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Senators attack Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo over appointment of Ibrahim Magu

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Yemi Osinbajo

 

The Senate on Tuesday called out Nigeria’s Acting President Yemi Osinbajo to a constitutional fight over Ibrahim Magu, the acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

The Senators unanimously resolved today  to suspend all confirmation requests from the executive until decisions of the legislature are respected by Acting President Yemi Osinbajo.

One of the decisions was the non-confirmation  of Magu twice by the senate. Senators now wanted Magu sacked immediately.

In a four-prayer motion unanimously adopted by the lawmakers, the Senate frowned at a statement credited to the Acting President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo that the Senate had no power to confirm the chairman of the EFCC.

The decision of the Senate arose from a motion raised by Senator Ahmed Sani following a letter requesting the confirmation of Mr Lanre Gbajabiamila as Director General of the National Lottery Commission.

With particular reference to the rejection of the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, the Senate insisted that the Executive must respect the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or go to court to seek a redress.

The upper legislative chamber stressed that it was an illegality for Magu to still be parading himself of the chairman of the Commission after being rejected by the body constitutionally empowered to approve or reject his appointment.

The Acting President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo was credited as saying that the Senate does not have power to reject the appointment of Magu as Chairman of EFCC.

The Senate therefore frowned at the comment credited to the acting president and approved the following prayers:

“That the Senate suspends all issues relating to confirmation of nominees from the executive until all issues of confirmation as contained in the constitution and laws of the Federation are adhered to.

“The Acting President must respect the constitution and laws as it relates to confirmation of appointments.

“The Acting President should immediately respect rejection of nominees by the senate yes.

“The Acting President should withdraw the statement credited to him that the Senate does not have the power to confirm certain nominees,” the Senate approved.

This is the second time the senate is taking a resolution against the executive for its refusal to adhere to the rejection of Magu and the Chairman of the EFCC.

In March, the Senate suspended the confirmation of INEC Resident Electoral Commissioners to protest  the refusal of the executive to implement the legislature’s rejection of Magu as EFCC boss.

The President of the Senate Bukola Saraki who commended Sen. Sani for the motion stressed that the Senate could not continue to make laws and resolutions that would be flagrantly disobeyed.

He urged the Acting President to take appropriate actions on all resolutions and laws of the Senate.

“Distinguished colleagues, let me thank Senator Yerima for coming under Privileges. I think this matter is a very important matter but I think we need to address it once and for all and put it behind us.

“As a society, we can’t pass laws and see these laws  not being obeyed. It is very clear these resolutions as passed must be acted upon by the Acting President and ensure that we continue to respect our democracy, our laws and constitution.

“It is not for us to choose which laws we obey and which laws we don’t obey. That is not the way any civilised, modern society works.

“We hope that the Acting President will take appropriate action in line with these resolutions,” he said.

While contributing to the motion, Deputy President of the Senate Ike Ekweremadu  said that the constitutional provision upon which Osinbajo made his comment only applied to personal staff of the President.

Ekweremadu therefore stressed that the Senate is adequately empowered by law to confirm or reject any appointment by the President.

Sen. George Thomson Sekibo said that it appeared like there was a calculated action to quieten the National Assembly.

He however stressed that there was a clear constitutional provision that empowered the Senate to confirm all appointees of the President.

“If the Acting President says we do not have power to return any nomination I wonder if he is in touch with the EFCC Act: The EFCC Act states that the President shall nominate and Senate will confirm.

“If you reject one law, you have will reject the constitution. The Constitution did not give room for acting appointment after a nominee has been rejected by the Senate.

“If the Acting President says we do not have the power to confirm and then turns around to send us a nomination, which one do we now take?

“I think Senate should put a suspension on this nomination until this issue is resolved so that we know if we have the power to confirm or not,” he said.

For  Sen. Isah Hamman Misau,  sending a candidate to the senate for confirmation amounted to double standards by the Acting President Osinbajo.

He said that the senate must stand and face the challenges against the institution.

“If the executive was not ready for democracy then they should tell us and propose another system of government,” he said.

Senator Sam Anyanwu in his view said that the Senate should not even be accepting nomination letters from the executive,  let alone considering them on the floor of the Senate.

He said that the comment of the Acting President had given impetus for more comments,  adding that a report this morning was calling for the senate to be scrapped.

“We must try to stand our ground. If the leadership doesn’t do anything about this matter within 48 hours,  we would move against this leadership,” he said.

Senator Dino Melaye,  who is currently facing threat of recall,  also added that the senate must not accept the comment of Prof. Osinbajo.

Melaye said that the National Assembly which is a mark of democracy,  must not be allowed to be destroyed.

It is time for the Senate to tell the executive arm of government  that it must stop approbating and reprobating.

“Magu came for a job interview and failed and he was rejected. As we speak,  Magu is still parading himself as the chairman of EFCC.

“The integrity of the Senate is at stake. This senate cannot be disregarded and insulted: our authority to confirm cannot be eroded.

“I am moving a motion that it becomes abominable to read any other confirmation report in this chamber until they act on our position.

“Those who have failed should go back.  Magu is not the last Nigerian Angel. He can serve this country in another capacity,” Melaye said.

Senator Olusola Adeyeye,  the Chief Whip of the Senate reminded the executive that the difference between Military rule and Democracy was the existence of the legislature.

“Whether you serve in the executive, legislature or judiciary, everyone is called to obey the laws of the republic.

“If there is any law passed by NASS, signed by the President and gazetted, no one has the permission to dance around that law.

“Whoever has a problem with any law should go to court. Until a court declares it null and void,  it remains the law of the land. Anyone who does not respect it is breaking the law of the land.

“I want to say here that I voted yes for Magu, but this is not about my view.  The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria voted no and I stand with the Senate.

 

Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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A Home for Heritage: ILÉ IYÁN Opens Headquarters to Celebrate Nigerian Roots

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A Home for Heritage: ILÉ IYÁN Opens Headquarters to Celebrate Nigerian Roots

A Home for Heritage: ILÉ IYÁN Opens Headquarters to Celebrate Nigerian Roots

 

ILÉ IYÁN, a proudly Nigerian culinary brand, has officially unveiled its state of the art headquarters with a 200 guest capacity facility. The grand opening ceremony not only marked a milestone in the company’s growth but also paid tribute to Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, drawing attention to the role of indigenous cuisine and tradition in promoting tourism across Lagos State.

A Home for Heritage: ILÉ IYÁN Opens Headquarters to Celebrate Nigerian Roots
The historic launch of the ILÉ IYÁN Headquarters held on Sunday the 11th May, 2025, now officially recognized as a national monument, took place in grand style, marking a significant milestone in the celebration and preservation of Nigerian cultural heritage and a major boost to the tourism industry.

The atmosphere was electric as the official opening ceremony of Ile Iyan’s new edifice commenced with a symbolic ribbon-cutting by the proud parents of the CEO, Alhaji and Alhaja Sanni. The emotional moment was met with cheers and applause from attendees, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s journey.

In a heartfelt speech, the CEO’s mother Alhaja Sanni shared her immense joy and pride in her son’s achievements. “I never imagined this day would come so soon. He defied all odds and has made us proud,” she said, her voice filled with emotion.
Celebrating Nigeria’s cultural richness, the event featured vibrant performances by Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa cultural troupes. Dressed in colourful traditional attire, the troupes dazzled the audience with electrifying dances that underscored the Ile Iyan brand’s commitment to promoting indigenous cuisine and cultural values.
The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Abisola Olusanya; Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende; Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Culture and Tourism, Mr. Idris Aregbe; SSA on New Media, Mr. Jubril Gawat; Hon. Remi Durojaiye; Engr. Bola Babarinde; Prince Olu Kosoko of Badagry, Guiness World Record Holder, Dr Fola David; Mr Chigozie Okwara, Vice President of Culinary Arts Practitioners of Nigeria,Chef Dee; Culinary expert and Hospitality Consultant, Chef Gibbs; CEO of Novarick Homes and Properties Limited Mr Noah Ibrahim; Barrister Lateef Oyefeso, Barrister Gbolahan Oluyemi, Alhaji Mohammed Luqman, Alhaji Mojeed Animashaun, Alhaji Qudus Animashaun, Mr Emmanuel Akinseloyin, Alhaja Onigbanjo, Captain Dare, Alhaji Luqman Obileye, Mr Fola Gbemisola(Fatgbems), Mr Taiwo Kafidipe, Mr Ihuoma Raymond, the iconic music executive and cultural ambassador, Otunba Dayo Adeneye (D1) of Kennis Music, alongside Dr. Agarawu, numerous captains of industry, and cultural enthusiasts.

ILÉ IYÁN, long revered for its authentic celebration of Yoruba gastronomy particularly the traditional preparation of pounded yam has now been elevated to a symbol of national pride, serving as a cultural hub that connects history, heritage, food, and tourism. With its headquarters now officially open, ILÉ IYÁN is positioned as a dynamic force in reviving indigenous food practices, promoting cultural tourism, and offering immersive experiences rooted in Nigerian traditions.
In her keynote address, Mrs. Bisola Olusanya praised the initiative, stating: “ILÉ IYÁN is not just a space for food, it is a celebration of our roots, our resilience, and our creativity as Nigerians. This headquarters will play a vital role in our agricultural value chain while preserving culinary heritage for future generations.”

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende emphasized the importance of youth engagement in cultural sustainability, while Hon. Idris Aregbe lauded ILÉ IYÁN as a “trailblazer in cultural entrepreneurship,” bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.

Mr. Sanni Afeez, General Manager of ILÉ IYÁN, Shares His Thoughts on the Launch

Speaking at the launch, the General Manager, Mr. Sanni Afeez, expressed his excitement and optimism about the future of the brand.

“This launch represents more than just a new building, it’s a bold step toward redefining the culinary and cultural experience in Nigeria,” he said. “ILÉ IYÁN is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of who we are as a people. From our locally inspired menu to the cultural performances that marked today’s opening, we are showcasing the beauty, depth, and unity of Nigerian heritage. This headquarters will serve as a hub for not only great food but also for cultural exchange and tourism growth in Lagos.”

Founder, CEO, and cultural curator of ILÉ IYÁN, Mr. Sanni Sheriff, shared a powerful message during the launch event, emphasizing the deeper vision behind the brand.

“This is not just a building; it is a movement,” he declared. “A space where the stories of our people, our food, and our shared heritage are honored and preserved.”

Mr Sanni Sheriff, known for his passion for cultural preservation and storytelling through cuisine, reiterated his commitment to creating a space that celebrates Nigeria’s diverse identity, promotes local tourism, and empowers future generations to take pride in their roots.

With this launch, ILÉ IYÁN cements its place as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s cultural renaissance and a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

EKAABO SI ILÉ IYÁN
EYIN OLOLUFE WA
For ILÉ IYÁN dining experience and food delivery kindly visit or contact any of our locations

📍ILÉ IYÁN HEADQUARTERS

4A WOLE OLATEJU CRESCENT OFF ADMIRALTY WAY LEKKI PHASE 1
(OPPOSITE KINGFISHER/MARCOPOLO RESTAURANT)

📍ILÉ IYÁN ANNEX
PLOT 6 DR. MUIZ BANIRE STREET OFF BISOLA DUROSINMI ETTI DRIVE LEKKI PHASE 1
ONLINE FOOD DELIVERY KINDLY CONTACT: 09024475402
FOR RESERVATIONS KINDLY CONTACT 09075603234 or simply send an
Email: ileiyan234@gmail.com
Our social media channels are
Instagram: @ileiyan_ng
Facebook : ILÉ IYÁN NG
Twitter: @ileiyan_ng

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Folake Ani-Mumuney: A Visionary Leader and Inspiration to Many Celebrates Her Birthday In Grand Style … A Testament to Unwavering Excellence

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Folake Ani-Mumuney: A Visionary Leader and Inspiration to Many Celebrates Her Birthday In Grand Style ... A Testament to Unwavering Excellence ~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

Folake Ani-Mumuney: A Visionary Leader and Inspiration to Many Celebrates Her Birthday In Grand Style
… A Testament to Unwavering Excellence

~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

 

Folake Ani-Mumuney, you never know, she served as the Head of Marketing, Corporate and Communications at First Bank of Nigeria and remained central to the Bank’s brand for decades.It’s not surprising that a significant number of Nigerians were unaware of her value in brand, marketing, and corporate communications, since she is an outstanding trailblazer and media guru.

Describing her as a brand in her own right would be a significant understatement, as she personifies prudence and consonance in supporting individuals’ aspirations, particularly during her time at First Bank of Nigeria, where she consistently delivered exceptional results, adding positive value to all media partnerships without blemish, and her legacy remains exceptional and unblemished to this day.

 

It is a pleasure to celebrate Mrs Folake Ani-Mumuney’s special birthday with her family.Ma, as we commemorate this momentous occasion, we acknowledge the profound influence your life has had on those around you. May you be grateful for the love, support, and blessings you’ve received, and may you continue to be a source of inspiration and joy to all who know you..

Folake Ani-Mumuney: A Visionary Leader and Inspiration to Many Celebrates Her Birthday In Grand Style
... A Testament to Unwavering Excellence
~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

It is a pleasure to join your family, friends and well-wishers in celebrating this momentous occasion, and I wish you a birthday filled with affection, merriment and every delight.

On this special day, as you celebrate another year of life, may the Almighty continue to shower His blessings upon your new age, granting you increased success, grace, favor, mercies, and enduring blessings, and from this day forward, all reports and testimonies concerning you and your household shall be extraordinarily positive.

 

Your exceptional attributes have secured a prestigious position for you among your peers in the realm of Brand and Marketing Communications, and I encourage you to uphold this exemplary standard, ma’am. I wholeheartedly pray that God will continue to bestow His blessings upon you and be gracious and kind to you now and forever. I wish you many happy returns, ma’am. Igba odun, odun kan ni o.

Oluwaseun Fabiyi a seasoned journalist based in Lagos

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Dangote Growing SMEs In Nigeria-Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman

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Dangote Growing SMEs In Nigeria-Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman

 
Dangote Industries Limited is partnering critical stakeholders in the economy to grow Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria, Senior Adviser to the President of Dangote Group, Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman, has said.
Speaking at the Dangote Special Day at the ongoing 2025 Nasarawa Trade Fair Exhibition in Lafia, she said the participation of the company and partnership with the Nigeria Association of Small-Scale Industrialists (NASSI), Nasarawa State Chapter, will help create awareness and scale up small businesses.
The Senior Adviser, who was represented by Hon. Dr. Shuaibu Abdullahi, the company’s National Assembly Liaison Lead, said Dangote Group will continue to partner government and private sectors to develop small businesses.
She said: “I am pleased to inform you that in alignment with theme of this year’s Trade Fair, the Aliko Dangote Foundation and the Bank of Industry (BoI) had entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and established a N5 billion fund dedicated to supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria.
“This initiative aimed to create at least one million direct jobs by providing financial support to entrepreneurs engaged in manufacturing, agro-processing, and the merchandising of goods made wholly in Nigeria.”
She added that the MoU, which benefitted micro-enterprises included: cassava processors, aluminum artisans, poultry farmers, calabash carving groups, small traders, cattle rearing groups, vegetable sellers, market women and artisan groups, among others.
She said as part for its support for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria, the company had supported Jakura Marble Industry Ltd (JMIL) in electrification.
She added that in line with the company’s commitment to supporting small businesses, agriculture, and job creation in Nigeria, Dangote Fertiliser Limited had initiated a comprehensive training programme targeting over one million farmers across the country.
“This programme, integral to our agricultural extension services, encompasses Spot Demonstrations, Result Demonstrations, Field Demonstrations, and Soil Sample Collections.
“The training is designed to educate farmers on best practices in fertiliser application, aiming to enhance crop yields and promote sustainable farming techniques. By providing hands-on demonstrations and soil analysis, we strive to empower farmers with the knowledge and tools necessary to improve their productivity and livelihoods.
“This programme shows our dedication to fostering agricultural development and economic growth in Nigeria.”
According to her, the company’s supports for “Fostering Economic Development Through Mineral and Agricultural Cottage Industrialization” are numerous.
“May I also inform this esteemed audience that our sponsorship of numerous Trade Fairs—including this one organized by the Nigerian Association of Small-Scale Industrialists (NASSI)—is a key component of our commitment to fostering the growth of trade and small businesses across Nigeria.
“By supporting this Trade Fair, we aim to provide micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with platforms to showcase their products, network with potential partners, and access new markets, thereby contributing to the nation’s economic development.
“As a company, we are therefore joining NASSI and NACCIMA to call on the public and private sector stakeholders to prioritize MSMES in Nigeria. This is key to our industrialization effort in Nigeria.”
According to her, some of the Strategic Business Units that are participating from the Dangote Group are: Dangote Fertilser Limited (DFL), Dangote Peugeot Automobiles Nigeria Limited (DPAN), Dangote SinoTruck, Dangote Sugar Refinery (DSR), Dangote Salt (NASCON) and Dangote Cement Plc.

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