Politics

AMBODE: LAGOS SPEAKER, OBASA, ASSEMBLY AGREE TO MAINTAIN STATUS QUO

Published

5 years ago

October 30, 2019

…Lawmakers Plead For Time As Court Adjourns Till Nov 20

The Lagos State House of Assembly on Wednesday agreed to halt proceedings in the probe of former Governor of the State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, over procurement of 820 buses for public transportation.

Ambode had instituted a suit against the Assembly, the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa and others, to contest the constitutionality of the probe, accusing them of bias and misrepresentation of facts.

When the matter came up in court on Wednesday morning, Ambode’s lawyer, Mr. Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), informed the court of his pending application for interlocutory injunction, saying that same had been served on the defendants.

In response, a team of lawyers of the defendants led by Mrs. Adenike Oshinowo and included Mrs. Adegbite and Ms. Olayemi Johnson confirmed service of the application, but pleaded for time since the processes were served at about 6pm on Tuesday.

They specifically requested for two weeks to respond but the date they suggested was not convenient for the court.

Responding, Oyetibo did not object to the application of the defendants for adjournment but urged the Court to direct parties to maintain status quo. In her response, the presiding Judge, Justice Yetunde Adesanya, said “it goes without saying” and called on Mrs. Osinowo for her response who also agreed that status quo would be maintained by the Defendants.

The court then adjourned the matter to November 20 2019 for the hearing of the motion on Notice for interlocutory injunction.

With the ruling, the former Governor cannot be summoned to appear again before the House probe panel as both parties have agreed to maintain status quo till the new hearing date.

According to his statement of claim before the court, Ambode had said contrary to deliberate misrepresentation of facts by the lawmakers, the procurement of the 820 buses was well captured in the 2018 Appropriation Law which was duly approved by the House.

“In section 1 of the Bill, the 1st Defendant (House of Assembly) authorized the total Budget for the year 2018 to be One Trillion, Forty Six Billion, One Hundred and Twenty One Million, One Hundred and Eighty-One Thousand, Six Hundred and Eighty Naira (N1,046,121,181,680.00) comprising the sum of Three Hundred and Forty Seven Billion, Thirty-Eighty Million, Nine Hundred and Thirty-Eight Thousand, Eight-Hundred and Seventy-Two Naira (N347,038,938,872.00) only and Six Hundred and Ninety-Nine Billion, Eighty-Two Million, Two Hundred and Forty-Two Thousand, Eight Hundred and Eighty Naira (N699,082,242,808.00) only as the Recurrent and Capital Expenditures respectively.

“Part of the items authorized by the Bill under Capital Expenditure was: “LAGBUS Public Transport Infrastructure (MEPB); Part financing of 820 buses” which was item 8 under schedule 1- Part C of the Bill,” the former Governor averred.

He added that having prescribed the manner of withdrawal of funds in sections 3 and 4 of the 2018 Appropriation Law, it was unconstitutional for the House to attach another condition in section 9 of the law for further approval to be sought before incurring any expenditure on the purchase of the buses.

Highlighting the specific breach of his constitutional rights to fair hearing by the House, the former Governor said on August 27, 2019 during proceedings of the Assembly, some lawmakers thoroughly vilified and disparaged him as having purchased the buses without budgetary approval and that the procurement was a waste of public funds, while at the end of the proceedings, the House resolved to constitute an Ad Hoc Committee to probe the procurement.

He said it was surprising that the very lawmakers who contributed actively in vilifying, disparaging and denigrating him constituted the bulk of the members of the Committee, which was a clear derogation of his right to fair hearing.

Ambode added that in continuation of deliberate misrepresentation of facts of the issue, the House falsely claimed that an invitation had been extended to him to appear before the Committee but that he failed to honour the said invitation.

“The Claimant states that no letter of invitation was delivered to him before the 4th and 5th Defendants made the false allegation against the Claimant which was widely reported by various national Newspapers in the country.”

He added that the House Committee and indeed the entire members of the House had already adjudged him as having committed wastage of public fund by the procurement of the buses in question and had also already determined that the procurement was done by him as opposed to the State Government.

He said it was obvious that the lawmakers were totally biased against him having regard to their pronouncements on the floor of the House by reason of which he believes that his right to fair hearing as guaranteed by the Constitution had been seriously compromised by the defendants.

He is, therefore, seeking among others, the court’s declaration that the power of the House to pass a resolution under section 128(1) of the Constitution to cause an inquiry into his conduct as Governor is subject to right to fair hearing as guaranteed by section 36(1) of the Constitution.

He also wants a declaration that the Resolution of the House setting up a 9-Man Committee comprising of the 4th-12th Defendants to investigate all transactions in respect of the 820 Buses said by the defendants to have been procured by him derogates from his right as guaranteed by section 36(1) of the Constitution and therefore is unconstitutional, null and void.

He is therefore, among others seeking:

“AN INJUNCTION restraining the Defendants whether by themselves, their servants, agents and or representatives from compelling the Claimant, in any manner whatsoever, to appear before the Defendants pursuant to the Resolution passed by the Defendants on 27th August 2019 or any other Resolution passed in respect of the subject matter of this Suit.

“AN INJUNCTION restraining the Defendants whether by themselves, their servants, agents and or representatives from representing or continue to represent to the Public that the Claimant, AKINWUNMI AMBODE, procured 820 buses in breach of budgetary approval.”

Politics

2025: There’s Hope On The Horizon For Nigeria, Lagos – Sanwo-olu

Published

2 days ago

December 28, 2024

Sahara Weekly

2025: There’s Hope On The Horizon For Nigeria, Lagos – Sanwo-Olu

By Ifeoma Ikem

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has spread a message of hope and optimism for Nigeria and Lagos as the world celebrates Christmas.

Speaking at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu assured citizens that 2025 holds promise for a better future.

The governor expressed gratitude to God for the country’s resilience despite its challenges. He commended residents for their faith in his administration, pledging to continue working towards a safe, secure, and prosperous Lagos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of living in peace and harmony, urging families and friends to support one another.

“As a government, we’ll continue to provide enabling environment for growth and advancement, especially infrastructure development.

“Nigeria will be better eventually just like our President assured us in his media chat, and everyone will smile,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Rt. Revd. Ifedola Senasu Okupevi appealed to the federal and state governments to alleviate the suffering of the masses.

He called for policy relaxation to bring peace and prosperity to the land.

According to Dr. Okupevi, the citizenry must jettison tribal sentiments and embrace unity, stressing that by so doing, “we will realize the country of our dreams.”

Politics

Prince Adesegun Rallies Support For Senator Adeola’s Gubernatorial Bid

Published

2 days ago

December 28, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Prince Adesegun Rallies Support For Senator Adeola’s Gubernatorial Bid

…Donates 100 bags of rice , five million to ijebu North APC Leaders

In a remarkable demonstration of his commitment to the welfare of party members and the development of Ijebu North Local Government, Prince Fatai Adesegun convened a strategic meeting with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the local government area.

The meeting provided an opportunity for Prince Fatai to commend the APC leadership for their steadfastness and dedication to the party’s progress. He emphasized the importance of unity, grassroots mobilization, and proactive engagement to ensure the APC’s continued success in future elections.

As part of his goodwill gesture, the Ago Iwoye Prince donated 100 bags of rice and a sum of N5 million to support party members across Ijebu North. He further contributed N1 million toward the renovation of the APC Secretariat in the local government, underscoring his commitment to strengthening the party’s administrative structure.

In his remarks, Fatai Adesegun expressed his appreciation for the exemplary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun, and Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola YAYI. He commended Senator Adeola for his dedication to the welfare of the people and his visionary leadership.

Adesegun also used the occasion to rally support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola’s 2027 gubernatorial bid, describing it as the best path forward for Ogun State. He highlighted Senator Adeola’s wealth of experience and his relentless quest for massive development across the state.

“Senator Adeola has proven himself as a visionary leader with the experience and passion required to transform Ogun State. His gubernatorial ambition is a golden opportunity for us to secure a brighter future for our state,” Adesegun said.

The meeting witnessed the presence of notable APC leaders and stakeholders, including Hon. Mosun Oladipupo, the Ijebu North Local Government Chairman, who led the Local Government Secretary, other executives of the party, and all 11 Ward Chairmen. Chief Dele Mogaji, a two-time Vice Chairman of the Local Government, and Mrs. Bukky Onadeko, a frontline women leader in the Local Government, were also in attendance.

Party members expressed their gratitude to Adesegun for his generosity, foresight, and leadership, pledging their unwavering loyalty and commitment to the party’s vision and goals.

Adesegun’s actions and advocacy for a united front resonate as a call for collective responsibility, setting the stage for a prosperous future for Ijebu North and Ogun State under the APC banner.

Politics

“‘Our Lives Matter’: Nigerians Demand Justice After Brutal Attack in Johannesburg”

Published

3 days ago

December 28, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Nigerians in South Africa: Struggling for Justice Amid Violence and Xenophobia

In a revealing interview with Biodun Busari, Frank Onyewekelu, President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa, sheds light on the challenges facing Nigerians in the country, from violent xenophobic attacks to systemic injustices. The recent killing of Julius Chukwunta, a Nigerian national, has reignited calls for diplomatic intervention and justice.

The Death of Julius Chukwunta

The tragic death of Julius Chukwunta unfolded in Midrand, Johannesburg, on December 7, 2024. According to Onyewekelu, Chukwunta was returning home with his South African partner, Miss Lumka, when an altercation occurred. After attempting to resolve a parking dispute with four individuals, Chukwunta was brutally attacked, sustaining fatal injuries.

“They inflicted heavy injuries on him by hitting a brick on his head, which led to a massive loss of blood,” Onyewekelu recounted. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Chukwunta succumbed to his injuries on December 10.

Legal Actions and Concerns Over Justice

Chukwunta’s partner reported the incident to the Midrand Police, leading to the arrest of the four suspects. However, Onyewekelu expressed disappointment in the judicial process after three of the suspects were granted bail for 10,000 rand each.

“The prosecutor had the right to oppose bail, especially when there is a risk of the suspects fleeing the country. Three of the attackers were Zimbabweans with South African residency, making them flight risks,” Onyewekelu explained.

The fourth suspect, yet to appoint a legal representative, is expected to apply for bail in the next hearing, scheduled for February 2025.

A Pattern of Violence and Neglect

Chukwunta’s death is not an isolated incident. Between November 2023 and December 2024, Onyewekelu reported 15 to 20 similar cases of Nigerians dying under questionable circumstances in South Africa.

“Many Nigerians have died in police custody or from brutal attacks, with little to no justice served,” he said. He cited incidents where Nigerians died during police raids or while in detention, often without explanations or follow-ups.

The Role of the Nigerian Government

Onyewekelu emphasized the need for stronger intervention from Nigerian authorities, urging the government to address these recurring issues diplomatically and publicly.

“We need more steps, such as media briefings, to make South Africans understand that Nigerian lives matter,” he stated. He also called for increased collaboration between the Nigerian consulate and South African authorities to ensure justice and prevent further incidents.

Debunking Stereotypes About Nigerians

Onyewekelu addressed the common misconception that Nigerians are taking jobs or resources from South Africans.

“Nigerians in South Africa are largely self-employed, running businesses and even employing South Africans,” he said. He also highlighted that accusations of Nigerians ‘stealing’ jobs are unfounded and often perpetuated by individuals unwilling to pursue legitimate work.

On relationships, he noted, “When love happens, it happens. Nigerian men are caring, and that’s why many South African women choose them.”

Efforts to Foster Safety and Awareness

The Nigerian Citizens Association organizes workshops, seminars, and town hall meetings to educate Nigerians on legal and cultural expectations in South Africa.

“We teach our people about the rule of law, documentation, and how to live legitimately. We want them to stay on the right side of the law,” Onyewekelu said.

The association also works closely with Nigerian cultural groups to disseminate information, ensuring unity and shared responsibility within the diaspora community.

A Plea for Justice and Peace

As the Nigerian community in South Africa continues to navigate a challenging environment, Onyewekelu’s message is clear: justice and fairness must prevail. He hopes for stronger diplomatic ties, increased awareness, and a commitment to protecting lives and fostering peace between Nigerians and South Africans.

“We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re asking for fairness and the right to live safely and thrive in a foreign land,” he concluded.