Category: Politics

…proposes pro-females Constitution, Police Act, Electoral amendments

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, on Friday, declared his agenda for women empowerment and inclusion in governance, as the world marks the International Women’s Day.

The Speaker, in his closing address at a ceremony organised by the National Assembly to celebrate women, disclosed some of the plans he personally has for women, as well as those of the House, including amending the Police Act to be fairer to women and revisiting the gender-related bills that failed to pass in the last review of the 1999 Constitution by the 9th National Assembly.

“Critically, I am leading an amend to the Police Act 2022 to ensure uniformity in the enlistment requirements for men and women; amend the rule that excludes married women from enlisting in the police and delete the regulation that provides that unmarried women may only marry after they have served in the police for three years subject to approval from a police commissioner,” he partly said amidst cheers from the audience.

The United Nations had designated the theme for the 2024 edition of the International Women’s Day as ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.’

To commemorate the day, the Office of the Speaker spearheaded the event, which was attended by several female lawmakers, international bodies and the diplomatic community, actresses, civil society and advocacy organisations, women groups, and representatives of the private sector.

Speaker Abbas stated that the House is committed to working with the Executive arm to “create an enabling environment that allows women access finances for investment, take on leadership roles, excel in their chosen careers, and actively participate in national policy-making and dialogue.”

While acknowledging the need to take “drastic and intentional steps” to open up spaces for the inclusion of women in decision-making processes in different sectors, he said this would enable the nation to reap the benefits of the overall empowerment of women.

The Speaker noted that the Legislative Agenda of the 10th House outlines 12 actions to improve women’s political representation and participation. These, he said, include re-introducing and supporting the bill on temporary special seats for women in the Constitution amendment efforts of the 10th National Assembly; legislation to increase women’s representation in elective positions by creating special women-only seats in the Senate and House, and encouraging state Houses of Assembly to do the same.

Other are introducing electoral reforms to implement mandatory requirements for political parties to have a certain percentage of female candidates and in party leadership structure; and passing the Gender Equal Opportunities Bill (GEOB) to ensure women are active and equal participants in Nigeria’s political and decision-making processes.

Speaker Abbas added that the House would also work with political parties to provide legal backing to funding or subsidies specifically for female candidates to reduce the financial barriers to entry, as well as strengthen the Electoral Act 2022 to penalise violence, intimidation and harassment against women in politics.

He said: “These reform measures have been prioritised by the recently inaugurated House Committee on Constitutional Amendment, chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu. Undoubtedly, we can achieve these milestones with the early commencement of the process and involvement of the Executive and State Houses of Assembly.

“I call on all women’s groups and organisations to join this campaign and apply the needed pressure at all levels to ensure these reforms see the light of day. You are invited to submit memoranda to the House of these and related issues to provide us with the necessary insights required to develop home-grown solutions to enhance women’s political participation. I have already mandated a comprehensive brief on comparative practices across Africa and the world to guide our deliberations.”

At the internal level, the Speaker disclosed that the House is working to strengthen the women’s caucus in the House to better advocate for women-specific issues and mentor upcoming female politicians. “My office has also launched the ‘Bridge Her Gap Initiative,’ a project to address the systemic gaps and inequalities faced by women and girls in Nigeria,” he said, adding that in all these efforts, the House shall collaborate with government agencies, civil society, and the private sector, as “it is only through collective action that we can overcome the structural barriers preventing women from realizing their full potential.”

The Speaker commended all Nigerian women “who continue to brace the odds and succeed locally and globally,” saying, “We are very proud of you and hope to build on your resilience to open up more doors of opportunities for our women and girls to contribute more.”

The Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, while declaring the event open earlier on the Speaker’s behalf, said the theme of this year’s edition served as a clarion call for individuals, organisations, and all stakeholders to join hands and pave the path toward gender-inclusive governance. “The need for diversity and inclusion, particularly in terms of increasing women’s representation in government, is not just a statistical exercise; it is a fundamental democratic principle,” he stated.

He noted that while Nigeria boasts a thriving ecosystem of female-led businesses, the persistence of a significant funding gap had been identified. He said despite 41 per cent of Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (SMEs) being owned or led by women, less than 4 per cent receive financial support crucial for growth and sustainability.

He said: “In recognition of this disparity, my office is actively working to bridge the gap. Through strategic collaborations with innovation and tech organisations such as Meta (formerly Facebook) and AfriLabs, we intend to develop policies and facilitate stakeholder dialogues on strategies to increase financial inclusion for women entrepreneurs These strategies will culminate in the launching of proactive initiatives specifically geared toward the removal of barriers to financial inclusivity.

“My position as the Chair of the House Committee on Constitution Review strengthens our commitment to this cause. I urge the inclusion of gender inclusion and gender mainstreaming bill proposals within the 6th alteration process. Expediting these proposals through my office will ensure they receive swift and thorough consideration in the constitution review process.

“By combining legislative action with collaborative initiatives, we can unlock the immense potential of women in both the political and socio-economic spheres, thus propelling them to become the engines of Nigeria’s economic future.”

Gracing the occasion were President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio (represented); the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, represented by Mrs Ekaette Unoma Akpabio; wife of the Speaker, Hajia Fatima Tajudeen Abbas; House Deputy Majority Whip, Hon Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga; Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, Kafilat Ogbara; Chairman, House Committee on Ethics and Privileges, Hon Tolulope Akande-Sadipe; Chairman, House Committee on Women in Parliament, Hon Fatiman Talba; and a member of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and the Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women in Parliament (CWP), Africa Region, Hon. Zainab Gimba.

Others were Dean Emeritus, Faculty of Law, University of Nigeria (UNN), Nsukka, Prof Joy Ngozi Ezeilo; former Country Director, ActionAid, Ene Obi; and actresses, Tonto Dike and Eniola Badmus.

In attendance or represented were the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Netherlands to Nigeria; Ambassador to UN in Nigeria and ECOWAS; the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, the UN Women; Konrad Adenauer Foundation (Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung: KAS); Head of Cooperation, Government of Canada, Djifa Ahado; Resident Representative, UNDP, Elsie Attafuah; CEO, Neveah, Ibidapo Lawal, among others.

By Muhammad Ibrahim,Sokoto

Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko has distributed relief materials and cash to 500 Orphans across the metropolis.

The Senator who was represented by the State APC Chairman Alhaji Isa Sadiq Achida distributed the relief materials to the orphans in the state at the Sokoto North Senatorial office.

APC Chairman in the state Isah Sadiq Acida who represented Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko handed over the cash and relief materials to the Orphans which are mostly children.

The Senator’s spokesman, Bashar Abubakar said people who benefitted should pray for the well-being of the Senator for him to continue with the good work.

He further called on the government and other stakeholders to put more effort into making the lives of vulnerable children a better one.

Items distributed include; bags of rice, blankets, mosquito nets, Native wrappers, children’s clothes, towels, and cash assistance.

At the event, the Foundation for Refugees Economic Empowerment also brought its Ramadan contribution as support for orphans from different areas in the metropolis.

Some of the beneficiaries interviewed expressed gratitude to the Almighty Allah for gracing them with such a gesture.

A beneficiary expressed her delight and appreciated Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for bringing succor to them.

The Chairman was assisted by Senator Wamskko’s aides, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and also the overseer of Senator Wamskko’s constituency office Almustapha Abubakar Alkali, Sulaiman Muhammad SA Student matters, and other APC members in the state.

By Jabiru Hassan, Kano.

Prior to the matters arising against the settlements of the New Nigerian workers, the Northern States governors who are the owners of the company has been called upon to wade into the issue in order to actualize the settlement of all beneficiaries.

The call was made by the Managing Director, of the New Era Media, Adamu Mohammed Lawal in a chat with newsmen in Kano, adding that the northern states governors should as a matter of urgency, direct the commencement of the payments because it is their responsibilities to settle the long awaiting benefits after retirement.

” New Nigerian workers have done a lot towards the service of the company and their entitlements is still uncertain despite the efforts being made by the workers to get their payments in different moves for a long period, therefore I am appealing to the present set of northern states governors to put head together and pay the retirees without further delay”. He emphasized.

Alhaji Adamu also called on the Gombe state governor Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya who is the chairman of the northern states governors to wade into the issue of non-payments of NNN workers immediately.

By Muhammad Ibrahim,Sokoto

Muslims have been admonished to engage in the recitation of the Holy Qur’an for the attainment of all their desired needs.

Chief Imam of Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko Jumu’at Mosque Kofar Kware area, Sheikh Abdulaziz Ahmad Kofar Rini made the call in his Friday sermon.

The chief Imam while delivering his sermon, explained in detail the significance of reading the holy Qur’an which he said can help in no small measures to achieve the desired goals.

Sheikh Abdulaziz also enumerated the importance attached to the name of the Holy Prophet of Islam, Muhammad peace be upon him.

The Imam said while mentioning the name of the last Prophet Muhammad it must be completed with peace be upon him refusing to complete that, is an indication of stinginess for human beings.

The Imam further, discussed the forth coming Month of Ramadan where he emphasized that Muslims get closer to their Creator by engaging in many prayers,supplications and seeking forgiveness from Allah the Almighty.

The Imam quoted several Islamic statements to buttress his sermon.

The Chief later led two Raka’at Jumu’at prayer.

The Jumu’at prayer had in attendance Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, SSG, Chief Of Staff, Head of the service, members of the state Assembly and of the state executive council among much Muslim faithful.

Meanwhile,shortly after arriving at the Gawon Nama area, at the residence of APC leader Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, a launch was served for the worshippers that, accompanied the Governor and the Senator to the Mosque.

Senator Wamakko while appreciating the loyalty shown to them, also called on the supporters to cooperate with the security agencies toward succeeding in the graduation ceremony of the Sokoto State Community Guards Corps the event that is coming up tomorrow Saturday.

The senator called on the attendants at the event not to emphasize the sitting on the VIPs lunge for the success of the ceremony.

He wished for a successful gathering especially as many personalities were invited to grace the event.

The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, has voiced his aspiration for Nigeria to have a female president in the future, highlighting the perceived shortcomings of men in the current generation.

Represented by the PDP National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, Damagum made this declaration during the PDP’s celebration of International Women’s Day 2024 at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.

The International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global event commemorating women’s achievements in various spheres, including social, economic, cultural, and political domains, while advocating for gender equality and empowerment.

Damagum’s statement underscores the importance of recognizing the pivotal role of mothers and women in society, acknowledging the PDP as a party that promotes opportunities for women’s advancement.

He stated, “The significance of mothers and the role of women cannot be overstated. Let me be sincere with you, I pray and hope that, even if not in our generation, one day a woman will become the president of this country. I say this with utmost sincerity and from the depth of my heart because I believe that the men have failed this generation.”

“In politics, that’s why the founding fathers of PDP recognize the importance of women. Today, in Nigeria, no matter how you look at it, PDP is the most democratic party in Nigeria and Africa. It’s the only party that provides women with the opportunity to aspire to any position without having to buy any form. We do this to encourage women.”

Earlier in the event, PDP National Woman Leader, Amina Divine Arong, stressed the necessity of achieving gender equality in political leadership for sustainable development goals by 2030.

Arong emphasized the importance of women’s participation in decision-making processes and leadership roles, citing their proven positive impact on organizational performance and resilience during crises.

She underscored the need for women to be supported, empowered, and actively involved in political activities, calling for an end to discrimination against working mothers and the implementation of affirmative action measures within the party.

Arong concluded by highlighting the significance of grooming and empowering young women and girls to assume leadership positions and contribute effectively to national development.

By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto

Member representing Wamakko and Kware Federal Constituency, Ahmad Abdullahi Kalambaina distribute bags of rice, tailoring machines and watering machines.

About 1000 bags of rice, 145 tailoring machines and 75 water pumping machines were distributed as a form of assistance to citizens of Wamakko and Kware local governments.

The member said this is the 20th time and would continue with the assistance

Kalambaina also said as part of his efforts to complement their efforts during the last elections, he would in the near future provide more important materials to be benefited by all members in his constituency.

He therefore called on all to bear with the little materials just distributed with the promised that every citizen would benefit when next distribution would be performed as it is going to be house to house.

In a significant display of camaraderie and collaboration, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, representing Plateau South Senatorial District, hosted his predecessor, Senator Victor Lar, at his office in the National Assembly on Thursday, March 7, 2024.

The closed-door meeting between Senator Lalong and Senator Lar delved into various matters pertaining to the welfare and well-being of the people in the Southern Zone and Plateau State at large. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to ongoing collaboration, recognizing the crucial need for intervention and unity, especially in the current challenging times.

Senator Lalong assured his constituents of his unwavering dedication to providing quality representation through legislative initiatives, empowerment programs, developmental projects, and job creation. He expressed gratitude to Senator Victor Lar for the visit, emphasizing that his doors are always open to constituents with constructive ideas on advancing the Southern Senatorial District.

Senator Lar, congratulating Senator Lalong once again, pledged his support and partnership in championing the cause of the people in the district and Plateau State as a whole. He expressed confidence in Senator Lalong’s ability, citing his extensive legislative and executive experience, and expressed optimism about the positive impact he would make during his tenure in the Red Chambers.

In another development, Senator Lalong warmly welcomed Ms. Rimini Makama, the recently appointed Executive Director of Stakeholder Engagement at the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC). Congratulating her on her well-deserved appointment, Senator Lalong commended Ms. Makama’s vast experience in the IT and Telecom sector.

Senator Lalong urged Ms. Makama to excel in her new role and make Plateau State and Nigeria proud by contributing to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in the Communication sector. The Senator expressed confidence that Ms. Makama’s expertise and dedication would bring positive developments to the NCC and the broader telecommunications landscape.

As Senator Lalong continues to foster collaboration and engage with key stakeholders, the people of Plateau State eagerly anticipate the positive impact of these interactions on the development and progress of the region.

The Edo State House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, accusing him of perjury and leaking government secrets.

The impeachment notice marks the latest development in the ongoing rift between Shaibu and Governor Godwin Obaseki, with tensions escalating since Shaibu declared his intention to contest the Edo governorship race.

Governor Obaseki is reportedly backing former Sterling Bank Chairman, Asue Ighodalo, as the gubernatorial candidate for the upcoming September 21, 2024, election. Ighodalo emerged victorious in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary, defeating Shaibu and other contenders.

Despite boycotting the primary and being declared the winner at a parallel event, Shaibu’s victory was not recognized by the PDP national leadership, leading to a Certificate of Return being issued to Ighodalo.

In response, Shaibu visited the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, demanding his Certificate of Return and threatening legal action. Meanwhile, the Edo State House of Assembly announced the impeachment proceedings against Shaibu, based on a petition signed by 21 out of 24 members, alleging perjury and disclosure of government secrets.

The Majority Leader of the House, Charity Aiguobarueghian, confirmed the commencement of impeachment proceedings during plenary, stating that the petition met the constitutional requirements for action.

Speaker Blessing Agbebaku directed the Clerk of the House to serve the impeachment notice to Shaibu, granting him seven days to respond.

Efforts to obtain Shaibu’s response were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. However, the Conference of Registered Political Parties in Edo State criticized the impeachment proceedings, asserting that Shaibu had not committed any impeachable offense or breached his oath of office. They called on Governor Obaseki to intervene and rein in the Assembly’s actions.

By Daniel Edu

A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bitrus Shaina, and a member of the Asiwaju Tinubu/Shetima Professional Forum, has accused Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang of obstructing the activities of the state chapter of the APC.

Shaina, in an interview with The Sun, highlighted that the Appeal Court in Abuja recently invalidated the elections of all Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers in Plateau, citing the party’s lack of structure to sponsor candidates. Additionally, the court had removed all federal legislators elected on the PDP platform, instructing the issuance of certificates of return to the first runners-up, who belonged to the APC and Labour Party.

While noting that the National Assembly promptly adhered to the court’s directives, inaugurating APC, LP, and ADP candidates, Shaina expressed concern that the state legislators were yet to assume office. He accused Governor Mutfwang of deliberately impeding efforts to inaugurate the state assembly and alleged that the governor influenced the postponement of the assembly’s resumption.

Shaina elaborated on the situation, stating, “The sacked PDP lawmakers have taken advantage of the lacuna to demand that they be returned to their seats against the order of the court, hinging their argument on the Supreme Court judgment affirming the election of Governor Mutfwang.”

Despite the delay, Shaina highlighted that the legal attempts by the ousted PDP members to reclaim their seats were dismissed by the court for lacking merit. He further criticized the prolonged delay in the reconvening of the State Assembly, speculating that Governor Mutfwang’s influence might be behind the postponement.

According to Shaina, this delay could have serious consequences as the Constitution mandates that any house not in session for 181 days will be shut down, and members absent for 60 days will automatically lose their seats.

In a recent development, the Edo House of Assembly has commenced impeachment proceedings against the state Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu.

During the plenary session on Wednesday, Majority Leader Charity Aiguobarueghian announced the impeachment notice, revealing that it was dated March 5 and signed by 21 out of the 24 assembly members against the deputy governor.

Aiguobarueghian emphasized, “The petition against the deputy governor came in on March 5 and was signed by 21 out of the 24 members. The number of members who signed the petition was more than the two-third requirement stipulated in the constitution.”

The grounds for the petition are cited as perjury and the disclosure of government secrets.

Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, acknowledging receipt of the petition, instructed the Clerk of the House, Yahaya Omogbai, to serve Shaibu with the impeachment notice. Additionally, the deputy governor was given seven days to respond to the impeachment notice.

This development adds to the ongoing rift between state Governor Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy, which intensified last year when Shaibu declared his intention to contest for the governorship.