Home Blog Page 2182

Ahead Of APC National Convention: Akeredoku Harps On Internal Democracy

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has stressed the need for the All Progressives Congress (APC) to sustain internal democracy in the conduct of its forthcoming national convention slated for March 26.

Governor Akeredolu noted that APC must represent a democratic institution that everyone will appreciate, adding that the party can not afford to throw away its chances ahead of the general elections.

The Governor spoke in Akure, when he received the Senator Sani Musa campaign organization for APC national chairmanship.

Senator Musa, who is representing Niger East Senatorial District and Senate Services Committee chairman, visited Governor Akeredolu for consultation and to seek support of the Governor for his aspiration to become APC national chairman.

The Governor declared support for zoning as a mechanism for achieving balance and harped on the need for the APC to show its values through internal democracy for the sake of credibility.

“What we are faced with now, for me, is the soul of our party. My party, your party, our party. You have alluded to it that a number of people came together to form alliances to unseat a government that was in power for over sixteen years. We have the legacy parties and other people joined.

“We got that mass of people to come together. We were able to change the narrative about politics. We took the bull by the horn.

“We have not been in office up to eight years. We can not afford to throw away our chances. We must get our acts together as a political party.

“We must have values. What are our core values? Do we want to represent a democratic institution that everyone would appreciate? Let’s create that niche for ourselves.

“I’m not opposed to zoning of offices because there must be mechanism for balance. For me, I have nothing against zoning. What I have said, and that is why I will continue to encourage you, is that there must be internal democracy.”

Governor Akeredolu attributed the recent victory of the APC in the Akure North and Akure South Federal Constituency by-election to the internal democracy that was employed to elect the party’s candidate who later enjoyed support from other aspirants.

He assured that the Ondo State chapter of the party will make efforts to ensure that there is equity, fairness in whatever activities it engages in.

Earlier, Senator Musa said his decision to visit the Governor was due to his importance in the party and how he has held his ideas very strongly.

“We know how you want this country to be united, a country where there is equity, fairness and justice. You want a country where everyone of us will believe that Nigeria is for us all.

“I am in line with your ideas and I believe, if we can translate same to our political party, we will be one.”

The lawmaker explained that  his passion is to build a political party that is an institution whereby party leadership or those that operate the party base everything they do on the rule of law, and internal democracy.

“Political parties are supposed to be platforms where government policies are being designed and proffered for implementation to those that will be elected.

“I think political parties should be where there will be interaction. It is not only in universities that we do research and adopt strategies. Political parties should be able to do that.

“I will commend you for the fact that you have chosen to have your ideology and you have adopted that in this State. Whatever anyone will say, you are doing very well, and those are the type of leadership we should be able to give our people.

“This party needs a decisive leader. It is not by age or by figure or by physical look. It is by your antecedents and how strong you can be.

“The devolution of powers we are talking about, the party has done something. But still, nobody has the gut to implement it.

“We need a country. We need our people to believe that God has destined us to have everything and we can make it. Nobody will come to make it for us. I present myself to you, Mr. Governor, to seek your support in the forthcoming National Convention.”

Sacking Umahi: The Hon. Court Erred In Law

By
The Source
-
0

By Mike Ozekhome

“Political party canvasses votes on behalf of the candidate. In other words, a political party is nothing more than an agent of the candidate.”

I have just read social media publications regarding the judgment delivered today by the respected Honourable Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

I am of the firm belief that the judgment, shredded of all legal and factual details, cannot stand the acid test of constitutionalism, nor pass the furnace of appellate courts scrutiny.

This is because the tenure of office of a Governor and his Deputy are constitutional matters.

The judgment is said to have sacked Governor David Umahi and his Deputy, Eric Kelechi Igwe from their offices. He cited section 221 of the Constitution, which merely prohibits political activities by certain associations which are not political parties from canvassing for votes or contributing to elections expenses of any candidate at any election. The Judge ordered the PDP to immediately send names of replacements to INEC so that fresh elections can be conducted. He also ordered INEC to cease recognising Umahi and Igwe as Governor and Deputy Governor, respectively, of Ebonyi State.

The learned trial Judge further held that the 393, 042 votes polled by Umahi in the March 9, 2019 governorship election belonged to the PDP and cannot be legally transferred to the APC upon defection, and that there is no constitutional provision that made the ballot transferable from one party to another. He therefore order INEC to conduct fresh election in accordance with section 177(c) of the Constitution. Not so fast, the enforcement of this judgment.

The Governor and his Deputy have 90 days to appeal this decision under section 25(2), (a) of the Court of Appeal Act, it is their right under sections 240 and 241, of the Constitution, the judgment being a final one.

Perhaps, the Jurist’s learned attention was not drawn to appellate decisions on this type of matter, which under the doctrine of stare decisis and judicial precedent, he ought to have followed meticulously. He may also not have been availed of the clear provisions of sections 180 and 188 of the 1999 Constitution.

WHO VOTES AT AN ELECTION?

It is not only the registered voters of a political party that cast their votes for a President, Vice President, Governor or Deputy Governor. Many non-politically partisan persons also vote; just like opposition party members who may prefer a particular candidate even though not in their party. It is therefore not correct to hold that votes scored by a candidates belong to a political party and therefore not transferable.

The courts have since gone over the era of Amaechi V. INEC, where the Supreme Court had held that votes cast in an election belong to a political party. Section 141 of the Electoral Act, 2010, as altered that section, by providing that for a candidate to become Governor, he must have participated at all stages of the election. This includes primaries and the general governorship election.

VOTES BELONG TO INDIVIDUALS, NOT POLITICAL PARTY

The appellate courts have since held again and again that votes cast in an election belong to a live candidate, and not the political party which merely serves as a vehicle that enthrones candidates.

The Judge in his Judgment had agreed with the PDP which relied on sections 221, 177(c), 106(d) and 65(2)(b) of the Constitution to substantiate its argument that votes belong to the political parties; and it is impossible for candidates to exist without a political party. The case of NGIGE V. AKUNYILI (2012) 15 NWLR (PT.1323) 343 @ 357-376, which came much later over rule this position. The court held in that case that:

“…it is my considered view that the Appellant in relying on the provision quoted above (section 211 of the Constitution), has conveniently lost sight of the underlined words which show that a political party canvasses for votes on behalf of the candidate. In other words that a political party is nothing more than an agent of the candidate in gathering votes for an election.

It is my further view that is against the backdrop of this, that the Electoral Act (Supra) requires the candidate (and not the party of the candidate) that has the highest number of votes at an election to be declared as the winner of the said election and further provides for the means of challenging the return of the candidate (and not his political party…”(Emphasis supplied).

In a more recent decision, the Court of Appeal in the case of NWANKWO & ANOR v. INEC & ORS (2019) LPELR-48862(CA) held thus:

“… It is trite that it is only a natural person that can be lawfully declared and returned as a winner of an election. The Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended) only contemplates the declaration and return of a candidate in an election and not a political party”.

The authorities cited above have, for all intents and purposes, rested the issue as to whether it is the candidate or the party that owns the votes. The party only serves as a vehicle and nothing more. The judgment is therefore liable to be upturned on appeal.

Thus, the Amaechi case position has since been overtaken by the  2010 amendment to the Electoral Act and recent decisions of the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court, which have now vested the votes on the candidate and no longer on the political party as wrongly held by Justice Ekwo.

While interpreting section 141 of the Electoral Act, 2010, in CPC & ANOR v. OMBUGADU & ANOR (2013) LPELR-21007(SC), the Supreme Court held thus:

“Section 141 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) provides in unmistaken terms: “An election tribunal or court shall not under any circumstance declare any person Winner of an election in which such a person has not fully participated in all the stages of the said election.”

By the above provision, the National Assembly has set aside the decision of this court in Amaechi v. INEC (2008) 5 NWLR (Pt. 1080) page 227 at 296. Contrary to the decision of this court in Amaechi’s case, the implication of section 141 of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended) is that while a candidate at an election must be sponsored by a political party, the candidate who stands to win or lose the election is the candidate and not the political party that sponsored him. In other words, parties do not contest, win or lose election directly; they do so by the candidates they sponsored and before a person can be returned as elected by a tribunal or court, that person must have fully participated in all the stages of the election, starting from nomination to the actual voting.” Per NWALI SYLVESTER NGWUTA, JSC (Pp 51 – 51 Paras B – F).(Emphasis Supplied).

Relying on the judgment cited above, the Supreme Court held thus in the case of OZOMGBACHI v. AMADI & ORS (2018) LPELR-45152(SC), held as follows:

“…I believe the Supreme Court has laid to rest the contention that it is the political party which contests and wins an election. In C.P.C. v OMBUGADU (2013) 18 NWLR (Pt. 1385), the court was categorical that individuals as candidates win election and not the political parties.” Per MARY UKAEGO PETER-ODILI, JSC (Pp. 48 – 49 Paras E – A).

In HARUNA v. APC & ORS (2019) LPELR-47777(CA), the Court of Appeal held thus amongst several others:

 

“In other words, parties do not contest, win or lose election directly; they do so by the candidates they sponsored and before a person can be returned as elected by a tribunal or court, that person must have fully participated in all the stages of the election starting from nomination to the actual voting.” Per UGO, J.C.A. (Pp. 12-27, Paras. F-F).(Emphasis supplied).

The court further held thus:

“The implication of section 141 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) is that while a candidate at an election must be sponsored by a political party, the candidate who stands to win or lose the election is the candidate and not the political party that sponsored him” Per UGO, J.C.A. (Pp. 12-27, Paras. F-F). (Emphasis Supplied).

I therefore most respectfully submit (as held by appellate courts) that a political party is merely a vehicle in which a candidate can ride to contest an election and nothing more.

The votes belong to the candidate and not the political party. The political party ceases to have any considerable relevance or insolence over a person that has won an election and has been sworn in as a legislator, Governor or President of the entire people, who are far larger than a mere political party.

THE APEX COURT SPEAKS

More poignantly, the apex court has since laid to rest, the question of whether the President and Vice President (and by parity, Governor and Deputy Governor) can defect from the original party that sponsored them during election to another party. This was the case of AG, Federation v. Atiku Abubakar (2007) 10 NWLR (Pt.1041) 1, 29.

Briefly, the facts of this case are that Abubakar Atiku (then Vice President) entered into a frosty relationship with his boss, President Olusegun

Obasanjo, after both had been sworn in on 29th May, 2003. Atiku then resigned from the PDP and joined the Action Congress (AC) whilst still in office as Vice President. Obasanjo would brood none of this, as he promptly declared Atiku’s seat vacant as Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Atiku, being aggrieved, sued the Attorney General, the IGP and INEC, by way of Originating Summons at the Court of Appeal.

After briefs were exchanged and argument proffered, the intermediate court unanimously held in favour of Atiku. It held that Atiku could defect without losing his seat. Dissatisfied, the A.G and others appealed to the Supreme Court which unanimously dismissed the appeal.

The law is that the Vice President could only be removed from office by reason of death; or when he is succeeded after spending 4 years in office; or through removal from office by impeachment proceedings under section 188 of the 1999 Constitution. Indeed, the apex court held in that case that the power to remove the President and Vice President (and by parity Governor and Deputy Governor) is provided for in section 143 of the Constitution (read section 188 in the case of Governor and Deputy Governor). The Supreme Court held as follows:

“The 1999 Constitution does not provide that the President or Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be removed or is removable from that office if he defects from the political party on whose platform he was elected to that office and joins another political party……….

“It is manifest from the provisions of sections 68(1)(g) and 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution that the makers of the Constitution intended to; and indeed made punishable the defection of a member of the Senate, House of Representatives or a House of Assembly from the political party that sponsored him into another party before the expiration of the period for which the legislative house was elected by declaring the seat of such member vacant.

However, no similar provision is made for the Vice-President. In other words, if the makers of the Constitution had intended the Vice-President or the President to suffer the same fate as a member of the Senate, House of Assembly, they would have inserted such provision in the Constitution in clear terms………

“It seems clear to me that the Latin maxims: expression unius personae vel rei, est exclusion alterius or inclusion unius est exclusion alterius- when translated into English Language mean: the express mention of one person or thing is the exclusion of another or the inclusion of one is the exclusion of another; respectively- are very much apposite here; see the cases of military governor of Ondo State v. Adewunmi (1988) 3 NWLR (Pt. 82) 280 and Attorney-General Bendel State v. Aideyan (1989) 4 NWLR (Pt. 118) 646 where the maxims were considered.

“Had the lawmakers been minded that punishment or consequence of political cross-carpeting should be applicable to the President or Vice-President as they have done in respect of a member of the Senate or of the House of Representatives or even a member of the House of Representatives or even a member of the House of Assembly in the aforesaid provisions of sections 68(1)(g) and 109(1)(g) would have stipulated same in an unmistakable term in section 146 of the 1999 Constitution quoted above”.

Continued the Supreme Court:

“By virtue of section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, it is unconstitutional to deny a citizen of Nigeria the right to opt out of any political party, or the right to join or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interest provided that the political party is recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission. In the instant case, it was not shown by credible evidence that the political party to which the 1st respondent defected was not recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission. In the circumstance, the 1st respondent ought not to be penalized for joining the political party”.

“1st respondent is alleged to have defected or cross-carpeted to another political party. Although defection or cross-Carpeting to another party or dumping the original party that sponsored one for election to a particular office which is created by the Constitution, or in the same vein, condemning or criticizing that party or its members who by virtue of the same election hold some offices created by the Constitution, is painful, unconscionable, and immoral, it is however not illegal. I cannot find any fault with the lower court’s adumbration on section 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, Chapter IV thereof, which guarantees a citizen of this country freedom of association”. (Underline mine for emphasis).

COULD THE GOVERNOR AND HIS DEPUTY HAVE BEEN SUED IN THE FIRST CASE?

Another stormy tumble and rumble the present judgment will run into is section 308 of the Constitution which grants absolute immunity to the President, Vice President, Governor and Deputy Governor from being proceeded against in any civil or criminal proceedings.

The only the exception is section 308(2) which permits proceedings against this set of people when they are sued only in their official capacity, or a nominal party.

The case against Umahi and his Deputy were in their personal capacities as human beings who had defected from the PDP to the APC, See Tinubu v IMB Securities Plc (2001) LPELR -3248(SC), I.C.S. (Nig) Ltd v. Balton B. V. (2003) 8 NWLR (Pt.822) 223, Fabunmi v. IGP & Anor.

Consequently, no civil or criminal proceedings could ever sustain against this set of persons, whilst still holding office. Indeed, in the words of section 308(1), “no civil or criminal proceedings shall be instituted or continued against a person to whom this section applies during his period in office”. More significantly, “no process of any court requiring or compelling the appearance of a person to whom this section applies, shall be applied for or issued”.

This was why in Global Excellence Communications Ltd & Ors v. Donald Duke (2007) LPELR – 1323 (SC), The apex court lamented that “section 308 of the Constitution confers absolute immunity on those therein mentioned, without a corresponding disability on them to the exercise of their rights to institute actions in their personal capacities in any relevant court of law for redress during their tenure of office”.

Our discussion here is about the “lex Lata” (the law as it is); and not the “delege ferenda” (the law as we would want it to be. No sentiments or lachrymal effusion here. The Governor and his Deputy could not have been sued at all, to be removed from office for defecting, this not being a pre-election or post-election matter covered by the Fourth alteration to the Constitution, and which expired well over two years ago. The court made it clear in EJURA V. IDRIS & ORS (2006) LPELR -5827 (CA), where the court held:

“The 1st Respondent, the Governor of Kogi State can only be removed by a successful petition heard by an Election Petition Tribunal.  Where, as in the instant case the Appellant sought to remove the Governor, by an Originating Summons filed before the Federal High Court, the provisions of section 308 of the Constitution protects the Governor from such a civil proceeding notwithstanding the provisions of section 21(5) of the Electoral Act.

The trial Judge was right to decline jurisdiction in the light of the clear provisions of section 308 of the Constitution.”  Per RHODES-VIVOUR, J.C.A (as he then was)(Pp. 15-19 paras. F). (Emphasis mine).

This was what was done in the Umahi case.

Going by the above plethora of authorities, I humbly submit that a Governor already sworn in can not be removed by the Federal High Court through an Originating Summons. It will surely be set aside on appeal. Mark my words.

OZEKHOME, SAN,  wrote this in reaction to the sacking of Ebonyi State Governor, Dave Umahi, and his Deputy, Kelechi Igwe, on March 8, 2022 by the Hon. Justice Inyang Ekwo of an Abuja High Court over their defection from the PDP to the APC

How Former Super Eagles Player, Justice Christopher, Died In Hotel Room

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
Justice Christopher

By Akinwale Kasali

The nation’s football community has been thrown into mourning, following the death of former Super Eagles defender, Justice Christopher.

The 40-Year Old died in the early hours of Wednesday, 9th March, 2022, when he slumped in his hotel room located in Gwolshe, off Tudunwada Ring road, Jos, Plateau State.

It was gathered from close associates of the former player that he was managing high blood pressure, thought to be mild.

The deceased was seen on Tuesday in company of his friends full of life and never showed any sign of serious health challenge.

Though the Plateau Police Command is yet to confirm his death, his body has been deposited at the Plateau Specialists hospital.

A source said autopsy is being expected to be conducted at the hospital before he is buried.

The late Christopher made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2001 and went on to accumulate 11 appearances.

He was part of the Nigerian squad that went to the 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan.

Christopher began his senior career at Katsina United in 1999. Following spells at Sharks and Bendel Insurance, he moved to Belgium in 2001 when he signed for Royal Antwerp.

He also played for Levski Sofia in Bulgaria, Swedish club Trelleborgs FF, Alania Vladikavkaz in Russia and Herfølge BK in Denmark before announcing his retirement from football at the end of the 2006/2007 season.

He, however, returned and signed for Nasarawa United in October 2012. He has been with the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) club ever since.

NIMASA, NiMet sign MoU On Safe Navigation

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
-
0

By Tosin Olatokunbo

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA and Nigerian Meteorological Agency , NiMet, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU setting out areas of collaboration in weather forecasting and climate research.

Director General NIMASA, Dr Bashir Jamoh and his counterpart from NiMet, Prof Mansur Bako Matazu signed on behalf of both Agencies of government.

The MoU is designed as a framework for NiMet to provide meteorological services for NIMASA to improve the welfare of Seafarers and Safety of navigation of vessels in Nigerian territorial waters in line with recommendations of the International Maritime Organization.

Speaking shortly after the signing ceremony, NIMASA Director General, Dr. Bashir Jamoh expressed confidence that the forecast for maritime safety and security through NiMet from NIMASA, would not only improve safety of navigation in Nigerian waters, but will greatly enhance the confidence of the international community in the Nigerian maritime sector.

According to Jamoh, “The objective of the MoU between NIMASA and NiMet is to enhance the capacity of both Agencies with a view to providing relevant meteorological services to seafarers and ocean going vessels that will allow sustainable development of the marine environment and delivery of products and services to the various sectors related to maritime safety, security, marine environment protection and other maritime activities.”

“it is clear that the collaboration between NIMASA and NiMet will help the maritime sector fill the gaps earlier identified by the International Maritime Organization during it’s last audit of the country’s maritime space”,He said.

On his part, the Director-General of NiMet, Prof Matazu, assured that the maritime industry would soon benefit from the partnership in the same way that the aviation sector has been benefiting from NiMet’s services.

“Recently, Nimet invested over 720 million naira in equipment for maritime services. We are fully ready to make our services count in the maritime sector and we are sure that the maritime community globally is proud of this Nigerian initiative,” he said.

As part of the MoU, NIMASA undertakes to provide the mechanism for the dissemination of marine meteorological information to seafarers; make provision for calibration, consultancy, and certification of instruments and equipment as well as to ensure periodic training of staff engaged in meteorological observation.

“If President Buhari Asks Buni And I To Quit, We Quit, Power Play Is At Work” – Akpanudoedehe

By
The Source
-
0
Senator John Akpanudoedehe

By Gideon Njoku

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr John Akpandoedehe, says he and the Chairman, Mai Mala Buni, would quit from their respective offices the minute President Muhammadu Buhari asks them to do so.

Akpanudoedehe made  the statement while reacting to the news which made the rounds in the social media that he had quit as the Secretary of the Party.

A former Senator, he was appointed alongside  Buni, Governor of Yobe State and others to run the affairs of the Party, and organise a National Convention, on the sack of former National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole.

But for almost two years, Buni and his team have been unable to organise a Convention. The allegation is that he is deliberately stalling it because he wants to supervise the Presidential Primaries, to the anger of not a few APC stakeholders.

On Monday, March 7, 2023, the news that President Buhari has sacked Buni, and in his place, appointed the Governor of Niger State, Abubakar Bello, a member of Buni’s Committee, hit the Nation. It was said that Buhari aborted his earlier planned trip to the United Kingdom from Nairobi, Kenya for his medicals because he wanted to give the order to sack Buni.

Confusion hit the APC, and nobody knew what to believe. Akpanudoedehe issued a statement to deny the sack of Buni. What is obvious, however, is that there is crisis within the leadership of the APC.

On Monday, the National Secretariat was cased by Policemen. And, like a King, Governor Bello drove into the Secretariat, accompanied by praise singers who kept hailing him: “The Chair; the new Chairman.” He presided over  a meeting, and inaugurated the newly elected State Chairmen.

However, speaking to Reporters, Bello said he was only Acting as the Chairman, and had done so for sometime, because Buni had been out of the country, reportedly in Dubai for medicals.

But on Tuesday when the news of Akpanudoedehe’s resignation hit the street, the conclusion was that truly, Buhari has sacked the Committee.

However, Akpanudoedehe has debunked the news of his resignation saying he remained in office, and would resign only if Buhari  asks them to do so.

He said: ” I want to state that it is not true, I haven’t resigned. If I have resigned, you will see my resignation letter from me.

“Someone cannot say someone is dead while he is alive. I am not bigger than the Party. I am waiting for my National Chairman to come back.

“We have done so much for this Party. When we inherited it,  you will recall it ( the Party) was at its lowest ebb. We were able to cover some grounds, and registered 41million people. We have also been able to buy the Secretariat.

“This is not the first time we have seen power play. I am waiting for the Chairman. If we have directives from Mr President that we should resign, we are not bigger than the President, we would do so.”

Buni is still out of the country, and so is President Buhari.

DIG Egbunike, Slumps, Dies

By
The Source
-
0
DIG Egbunike, Slumps, Dies

By Gideon Njoku

The highest ranking, serving, Police Officer of Igbo extraction, Deputy Inspector General of Police, DIG Joseph Obiajulu Egbunike is dead.

Egbunike, the DIG, Force Criminal Investigation Department, FCID, reportedly, slumped in his office on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, and died.

A brilliant and well read officers, as the DIG FCID, Egbunike was in charge of the Force’s highest Investigation and Prosecution Department.

He read Accountancy at the University of Nsukka, where he got a BSc. He went on to read law and possessed an LLB, BL, a Masters in International Law and Diplomacy, and a PhD in Criminology.

His most recent national assignment was the investigation of the suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari, over his association with international internet fraudster, Hushpuppi, and a bribery allegation to the tune of about eight million Naira,

A native of Onitsha, Anambra State, Egbunike was born November 30, 1961.

With his sudden passing, the next most senior officer from the South-east will be appointed as a DIG since the office of the DIG is political. As a matter of policy, every zone of the Federation must have a DIG.

Bamishe Ayanwole’s Murder: Lagos Assembly Lawmakers Say Justice Must Be Done

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
Obasa on Bamise Murder Case

By Akinwale Kasali

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Tuesday promised that the Legislative arm of the State Government must ensure justice in the case of the alleged murder of Bamise Ayanwole.

Obasa said this while addressing some protesters who stormed the House to urge the Lawmakers to act on the case of the victim.

The 22-year-old was reportedly killed inside a Bus Rapid Transit vehicle on her way from the Lekki area of the State to Oshodi a couple of days ago.

The protesters, who came to the Assembly with the immediate elder sister of the deceased, said it was painful that such an incident happened. They also called for more efforts by the Government to ensure the security of lives and property.

Obasa, who said he and his colleagues were very concerned about the incident, sympathised with the family and friends of the victim.

While urging Nigerians not to pre-empt the Police which is investigating the case, he said the House would continue to follow up to ensure justice is served appropriately.

“The erroneous belief that it would be swept under the carpet is unnecessary. The driver has been arrested and is in custody.

“We are watching and must ensure justice is done on the case. The Governor has spoken about it and I just want to appeal that we work together to get justice.

“We will do everything to make sure that justice is served. Justice must be served. And everybody in Lagos must be protected,” he told the protesters.

Earlier during plenary, the Speaker urged Nigeria, its citizens and leaders to use the opportunity of the International Women’s Day to address whatever is lacking in the push for equity for women.

Commending women for their resilience and importance, Obasa, however, expressed sadness that the women have become victims of heinous crimes.

“As a Government, we must look inward to see the areas that are beneficial to the women. Women have become victims of violence and other crimes. What have we done for the emancipation of our women? How much of our women have we lost during child birth?

“We must encourage our women to be successful and live better,” he said.

He charged all the committees of the House to work for the benefit of women in the State.

Sacked Governor Umahi Attacks Justice Ekwo; Says Judge Was On A Mission; Reports Him To NJC

By
Adesina Soyooye
-
0

By Adesina Soyooye

An angry, worried and obviously embarrassed  Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State has descended on the Judge who sacked him and his Deputy from office.

The Honourable Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Monday, March 8, sacked Umahi and Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe from office for defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Justice Ekwo said that having jettisoned the PDP, both have, also, jettisoned the votes cast for them under the PDP. He ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to immediately receive PDP’s nominations to replace both men, or organise a fresh Governorship election for the State. He, also, ordered Umahi and Igwe to desist from parading themselves as Governor and Deputy Governor.

But a scandalised Umahi has dismissed the judgment  as rubbish, null and void. He said he would never obey it, that he remains the Governor,  and that what the  Judge delivered was a jungle judgment.

Then he descended on Justice Ekwo character. He said Ekwo’s judgment was purchased. He called the Judge a hatchet man. He said he had no powers to remove him, a sitting Governor from office because, as a sitting Governor, he has immunity.

He said he has forwarded a petition against Ekwo to the National Judicial Council, NJC, asking it to discipline the Judge. He, then,  tried to put the Judge on a collusion course with both the APC and the Federal Government.

Umahi: “We have heard the rumours before now that he was determined to give judgment against all known laws and the Constitution to embarrass the APC and the Federal Government.”

Umahi noted that previous judgments had been given in similar cases concerning a couple of Governors, using the most recent one -Zamfara State – as an example where the Court upheld the Governor.

Zamfara Governor, Bello Matallewa had, like Umahi, defected from the PDP to the APC.

Umahi, also, dismissed the sack of 17 members of the House of Assembly, including the Speaker, by Justice Ekwo, asking them to ignore the Judge and his judgment.

Umahi: “The Constitution stipulates that the only way whereby a Governor can vacate his seat is either by death, resignation or impeachment by the House of Assembly.

“There is no other provision that empowers a hatchet man to turn the Constitution upside down.

“I have listened to the judgement of Ekwo and it is very obvious that he was on a mission. He was making all efforts to upturn the rulings of the Appeal and Supreme courts on issues like this.

“We have heard the rumors before now that he was determined to give judgement against all known laws and the constitution to embarrass the APC and the Federal government.

“For me I do not feel worried but I feel so sorry for the Judiciary. The Executive may have problem, the Legislature may have problem, but the moment justice could be purchased, then we are in trouble in this country. And the ruling this afternoon is a clear evidence that this country is in trouble.

“And let me tell you that this same judge has over 10 cases against Ebonyi State Government with him and you can imagine what he is going to rule. We have petitioned him to NJC and we will follow it up to ensure that this man is brought to justice.

“I want you to disregard the judgement, it is null and void. There is a subsisting judgement in Ebonyi and Zamfara states. So we have chosen the one to obey, we will not obey his ruling, we will obey the ruling of a competent court of coordinate jurisdiction that says you cannot sue a Governor.

“The sections of the Constitution are very clear, no civil or criminal proceedings could be brought against a sitting Governor. This is not a Pre-election matter, this is not a Tribunal matter. So he has murdered justice in this country and he and his generation will be remembered for this jungle justice which has no leg to stand.

“I am still the Governor of Ebonyi state and he has no powers to remove me.”

Umahi said he would immediately appeal the judgment and boasted that the Court of Appeal will throw out Justice Ekwo’s judgment.

International Women’s Day: Jonathan Foundation Advocates Gender Equality, Inclusive Governance

By
The Source
-
0

As  the world celebrates this year’s International Women’s Day , the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation( GJF), says  priority should be given to issues of gender equality and inclusive governance  in order to build a democratic, peaceful and sustainable country.

A statement by the Communications Officer of the Foundation , Wealth Dickson Ominabo, quoted Ann Iyonu , the Executive Director of GJF as saying that “Gender equality is not just about women’s  rights ,it is about justice , fairness , inclusive and accountable governance.”

The Foundation, therefore, calls on Government and policy makers to work towards addressing all structural biases against women in our society. This, the Foundation notes, will create safe spaces for women to contribute effectively to nation building .

The statement reads:

“On  International Women’s Day 2022, the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) celebrate the Nigerian women  and others across Africa for their contributions to peace , prosperity and sustainable development.

“This year’s theme : ‘Gender equality today for sustainable tomorrow’ is a call to action on all citizens, especially governments and policy makers to #breakthebias against women in our society.

“Gender equality is an important democratic right that is essential in building an inclusive society and addressing many of our challenges. Gender equality is not just about women’s  rights ,it is about justice , fairness , inclusive and accountable governance

“We therefore lend our voice to  those of other women calling for the prioritization of women’s rights in the ongoing constitutional amendment process in Nigeria.

“Breaking all structural bias against women will create a safe space for women and girls to contribute more effectively towards the advancement of our society. This is the path towards  securing a sustainable future for us and the upcoming generation.

“Happy International Women’s Day !”

Osinbajo Is National Treasure; Must Be Utilized – Group

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
Yemi Osinbajo Organisation

By Akinwale Kasali

As the 2023 Presidential Election gathers momentum, with different aspirants showcasing interest in taking over affairs of the country from incumbent, President Muhammadu Buhari, the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo has been described as a national treasure that every Nigerian must be proud of, and who is worthy to be utilized in the quest to regenerate the nation.

For months, different Groups have been calling on the Vice President to indicate interest in vying for the nation’s top office.

On Tuesday, March 8, Osinbajo Grassroots Organization, OGO,  declared in Abuja, the Nation’s Capital that Osinbajo remains a national treasure.

In a statement signed by the Group’s National Convener , Sylvanus Foluso Ojo, on the occasion marking the 65th birthday of the Vice President, the Group stated that in view of his  intellect, leadership acumen  and humane disposition, Osinbajo truly deserves to be celebrated

“The Vice President has built for himself and this nation a legacy of patriotism, loyalty and unhindered connection with the Nigerian people. Even as a serving VP, Prof Osinbajo has warmed himself into the hearts of average Nigerians who have been touched one way or the other by his compassionate and inclusive leadership .

“Beyond politics, it has become essentially imperative to celebrate the man, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, whose deep conviction about the greatness, and destiny of the nation Nigeria and her people is unparalleled .

“Right before our very eyes Osinbajo has risen to an iconic status of a rare statesman, and a quintessential treasure that must be cherished and treasured by all Nigerians, regardless of political, ethnic or religious divides.”

“At 65, our belief is further reinforced in the knowledge, that God has preserved you for a time as this, to nurture continually the good seed of integrity, enterprise in service, loyalty to nation and principal, and delivering on impactful economic initiatives in the interest of all Nigerians.

“Our joy is further deepened in your laudable, robust and enviable life, one that the youthful and growing generation of Nigerians can build upon as foundation for hardwork, forthrightness, focus, discipline, contentment and empathy.

“We salute Your Excellency on this inspiring moment even as we pray for your continued good health, increased grace, divine life and undying passion for unquenchable service to fatherland at 65.

“We are indeed proud of you and we wish Your Excellency and your loving household a unique, lovely and blessed celebration.”

1...2,1812,1822,183...3,007Page 2,182 of 3,007