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Tag: Senate

  • Alleged budget padding: Senate to reconsider Ningi’s suspension on resumption

    Alleged budget padding: Senate to reconsider Ningi’s suspension on resumption

    The Senate may reconsider Senator Abdul Ningi’s suspension, which was imposed after he alleged that the Red Chamber “padded” the 2024 Budget with N3.7 trillion as lawmakers resume today.

    Recall Ningi was suspended for three months for claiming during a BBC Hausa Service interview that the National Assembly padded the budget.

    Ningi, represented legally by Femi Falana SAN, had issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, demanding his recall or facing legal consequences.

    In response, Akpabio clarified that Ningi’s suspension was not solely his decision but a collective action by 108 out of 109 senators, who felt their integrity was undermined.

    Speaking during a media parley in Abuja on Monday, the Senate spokesman, Yemi Adaramodu, said Ningi’s case would be considered based on its merits when the Senate reconvened on Tuesday after plenary break.

    Adaramodu emphasised that any decision regarding Ningi’s recall would involve the entire Senate during plenary.

    He clarified that the suspension was not a unilateral action by Akpabio but a decision taken collectively by 108 senators, excluding Ningi himself.

    He said, “109 senators except Senator Ningi now decided that Senator Ningi would be given a light disciplinary declaration which gave him a three-month suspension from parliamentary activities. So, it is only the 108 senators who took that action that can call Senator Ningi back.

    “We have been on plenary break for about four weeks. So, when we resume tomorrow (Tuesday), as the case may be, he’s our colleague, if he makes a plea, then the senators will now look at it and then we take it on the merit of it.

    “When we were not in the chamber, there have been so many insinuations, there has been a report that a letter has been written by the counsel to Senator Ningi compelling the Senate President to recall Senator Ningi within seven days.

    “And then when I was asked a question I said, it’s not a matter of Senator Ningi versus Senator Akpabio. It’s Senator Ningi versus the rest of the senators. So, it is not Senator Akpabio, though our president, who took the action unilaterally and solely to suspend Senator Ningi.”

    Adaramodu stated that there is no basis for comparing Senator Abdul Ningi’s suspension to that of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege during the 8th Senate.

  • Finally, Senate resumes as Visible Construction delivers chambers

    Finally, Senate resumes as Visible Construction delivers chambers

    After forty days of recess , the Senate resumes plenary Tuesday, as Visible Construction , a Subsidiary of Laralek Ultimate Group of Companies that handled renovation of chambers of the National Assembly , delivers them at the nick of time for usage .

    Both the Senate and the House of Representatives , had at the commencement of the renovation work in September 2022, relocated to temporary Chambers for plenary proceedings where the 9th National Assembly, eventually ended its session sine die .

    However , the 10th National Assembly which was inaugurated at the temporary chambers on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, impressed it upon the construction company to expeditiously complete the renovation work .

    Ten months after , the indigenous construction company is delivering the reconfigured chambers to both the Senate and the House of Representatives .

     

    The chambers which are located within the White House , were built by Arab Contractors , a foreign firm in 1997/ 1998 under the late General Sani Abacha led military government.

     

    Findings show that Visible Construction , is the first indigenous firm to be engaged in construction and renovation work at the National Assembly

    Apparently impressed with the renovation work on the Chambers by Visible Construction , some staff of the National Assembly who spoke to our reporter , expressed satisfaction with the work done .

    One of them who pleaded for anonymity, said the reconfigured Chambers , has now made National Assembly to level up with other parliaments in the world in terms of state of the arts facilities and equipments .

    ” Senators and members of the House of Representatives now have very conducive chambers for plenary proceedings “, he said .

  • Constitution Amendment: Senator Barau harps on collaboration with all stakeholders

    Constitution Amendment: Senator Barau harps on collaboration with all stakeholders

    Deputy President of the Senate and Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Review of the Constitution, Senator Barau I Jibrin, has called for robust collaboration among all stakeholders to drive the ongoing constitution amendment process to a successful conclusion.

    Senator Barau stated this on Saturday at the joint retreat of the secretariat and consultants to the Senate and House of Representatives committees on the review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, in Abuja.

    He commended the synergy between the constitution review secretariat and consultants to the Senate and House of Representatives committees, saying this will create harmony in the workings of both committees.

    Senator Barau assured that the National Assembly will carry out the review the of constitution by a thorough aggregation of the yearnings of Nigerians from all walks of life through public hearings and collection of memoranda from various interests throughout the country, as well as embarking on a progressive engagement with state governments and legislatures and the federal government to achieve consensus on all issues.

    “We must work together. Our country is facing a lot of challenges and this is the right time to fashion out a constitution that will go in line with the wishes and aspirations of the people of this country.

    “The world is dynamic and this compels all serious countries to go with modernity and fashion their laws in accordance with contemporary happenings within their peculiarities.

    “We have started on a progressive note of collaboration and let us add momentum to this very important collaboration within our ranks in order to achieve a result that will help in driving the process of making prospective peace, justice and fair play in the way we run our affairs as a nation,” he said.

  • Senator Barau pays condolence visit to Sidi Ali’s family in Kano+Photos

    Senator Barau pays condolence visit to Sidi Ali’s family in Kano+Photos

    The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I Jibrin, on Saturday, paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Second Republic lawmaker and ace journalist, Alhaji Sidi Ali, who died on Thursday at the age of 86.

    The late veteran journalist turned politician worked at the Nigerian International Press Centre, Ministry of Information and National Broadcasting Commission, among other critical institutions in the country.

    The Deputy President of the Senate was received by the son of the deceased, Hameed Sidi Ali, who led him to commiserate with the entire family at the NNDC Quarters, Hotoro GRA, Tarauni LGA, Kano State.

    Senator Barau extolled the virtues of the deceased, saying he contributed immensely to the development of the country in both political and media spheres.

    In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, Senator Barau urged the family to remain united and emulate the good virtues of their late father.

    “The death of our late elder statesman, Alhaji Sidi Ali, is not a loss to his immediate family alone, but a monumental loss to the country as a whole. He served our country meritoriously in different capacities and displayed his wealth of talent for the unity and growth of the nation,” he said.

    He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, grant him Jannatul Firdaus and give the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

    Also, on Saturday, the Deputy President of the Senate was at the residence of the late former chairman of Kano Municipal, Alhaji Sabo Dantata, to condole his family. The former LG chairman died recently.

    Similarly, Senator Barau visited the residence of his driver, Alhaji Danjumai, in Nasarawa LGA, to condole him over the demise of his father, who died recently.

    The Deputy President of the Senate was also in Kabo and Rimin Gado local government areas for condolences.

  • Akpabio tasks Judiciary on sustainable reforms+Photos

    Akpabio tasks Judiciary on sustainable reforms+Photos

     

    The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has urged the Nigerian Judiciary to evolve a blueprint for the transformative changes needed to enhance judicial efficiency and ensure the fair administration of justice across the nation.

    Senator Akpabio made the call at the opening ceremony of a two-day Summit on “Enhancing Justice Delivery in Nigeria” organized by the Federal Ministry of Justice in collaboration with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and other international development partners in Abuja.

    A statement by the Special Assistant on Media/Communication to the Senate President, Anietie Ekong, quoted Senator Akpabio to have said that the “collaborative efforts of stakeholders will shape the strategic direction of Nigeria’s justice system, making it more robust, accessible, and equitable.”

    According to Akpabio, “In the coming months, I will invite my colleagues in the Senate and the House of Representatives to deliberate on these proposals with the gravity and diligence they deserve.

    “Together, with the insights and support of the judiciary, legal experts, and the Nigerian populace, we will embark on this legislative journey to enshrine these reforms into law.

    “This is more than legislative duty; it is our moral imperative to fortify the foundation of our nation’s justice system for present and future generations. I look forward to productive discussions and to the eventual realization of these reforms, ensuring a just, equitable, and prosperous society for all.

    “I will not be telling the truth if I say that we at the National Assembly are not aware of the delays and backlogs plaguing our courts, which not only deny timely justice but undermine faith in our judicial system.

    “These delays harm our society’s most vulnerable and create an environment where justice is seen as inaccessible and inefficient. In an era where technology has transformed so many sectors, it is critical that we harness its potential within our judicial processes to enhance speed and transparency.

    “We are committed to budgeting for the implementation of judicial reforms that will include the adoption of digital tools to manage cases more effectively and ensure that justice is neither delayed nor denied.

    “This journey requires collective effort. I call upon all stakeholders, including my colleagues in both legislative and executive branches, as well as the judiciary itself, to support these vital reforms. Together, we can build a justice system that is fit for the 21st century,” he said.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was represented by Vice-President Kashim Shetima said the administration has embarked upon far reaching reforms to enhance justice delivery including the appointment of the full compliment of the Justices of the Supreme Court.

    Other stakeholders who presented papers at the Summit included the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kayode Ariwoola, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau, SAN among others.

  • Akpabio meets South South APC state chairmen

    Akpabio meets South South APC state chairmen

    …tasks them on party unity and cohesion

    President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has charged the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the south south geo-political zone, to work harder so that the visibility of the party in the region will grow from one state to more states.

    Akpabio gave the charge while receiving in courtesy, APC chairmen from the south south region, in Abuja on Sunday.

    Akpabio, who noted that he understood the challenges being faced by the chairmen, assured them that “in the days ahead, a meeting of critical stakeholders comprising State chairmen, National Assembly members, Ministers and other Appointees from the region would be convened to work out modalities to support the party at various state chapters, as a way of engendering unity and understanding, amongst all party members to foster social cohesion between the party and elected/ appointed officials in Government.”

    He commended the APC Chairmen for their visit and used the opportunity to intimate them of the plans of the Tinubu-led Government towards the economic prosperity agenda for Nigeria as a whole and south south in particular.

    The Senate President thanked President Tinubu for the Lagos/Calabar coastal road, describing it as very visionary. He went further to inform the Chairmen that he personally inspected the on going construction of the project with the Minister of works in Lagos before returning to Abuja.
    In his brief remarks on behalf of his colleagues, the Cross River State chairman,, Barrister Alphonsus Ogar, commended the harmonious working relationship between the Senate President and the only Governor from the zone, Senator Bassey Otu and their spouses.

    Expressing solidarity with the President of the Senate, he recounted that the south south geo political zone last had the seat of Senate President in 1979, 45 years ago.

    The Chairmen declared their total support for Akpabio’s commitment towards the infrastructural development of the area especially the on going Lagos – Calabar Coastal road and railway line being embarked upon by the Tinubu administration.

    According to Eba, the completion of this project within record time would immortalize President Tinubu in the hearts of the people of the region. He, therefore, appealed to the President of the Senate, not to be distracted by the antics of the opposition as the Lagos/Calabar coastal road project is the most ambitious and laudable project, ever to have been embarked upon as a reward for a region that is contributing blood and oxygen to the economic survival

  • Senator Barau observes Eid prayers, celebrations in Kabo, Kano

    Senator Barau observes Eid prayers, celebrations in Kabo, Kano

    Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, on Wednesday, observed Eid-el-Fitr prayers and celebrations at his hometown, Kabo local government area of Kano State.

    Senator Barau, along with his entourage, arrived in Kabo town around 8:45 am on Wednesday at the central Eid Ground for the prayer amid cheers by the people of the town and its environs.

    A massive crowd of supporters and well-wishers welcomed him.

    The two Rakat prayers were led by the Chief Imam of Kabo, Malam Jafaru Mustapha.

    In his sermon, the Iman urged the Muslim faithful to remain united and to sustain the good deeds and lessons of the blessed month of Ramadan.

    While wishing the entire Muslims Ummah a joyous celebration, the Imam urged them to pray for leaders for the nation’s development. He also prayed for the Deputy President of the Senate, appreciating his tremendous projects and interventions in the state.

    “Eid-el-Fitr is a period where Muslims share joy and happiness after the one-month Ramadan Fast. I therefore urge all of us to remain prayerful for our leaders and continue with the good deeds we have learned during the holy month.

    “Your Excellency, Distinguished Senator, we appreciate the kind support you are giving us. We pray for Almighty Allah to protect and guide for the notable projects and interventions you have been doing for this region,” he said.

    After the prayers, Senator Barau went around the town and exchanged greetings with his elders, friends, relatives, supporters and well-wishers in line with the teachings of the season.

    Similarly, Senator Barau paid a condolence visit to the immediate family and relatives of the late Halilu Ibrahim Kundila, who represented Bagwai/Shanono in the State House of Assembly until his death on Saturday.

    As usual, from across the nooks and crannies of the communities, people, young and old, trooped out to receive the Deputy President of the Senate.

  • Eid El Fitri: Akpabio felicitates Muslims urges prayers for peace, unity in Nigeria

    Eid El Fitri: Akpabio felicitates Muslims urges prayers for peace, unity in Nigeria

    President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has felicitated Muslims in Nigeria and in the Diaspora for the successful end of 30 days Ramadan fast.

    Akpabio’s message was contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh.

    “On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District and indeed, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I heartily rejoice with Muslim faithful in Nigeria as they join their counterparts in other parts of the world to celebrate Eid El Fitri.

    “I wish all of you a peaceful and sweet celebration and pray the Almighty Allah to grant your heart desires”.

    The Senate President urged Muslims to continue to offer prayers for peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria saying, “Islam is a religion of peace and if its adherents go to Allah in prayers with sincerity, He will surely answer.

    “I therefore ask you to pray for your leaders and the peace and unity of our dear country. I believe with your prayers, Nigeria will overcome its current challenges.

    “Wherever you find yourselves, radiate the peace that Islam preaches and the love and care for the less privileged that Prophet Muhammad exemplified”

  • Budget Padding: Senate set to reinstate Ningi before expiration of three-month suspension

    Budget Padding: Senate set to reinstate Ningi before expiration of three-month suspension

    Godswill Akpabio the senate president has revealed that the Upper chamber  is set to recall Senator Abdul Ningi from his three-month suspension.

    This was made known to the house while answering questions from reporters on arrival from the Inter-Parliamentary Union meeting in Geneva, Switzerland.

    Akpabio said the Senate will soon review the three-month suspension it slammed on Ningi for claiming that the 2024 budget was allegedly padded with the sum of N3.7 trillion.

    It would be recalled  that Suspended senator Ningi  on Thursday, in a letter written by his counsel, Femi Falana SAN, requested reinstatement to the Senate.

    Akpabio pointed out that even though he had not seen the letter, the matter would be resolved like a family affair.

    He said: “It is a parliamentary decision. I have not seen the letter yet. But Senator Ningi is one of us. I mean, what is suspension?”

  • Akpabio’s image maker, Eyiboh bags NIPR’s outstanding spokesperson award+Photos

    Akpabio’s image maker, Eyiboh bags NIPR’s outstanding spokesperson award+Photos

    The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity and official Spokesperson to the President of the Senate, Hon Eseme Eyiboh has won the most Outstanding Spokesperson Award of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Information.

    Eyiboh, a former Spokesperson for the House of Representatives and Chairman of its Committee on Media and Public Affairs was selected for the prestigious award on account of his roles in projecting the positive image of not only the President of the Senate but the Senate as an institution of democracy.

    The Jury Sub-Committee of the National Spokespersons Awards, set up by the NIPR and the Ministry found Eyiboh worthy of the award among other spokespersons operating across the Legislative arm of government in both state and national institutions in the country.

    The ceremony took place at the International Conference Center, Abuja. In the award, Hon Eseme Eyiboh is described as an indomitable non-violent communication expert with deep network and effective practice delivery with clarity in objectives, strategic in framing engagements with his audience. His
    impact and effectiveness in perception and reputation management is robust.

    The letter to the award recipient, read in parts:
    “I am excited to
    inform you that, from the numerous entries, you have been selected as the Outstanding Spokesperson Award – Legislature
    in recognition of your work and having satisfied the selection criteria”.

    “The National Spokespersons Awards is the highest honours celebrating outstanding spokespersons
    in corporate communications, public affairs, politics, media, advocacy, and other domains in Nigeria who have demonstrated outstanding eloquence, integrity, and effectiveness in their roles
    as spokespeople. There was an eruption of ovation and a rush to join him in the podium when Eyiboh was announced as the winner.

    His acceptance speech on behalf of others brought to the fore his gift of the garb rendered with inexhaustible elocution.
    Eyiboh dedicated the award to the President of the Senate – senator Godswill Akpabio(his boss).