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Lassa Fever: Nigeria Records 33 Deaths From 645 Confirmed Cases

March 30, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has released figures of those killed by Lassa fever between January and March 2025, saying 645 cases of Lassa fever were confirmed out of 3,465 suspected cases, leading to 118 deaths across 33 states.

In a statement on Sunday, NCDC Head of Corporate Communication, Sani Datti, reported that 20 healthcare workers were infected across nine state.

The record shows eight in Ondo, four in Bauchi, one each in Edo, Taraba, Ebonyi, Benue, and Ogun, and two each in Gombe and Taraba.

According to the statement, to enhance its response, the NCDC deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to 10 states for two weeks —Kogi, Plateau, Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Taraba, Benue, Gombe, and Nasarawa, while in areas with evolving outbreaks like Edo and Taraba, deployments were extended by ten and seven days, respectively.

Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of NCDC, stated that the Lassa Fever National Emergency Operations Centre (LF-EOC) has been activated at Response Level 2 to improve coordination among stakeholders, including federal, state, and local governments, as well as development partners.

He explained that the agency has distributed essential medical supplies such as personal protective equipment (PPEs) and treatment medications to affected states.

Also, targeted, state-specific advisories have been issued to guide the prevention and control of Lassa fever.

Despite these interventions, Dr Idris said challenges persist, such as weak community-level surveillance, inadequate resources for treatment and contact tracing, and manpower shortages at treatment centers.

He said many patients delay seeking care, often turning to self-medication and unorthodox practices that prove ineffective.

The director therefore advised individuals with suspected Lassa fever to seek immediate medical attention and appealed to state governments to contribute to treatment costs

Dr Idris reiterated that preventing Lassa fever requires collective action, saying while the agency and state governments lead the response; Nigerians have a role to play in curbing the spread of the virus.

He encouraged citizens to uphold environmental hygiene and prevent rats from accessing homes, food, and utensils, as these are the most effective preventive measures.

Dr Idris also urged Healthcare workers to adhere to infection prevention and control (IPC) measures and maintain a high level of suspicion for the disease.

Ex-Rivers State HoS, A Serial Betrayer Who Couldn’t Resist Blood Dollars – PDP

Suleiman Anyalewechi

March 30, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has berated the former Head of Service, HoS, of Rivers State, Dr George Nweke, for being a willing tool in the hands of some unscrupulous characters bent on destabilizing the State for their selfish political ends.

It insisted on the illegitimacy and unconstitutionality of the State of Emergency declared in the State by President Bola Tinubu.

The Source reports that the festering political impasse in Rivers state on Friday, March 28, 2025, took a farcical dimension with Dr Nweke who, a few days ago, resigned his appointment in rather hazy circumstances, alleging the involvement of suspended Rivers state Governor Siminalayi Fubara in the razing of the State House of Assembly Complex in 2023 in a bid to prevent his impeachment by the pro-Nyesom Wike State Lawmakers.

He similarly accused Governor Fubara of lending subtle support to militant groups threatening to sabotage critical national assets in the State particularly oil installations.

Dr Nweke, at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, further alleged a political romance between the embattled Fubara and Governor Bala Muhammad of Bauchi state who is rumoured to be nursing presidential ambition.

Although Dr Nweke’s wife and Governor Fubara have since rubbished the former HoS claims as being induced by some unseen political desperados, the Rivers State Chapter of the PDP has described the action as “a scripted litany of lies orchestrated by the FCT Minister to further create chaos and anarchy in Rivers State”

At a Media briefing on Saturday, March 29, in Port Harcourt, the State Chairman of the PDP Robinson Ewor, while strongly condemning Dr Nweke’s action, also dubbed him a serial betrayer who is known to many.

According to the PDP, it is clear to all and sundry after watching and listening to the interview,that Dr Nweke was only reading a script that he never understood the content.

The State PDP Chairman described Nweke as a compromised tool in the hands of Wike who is playing out a similar role like Judas.

Ewor, however, noted that just like Judas ended, Nweke will also end ignominiously after collecting “dirty and blood dollars” to spew lies against Governor Fubara.

The PDP Chairman described as a lie from the pit of hell Nweke’s claim that he was present when a bag of money was given for the job of bombing the state House of Assembly Complex.

“George lied when he said he was with the Governor when a bag of money was handed to Edison Ehie to bomb the Assembly.

“The fact is that Police arrested seven suspects in 2023 who were charged and remanded in Kuje, and Port Harcourt prisons,and later freed due to prosecutorial lapses, not gubernatorial involvement.

George’s claim of the involvement of the Governor is a lie from the pit of hell” Ewor stated .

He blamed Nweke’s barefaced, spurious and unsubstantiated allegations on Wike’s desperation to gain control of Rivers State governance and resources.

He insisted that the ex-HoS was clearly coerced into reading a script at Abuja Transcorp Hilton after mortgaging his soul for pecuniary gains.

“He is a serial betrayer who couldn’t resist blood dollars”, Ewor posited

The PDP Chairman, also, noted that the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers was purely driven by power grab.

He expressed regret that President Tinubu went ahead to declare emergency rule when none of the veritable conditions precedent to state of emergency was present in the political space of Rivers as at the time the action was taken.

Ewor described the suspension of an elected Governor and State legislator as a gross abuse of power, rule of law, and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

This is even as the party strongly berated the sole administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas, for suspending political appointees and dismantling institutional structures in the State.

However, the party called on party faithful and Rivers State citizens to remain calm and support Governor Fubara, assuring an end to the period of darkness.

Killing Of Travelers In Edo: Gov Suspends Commander Security Corps, Disbands Vigilante Groups

Ayodele Oni

March 30, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

In a swift response to the brutal killing of travelers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has ordered the immediate suspension of illegal vigilante groups operating in the state.

To address the security lapses that led to the tragic incident, the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), has also been suspended.

A statement on Sunday by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, said the decision to relieve Ibadin of his job followed a review of the preliminary report of the gruesome killing of some travelers at Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area of the State.

The statement reiterated that the local vigilante group involved in the incident was operating illegally as it was never profiled or registered with Edo State Security Corps.

“Its actions do not reflect the core values, character and principles of the Okpebholo administration, or the objectives of the corps as enshrined in the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law.

“This move aims to restore law and order, ensuring the safety of citizens and upholding the rule of law.

“The governor’s directive follows a preliminary report on the incident, which occurred on Thursday, March 27, 2025.

“The report revealed that the local vigilante group involved in the killings was operating illegally, without registration or profiling with the Edo State Security Corps.

“Investigations into the killings are ongoing, with 14 persons already arrested and a manhunt underway for others involved.

“Government has assured the public that justice will be served in an efficient, transparent, and proactive manner.

“The Edo State Government has reiterated its belief in the constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens to move freely and engage in lawful business without fear of harassment or intimidation.

“The government is working closely with the families of the victims, community leaders, and the Government of Kano State, where most of the deceased hailed from.

“As the investigation unfolds, the government urges all parties involved to remain calm, assuring that it is committed to ensuring that justice is served.

“The suspension of illegal vigilante groups and the commander of the Edo State Security Corps sends a strong message that the government will not tolerate any form of lawlessness or impunity.

“This development highlights the complexities surrounding vigilante groups in Nigeria, which have been linked to human rights abuses and extrajudicial killings.

“The Edo State Government’s decisive action is a step in the right direction towards addressing these concerns and ensuring that security agencies operate within the bounds of the law.”

Abia Govt Partners NASS On Renewable Energy

Tosin Olatokunbo

March 30, 2025

Governor Alex Otti of Abia state has promised his government’s readiness to partner with the National Assembly in the development and promotion of renewable energy towards finding a sustainable solution to electricity supply challenges in the country.

The governor made the promise when he received members of the House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy on a courtesy visit in his Aba country home on Saturday.

Governor Otti underscored the importance of prioritising finding solutions to the country’s power challenges and commended the 10th House of Representatives led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon Tajudeen Abbas for taking up the challenge.

He said that immediately after his administration was inaugurated, he prioritised solving the decay in infrastructure in Aba, especially in the areas of environmental sanitation, electricity and roads because they were crucial to boosting the huge industrial potentials of the people in Aba.

The governor said that the government had to enter into agreement with a private electricity distribution firm, Geometric, and, initiated a bill tagged “Abia state Electricity Regulatory Bill which had been passed by the state Assembly and signed into law to back up the electricity supply initiative of the government.

He stated that currently Aba and environs are enjoying between 23 to 24 hours electricity supply with about 80 mega watts electricity supply by Geometric.

He stated the readiness of the government to partner with the programme of the House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy in hosting its first Legislative Summit on Renewable Energy slated to hold in Lagos from 5th to 7th May, 2025.
He said that his government would participate fully because of the need for a collaborative efforts in addressing the nation’s energy security.

Earlier in his speech, chairman of the House Committee on Renewable Energy, and, member representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency of Anambra state, Victor Afam Ogene told the governor that the purpose of the visit by the members was to enlist the partnership of the Abia state government to the development efforts of the House of Representatives.

He told the governor that the summit aimed to assemble stakeholders, experts and lawmakers to come up with robust policies and programmes that would drive renewable energy growth and grid modernisation.

He said that already some key stakeholders from the country and abroad have confirmed their readiness to participate adding that some of such experts are from South Africa and Gambia.

Hon. Ogene told Governor Otti that already the Speaker of Ghana parliament and some notable global organisations including the INDP, GIZ and EU have agreed to partner with the committee to ensure the success of the important policy programme.

He told the Abia state governor that the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Tajudeen Abbas recognises his esteemed role in Nigeria’s development, adding that the Speaker prioritises the development of the renewal energy sector as crucial in solving the nation electricity supply challenges and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

The event, the lawmaker said, would facilitate Knowledge Exchange and
Promote dialogue among legislators, experts, and stakeholders on critical legislative priorities, regulatory frameworks, and global best practices, in order to accelerate renewable energy adoption in Nigeria.

Tinubu Has Opened Door To Nigeria’s New Era Of Growth, Says Uzodimma …Felicitates President @ 73

The Source

March 30, 2025

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has showered encomia on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who has just turned 73, saying that the President’s leadership has opened the door to Nigeria’s new era of growth and sustainable progress across all sectors.

The Governor reasoned that President Tinubu is being celebrated today as a leader due to the profound impact of the Presidency under his watch has had on the people.

Governor Uzodimma therefore prayed for the wellbeing of the President, asking for divine blessings of long life, good health, and wisdom so that Tinubu will continue to steer Nigeria towards greatness.

Taking to his social media platform on Saturday, the Governor said: “I celebrate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on this special day with the admiration he truly deserves.

“With strong passion and commitment to national development, President Tinubu has opened the door to a new era of growth, ensuring that every sector experiences real and sustainable progress.

“His leadership stands out through bold initiatives, people-centric policies, and a compassionate approach that prioritises the well-being of Nigerians. Whether in revitalising the economy or renewing our infrastructure, Mr. President’s dedication to building a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria is evident.

“As you mark another year of wisdom and experience, I pray that God blesses you with long life, good health, and even greater insight to guide our great nation. May your vision for transforming Nigeria become a lasting reality, and may the years ahead bring even more remarkable achievements.”

NEF Demands For Bodies Of Slain Hausa Travelers, Gives Ultimatum

Ayodele Oni

March 30, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has demanded for bodies of travelers killed at Uromi in Edo State.

NEF issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okoebholo, and the people of the state, to provide the bodies for befitting burial.

The demand was contained in a statement by NEF spokesperson, Prof Abubakar Jika Jiddere, in which the Forum expressed its deep sorrow and anger over the attack and brutal killing of the 16 travelers.

The statement read in part, “The Northern Elders Forum (NEF), has received the shocking, sad, and deeply disturbing news of the barbaric, extra-judicial, and cowardly killing of innocent Northern hunters who were returning home to celebrate the end of Ramadan and Eid Kabir Sallah festival with their families in Uromi, Edo State.

“This heinous act is totally unacceptable, and we condemn it in the strongest terms.The North has tolerated numerous such animalistic and cannibalistic acts of recklessness from some Southern part of Nigeria in the past.

“This must come to an end. The North will take stringent action in response to this inhumane attack on its peace-loving people.

“Consequently, the NEF hereby demands the following immediate actions from the authorities in Edo State and the Federal Government:

The swift recovery of the bodies of the victims and their dignified transfer to their families for an honorable and befitting burial in accordance with their respective faiths.

“The arrest and trial of all individuals responsible for the attack and the brutal killings of the innocent travellers.

“The NEF demands a public prosecution of the perpetrators and those that aided the crime to ensure full transparency and accountability.”

Again, Atiku Slams Wike: “I Rejected You Because You Are Agent Of Division, Lack National Appeal”

Suleiman Anyalewechi

March 29, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Former Vice President and Peoples Democratic party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 General Elections, Atiku Abubakar, on Saturday March, 29 ,2025 further justified his decision to snub Nyesom Wike as his running mate in the count down to the 2023 Presidential Election.

The Source reports that Atiku had opted for former Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa as his running mate.

Addressing the issue first on Friday, March 28, Abubakar expressed no regret over the decision he made, insisting that a Committee had recommended Okowa ahead of Wike and then Governor of Akwa Ibom State Udom Emmanuel.

However ,the comment did not go down well with the Federal Capital Territory Minister, who lashed the former Vice President over alleged misrepresentation of facts .

Wike, in a statement through his Media Aide on Friday, also noted that he had no regret being shunned by the PDP Presidential Candidate.

He expressed happiness for his role in truncating the ambition of the former Vice President to govern the Country .

The former Rivers State Governor similarly pledged to do same again should Abubakar venture into the Presidential Race in 2027 .

But in a statement from his Media office on Saturday, the former Vice President noted that Wike was rejected because of his unsuitability for the position in terms of National appeal.

According to Abubakar, Wike’s choice was not good for a ticket that was intended to promote national unity.

He explained that Wike’s behaviour both in Abuja and in general has lent credence to their conclusion that his presence would have bred national division.

Abubakar noted that Dr Okowa was chosen due to his high intellect, composure and statesmanship.

The PDP Presidential Candidate emphasized the pre-eminence of good conduct, humility and decorum in political considerations.

Following is the full text of Atiku Abubakar’s press statement.

“The attention of Atiku Media Office has been drawn to yet another emotional outburst disguised as a press statement from the camp of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, issued by his aide, Lere Olayinka.

“While we understand that bitterness often finds expression in misplaced aggression, we must remind Mr. Wike and his team that a bitter heart isn’t capable of charity, nor does it inspire unity, healing, or truth.

“Once again, facts have been twisted in a desperate attempt to rewrite history. Mr. Wike, through his spokesperson, claims that he had 13 votes from a Committee set up to recommend a Vice Presidential Running Mate, while Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa had only two. Let us be clear: there are no laid down rules or laws on the selection process of a Running Mate. Committees, consultations, and recommendations are advisory. The final decision rests solely and exclusively with the Presidential Candidate, in this case, Atiku Abubakar. It is a constitutional and strategic choice, not a popularity contest.

“Assuming, but not conceding that Wike had 13 votes and Okowa had 2 — just like Universities confer degrees in learning and in character — one must ask: what is the worth of votes if character scores a zero? Leadership is not only about numbers; it is about temperament, dignity, and the ability to unify. A man may boast of numbers, but if his conduct lacks grace and humility, those numbers are empty.”

Atiku emphasised that it is time to put aside wounded egos and concentrate on Nigeria’s future and the welfare of its people.

“We make no apologies for choosing Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa as the running mate in 2023. That decision was based on a combination of intellect, composure, and statesmanship.

“We have been vindicated by Mr. Wike’s public conduct in Rivers State, where he once served as Governor, and in Abuja since becoming FCT Minister, which has made it abundantly clear why he was unsuitable for the role of Vice President in a ticket meant to unify, not divide.

“We urge Mr. Wike and his social media spokesperson to resist the temptation to sermonize about religious piety during Ramadan and Lent, too, while simultaneously fanning the flames of discord. Let us not reduce sacred periods to a tool for petty political jabs.”

House of Reps. Felicitates President Tinubu On 73rd Birthday

Ayodele Oni

March 29, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has paid glowing tribute to President Bola Tinubu emphasising his resilience and transformative leadership.

The Green Chamber extended heartfelt congratulations to Tinubu, on the occasion of his 73rd birthday.

House spokesman, Akin Rotimi, Jr. in as statement stated that “President Tinubu’s life has been a testament to unwavering dedication to democracy, good governance, and national development.

“As a visionary leader and statesman, he has played a defining role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic evolution, strengthening institutions, and championing progressive policies that foster economic growth and social transformation.

“Since assuming office, President Tinubu has undertaken bold and necessary reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria for sustainable development, tackling long-standing economic and security challenges, and renewing the hope of Nigerians.

“He has also demonstrated steadfast commitment to lifting Nigeria’s name beyond its shores, actively engaging in diplomatic and economic missions while providing critical leadership across West Africa as Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

“His steadfast commitment to nation-building and courageous leadership in difficult times continue to inspire both present and future generations.

Tajudeen Abbas - Speaker — Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen.

“The sacrifices made and the tough choices taken are now showing tangible benefits. These benefits are restoring confidence in our economy, security, and the future of our nation.

“In the not-so-distant future, Nigerians will smile and applaud the Tinubu administration for standing firm for the country to be afloat.”

Speaker Abbas further noted that under President Tinubu’s stewardship, Nigeria’s economy has been rejuvenated, with recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics indicating a GDP growth of 3.2% in the last quarter of 2024, up from 2.5% in the preceding period.

“These strides reflect the administration’s commitment to economic recovery and national prosperity.

“On this special occasion, the House of Representatives joins the First Family, the government, and the entire nation in celebrating President Tinubu’s lifelong service, enduring legacy, and invaluable contributions to the progress of Nigeria.”

High Chief Uduaghan, Senator Natasha’s Husband, Sues Senator Nwebonyi

Adesina Soyooye

March 29, 2025

High Chief Uduaghan and Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi

By Adesina Soyooye

The foul-mouthed Senator representing Ebonyi North in the Senate, Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, has again talked himself into trouble. And, if he does not put a break to his mouth, which many say runs like diarrhoea over the se3ual harassment allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, he could be the one carrying the can for Akpabio.

Recall that a few days ago, Senator Nwebonyi, the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate had, publicly, insulted a former Minister for Education, Oby Ezekwesili over the Akpabio/Akpoti-Uduaghan issue. It was at the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges, sitting on the issue.

Ezekwesili, a former Vice President of the World Bank, Africa, had come as an observer and an unabashed sympathiser to the complaints made by Akpoti-Uduaghan against Akpabio, while Senator Nwebonyi was there as Akpabio’s witness.

While discussions were proceeding, Nwebonyi said something to the effect that there was no point as the other side had nothing to say. Ezekwesili asked him to shut up. An outraged Nwebonyi hit the roof. It was like pouring fuel into an already blazing fire. He insulted Ezekwesili silly. Called her a fool repeatedly. A fool at 70. (For the records Ezekwesili is 61). Dubbed her a disgrace to womanhood and capped it by asking her to shut her smelly mouth. Ezekwesili in turn dismissed him as a hooligan.

Since that incident which shocked not a few people, women groups and several individuals have strongly condemned the Senator and a few have canvassed for his recall or public apology. He remains unrepentant.

Now, over the same Akpabio/Akpoti-Uduaghan issue, Nwebonyi has again entered into hot water.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s husband, a Traditional Chief of Warri Kingdom, an entrepreneur, and businessman, has threatened to drag him to Court. His offence?

While defending Akpabio, Nwebonyi had said the High Chief married Akpoti-Uduaghan under duress; that she blackmailed him into marrying her.

The Chief is, therefore, demanding a written apology, and has given him the whole of 14 days to comply or face the consequences.

In a letter dated March 27, to Nwebonyi, Chief Uduaghan’s Counsel, Ehiogie West-Idahosa, SAN, said the Chief would seek legal action after the 14-day ultimatum.

Nwebonyi incurred the Chief’s anger in an interview he granted News Central Television where he alleged that Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan forced her husband into marriage through blackmail. He insisted that the union between the two was contracted under duress.

His words: “In my own assessment she is not among the beautiful women in Nigeria and it is high time we come hard on her and why people like us are speaking on top of our voice is not just to protect and defend the Senate president but to protect and defend her future victims. Even her present husband, she married him out of something like this. She threatened to sue the man. I have a letter circulated over the world that the man should pay her N10 billion or marry her under duress.

“So the marriage was under duress. A product of blackmail. I was watching a video of how the father of the first wife of the husband narrated her ordeal. This lady came into their family, destabilised the family and took over her husband. And without going into her character, ask Senator Natasha how many husbands has she had in her life at the age of 47 or 45?

Defamation and reputational damage

Chief Uduaghan’s lawyer, in the letter, refuted the allegations and posited that Natasha and Chief Uduaghan are well-respected people.

He wrote: “The said defamatory statements made by you were widely circulated by users of other social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and many more within and outside Nigeria with the intention of damaging the reputation of our clients.

“Contrary to the malicious words spoken by you, our clients are very respectable, successful, result oriented and self-decision driven members of the Nigerian Society. Chief Uduaghan is a very successful businessman, community leader, high chief and philanthropist, known for upholding cherished values of the Nigerian society to the admiration of many.

“The defamatory statements had caused embarrassment, distrust, and damage to the couple’s reputation among family, friends, and associates.

“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is a successful Nigerian politician, opinion moulder, defender of the needy, efficient wife and mother well admired at home and abroad.

“Since you uttered your said defamatory words that were widely aired, some family members, friends, political and business associates of our clients now view them with a strange level of disdain and distrust. Our clients have been deeply embarrassed by the extent and effect of your false and malicious words.”

Public apology or legal action

“Consequently, we hereby demand a written apology from you within 14 days from the date of your receipt of this letter. The apology should be widely circulated. It must, in particular, be aired on News Central TV and published by various social media platforms which published your defamatory words.

“Failing a satisfactory response from you, our instruction is to initiate the necessary legal process to seek redress for our clients.”

Senator Nwebonyi has not commented on the letter yet.

Senate Leader, Bamidele Flays Critics Of Emergency Rule In Rivers, Insists Action Taken To Ease Political Tension

Ayodele Oni

March 29, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele has defended the decision of the National Assembly to ratify the proclamation of state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.

Bamidele insisted that the National Assembly should be commended and not vilified.

As a responsible and responsive parliament, Bamidele argued that an emergency “is an extraordinary measure, and it must be treated as such in the interest of peace and without subjecting to the scrutiny of some parochial interests.”

He made the clarifications on Saturday, at the 29th convocation of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado Ekiti, where he was decorated with a honorary degree, Doctor of Law (Honoris Causa.

Bamidele received the honour alongside Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch Adedeji and Chairman, Governing Board, Bank of Industry, Dr. Mansur Muhtar, thus making it the third honorary doctorate he received between January 2003 and March 2025.

The convocation was attended by President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Deputy President, Jubril Barau; Deputy Leader, Lola Ashiru; Deputy Whip, Onyekachi Nwaebonyi and Chairman, Committee on Appropriation, Olamilekan Adeola, among others.

Giving insight into the interventions of the National Assembly, Bamidele observed that the proclamation of emergency rule in Rivers State and its ratification by the National Assembly significantly eased political tension in the state.

But for this laudable decision that prevented further descent into anarchy in Rivers State, the senate leader believed that the National Assembly “has been subjected to all forms of toxic criticism that do not portray us well before the comity of nations.

“What exactly do we want as a people? A federation that functions for all? Or a federation that relapses into an intractable crisis?

“We must recognise that emergency rule is an extraordinary measure, and it must be treated as such in the interest of peace and security.

“As stipulated in Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the National Assembly is required to provide its details. The provisions of the 1999 Constitution cannot be interpreted casually without proper understanding of the Nigeria Interpretation Act. 2004.

“As a responsible and responsive parliament that sees peace and stability as a catalyst of growth and development, we were inaugurated into office to promote a nation that works for all and that guarantees the peaceful coexistence of all.

“This desire defines our resolve to ratify the proclamation of the state of emergency in Rivers State with far-reaching provisions.

“One of such provisions is the constitution of the National Peace Committee to midwife the peace process between the Executive and Legislature in the state.

“We should be commended for this laudable initiative and not be vilified by some political actors, who do not bother about what happens to our national security, but about their parochial interest. Regardless of their unpatriotic moves, we firmly stand for the peace and stability of Nigeria.

“We shall continue to leverage the Authority of the National Assembly to guarantee her peaceful co-existence. Our decision, as an institution, is taken purely in the national interest. If any interest is unsatisfied with it, they can as well seek redress in the law court.”

He expressed grave concerns about barrage of attacks that the opposition parties are viciously launching against the National Assembly, noting that the reasons for such attacks “are purely based on emotion and not reasons; sentiment and not substance.

“Regardless of baseless and needless attacks our critics are throwing at the National Assembly, we are undeterred because we are truly on a rescue mission.

“The essence of the mission aims at bringing our fatherland from the abyss of regression to the path of progression through the enactment of pro-people legislations and by cultivating strategic collaboration with other arms of government.

“Collaboration, in this sense, does not suggest the erosion of the independence of the National Assembly for any reason. Rather, in reality, it reinforces the spirit of interdependence that constitutional democracy entails in order to resolve hydra-headed issues that often clog the mechanism of accountable governance.”

Bamidele, therefore, revealed that the National Assembly more than before “is now focused on building a federation that enjoys internal stability and that rests solidly on the rules of law through the instrumentality of legislation, oversight and representation.

“We are also committed to creating a system that will enable quality education; that will guarantee limitless placements for all our graduates; that will prioritise access to decent houses nationwide; that will significantly reverse our nation’s reports of untold misery and that will, most importantly, remove all barriers to gender inequality.”

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