Senate plans bill on emergency intervention to stimulate economy.

Senate plans bill on emergency intervention to stimulate economy.

The Senate has expressed its commitment to adopting measures aimed at alleviating the prevailing economic hardship in the country.

It hinted that it was planning a bill on emergency economic intervention which included addressing exchange rate management issues, reviewing tax waiver policy, overcoming the challenges of inflation, poverty, and creating jobs.

The Senate gave the hint at the weekend in a communique issued at the end of the 3-day Retreat for Senators of the 10th National Assembly on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom state.

It said there was a need to consider and approve the Emergency Economic Intervention Bill from the Executive as a proposed legislation from the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.

It noted: “To address exchange rate management issues, challenges of inflation, address poverty, and create jobs, there is a need to consider and approve the Emergency Economic Intervention Bill from the Executive as a proposed legislation from the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.

“Enactment of an Emergency Economic Intervention Bill. This will address critical socio-economic issues concerning foreign exchange management, tackling inflation, stimulating economic growth, and creating more jobs.”

Again, the Senate said that there was a need to enhance public spending efficiency by “tackling corruption in government spending in order to provide commensurate fiscal exchange to citizens and boost tax morale.”

It also disclosed its plan to legislate on the consolidation of revenue collection legislation into a single agency, saying the initiative is to curb duplication, tackle corruption and ensure seamless transactions by taxpayers.

It also noted that “it would simplify the tax system, reduce duplication of efforts, and make it easier for taxpayers to comply with the law.”

According to the communique, lots of tax policies, for instance, the Stamp Duty Act of 1939 shall be reviewed to conform to the present realities of doing business in the country.

It said that there is a “need to enhance public spending efficiency, by tackling corruption in Government spending in order to provide commensurate fiscal exchange to citizens and boost tax morale.”

The Communique reads: “The situation where many agencies of government are involved in collecting taxes and new laws continue to make it the responsibility of these agencies to collect taxes should be halted, through a legislative resolution.

“Bills on taxes should be presented as Executive Bills and not as private member Bills. There is a need to review the tax waiver policy to ensure it is aligned with the revenue mobilization drive of the government by making the waiver process more transparent and accountable.

“Review the Stamp Duty Act of 1939 and other obsolete and anachronistic laws in conformity with present realities.

“Establish clear and transparent guidelines for revenue retention. The government should establish clear and transparent guidelines for the amount of revenue that revenue-generating institutions are allowed to retain.

“These guidelines should be based on objective criteria, such as the institution’s verified operating costs and investment needs by the relevant authorities and committees of the National Assembly.

“Need for effective management of resources by adopting technology in expenditure management, driving adherence to fiscal rules and benchmarks, establishing a national fiscal risk framework for revenue, debt, and expenditure.

“Nigerian Government should consolidate revenue collection into a single agency like the FIRS. This would simplify the tax system, reduce duplication of efforts, and make it easier for taxpayers to comply with the law.

“Work with the Executive to review the National Development Plan to integrate the 8-point Agenda of the President and consider legislating aspects of the Agenda for holistic implementation.

“There is a need to consider relevant constitutional amendments to pave the way for a 5-year development plan to cater for projects and ensure continuity while limiting abandoned projects.

“Enforce consequences for violations of any provisions of the law regarding monetary and fiscal matters. This will require amendments to the relevant laws to ensure effective oversight and enforcement of the consequences, as the case may be.

“Need for legislation that clearly defines the taxing rights of the three levels of government. There is a need for legislative intervention to promote the optimization of revenue from non-oil sources, especially in the solid mineral sector.

Credit: The Nation Newspaper.

Lagos stops illegal land reclamation in Ikoyi-Lekki.

Lagos stops illegal land reclamation in Ikoyi-Lekki.

The Lagos State government has issued a stop work order on illegal land reclamation and dredging on Lagos Island by developers.

Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ekundayo Alebiosu, who led a familiarisation and inspection tour of project sites, lamented the illegal land reclamation happening on some government-approved Islands, especially the Gracefield and Pocket Islands in Chevron, Lekki.

Alebiosu also decried the illegal reclamation of parts of waterways along the Ikoyi-Lekki shoreline, specifically on Osborne Foreshore I and II, Park View, Banana Island, Kings Smart City, Lekki Foreshore, and Lekki Phase I. He vowed that the government would stop all developments that breach the government’s setback policy.

He said: “We are on Gracefield Island, managed by Gravitas. And we have also been to Pocket Island nearby, and now this bridge point, and there is a lot of illegal land reclamation happening here.

“These are separate Islands, they are not extensions, but there has to be a setback of a minimum of 200m that will serve as drainage to take water from the Island to the Lagoon, but they have disregarded the setback plan and that is unacceptable.

“We also realised that the drainage which should drain water into the lagoon has been completely blocked, they are reclaiming next to it, there is no setback, no drainage, and even the bridge has been completely blocked. I have directed that they be served a ‘stop work order’, otherwise we’ll have serious issues here.

“We reiterate our stand on zero tolerance for illegal land reclamation and dredging. We will also continue to ensure defaulters are sanctioned until we make our waterfront free from all illegalities.”

Appeal Court sacks Senate minority leader, orders rerun.

Appeal Court sacks Senate minority leader, orders rerun.

The Court of Appeal has voided the election of the Senate Minority Leader, Simon Mwadkwon of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), representing Plateau North Senatorial District.

In a judgment in Abuja on Sunday, a three-member panel of the court found, among others, that the PDP had no valid candidate in the election.

The court ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a fresh election in the senatorial district within 90 days.

The judgment was on the appeals by Chris Giwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Gyang Zi of the Labour Party (LP).

Giwa and Zi had appealed against the judgment of the elections petitions tribunal which sat in Jos, Plateau State, affirming Mwadkwon as the winner of the senatorial election.

The appellants contended, among others, that Mwadkwon was not qualified to stand for an election because the PDP had no structure to nominate a candidate, having not complied with an earlier order by the state’s High Court for the party to conduct a proper state congress.

In the lead judgment on Sunday, Justice Elphreda Dawodu-Williams held that the earlier order by High Court was not fully complied with by the PDP as 12 Local Government Areas did not participate in the said congress.

Justice Dawodu-Williams added:

“The court made total findings with regard to the issue in focus.

“To avoid anarchy, I agree with the appellants that the court must protect an order of another court.

“I agree with the appellant that the third respondent (PDP) had no valid structure and could not have claimed to have validly nominated the second respondent (Mwadkwon) for the election.

“Given the findings of this court, the appeal, therefore, succeeds as the court order was not complied with.

“The first respondent (INEC) is hereby ordered to conduct another senatorial election in Plateau North within 90 days.”

A Call for Patience, Unity, and Support: Together for a Better Nigeria and Ekiti State.

A Call for Patience, Unity, and Support: Together for a Better Nigeria and Ekiti State.

By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In these challenging times, Nigerians and the people of Ekiti State are called upon to exercise patience and stand united in supporting their leaders, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji Abayomi. As the nation and the state navigate the complexities of governance, the following key considerations are emphasized for fostering growth and development:

Exercising Patience and Dedication: Nigerians are urged to exhibit patience, dedication, and unwavering commitment in their various endeavors, whether in business, work, or public service. Patience is a vital virtue that enables individuals to surmount obstacles and endure hardships on the path to success. The call is for all to persevere with resilience and determination.

 Ekiti State residents are encouraged to place their trust in Governor Biodun Oyebanji Abayomi's leadership. By working hand in hand with the governor, the state can be elevated to new heights. Trust is the bedrock of any successful partnership, and it is considered essential for a progressive state.

 It is acknowledged as the collective responsibility of citizens to pray for the progress and development of the nation and its states. Leaders bear the weight of responsibility, and their efforts require divine guidance and strength. The plea is for all to keep them in their thoughts and prayers, recognizing that collective well-being is intertwined with their success.

 In a spirit of love and unity, Comrade Olamide Akinwumi James urges all Nigerians to embrace these values. Regardless of diverse backgrounds, be it Igbo, Yoruba, or Hausa, Nigerians are viewed as one people bound by a shared destiny. Love and unity are considered the cornerstones of a harmonious nation.

In conclusion, the journey towards a prosperous Nigeria and a thriving Ekiti State demands the commitment and cooperation of every citizen. As the nation and state navigate the intricate path of governance, the guiding principles remain patience, trust, prayers, love, and unity. Together, it is believed that a stronger, more united, and prosperous nation and state can be built.

The message closes with blessings for Nigeria and Ekiti State, praying for wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and good health for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji Abayomi.

This message is presented by Comr Olamide Akinwumi James, a dedicated journalist, content creator, writer, and public relations specialist who firmly believes in the unity of all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds.

May this message resonate in the hearts of Nigerians and Ekiti State residents, promoting a future filled with harmony, progress, and success for all.

Oyo Government Warns Against Unauthorized Fees In Public Schools.

Oyo Government Warns Against Unauthorized Fees In Public Schools.

The Oyo State government has issued a stern warning to principals and teachers in public schools who have been collecting unauthorized fees from students.

The Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Professor Salihu Adelabu, delivered the caution while addressing the media from his office.

He emphasized that this practice is unlawful and goes against the state government’s policy, which guarantees free education from primary to secondary levels in all public schools.

Professor Adelabu urged parents and guardians not to make any payments to school principals or teachers and encouraged them to report any individuals requesting such payments to the ministry.

The commissioner also indicated that any principal or teacher found guilty of this offense will face severe consequences.

He mentioned that before the school year began, a stakeholders’ meeting was held, during which all teachers were warned against engaging in unauthorized fee collection.

Femi Falana SAN Commends Minister of Interior for Correctional Center Decongestion Initiative.

Femi Falana SAN Commends Minister of Interior for Correctional Center Decongestion Initiative.

By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi James. 

In a commendable move, Femi Falana, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Minister of Interior, Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in tackling the issue of prison overcrowding and initiating progressive reforms in Nigeria's immigration services.

Falana, known for his legal expertise and advocacy for human rights, described the Minister as a man of intellect and a strong advocate for the welfare of the nation's youth. He commended Tunji-Ojo for his prompt and effective actions in addressing pertinent issues.

Among the notable initiatives is the Minister's endeavor to decongest correctional centers, a pressing concern in Nigeria. This initiative aims to alleviate the overcrowding issues faced by these facilities, which are critical to the justice system and rehabilitation of offenders.

Furthermore, Falana applauded Tunji-Ojo's noteworthy contributions to the reformation of the passport processing system in Nigeria's immigration services. The Minister's innovative ideas and commitment to improving the passport processing procedures have been evident, promising a more efficient and streamlined service.

The recognition from Femi Falana SAN underscores the significance of Tunji-Ojo's initiatives in addressing crucial challenges within the Ministry of Interior. It reflects the broader need for efficient reforms in the nation's correctional and immigration services.

Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo's unwavering dedication to bringing about positive changes in these areas is being acknowledged and appreciated by prominent figures like Femi Falana. This acknowledgment serves as encouragement to continue his efforts in making the correctional system more effective and the passport processing experience more accessible for the citizens of Nigeria.

Ex-Governors Adebayo, Fayose, Fayemi, Endorse Oyebanji For Second Term In Office.

Ex-Governors Adebayo, Fayose, Fayemi, Endorse Oyebanji For Second Term In Office.

…..As Senate Leader volunteers to chair re- election committee.

....Ekiti people are happy with Oyebanji, says Bishop at First Anniversary Thanksgiving.

In what appears as an uncommon political development, former Ekiti State Governors, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, Chief Ayodele Fayose and Dr. Kayode Fayemi on Sunday unanimously endorsed incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term in office based on his unique leadership style and development strides. 

The three former Governors who spoke through Fayose said they have reviewed Oyebanji’s one year in office and believe he deserved a second term, having united every political and religious tendencies in the state and mobilize the people for massive development. 

The trio spoke just as the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele said he will be glad to be the Chairman of Oyebanji’s second term Re-election Campaign Council, stressing that the incumbent Governor has earned the confidence and trust of the people for a second term.

They all gave their backing to Governor Oyebanji on Sunday at a special thanksgiving service organized to mark the first anniversary of his administration which was held at the Cathedral Church of Emmanuel Okesa, Ado Ekiti and attended by eminent personalities from all walks of life.

Also extolling the virtues of the Governor, the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who represented the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio at the service, offered to serve as the Chairman of Oyebanji's Re-election Campaign.

Earlier, the Bishop of the Diocese of Ekiti, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Rt. Rev. Olusola Ajayi, had hailed Oyebanji for making positive impact in the lives of the people of the state in the last one year saying "Ekiti should continue to celebrate the greatness of God and His power manifesting in the works of the Governor."

But the action of the three former governors in endorsing the incumbent governor stole the show at the church service and drew a deafening ovation from the congregation who were watching the unfolding spectacle.

First to be invited to make a speech among the former governors was Dr. Fayemi who said: "We are Ekiti and we observe seniority, even among governors, we observe ranking. We all feel the same way on the current occupant of the seat. It is the most senior among us (Adebayo) that should address the people first."

Adebayo said: "I am the most senior of the (former) governors, I will call my younger brother, Ayo Fayose, to address this gathering."

Fayose said: "You know me very well that I am not the one who will tell you what you like. I will always tell you as it is. We are all together for Abiodun Oyebanji, I am not a member of your party (APC) and I will not be. I am with you (Oyebanji) 100 per cent.

"Where is Bisi K ( Chief Bisi Kolawole, PDP governorship candidate)? We are going to support you (Oyebanji), you have come to visit me in my house several times. You are doing it differently and you will get a different result. This church will pray for you and you will do it (governorship) a second time."

Fayose said the old practice in Ekiti State was more of a sitting Governor witch-hunting the predecessor. “ When I was here I was after Fayemi, when Fayemi was here he too was witch- hunting me. But you are doing it differently. You have United all of us and your performance is superlative. 

“ On your matter, all of us are unanimous in our support for you. You are doing well, your leadership style is different and am not surprised your performance has been excellent. Ekiti will do well to have your for eight years. And all of us will support and mobilize for your to achieve that. 

“ I am not in your party, and some people will say it is too early. It is not too early. You have done well and you deserve two terms so that Ekiti will benefit from your purposeful leadership. “ Fayose said. 

After Fayose's speech, Adebayo said: "This is the position of we, the former governors. Thank you very much."

Senate Leader Bamidele who had earlier given his remarks before the former governors said political leaders and people of Ekiti are proud of the performance of Oyebanji and what God is doing in the state through the Governor adding that "Ekiti is set for the next level under Oyebanji "

Bamidele said: "Governor Oyebanji entrenching the culture of respect and the culture of performance. He is lucky to have Governors Adebayo Fayose and Fayemi as mentors and advisers. What he is doing differently is that he is giving the state a new political order, uniting various groups where youths, women, civil societies consider themselves as stakeholders.

"You are an example of being in power and humble. I am here because of your humility and because you are real. If you are not real, I will keep a distance . When you b come a second term Governor, you will be the most ranking progressive Governor and the most ranking Governor in Nigeria.

"I am looking forward to being the chairman of your re-election campaign, if Jesus Christ tarries in his coming and God sparing our lives."

In his sermon at the anniversary service, the Bishop of the Diocese of Ekiti, the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Rt. Revd. Olusola Ajayi, hailed Governor Oyebanji for making positive impact in the lives of the people of the state within the last one year.

The Rt. Revd. Ajayi said it was astonishing that Governor Oyebanji executed and delivered 295 projects for the use and benefit of the people of the state under one year through the instrumentality of the six-pillars  agenda of his administration.

Delivering a sermon entitled "Rejoicing in the Lord" which was taken from Psalm 150:1-6, the Rt. Rev. Ajayi said the people of the state needed to praise God and rejoice because the Governor has set Ekiti on the path of greater development and delivering compassionate and purposeful leadership.

He described Oyebanji as "a Christian politician, a Christian who is in politics for the good of his people" adding that "this is a man who promised to turn around the fortunes of the state with his five pillars agenda and today, Ekiti people are happy with him because he is keeping his promises."

The bishop also singled out the wife of the Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji for commendation in the areas of poverty alleviation of the less privileged and empowering the widows and orphans with working tools and instruments of business and giving scholarship to orphaned students.

The cleric urged the people of Ekiti State irrespective of their religious affiliations to remain one and not be divided by religious and political differences for the state to continue to witness sustainable development.

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji said he has handed over the state back to God ascribing the glory of the achievements of the last one year to God whom he said has made them possible for the benefit of the people.

He explained: "Today is about God in our life as a people of Ekiti State. What struck me in the sermon by the bishop is what God has done in our state and we return all the glory to God.

"It is not because I am the best person in the state or because I know how to do it; it's not because I am the most brilliant, all is by the grace of God. For the little we have achieved, I give God the glory."

The Governor who said he counted himself lucky to be standing on the shoulders the former Governors whom he described as "giants" stressed that he has no excuse to fail the people of the state urging his predecessors to always be there for him in guiding him and counselling him at the needed time.

He also allayed the fear of the traditional rulers and the people of the state on the condition of federal roads in the state disclosing that he would meet with National Assembly members from the state next week to ensure that the 2024 Federal Budget captures all the concerned roads.

Describing himself as the "servant of the people," Governor Oyebanji described former governors, National Assembly members from the state, House of Assembly members and party leaders as the windows through which the people of the state can channel their complaints on any perceived wrong noticed in governance.

The service featured Bible lessons read by Governor Oyebanji and Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Revd. Felix Ajakaye, hymns, intercession for Ekiti and Nigeria led by Chairman of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Clement Abifade; and special song rendition by the First Lady, Dr. Oyebanji and her team.

Other dignitaries at the thanksgiving service included the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru; Ekiti Deputy Governor, Mrs. Monisade Afuye; Ekiti Assembly Speaker, Mr. Adeoye Aribasoye; former Ekiti First Lady, Erelu Bisi Fayemi; former Ekiti Deputy Governor, Prof. Modupe Adelabu; Senator representing Ekiti South, Yemi Adaramodu, traditional rulers led by the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, among other guests.