Category: House of Representatives

By Anne Azuka

The Delta State House of Assembly has successfully passed the second reading of a Bill to Amend the Child Rights Law 2008. This amendment aims to strengthen the legal framework for child rights protection in Delta State.

Lead sponsor Hon. (Mrs) Marylyn Okowa-Daramola, representing Ika North East Constituency, presented the bill during Tuesday’s plenary, chaired by Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor. The amendment seeks to update the existing law to align with contemporary issues and improve its effectiveness.

In her presentation, Hon. Okowa-Daramola emphasized that the 16-year-old law requires updates to address modern realities. She pointed out that several provisions in the principal law are outdated and hinder effective implementation. The amendment will revise twelve sections of the original 68-section law.

Key among the proposed changes is a shift in responsibility for implementing the Child Rights Law from the Ministry of Education to the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Social Development. This change is intended to streamline execution and better address current needs.

The bill received widespread support, with 28 lawmakers co-sponsoring the amendment. Contributions from members, including Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo and Deputy Majority Leader Festus Okoh, underscored the necessity of these updates. The amendment aims to resolve implementation challenges and enhance the law’s impact on child welfare.

The Speaker has referred the bill to the House Committee on Housing, Women Affairs, and Humanitarian Support Services for detailed review, with a report due on October 3, 2024.

Additionally, the Assembly confirmed the appointments of Mr. Aluge-Obia Kainji for Ika South and Mr. John Ewenede for Ughelli South as Secretaries to Local Government Councils. The Speaker congratulated the appointees and urged them to excel in their new roles.

By   Milcah   Tanimu

Nasara Rabo, Executive Chairman of Kagarko Local Government in Kaduna State, has lauded Gabriel Zock, the Member Representing Kachia/Kagarko Federal Constituency, for his exemplary performance and credible representation.

Following the Appeal Court’s ruling on October 19, 2023, which led to a supplementary election, Zock emerged victorious with 42,461 votes, surpassing his rivals. Rabo praised Zock’s accomplishments since his re-election, noting significant achievements within his second term.

Rabo highlighted Zock’s initiatives, including the empowerment of 500 women across the 22 wards with N37 million in grants, and a recent N100 million disbursement to small and medium-sized enterprises. Additionally, Zock provided four cars worth N36 million to party chairmen and campaign directors, and a N15 million cash gift to religious leaders for their peace efforts.

The Kagarko Council Chairman commended Zock for bringing tangible benefits to the constituency, including youth and women empowerment, entrepreneurship support, and social amenities. He emphasized Zock’s commitment to upholding party principles and fulfilling campaign promises.

Rabo expressed confidence in Zock’s ability to attract further development and urged APC members to stay dedicated for future electoral successes.

Senator representing plateau south senatorial district simon bako lalong has expressed shock over the demise of miskoom moses tapgun who died at the age of 76.

Lalong says he recieved the news of his death with sadness as the deceased was a man of integrity and industry and contributed a lot to the development of his immediate community and the society at large.

He recalls that the deceased had worked with excellence in several positions where he headed the plateau state transport corporation and also successfully ran personal businesses that positively impacted plateau state and nigeria at large.

He said the deceased was a strong member of the plateau apc family who contributed immediately as a member of the party’s elders committee.

He said the late miskoom moses tapgun brought on board his vast political experiences to bear in helping to resolve many challenges that the party dealt with overtime.

Senator lalong also eulogised his contributions to economic empowerment at the grassroots during his term as chairman of telsuk community bank as well as other community development initiatives.

The senator sends his condolences to his immediate family, the gamai nation and plateau state and also prays that his soul will find eternal rest.

Dr. Makut simon macham
Special adviser (media) to senator simon bako lalong, plateau south senatorial district.
26th august 2024.

…Draft legislation still at introductory stage
…House welcomes robust discussions on the Bill, and how to address concerns

The attention of the Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D has been drawn to reports in sections of the media about the Counter Subversion Bill, which he sponsored.

The Speaker appreciates the interest Nigerians have so far shown on the Bill, which pertains to our national security.

However, it has become necessary to make the following clarifications, considering the tilted reports and misconceptions about the Bill:

1. The Counter Subversion Bill, 2024 (HB. 1652) was introduced on the floor of the House of Representatives on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, with Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D. as the sponsor. Thus, the Bill is still at the introductory stage.

2. The Bill falls within the realm of Nigeria’s anti-terrorism framework, and it seeks to address subversive activities by associations, organisations, militias, cults, bandits, and other proscribed groups in Nigeria.

3. Similar legislation obtains in other climes with varied appellations. Such countries include the United Kingdom, Spain, India, Turkey, Canada, Australia, among others.

4. The Speaker, and by extension the House of Representatives, which is the People’s House, welcome robust engagements and discussions from Nigerians on the contents of the Bill, and how best to address the concerns raised.

5. By Parliamentary processes and procedures, the Bill would have to be listed for Second Reading, where Members will thoroughly scrutinize its merits and demerits during debate. At this stage, Members can decide to ‘kill’ or allow the Bill to pass. But if it scales Second Reading, it would be referred to the relevant Committee of the House for further legislative action.

6. The Committee must as a matter of responsibility invite the Nigerian public, particularly relevant stakeholders, to a public hearing on the Bill. It is expected that citizens would bear their minds either physically or via memoranda on the Bill. Their inputs would form the basis for the Committee’s report, to be laid on the floor of the House.

7. After the consideration of the report, the Bill will be passed for the Third Reading and forwarded to the Senate for concurrence. If the Senate deems it fit and concurs with the Bill, a clean copy would be transmitted to the President for assent. Mr. President reserves the right to withhold assent to the Bill.

The Speaker assures Nigerians that the Bill is all-encompassing as it relates to Nigeria’s national security and does not target any group or section of the country.

Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D further promises that the Bill, and indeed any other draft legislation before the House, will pass through all the legislative processes, and Nigerians would have ample opportunity to make their inputs, which will constitute the final consideration (or otherwise) of the Bill.

Signed:

Musa Abdullahi Krishi, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

On Tue, Jul 30, 2024, 15:43 Ahmed Musa Baba wrote:
Press Statement from the Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives

July 30, 2024

Shelve your action in Nigeria’s interest, Speaker Abbas appeals to protests planners

…says Tinubu working round the clock to address citizens’ plight

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, has passionately appealed to the planners of the nationwide protests, especially the Nigerian youth, to shelve their action in the interest of the country and its citizens.

Speaker Abbas, who noted the frustrations and reservations of the Nigerian youth, said the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration is not relenting in its efforts to bring succour to Nigerians.

The Speaker also said the House of Representatives has taken measures to continuously engage the youth to hear their earnings and aspirations with a view to addressing them.

“I address you today with a heart full of empathy and a deep sense of duty. We are living through challenging times, and I want to acknowledge the difficulties that many of you, especially our youth, are facing. The economic pressures, social uncertainties, and other related concerns weigh heavily on our nation.

“Your frustrations and reservations are not lost on us. We hear your cries for change, for a better and more equitable Nigeria. I want to assure you that these concerns are taken with the utmost seriousness by the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. We are committed to listening, engaging, and working with you to find sustainable solutions to the issues that confront us.

“The government has initiated several policies and programs aimed at addressing the needs and aspirations of our youth. One of such initiatives is the introduction of student loans to ease the burden of educational expenses and ensure that no Nigerian youth is denied the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams due to financial constraints.”

Speaker Abbas added that, “The Tinubu-led administration has also made significant strides in providing access to funds for young entrepreneurs through various schemes, such as the Consumer Credit Scheme, designed to support innovation and enterprise.

“In addition, we are focusing on job creation and skills development. Programs aimed at enhancing employability and creating sustainable livelihoods are being prioritised. We are committed to ensuring that the Nigerian youth are not just jobseekers but job creators.

“I also want to highlight the efforts of the House of Representatives in this regard. We are in the process of developing formal legislative mechanisms to ensure continuous engagement and dialogue with our youth. We believe that your voices must be heard, and we are creating platforms for regular interaction to build consensus on the way forward.

“Therefore, I urge you to remember that nation-building is a collective task. We must shun violence and embrace dialogue. Your right to protest is acknowledged and respected. Let us use legitimate avenues to express our grievances and work together towards constructive solutions.

“At this juncture, I appeal to the planners of these nation protests to shelve their action for the interest of our nation. Let’s give the government more time. Let’s open doors for purposeful dialogue with the government. As I have mentioned above, there are measures taken by the government to nip our challenges in the bud.

“In conclusion, I want to reaffirm the commitment of the House of Representatives to stand with you, to work with you, and to ensure that your future is bright.”

Signed:

Musa Abdullahi Krishi, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

By Milcah Tanimu

Senator Kawu Sumaila from Kano South has sparked controversy by disclosing that he receives ₦21 million monthly as a “running cost” for his office, despite widespread economic difficulties in Nigeria.

Sumaila’s admission contrasts sharply with the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) figures, which peg a senator’s official salary and allowances at approximately ₦1,063,860 per month. This figure includes a basic salary of ₦168,866 plus various allowances.

In an interview with BBC Hausa, Sumaila explained that while his official salary is under ₦1 million, he receives an additional ₦21 million designated for office expenses. After tax deductions, his net salary is about ₦600,000.

The revelation comes in the wake of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s criticism of lawmakers for allegedly benefiting from inflated salaries and allowances, a claim that the Senate has denied.

Sumaila’s disclosure has intensified scrutiny over the discrepancy between official salary figures and actual compensation, highlighting ongoing debates about transparency and fairness in lawmakers’ remuneration.

By Milcah Tanimu

Details have emerged from a recent meeting between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and six members of the House of Representatives, led by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere. The meeting, held at Obasanjo’s residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State, centered on pressing national issues and governance reforms.

Obasanjo issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, urging it to heed the concerns of Nigerian youths who have been increasingly vocal about their demands for improved governance, economic opportunities, and an end to corruption. He expressed concern that ignoring these demands could lead to severe consequences, given the current frustration, desperation, and high unemployment rates among the youth.

“You are what you are today because you’re a Nigerian; I’m what I am also because I’m a Nigerian. So why should they be Nigerians and be languishing in poverty?” Obasanjo questioned. He stressed that the government must address the root causes of youth dissatisfaction to prevent escalating unrest.

The discussion also covered a proposed bill advocating for a single six-year term for the presidency, with rotational governance between the North and South. Obasanjo emphasized that the effectiveness of such a system depends on the governance mentality rather than the duration of the term. “Whether we have one term of six years or two terms of four years, the critical issue is our mentality. We need to decarbonize our brains,” he stated.

Mr. Ugochinyere supported the move towards a single six-year presidential term and called for a rotational approach to governance between the North and South to ensure inclusivity.

The meeting included additional lawmakers: Hon. Abdulmalik Danga, Hon. Midala Malami, Hon. Matthew Nwogu, Hon. Peter Aniekwe, and Hon. Kama Nkemkama.

By Milcah Tanimu

A dramatic walkout occurred in the House of Representatives as lawmakers debated a bill to raise the limit on ways and means advances from 5% to 10% of the previous year’s revenue.

The debate intensified when Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda proposed an amendment to lower the advances to 2%, a suggestion that was rejected by the majority. This proposed increase, which would double the current limit, has sparked controversy among opposition members who fear it will exacerbate the nation’s debt burden.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is constitutionally allowed to provide advances up to 5% of the previous year’s revenue. The bill’s proposal to increase this limit has been met with significant resistance, with critics arguing it will lead to further economic strain.

More details on this unfolding situation will follow.

Shelve your action in Nigeria’s interest, Speaker Abbas appeals to protests planners

…says Tinubu working round the clock to address citizens’ plight

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, has passionately appealed to the planners of the nationwide protests, especially the Nigerian youth, to shelve their action in the interest of the country and its citizens.

Speaker Abbas, who noted the frustrations and reservations of the Nigerian youth, said the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration is not relenting in its efforts to bring succour to Nigerians.

The Speaker also said the House of Representatives has taken measures to continuously engage the youth to hear their earnings and aspirations with a view to addressing them.

“I address you today with a heart full of empathy and a deep sense of duty. We are living through challenging times, and I want to acknowledge the difficulties that many of you, especially our youth, are facing. The economic pressures, social uncertainties, and other related concerns weigh heavily on our nation.

“Your frustrations and reservations are not lost on us. We hear your cries for change, for a better and more equitable Nigeria. I want to assure you that these concerns are taken with the utmost seriousness by the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. We are committed to listening, engaging, and working with you to find sustainable solutions to the issues that confront us.

“The government has initiated several policies and programs aimed at addressing the needs and aspirations of our youth. One of such initiatives is the introduction of student loans to ease the burden of educational expenses and ensure that no Nigerian youth is denied the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams due to financial constraints.”

Speaker Abbas added that, “The Tinubu-led administration has also made significant strides in providing access to funds for young entrepreneurs through various schemes, such as the Consumer Credit Scheme, designed to support innovation and enterprise.

“In addition, we are focusing on job creation and skills development. Programs aimed at enhancing employability and creating sustainable livelihoods are being prioritised. We are committed to ensuring that the Nigerian youth are not just jobseekers but job creators.

“I also want to highlight the efforts of the House of Representatives in this regard. We are in the process of developing formal legislative mechanisms to ensure continuous engagement and dialogue with our youth. We believe that your voices must be heard, and we are creating platforms for regular interaction to build consensus on the way forward.

“Therefore, I urge you to remember that nation-building is a collective task. We must shun violence and embrace dialogue. Your right to protest is acknowledged and respected. Let us use legitimate avenues to express our grievances and work together towards constructive solutions.

“At this juncture, I appeal to the planners of these nation protests to shelve their action for the interest of our nation. Let’s give the government more time. Let’s open doors for purposeful dialogue with the government. As I have mentioned above, there are measures taken by the government to nip our challenges in the bud.

“In conclusion, I want to reaffirm the commitment of the House of Representatives to stand with you, to work with you, and to ensure that your future is bright.”