The leadership of the Senate and House of Representatives on Monday waded into the non-payment of severance allowances for legislative aides who served in the Eighth National Assembly between 2015 and 2019.
President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan and Speaker of House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, met the relevant agencies of government led by the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed.
The meeting, which was held behind closed doors, was attended by principal officers of the Senate and House of Representatives.
Also present at the meeting was the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Ben Akabueze.
Lawan, while speaking on the reason for the meeting, said the essence was to ensure the payment of severance allowances for legislative aides who worked between 2015 and 2019.
“The tenure of legislative aides employed by the National Assembly Commission and posted to members of the National Assembly is tied to the tenure of the National Assembly. Therefore, they are entitled to severance allowance,” he said.
According to Lawan, prior to the intervention by both chambers on Monday, the Senate leadership last week had a meeting with the management of the National Assembly and the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) led by the Chairman of the Commission, Engr. Elias Mbam.
The Senate President disclosed that following the meeting with RMAFC, the leadership identified some difficulties on who is supposed to pay the severance allowances to aides who served from 2015 to 2019.
Commenting on the development, Lawan said, “It is only fair that we give them what is due to them (aides).
“We realise there was need to bring on board for this discussion the Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning and the National Assembly Service Commission as well, so that in this meeting we are able to discuss and finalise where the source of the severance allowance for the legislative aides will be.
“And the presence of both chambers here tells us that this is a matter that affects the entire National Assembly.
“All the aides of the Senators and House of representatives who completed their assignment are affected on both sides. That is why the principal officers of both chambers are here,” Lawan added.
Principal officers from the Senate at the meeting include: Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege; Deputy Leader, Ajayi Boroffice; Minority Leader, Enyinnaya Abaribe; Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Bwacha; Deputy Chief Whip, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, and Chairman of Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Olamilekan Adeola.
From the House of Representatives are: Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Idris Wase; Deputy Leader, Peter Apatason; Minority Leader, Ndudi Elumelu; Deputy Chief Whip, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, and Deputy Minority Whip, Adesegun Adekoya Abdul-Majid.
Also at the meeting were the Clerk of the National Assembly, Alhaji Mohammed Sani-Omolori and directors of the National Assembly Service Commission.
Signed:
Ezrel Tabiowo
Special Assistant (Press) to President of the Senate
President of the Senate, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan (right) with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, during the meeting by the leadership of the National Assembly with key government officials over the severance pay of ex-legislative aides on Monday, November 4, 2019
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila (left); President of the Senate, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan; Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed and the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Clement Ikanade Agba, during the meeting by the leadership of the National Assembly with key government officials over the severance pay of ex-legislative aides on Monday, November 4, 2019
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila (left); President of the Senate, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan; Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed; Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Clement Ikanade Agba, and Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Ben Akabueze, during the meeting by the leadership of the National Assembly with key government officials over the severance pay of ex-legislative aides on Monday, November 4, 2019
Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy
By Alhaji Arems
In the vibrant world of Fuji music, where the artistry of storytelling and cultural commentary thrive, Saheed Osupa has carved out a unique role as both an artist and an influencer of thought. Recently, his name has been lighting up social media discussions and generating significant buzz—not just because of his music but because of the depth of his words. Osupa’s trending status is rooted in his ability to subtly address pressing issues, particularly those surrounding the ongoing tension between fellow Fuji musicians Taye Currency and Pasuma Wonder.
Osupa’s recent contributions to this situation have not been straightforward; rather, he has adopted an artistic approach, using parables and proverbs—sometimes through complex storytelling—to impart wisdom. These nuanced messages, often hidden within his lyrics, resonate with fans who appreciate the clever way he brings age-old Yoruba wisdom into contemporary issues. One notable example involves a story about an animal (traditionally symbolizing patience and resilience) that many believe reflects Osupa’s thoughts on rivalry and pride. Through this parable, he seems to suggest the importance of self-reflection and restraint, especially in the heat of conflict.
In a genre that values not only musicality but also the power of words, Osupa has long been seen as a master of *itan*, or storytelling. His recent songs echo the traditional Yoruba way of imparting wisdom through tales that serve as lessons. This is a skill that few artists have mastered, making his approach particularly impactful in today’s fast-paced digital world, where nuanced messages can often be overlooked.
Beyond the Taye Currency-Pasuma Wonder issue, Osupa’s trending status is also due to his reputation as a voice of reason and maturity in Fuji music. As a genre that is often vibrant and full of competitive spirit, Fuji has its share of rivalries. Yet, Osupa has often stood out by promoting unity and peaceful dialogue among Fuji artists. By sharing these reflective stories in his music, he adds layers of meaning that fans continue to unpack and discuss, drawing new audiences who appreciate both the artistry and wisdom behind his words.
The charm of Saheed Osupa lies in his timeless approach. In a world where trends are fleeting, he reminds fans of the importance of timeless values, urging reflection, humility, and understanding. As fans interpret and share his latest stories, Osupa’s message continues to resonate widely—proof that, in Fuji, the power of words can be as influential as the beat of the drum.
What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade
Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade, born on January 1, 1989, in Ebute Metta, Lagos, is an accomplished Nigerian actor, producer, and filmmaker with a deep passion for Yoruba cinema. Originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State, he is the first child in his family. Sholagbade began his education at Kadara Primary School and continued at Sojomen Talabi High School, Akute, and Nawairudeen Secondary School, Ebute Metta. He later earned an Ordinary Narional Diploma in Business Administration from the Lagos State Polytechnic. Pursuing his passion for acting, he trained at Odunfa Caucus, where he graduated in 2010.
Sholagbade launched his acting career in 2005, making a name for himself in Yoruba-language films. His portfolio includes roles in popular films like Olowo Ghetto, Alaimo, Ebun Mi, Esi, Gold and Treasure, Liam, Emilomo Babaolowo, Oko Aunty Mi, Broken Bond (Tude), and Last Born. In addition to acting, he has also produced several films, further cementing his influence in the industry.
Beyond the entertainment world, Sholagbade is a versatile professional with experience in railway engineering, IT support, and site management in the UK. He is also a farmer and general merchant, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and diverse skill set.
Throughout his career, Sholagbade has collaborated with top figures in Yoruba cinema, such as Yinka Quadri, Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, Funke Akindele, Femi Adebayo, Odun Adekola, Oga Bello, Baba Wande, Jide Kosoko, Funsho Adeolu, Fathia William Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Wunmi Toriola, and Mide Martins.
Sholagbade’s hobbies include traveling, business, football, filmmaking, and meeting new people, reflecting his dynamic and outgoing personality.
Sholagbade’s talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including: Best Actor Yoruba – BON Awards, 2024, Best Supporting Actor– Afro Nollywood Awards, UK, 2019, Best Supporting Actor– Heritage Awards, Atlanta, USA, Best Supporting Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards, Best New Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards.
With his achievements and versatility, Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade remains a notable force in the Nigerian film industry and a proud ambassador of Yoruba cinema worldwide.
Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups against Terrorism in Nigeria has congratulated Major-General Olufemi Oluyede on his appointment as the acting Chief of Army Staff, (Ag COAS, Nigerian Army).
The Convener of the Coalition, Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi, in a statement, said General Oluyede has the responsibility to consolidate the success achieved by the Nigerian Army under General Taoreed Lagbaja.
President Bola Tinubu had on Wednesday, October 30, appointed Oluyede as acting COAS pending the return of the indisposed substantive Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja.
The Coalition said his appointment is a welcome development. It said: “Major-General Olufemi Oluyede is well qualified for the position. He was a member of the 39th regular course and commissioned as an officer in 1987. Aged 56, he was promoted to the rank of Major-General in September 2020. A professional and top-notch security expert, he brings a lot of hope and inspiration to younger officers as acting chief of Army Staff.
“His appointment is the way to go. As the acting Chief of Army Staff, Oluyede has the responsibility to lead an army that will administratively manage the institution, consolidate on the success achieved by General Lagbaja and his team to mop up remnants of insurgents, bandits and the ragtag criminal elements in the North, and dismantle the ethnic militias in the Southeast to bring peace in the country.
“The 56-year-old Oluyede shares a long history with General Lagbaja, with a track record and excellent service to the nation. Both are members of the 39th Regular Course and were commissioned as officers in 1987.
“Oluyede’s meritorious career began as a Platoon commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, advancing to Company commander at 177 Guards Battalion and later Staff Officer at the Guards Brigade and commandant of Amphibious Training School.
“Oluyede has been part of many notable operations, including the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the Northeast, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.
“He has received honours, including the Corps Medal of Honour, and Grand Service Star, all recognition for passing the Staff Course and membership in the National Institute, and his dedication and achievements in service.”
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