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Tension in Saraki’s Senate

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As the Senate resumes plenary today, the stage is set for another legislative phase that would be characterised by drama and intrigues given the quantum of national issues.
THE resumption of the Senate today from its one month recess would unarguably be met with so many dicey national issues that require its imprint.
Indeed, the approach to be employed in handling the concerns is likely to put the Senate on the spot light.
With so many contentious questions left unresolved before it embarked on break in August and others that had taken place while it was on recess, today’s resumption heralds a period of uncertainty among the lawmakers.
After sitting for 14 days in two months since its inauguration, the Senate in a move that rattled Nigerians, embarked on its third recess since the commencement of the legislative year on June 8, 2015, leaving so many issues unaddressed.
Key issues
The specific concerns before the senate as of August 29, 2015, were the leadership crisis occasioned by the emergence of the Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki, imbroglio over sharing of principal offices, reduction of salaries and allowances of legislators, power sector probe among others.
However, other issues of note that became more topical while the Senate was on vacation include; Controversy over false assets declaration charges against the Senate President, expected ministerial list, alleged impeachment moves against Saraki and ratification of appointments made so far by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Therefore, as legislative business commences today, there is indeed anxiety among the populace regarding the steps that would be taken on these issues.
Detailed observation
A detailed observation of the underlying issues provides an insight into what to expect from the lawmakers, who have roundly been criticised for allegedly not paying much attention to legislative activities since their inauguration.
Saraki/CCT controversy
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FILE: Senate President Bukola Saraki (M) going in for his first plenary session as President of Senate yesterday. Behind him is Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu. Photo: NAN.

The invitation of Saraki to appear before the Code of Conduct Tribunal , CC T, and his subsequent appearance, seem to have dwarfed other challenges before the lawmakers given its attending mixed signals across the country.
With arguments and counter-arguments as to the merit and demerit of such development, the relative calm that had existed in the Senate before its vacation, seems to have been mortally affected.
Obviously, another fire has been rekindled among the lawmakers, who were hitherto factionalised by leadership crisis. And this time, the soul of the senate leadership is believed to be at stake, given the perceived intensity of the matter.
Alleged impeachment moves
On the strength of the allegations against the Senate leadership, the prospects of witnessing an anti Saraki revolt in the Senate from today onward are real.
It is one of the few possible developments that could be described as certain as the lawmakers resume. Already, the events preceding this day, did not foreclose such, as media reports had predicted such.
It was gathered that those, who will spearhead the onslaught, may lay claims to morality and subsequently call on the senate president to throw in the towel.
Expectedly, senators under the aegis of the Unity Forum have been touted as those that could lead the campaign.
In spite claims of having secured the needed numerical support to go ahead with such plans, analysts contend that the Senate president may survive what they describedas impeachment scare considering his acceptability among the generality of Peoples Democratic Party ,PDP, senators and a section of lawmakers elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress,APC.
Though, the spread of Saraki’s support is a truism, it is regarded as a stumbling block against any impeachment move, against the Senate President, who was earlier given a vote of confidence by over 80 senators.
Indeed, if such plays out, the tone for a stormy phase, which observers say could be distractive and as well consume a considerate phase in the life of the senate.
Expected list of ministerial nominees
Given that political vendetta is believed to be the fulcrum of the crisis in the Senate since inception, the expected list of ministerial nominees, may trigger crisis of interests among the senators, who are not on the same page with the presidency and APC leadership.
With allegations that senators from the PDP states are planning to block the clearance of ministerial nominees from their states when the president submits his list, Nigerians may be treated to surprises on the issue.
The matter may become more contentious given allegations that prominent among the reasons for Saraki’s travail, is the desire to have easy clearance of eventual nominees.
Committee chairmanship
Indications that another impasse may come up over the sharing of principal offices, when the senate resumes exist.
Having constituted special standing committees before embarking on vacation, it is expected that the formal committees would be eventually constituted in line with the vexatious amendments of the Senate Rules 2015, which made it mandatory for the leadership of the senate to appoint the leadership of the committees among the six geopolitical zones.
Pointedly, Order 3 (4) of the Senate Standing Orders 2015, as amended, states that: “The appointment of senators as chairmen and members of committees shall be carried out in such a manner as to reflect the six geopolitical zones of the country and there shall be no predominance of senators from a few geopolitical zones.”
The Senate Leader, Sen Ali Ndume, had said that the standing committees would be announced when members resume.
The committees earlier constituted include; Senate Services, under the chairmanship of Ibrahim Gobir, who is an APC senator from Sokoto State; Rules and Business, headed by Senator Babajide Omoworare, an APC senator from Osun State; Ethics and Privileges, chaired by Samuel Anyanwu (PDP, Imo East) and Public Accounts Committee, headed by Sen Andy Uba (PDP, Anambra South).
The senators, who may wish to serve in the committees, were asked by the Senate leadership to pick forms from the Clerk of the Senate and indicate the committees where they wish to serve.
Power probe
sarak
Saraki docked
The legislators are also expected to continue with the probe of the power sector, which it had embarked upon lately.
The investigation, which has attracted criticisms from many, who described as a misplaced priority, seeks to unearth irregularities in the sector that had resulted in the poor power supply despite huge investment in the sector.
The Senate had constituted the ad-hoc Committee to carry out a holistic investigation into the management of funds appropriated to the power sector from the Olusegun Obasanjo civilian administration to date.
Announcing the 13-man ad-hoc committee, Senate President, Bukola Saraki urged members of the committee to consider their reputation and integrity and come up with a report that would be acceptable to Nigerians.
Challenge of power supply
He lamented that a lot of money had been spent on the sector with no results, while Nigeria is still faced with the challenge of power supply.
The committee which has Senator Abubakar Kyari, APC, Borno North, as chairman, was also saddled with the responsibility of looking into irregularities in the unbundling of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN.
Approval of appointments
Some key appointments made by President Buhari, are expected to be ratified by the Senate as it resumes.
However, some of them had already attracted condemnations, following the notion that the President had not carried the National Assembly,NASS, along in making the appointments.
Some legislators had expressed anger over what they termed as the refusal of the presidency to subject nominees into appointive offices to screening and confirmation processes before assumption of office.
In claiming that , the legislators argued that such actions violated the law.
The appointments in this regard are; the appointment of the acting chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, appointment of the board of the Asset Management Company of Nigeria, AMCON, the chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service ,FIRS, and the National Communications Commission, NCC.

source: vanguard

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In Search of Justice: Alhaja Enitanwa Muibat Lanre Shittu’s Plea for Recognition and Dignity

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In a world where the bonds of love and faith should transcend earthly judgments, Alhaja Enitanwa Muibat Lanre Shittu finds herself battling not only for justice but for the affirmation of her dignity and place within her late husband’s legacy.

Alhaja Enitanwa, the widow of renowned business mogul Lanre Shittu, faces an overwhelming injustice as she appeals a ruling by the Ifako Ijaiye Customary Court. This court dismissed her case by claiming it lacked the jurisdiction to do so.

This judgment, for Alhaja Enitanwa, represents a painful contradiction. The Ifako Ijaiye Customary Court had been specially designated to hear cases rooted in Islamic law—a foundation of faith and tradition that defined her marriage to her beloved husband. How, then, can this same court deny its duty to preside over the case she brings forward, a case so deeply tied to her faith and rightful place within her family?

At the heart of her appeal is a plea for recognition, not only for herself but for every Muslim woman whose rights are meant to be upheld by the legal protections guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution. Her counsel, Barrister Kayode Ademiluyi, stresses that this Constitution embraces Sharia law as a personal and protected path for Muslims, enshrining the rights of individuals like Alhaja Enitanwa to have their marital bonds honored by the law.

The Customary Court Law of Lagos State further cements these rights. By law, designated courts are empowered to adjudicate in matters of Islamic law—marriage, divorce, and family bonds. Yet, for reasons unknown, the Ifako Ijaiye Customary Court has chosen to ignore this mandate, casting aside the deeply personal matter Alhaja Enitanwa brought to its doors.

She seeks more than validation; she seeks justice. For Alhaja Enitanwa, this appeal is an urgent call for the court to correct a decision that, in its oversight, has left her in limbo, questioning the very foundations of her marriage and her place within a family she holds dear.

Her appeal will journey through the Customary Court of Appeal, a court of immense authority, with the power to oversee customary law matters. Here, the court will have the solemn duty to interpret her case in the spirit of fairness, upholding the principles of religious and personal freedoms granted under Nigerian law. Alhaja Enitanwa’s case is not just about her suffering but about restoring the dignity of every Muslim woman who looks to the law to honour her faith and protect her rights.

Let us remember that at the heart of this case lies a woman—a mother, a widow—whose only desire is to protect the bond she shared with her late husband and to honour the life they built together under Islamic law. Alhaja Enitanwa’s struggle resonates far beyond her plight; it is a struggle for justice, for the rights of Muslim women, and for the values enshrined in the law.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho to Launch “The Campus CEO” Book and Celebrate Years of Edutainment Bliss

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Tayo Folorunsho to Launch “The Campus CEO” Book and Celebrate Years of Edutainment Bliss

 

 

 

 

Sahara Weekly Reports That Edutainment guru and Founder of The Big Break Moment Africa, Tayo Folorunsho (Teeflo), is set to launch his highly anticipated book, The Campus CEO, at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton in Abuja.

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho to Launch “The Campus CEO” Book and Celebrate Years of Edutainment Bliss

 

 

The Campus CEO is a comprehensive guide for aspiring student entrepreneurs seeking to navigate the dynamic landscape of African entrepreneurship. Drawing from Folorunsho’s extensive decade-long experience working with various talents and luxury brands, the book offers invaluable insights, practical advice, and actionable strategies for success. The launch event will not only celebrate the release of this essential guide but also serve as a platform to recognize and honor his dedication and commitment to student eentrepreneursacross Nigeria.

 

Folorunsho, a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, has made significant contributions to the education and entertainment/creative industries. His initiatives have empowered numerous students from selected higher institutions with knowledge, skills, and platforms, fostering innovation and driving economic growth.

 

The Campus CEO promises to be an indispensable resource for any student entrepreneur seeking to make their mark. Packed with real-world examples and expert guidance, it is poised to become the go-to guide for navigating the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

 

Tayo Folorunsho has dedicated his career to fostering innovation and creativity within the Nigerian education and entertainment sectors. His work has profoundly impacted countless students, providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in the competitive world of business.

 

The launch event will also feature a Celebration of Life, a book presentation, and a project unveiling, highlighting Folorunsho’s ongoing commitment to empowering young entrepreneurs and his latest endeavors to further support student-led innovation and growth.

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Investigation: How Unhygienic State Of Oko Oba Abbatoir Poses Health Hazards To Lagosians

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Time was when the Oko Oba Abbatoir was the cynosure of all eyes.

The professionalism and neatness depicted by the Butchers and the distribution Unit of the Abbatoir was applauded by all.

Conveying the neatly packed Meats in an enclosed Van called ‘Eko Meat Van’ to various locations saw the Lagos State Government receiving accolades from opposition Parties, Lagosians alike for the initiative.

Years down the line, the once celebrated initiative has become a shadow of itself.

For a first timer visiting the Oko Oba Abbatoir, what greets the person is an offensive odour oozing from the Canals that passes behind the Abbatoir.

The stench is very strong. It fouls the air. It often even triggers breathing discomforts in people not used to such a sudden and unpleasant odour.

The drainage at the entrance of the facility is filthy. It is a major source of the pungent stench disturbing passersby and visitors to the abattoir.

This however poses health threats to Lagosians who inhale this offensive odour.

Aside the Canals, the environment of the Abbatoir is in a pathetic state, as dirt litters the environment with bloods of the butchered Cows stagnated at some potholes in the Abbatoir.

This is however unhygienic to the health of Lagosians who consume the Meats.

The safety of meat processed at Oko-Oba Abattoir, Agege, Lagos, has become a source of concern to beef consumers in the state owing to the unhygienic practices and poor sanitation that characterise meat processing at the facility.

Aside from the dirty drainage, the slaughter slabs where animals are slaughtered are not only dirty but also reek of the foul smell of cow dung as well as that of decomposing animal waste and blood.

The once upgraded processing equipment and units of the Abbatoir have become a shadow of itself.

Experts say poor handling of meat in abattoirs could lead to physical contamination, stressing that a situation where all manner of people accesses the slaughterhouse without check is inappropriate for a place where meat is processed for human consumption.

Investigation reveals that the handlers of the Abattoir are the one causing major problems by not allowing external body or professionals to handle the situation because of their selfish interest.

Moreso, it was also gathered that past administration has also put measures to salvage the situation but all to know avail as the activities of the centre is allegedly run by one family.

The said family is been alleged to be sabotaging the efforts of the Lagos State Government in changing the narratives in this regard, by monopolizing the administration of Abbatoir.

Sources who are in the know of the politicking happening at the Abbatoir that has made it leveraging on its past glory, say that if other Companies are saddled with the responsibilities of maintaining the Abbatoir, there will be drastic changes in the affairs of the Abbatoir, that will be a far cry from its present state.

It was also gathered that the Sub Concessionaire approved by the Ministry who has certain projects at the Abbatoir is allegedly been frustrated by the Main Concessionaire in connivance with the Commissioner.

This has further added to the pathetic situation of the Abbatoir.

Investigation also revealed that there are Shanties at the Abbatoir where some people allegedly live and pay rent to certain individuals at the Abbatoir.

This poses Security threat to the Abbatoir and residents around the Abbatoir, at a time when the economic fortunes of the nation has dwindled.

Sources revealed that the Abbatoir is porous, which exposes the State to impending danger that needs to be urgently addressed before it escalates.

No doubt, the present state of the Abbatoir is a far cry from what the Abbatoir was known for years back, leading to the call on the Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-olu led administration, the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Health and the Ministry Of Agriculture to wade into this issue and earnestly address the worrisome and abysmal state of the Oko Oba Abbatoir, no matter who ox is gored.

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