that ministers and agency heads appear before parliamentary committees.

    He said Buhari’s willingness to sign laws limiting executive powers and protecting citizens’ rights reflected rare humility and respect for governance.

    Laws like the Not Too Young to Run Act (2018), the Petroleum Industry Act (2021), and the Police Act (2020) were highlighted as Buhari’s legacy.

    Others include the Electoral Act (2022), the Startup Act (2022), and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act (2018), which Tajudeen said defined Buhari’s tenure.

    He also noted infrastructural strides under Buhari, such as the revitalised rail lines — Abuja–Kaduna and Lagos–Ibadan — and the Second Niger Bridge.

    Road rehabilitation projects across the country were also highlighted as lasting symbols of Buhari’s infrastructure push.

    Rep. Sada Soli (APC-Katsina) described Buhari’s death as an irredeemable loss to his family, the North, and the nation at large.

    He said Buhari was the North’s most charismatic leader since the late Sardauna of Sokoto and a patriot of uncommon stature.

    Soli lauded Buhari’s six-decade career, saying he remained largely untouched by the corruption and excesses that often accompany political power.

    He said Buhari was a moral compass to many Nigerians, admired for his simplicity and incorruptibility.

    “Those who knew him will confirm he was deeply spiritual and believed this world is only a shadow of the hereafter,” he said.

    Soli added that Buhari was never compromised by power and lived modestly, regardless of his position.

    He said Buhari prioritised the poor and vulnerable over personal wealth or gain, always seeking to uplift the downtrodden.

    Soli added that Buhari set a standard of leadership that may remain unmatched for years, praying for his eternal rest.

    Rep. Nuhu Nalaraba (APC-Nasarawa) noted Buhari’s key role in forming the All Progressives Congress (APC), which led the party to victory in 2015.

    He recalled Buhari’s decision to grant bailout funds to state governments struggling to pay salaries early in his administration.

    Rep. Lanre Okunlola (APC-Lagos) described Buhari as a leader who embodied sacrifice and commitment to public service.

    He recalled Buhari’s iconic quote: “I belong to everybody, I belong to nobody,” describing him as principled and focused.

    Okunlola said Nigeria mourns not just a past president, but a father figure to the entire nation.

    The House observed a minute’s silence in honour of Buhari, as lawmakers across party lines paid glowing tributes.

  • Reps propose ban on public servants using private schools, hospitals

    Reps propose ban on public servants using private schools, hospitals

    The House of Representatives has introduced a bill seeking to prohibit public and civil servants from patronising private schools and healthcare facilities.

    The bill, sponsored by Rep. Amobi Ogah (LP–Abia), was presented for first reading during Tuesday’s plenary session.

    In his lead debate, Ogah described the proposed legislation as a turning point in Nigeria’s history.

    He said the bill aimed to bar all public and civil servants, including their immediate family members, from using private educational and healthcare services.

    According to him, the objective is to eliminate conflicts of interest, build public trust, and uphold the integrity of public institutions.

    “Before Nigeria attained independence and became a republic, our foremost statesmen were educated in government schools.

    “Sir Ahmadu Bello attended Sokoto Provincial School and Katsina Training College (now Barewa College), Nnamdi Azikiwe went to Holy Trinity College and Christ Church School in Onitsha.

    “Likewise Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Alhaji Tafawa Balewa,” he said.

    Ogah said the preference for private institutions among today’s public officials was detrimental to the nation’s development.

    “It has become an unwholesome trend for public and civil servants to seek private educational and healthcare services for themselves and their families, to the detriment of our economy,” he stated.

    Citing government spending, he noted that while Nigeria allocated N1.33 trillion to healthcare in the 2024 budget, the country spent an estimated N1.6 trillion, or more than 1 billion dollars, annually on medical treatment abroad.

    Ogah added that Nigerians spent at least 29.29 billion dollars on overseas medical expenses during the eight-year administration of late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    In the education sector, he said Nigerians spent 38.17 million dollars on foreign education between January and March 2024, and 218.87 million dollars in 2023.

    “The time for truth is now. We cannot continue damaging the psyche of Nigerians. If we can remove petroleum subsidies, we must also take bold steps to reform public service behaviour by passing this bill.”

    He emphasised that the continued patronage of private schools and hospitals had led to the neglect and deterioration of public institutions.

    “Our public hospitals and schools have become shadows of themselves, with crumbling infrastructure and falling standards. We must restore confidence in government-owned institutions to uplift Nigeria’s global image.”

    According to Ogah, it is a national embarrassment when high-ranking officials travel overseas for medical care and, in some cases, do not return alive.

    He stressed that the bill aimed to end both medical and educational tourism for public and civil servants. Ogah called on the Nigerian public, particularly the media, to support the bill and foster a new national consciousness that prioritised local institutions.