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Author: The Nation

Shettima inaugurates core working group on fight against malnutrition

President Bola Tinubu led administration, on Friday, December 15, inaugurated the Nutrition Core Working Committee (NCWC), focused on the fight against hunger and malnutrition across Nigeria.

The Committee was inaugurated by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the State House, Abuja, in a bid to address severe acute malnutrition in the country.

According to a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima also emphasised the importance of coordination and collaboration with the National Committee on Food and Nutrition (NCFN).

“We are determined to upturn the negative nutrition indices of this country,” he declared.

The VP cited his recent visit to Tudun Biri village in Kaduna State where he witnessed the tragic plight of a malnourished child caught in the unfortunate military drone strike, saying “We have no excuse for poverty.”

Highlighting Nigeria’s immense potential for prosperity, the Vice President’s passion for the cause was evident, as he pledged unwavering support to the committee.

“You are our engine room,” he said, urging them to start by tackling the malnutrition crisis from the most vulnerable communities.

“Advise us, draw the roadmap,” he implored, emphasising the crucial role of the members of the committee as expert advisors.

VP Shettima expressed a resolute commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty and malnutrition. “Let us do something truly impactful for Nigerians,” he urged.

He reminded the committee members of their shared responsibility, even as he said, “We are all products of the public school system, and history will judge us harshly if we fail to change the narrative of this country.”

On his part, Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Office of the Vice President, Uju Okorocha, noted that the incursion of nutrition in Nigeria is far beyond health.”

“The committee’s mandate extends beyond healthcare, encompassing education and the broader socio-economic impact of malnutrition.

Read Also: Tinubu receives ambassadors, directs emphasis on new investments, trade expansion

“The committee will focus on a multi-sectoral approach, ensuring coordinated efforts across government agencies to deliver effective solutions and meet multi-sectoral action targets. Innovative financing mechanisms will also be explored to further strengthen the fight against malnutrition,” she said.

Okorocha emphasised the committee’s vital role, just as she said: “The team here has the knowledge that we can leverage on to move the needle on the issue of malnutrition in Nigeria.”

Committee members emphasized the need for a dedicated delivery unit within the Vice President’s office to track progress and hold all stakeholders accountable.

They also advocated the establishment of nutrition departments across all government ministries and agencies, both at the national and sub-national levels.

Members of the committee include representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the World Bank Group, the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Nutrition International, the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, and the Civil Society Scaling-up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN).

December 15, 2023
National Assembly commends Tinubu’s 4D Foreign Affairs Policy

The National Assembly has lauded the President Bola Tinubu administration’s 4D Foreign Affairs Policy, describing it as dynamic and articulate.

The chairmen of both the Senate and House of Representatives’ committees on foreign affairs, Senator Abubakar Bello and Hon. Abdulmumini Jibrin, gave the commendation while speaking to journalists at the State House, Abuja, after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu.

Bello affirmed that the nation will soon witness changes in foreign policy adding that the National Assembly is working on imminent restructuring to effect the changes in line with global best practices.

The immediate past governor of Niger State, Bello stated: “Essentially, we discussed our foreign policies and how to improve and have a robust clear foreign policy for the understanding of everyone and the benefit of Nigerians and Nigeria as a country.

“We strongly believe that necessary steps must be taken to improve the image of Nigeria and Nigerians internationally. And I am glad Mr. President has taken bold steps towards ensuring that.

“So, going forward in the next coming months, hopefully, we’ll start seeing some changes with regards to our foreign policies that will be clear and well understood by all concerned to ensure that Nigeria and Nigerians are given the right place in the international scene.

“So, essentially, without waste of time, that is the reason we saw Mr. President today, and I think we had a perfect meeting. And we agreed to join hands between the executive arm and the legislative arm to work together towards achieving these goals.”

Speaking specifically on how the changes will affect Africa as the centrepiece, Bello added: “You know, as I said, Mr President is very much interested in changing dynamics of our foreign policy which has been, if you may call it for, for a while now, obsolete. There hasn’t been any major review of foreign policies.

“The time has come now to take the bold step towards working out some of our foreign policies to have them in line with best practices and to international standards.

“So, yes, I believe going forward, we’re going to be working very hard with the executive arm to look at all our previous agreements and treaties or what have you, to see those that need to be amended or that one needs to be implemented.

“So yes, there’s there’s a lot of work to be done. And by God’s ways, I think we’ll sail through.”

Corroborating the Senate committee chairman, Jibrin in his remarks, said they advised the president on how to improve the policy.

Read Also: Tinubu receives ambassadors, directs emphasis on new investments, trade expansion

He explained: “Building from where my colleague stopped, we commended the President for his very articulate and dynamic foreign policy captured in the four Ds – democracy, development, demography and of course, diaspora.

“Everybody who is a follower of International Relations and foreign policy will agree that it’s a well-articulated foreign policy. And we assured him of all the necessary support from the National Assembly and gave some advice on one or two things, how things can be improved, which of course, my colleague has already delved into.”

Recall that the Nigerian government launched a new 4D policy that provides dynamic and unique concepts, which is anchored on democracy, developments, demography and diaspora.

The 4D policy showcases President Tinubu’s principles and the opportunities that will attract foreign direct investment.

Kano Politics

The Kano state legislator said he used the opportunity of the meeting with the president to discuss the political crisis in his state arising from the last gubernatorial tussle, hoping that it can be amicably resolved even before the final determination by the court.

Jibrin said: “But of course, you know, he’s my baba, everybody knows my relationship with him. There’s no way I will come here without also discussing politics.

“So, I also had my chat with him, particularly on how to ensure that we continue to have peace and harmony in Kano and also proffer some recommendations in that regard.

“Hopefully, we believe that the burning crisis in Kano, as regards the governorship seat, will be resolved amicably without prejudice to the cases that are in court.”

He stressed that the president is interested in peaceful resolution of the crisis, noting that the stakeholders will support him to achieve it.

He said: “Well, of course, you know, the President, what he wants is peace and he will continue to support and encourage peace.”

December 15, 2023
Why FG must ban 85℅ importation, by ex-envoy Adejare

The immediate past Nigeria’s Ambassador to Mexico, Adejare Bello, has urged federal government to ban 85 percent importation practice, warning that it is dangerous for the future of the country.

Bello, who is the former speaker of Osun Assembly, made this known during a reception organised his party and loyalists after his sojourn in Mexico.

He noted that the importation is ten times of what Nigeria exports, saying “if the country fails to ban 85 percent of its importation, the future of the country is glooming.

He boasted that Nigeria will overcome its problems after two years of President Bola Tinubu in government, adding that the president needs prayer and support from the people to achieve his objectives.

Read Also: Military officers found culpable in Kaduna attack will be punished, CDS vows

Adejare: “Nigeria is battered, we all know it but we have to give him a kind of synergy, work together, and pray for him. Where there is a trade imbalance in Nigeria against other continents is because what we bring in is almost times ten what we send out. What that means is that we have to reduce our demand for imports.

“Importation must be banned by 85 percent of what we bring in as of today. If we don’t do it, tomorrow of Nigeria is very gloomy and we should not allow it to run murky.”

Bello speaking on the performance of Governor Ademola Adeleke who hails from his town, wished him but said “ Adeleke’s tenure remains less than three years so he may not have the opportunity to spend another time. APC is a party to watch out for in 2026. APC is coming back to power, you can be rest assured.”

December 15, 2023
States celebrate bumper revenue harvest as November FAAC allocation tops N1tr

The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has distributed a staggering N1.088 trillion from November’s revenue to the Federal Government, States, and Local Government Councils.

This significant increase from previous months offers a ray of light for improved living standards and development projects across the country.

In a communique issued by the FAAC at its December, 2023 meeting, the N1.088 trillion total distributable revenue comprised distributable statutory revenue of N376.306 billion, distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue of N335.656 billion, Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) revenue of N11.952 billion and Exchange Difference revenue of N364.869 billion.

According to the communique, a total revenue of N1.620 trillion was available in the month of November 2023. Total deductions for cost of collection was N60.960 billion; total transfers, interventions and refunds was N470.592 billion.

Gross statutory revenue of N882.560 billion was received for the month of November 2023. This was higher than the N660.090 billion received in the month of October 2023 by N222.470 billion.

The gross revenue available from the Value Added Tax (VAT) in November 2023 was N360.455 billion. This was higher than the N347.343 billion available in the month of October 2023 by N13.112 billion.

The communique stated that from the N1088.783 billion total distributable revenue, the Federal Government received a total of N402.867 billion, the State Governments received N351.697 billion and the Local Government Councils received N258.810 billion.

A total sum of N75.410 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting States as derivation revenue.

Read Also: Tinubu receives ambassadors, directs emphasis on new investments, trade expansion

From the N376.306 billion distributable statutory revenue, the Federal Government received N174.908 billion, the State Governments received N88.716 billion and the Local Government Councils received N68.396 billion. The sum of N44.286 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting States as derivation revenue.

The federal government received N50.348 billion, the State Governments received N167. 828 billion and the Local Government Councils received N117.480 billion from the N335.656 billion distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue.

The N11.952 billion Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) was shared as follows: the Federal Government received N1.793 billion, the State Governments received N5.976 billion and the Local Government Councils received N4.183 billion.

The Federal Government received N175.817 billion from the N364.869 billion Exchange Difference revenue. The State Governments received N89.177 billion, and the Local Government Councils received N68.751 billion. The sum of N31.124 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting States as derivation revenue.

In the month of November 2023, Companies Income Tax (CIT), Excise Duty,   Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), Oil and Gas Royalties and Value Added Tax (VAT) increased considerably, while CET Levies, Import Duty and Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) recorded decreases.

The balance in the ECA was $473,754.57.

December 15, 2023
I was not rushed to hospital after my colloquium – Akpabio debunks rumour

Senate president Godswill Akpabio on Friday, December 15, explained how he was diagnosed of malaria and stress by his doctor after colloquium to celebrate his birthday in Abuja.

Akpabio, who spoke to the Senate Press Corps in his office said his doctor told him that he had malaria mingled with stress after he got home from the colloquium.

In his reaction to reports of his being rushed to the hospital, Akpabio said: “I have been reading through the social media but I’m happy the Press Corps did not join the show of propaganda.

“What eventually happened after the event was a show of humanity.

Read Also: Tinubu receives ambassadors, directs emphasis on new investments, trade expansion

“I went home and I called my doctors and I was assured that I have malaria, mingled with stress, which could also be described in another way as exhaustion.

“In fact, anybody could be exhausted. Please, drink water daily so that you don’t get exhausted.

“This is to say that the work goes on. I want to assure Nigerians that the National Assembly is intact and we are still going on with our duty, our appropriation.

“We will resume on 20th December. But before then, the various committees must have finished their work to enable us meet the target to pass the budget before the end of the year for the President to append his signature.”

December 15, 2023
Pupils lauds Gov AbdulRazaq’s visionary KwaraLEARN education transformation program

In a heartwarming display of appreciation, a delegation of students from various KwaraLEARN-affiliated schools embarked on a special visit to His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Executive Governor of Kwara State.

The purpose of their visit was to express profound gratitude to the governor for his outstanding contributions to the education sector, particularly the transformative reforms that have significantly enhanced the academic performance of government school pupils in the state.

The event garnered widespread participation, with notable figures in attendance, including Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, the Honorable Commissioner for Education & Human Capacity Development, and Prof. Shehu Abdulrahman Adaramaja, Chairman of the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (KWSUBEB).

The pupils relished the opportunity to meet the governor, creating a memorable experience for all involved.

As a token of their appreciation, the pupils presented a special gift to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, symbolizing their gratitude for the positive changes witnessed in the educational landscape of Kwara State.

KwaraLEARN, representing the collective voice of Kwara State pupils, seized the occasion to express heartfelt appreciation to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering commitment to basic education transformation.

The organization commended the governor for taking time out of his busy schedule to host the KwaraLEARN pupils, showcasing his dedication to the welfare and development of the younger generation.

The children of Kwara State extend a sincere thank-you message to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, urging the continuation of his efforts in advancing the educational system.

The pupils enthusiastically echoed, “Thank you, Sir. Let the good works continue.” This marks the positive impact of collaborative efforts in shaping the educational future of Kwara State.

December 15, 2023
House Deputy Spokesman lauds CDS’ efforts in fight against insecurity

The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon Philip Agbese, has lauded the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Chris Musa, for being proactive in the fight against banditry and insurgency across the country.

He also lauded the Commandant of Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Major General John Ochayi for being professional and transparent in handling the affairs of the academy since his resumption June this year.

He made the commendations yesterday, when the duo appeared before the House Committee on Defence for the scrutiny of the 2024 proposals for the Military (Defence).

According to Agbese, the Armed Forces has made appreciable progress in taming the scourge of insecurity in Nigeria.

He said the lawmakers were proud of them.

“We must acknowledge the laudable achievements in fighting terrorism, insurgency and banditry in Nigeria. Since you resumed as head of the Armed Forces under the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you have proven to be a round peg in a round hole.

“You and your men have tackled insecurity head-on and we as Lawmakers are proud of you, Nigerians are proud of you and I’m sure the President would be happy he didn’t make mistakes appointing you and others. We are equally proud of the NDA Commandant for the progress made so far at the academy. He is a professional, courageous and visionary officer”, Agbese said.

He, however, urged the Armed Forces to continue to improve on its operations and intelligence gathering, to be able to win the war against insecurity, continually.

Members of the House Committee on Defence, took turns to appreciate the military, saying the Armed Forces needed more support and boost in their quest to keep defending the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

On his part, the chairman, House Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, assured that the legislative Committee would do all it could to ensure the fight against insecurity was won through legislative interventions.

He said, “We understand that you live in a very challenging situation. We understand that you need money for barracks, weapons, and aircraft, and funds are limited. On behalf of my committee, we say well done”.

Hon. Benson acknowledged the fact that the defence sector was being underfunded and promised to liaise with the leadership of the House to see what more could be done to improve the funding.

In his remarks, the CDS, thanked the Lawmakers for acknowledging the efforts of the military, while pledging to thoroughly investigate the bombing incident in Kaduna recently.

December 15, 2023
Electricity crisis: Govt to sell off 40% investment in DisCos
- NICON, Eleme Petro-chemical shares for sale
- TCN may be unbundled
In another attempt to end the inefficient operation of the electricity distribution chain and ownership crisis in many of the eleven Distribution Companies (DisCos), the government has decided to sell off its 40 per cent shares in the firms.

Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) Alex Okoh said the divestment will be done through Public Offerings (IPO) at the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

The planned sale of equities is also to generate funds for the Federal Government to part finance the N27.5 trillion 2024 Appropriation Bill.

The 40 per cent shares are co-owned by the Federal Government, the states and the local governments.

Also yesterday, Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu suggested the unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the firm in charge of power transmission, but unable to wheel the bulk of generated electricity to the DisCos.

The inefficiency of the TCN is the reason the national grid regularly collapses.

It is also the reason the country is not able to make available more than 3,000mw out of the over 7,000mw generation capacity.

Explaining the plan and other activities by the BPE for other government-owned agencies, Okoh told reporters that the government’s shares in Eleme Petrochemicals Company Limited (EPCL), Nigeria Re-Insurance, NICON Insurance and Nigeria Machine Tools will also be put up for sale next year.

He said the BPE had sold 60 per cent of equity in the five enterprises to core investors, leaving the government with a 40 per cent balance.

Okoh said the privatisation programme has recorded significant mileage in the past six months from both foreign and local investors.

He said: “The reception of the ideology of privatisation is making more sense and gaining more ground under the current administration than the previous one.

“In the past six months, you can count the number of trips and visits the president has made to seek Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) and create an enabling environment for these investments to locate the opportunities locally.

“That in itself is huge because you are placing yourself in the competitive international capital market. There are huge opportunities for your investment now, so that is what is different.

“IPO through the capital market is a very credible strategy for us. Once we are able to resolve a few changes, especially ownership challenges with some Discos, we’ll sell.

“Once we resolve the 40 per cent ownership in the DisCcos, we also plan to take Eleme petrochemicals to the market.

Read Also: Kaduna bombing: Tinubu’s daughter visits victims, donates N5m to injured survivors

“We have also planned to take the Nigeria Reinsurance and Nicon Insurance to the capital market.

“A lot of entities have been pencilled down for offer in the capital market including the Nigeria Machine Tool in Oshogbo all in next year.”

The BPE boss dismissed the rumours about plans to swap equity in the DisCos with the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) as untrue.

“I am not aware and the government hasn’t told me that there is a plan to swap equity between NDPHC power plants and the DisCos.

“So, it is not really available to be swapped with state shares in the NIPP plants.”

Okoh explained that Labour unions also seek to own shares in the 40 per cent.

He explained further that the original intention of the way the government privatised the DisCos partially was to list the 40 per cent still held by the government in the capital market.

With this, he said the government can democratise the ownership of the assets and make every interested citizen hold a stake in them.

Okoh extolled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his persistent search for FDI.

Okoh said although some privatised entities, such as the Steer in Bauchi, Volswagen, Reyland and Rolling Mills, have failed woefully, there are other shining examples of privatisation to boot.

To effectively undertake reforms of public enterprises, and conduct sales and post-privatisation assessment, the Federal Government allocated N2.4 billion expenditure to BPE in the 2024 fiscal budget.

Of the amount, the personnel cost is allocated N1.4 billion, salary and wage N824.8 million; allowance and social contributions will gulp N 575 million while training is allocated N80 million.

It’s time to unbundle TCN, says Power minister

Also yesterday, Power Minister, Adebayo Adelabu, pushed for the unbundling of TCN in accordance with the Electricity Act 2023.

He spoke at the ministerial retreat on Integrated National Electricity Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan in Abuja.

The minister noted that the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) transmission sub-sector has been identified as a critical weak point in the value chain lately, stressing that the view is widely shared.

Adelabu vowed that “to align with the Electricity Act 2023 and the industry’s demands, it’s time to restructure the TCN into two entities: the Independent System Operator (ISO) and the Transmission Service Provider (TSP).”

He said the restructuring must synchronise with the evolving landscape of state electricity markets, addressing calls for the decentralisation of the national grid into regional grids interconnected by a new higher voltage national or super-grid.

The minister urged the stakeholders to imagine whether the government should directly provide electricity nationwide or rather facilitate its provision.

He tasked them to draw comparisons between China’s centralised model and the US’s diverse access models.
December 13, 2023
Akeredolu transmits power to Lucky Aiyedatiwa
- Governor goes on medical vacation
Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu yesterday transmitted power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, after announcing that he was going on medical vacation.

The medical leave, which commences today, is to enable him do a follow up on his medical treatment, which took him to Germany in August.

In the governor’s absence, Aiyedatiwa will act as governor, following the transmission of a letter to the House of Assembly by Akeredolu, in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.

Before leaving on his first medial leave in Germany, Akeredolu transmitted power to his deputy. He took it back when he returned on September 7.

But he has been staying in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. His absence in Akure generated controversy leading to power struggle in the state.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had to broker peace between the feuding parties at a parley in Aso Villa, Abuja, where they subscribed to some resolutions.

A statement by Akeredolu’s Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde, said the governor would prioritise his health and ensure a full recovery before resuming official duties.

It said a formal letter on the medical leave and a notice formally transferring power in line with the Constitution would be transmitted to the House of Assembly.

The statement reads: “In the absence of Governor Akeredolu, the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, will assume the responsibilities of the governor in acting capacity.

“Governor Akeredolu expresses his gratitude for the unwavering support and affection of the people of Ondo State. He assures them that his administration remains committed to the path of progress and prosperity for the people.

“As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a widely respected Nigerian, Governor Akeredolu has consistently delegated power to his deputy during his annual vacations. This practice was observed on April 1, 2021, April 1, 2022, April 3, 2023, and July 10, 2023, when he embarked on previous vacations.”

However, a group, ‘Acts For Positive Transformation Initiatives’ rejected the transmission of a letter signed by the governor to the House of Assembly.

The group said a doctrine of necessity should be adopted, alleging that Akeredolu is not fit to sign any letter at the moment.

The Head, Directorate of Research and Strategy of the group, Kolawole Johnson, said in a statement that accepting a letter transferring power to the deputy governor would amount to conferring legitimacy on the many letters with forged signature circulating in the state.

He said a letter purportedly signed by the ailing governor will make it difficult to prosecute all those responsible for forged letters in the ministries.

Read Also: FG vows to compel airlines to compensate passengers over delayed, cancelled flights

The statement partly reads: “The president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, intervened, once again, in the current political impasse in Ondo State and spoke decisively on the part of the provision of the law by ordering the immediate emergence of the Deputy Governor as the Acting Governor.

“We note that the transfer of power to the deputy governor in an acting capacity, pending the return of the governor to his duty post is the constitutional and right thing to do.

“However, the point of disagreement here is the President’s acceptance of Babajide Akeredolu’s plea for a letter from Governor Rotimi Akeredolu transmitting power to his deputy, in place of the Doctrine of Necessity earlier directed.

“The President is aware that our organisation is already working with relevant agencies on the criminal allegation of large-scale forgery of Governor Akeredolu’s signature on account of his unfortunate ill health at the moment.

“The danger looming is that if a forged signature is allowed as the premise for transmission of power to Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, it will be difficult to reject the same forged signature on other documents that are currently in our possession and many more in different government agencies across the state.

“There cannot be a rejection of the signature in some instances and acceptance of the same in other instances.

“We, however, do know that the President is fully in the know of Governor Akeredolu’s state of health at the moment, his level of lucidity, and his likely inability to sign any letter.

“It’s our concern that any attempt to accept a forged letter by the House of Assembly which will transfer power to the deputy governor in an acting capacity will confer some sort of legitimacy on the forgery already perpetrated which will make it difficult for the forgers to face the full wrath of the law in the fullness of time as we are determined to bring perpetrators to face the law.

“In this circumstance, we suggest an electronic signature be used in place, or a law enforcement officer be sent alongside the Governor’s son to sign the letter in full glare of the camera.

“We advise that the right thing be done in making the deputy governor the acting governor while we pray for the full recuperation of the governor”.
December 13, 2023
Rivers Assembly row deepens

The division in the Rivers State House of Assembly deepened yesterday.

The state was enveloped in confusion, following an order of the state High Court recognising the former Majority Leader, Edison Ehie, as Speaker and restraining Speaker Martins Amaewhule, and 26 other lawmakers from conducting further legislative business at the Assembly complex.

The court presided over by Justice M.W Danagogo gave the order after hearing an experte motion filed by the first claimant, Rivers State House of Assembly and the Second Claimant, Ehie, who identified himself as the Speaker of the House.

Joined as the first and second defendants in the suit are Amaewhule and the Deputy Speaker, Dumle Maol.

But, the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), rejected the ex-parte injunction, threatening to report the judge to the National Judicial Council (NJC).

Rivers State was hit by crisis last month when part of the Assembly Complex was set ablaze.

Following the escalation of the rift between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Assembly was polarised.

While 27 lawmakers, led by Amaewhule, queued behind the minister, five led by Ehie, supported the governor.

Although President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has intervened in the imbroglio, the five estranged members have refused to return to the House.

On Tuesday, the 27 lawmakers defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) at plenary.

Ehie, in the motion prepared by D.I Iboroma (SAN) and others, had prayed the court to order Amaewhule and others to stop entering the Assembly complex until the burnt hallowed chamber was fully renovated by the state government.

He also asked the court to order that he should lawfully take over the leadership of the Assembly, pending the determination of the motion on notice.

Ehie also prayed that Amaewhule should be stopped from parading himself as the Speaker of the House.

The court in an Interim order granted the first prayer and ordered Amaewhule and others to stop using the Assembly premise for their sitting, pending the renovation of the facility.

However, the judge stated that Ehie would pay N50m as damages if the application before the court turned out to be frivolous.

The court asked the claimants to serve the Interim order, the motion on notice already filed, the originating process and other processes in the suit on the defendants on or before today, December 13, 2023.

The court granted leave to the claimants to serve the processes by substituted means, by publication in two national newspapers, or by pasting at a conspicuous part of the last known address of the defendants.

Justice Danagogo adjourned till 21 December for further hearing in the case.

Fubara proposes govt of unity

A source said Governor Siminalayi Fubara has unfolded plans to form a government of unity that would accommodate notable leaders in the state, irrespective of their party

According to the source, the governor has held a meeting with the governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Beatrice Itubor, in Government House, Port-Harcourt.

Read Also: Kaduna bombing: Tinubu’s daughter visits victims, donates N5m to injured survivors

Itubor, who confirmed the meeting, said they discussed the progress and development of the state, adding that the governor intended to bring everybody on board, irrespective of their party affiliations.

She said: “The governor means well. But I told him I would consult stakeholders in the Labour Party and get back to him. We will support the governor. But we will not leave our party”.

When asked whether she would take any appointment from the governor, she said: “Why not? It is our state and we will work with the governor to succeed”.

Rivers APC rejects ex-parte order

The APC rejected the ex-parte injunction, saying that it would report the judge to (NJC)

APC Caretaker Chairman Tony Okocha told reporters that the ex-parte order fell beyond expectation.

He said the order violated the NJC’s warning against frivolity, urging the judge to reverse it.

Okocha, who represents Rivers State on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) said the party will protect the rights of the defectors.

He said: “We know that the reason for this affront to democracy is to allow the governor to present the 2024 budget to the Assembly, but can four members of the Assembly sit in leadership over 31 member-House with the other 27 members who have defected to the APC?

“We use this medium to send notice in advance to the learned judge that APC Rivers will not sit and watch the order made in clear violation of the principles of law and fragrant disobedience to the NJC.

“We shall be left with no option than to petition the NJC if the judge does not reverse himself immediately.

Okocha alleged that the reason for the hasty declaration of Ehie as Speaker will not be unconnected with the N80 billion budget proposal of the state Governor; wondering how four Legislators would be able to sit to approve a budget in a house that has 31 members.

He urged the governor not to engage in actions that will plunge the state to crisis.

Okocha said: “As the party in the overwhelming majority in the House of Assembly, we shall not tolerate intimidation, harassments, haunting and threatening of our members.”

December 13, 2023