Legislature

Senate Approves Death Penalty For Drug Dealers

By Web News 454

The Senate, on Thursday, approved death penalty for dealers and importers of cocaine, heroin and other hard drugs into the country.

The proposed capital punishment also applies to manufacturing, trafficking, dealing in or delivery of hard drugs by any means.

The Senate arrived at the resolution on the floor of the red chamber after deliberations on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

The maximum punishment in the extant law for offenders is life imprisonment.

The penalty for drug importation or dealership is captured in Section 11 of the extant law, which Ndume sought to be increased to a death sentence.

He said, “This (life imprisonment) should be changed to a death sentence. This is the standard worldwide. We have to do this to address this problem of drugs that has seriously affected our youths.

“It should be toughened beyond life imprisonment. It should be the death sentence, either by hanging or any way.”

But this proposal did not sit well with some of his colleagues, including former governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole, who took to the floor to voice out his reservations.

Oshiomhole, who was visibly agitated, told his colleagues that he would rarely joke with any matter concerning life and death.

“When a matter has to do with life and death, we should be accountable. Let’s divide the Senate. This is lawmaking. We are not here to take voice votes,” Oshiomhole said.

His position was, however, overruled by the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, who presided over the plenary session.

Jibrin told Oshiomhole that he should have called for a division of the Senate immediately after the voting took place and before the Senate moved to another clause in the amendment bill.

“This is about procedure. You were supposed to call for a division; you didn’t do so. I am sorry, I can’t help you,” the Deputy Senate President said, sanctioning the decision of the Senate.

Similarly, Senator Sampson Ekong from Akwa Ibom State kicked against the resolution of the Senate but he was also overruled.

The Senate went ahead to pass the bill for a third reading.

The report on the bill was jointly produced by the Committees on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters/Drugs and Narcotics.

Speaking with Senate correspondents after the plenary, the Chairman of the Joint Committee, Mohammed Monguno, said the Senate approved the death sentence, noting that the voices of Oshiomhole and others did not change the ruling of the presiding officer.

“The ruling of the presiding officer is the position of the Senate,” he added.

When contacted over the development, the spokesperson for the NDLEA, Femi Babafemi, said that the anti-narcotics agency could not comment on the matter, being an ongoing legislative business, which had not yet been finalised.

Babafemi said, “The agency cannot comment or be involved in the development because it is a legislative matter.”

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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Legislature

Let Amendment of Electoral Act Reflect Yearnings of Nigerians – Makinde

By Web News 517

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has urged the National Assembly Committee on Electoral Matters to give Nigerians an amended electoral act that would reflect the yearnings of the country and put it on the trajectory of development. 

He stated this during a working visit of the National Assembly Committee on Electoral Matters to Governor Seyi Makinde at the Agodi, Secretariat, Ibadan. 

Governor Makinde who noted that the amended electoral act 2022 has brought quality to the Nation’s electoral process as reflected in the last general elections, enjoined the committee to be mindful and shun personal interest in the task of giving the people an acceptable electoral act. 

The governor expressed the readiness of the state government to support the committee in the task ahead describing it as the basis because participatory democracy required laws that would effectively govern the people. 

Earlier, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Electoral matters, Senator Sharafadeen Alli has intimated the governor that the committee was in Ibadan for a legislative summit to interact with youths to get their inputs on the ongoing review of electoral act 2022.

Senator Alli explained that parts of the review was to ensure that all litigation on election matters are concluded before the swearing-in. 

Also, the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters, Prince Adebayo Balogun added that the House would adopt the principle of inclusivity to move round all the six geo-political zones to give an electoral act that Nigerians would be proud off. 

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Legislature

Oyo Assembly Condemns Invasion of State Secretariat

By Web News 647

By Mosope Kehinde

The Oyo State House Assembly has condemned the attack by the acclaimed Oodua Nation Agitators over the invasion of the Agodi State Secretariat.

The House made the condemnation following a motion raised by the Speaker, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin, under a matter of urgent public importance and presented by the leader of the house, Mr. Sanjo Adedoyin, on the floor of the house.

The motion, co-sponsored by five other members of the house, commended Governor Seyi Makinde and Security Operatives for taking proactive steps to curb the nefarious activities of the Oodua Nation Agitators.

Deliberating on the matter on the floor, some lawmakers in their separate reactions, emphasised the need to strengthen the security apparatus of Agodi State Secretariat Ibadan

Also during plenary, the House urged the Executive Arm of Government to erect traffic signs and symbols at major and inner roads across the State to provide necessary information to road users and curb extortion from law enforcement agencies.

The plea was part of the resolves by the House on a motion sponsored by the lawmaker representing Akinyele 1,  Mr. Monsuru Abiola

The lawmakers observed that the provision of adequate information through road signs and symbols on major roads across the State will go a long way in curtailing the rate of ignorance about traffic rules and regulations that guide driving and other activities on the major roads.

“Road users especially private and commercial drivers is usually about non-observance of the traffic rules and regulations coupled with non-strict enforcement by traffic regulatory agency of government. Although some drivers at times do not understand some of the traffic signs and symbols which were part of the prerequisite for obtaining driver’s license in the olden days.”

“Government has a major role to play in this regard in terms of strengthening enforcement strategies on traffic regulations mechanism.”

“Government needs to holistically address the issue of traffic  symbols to be put  on major roads and inner roads within the State especially in Ibadan, the State capital.” He said. 

The Lawmakers however enjoined the State Road Traffic Management Authority  ( OYRTMA ) to strengthen its enforcement mechanism towards apprehending road users and drivers who fail to observe and follow traffic signs and symbols in the state.

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Legislature

OGHA Ammends Service Commission Law

By Web News 364

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Ogun State House of Assembly has passed the State House of Assembly Service Commission Amendment Law, 2024.

The passage of the bill followed the presentation of the Committee report by the Chairman, the House Committee on Establishments and Public Service Matters, Mr Babatunde Tella, who also moved the motion for its adoption, seconded by Mr Adeyanju Adegoke and supported by all the members.

The bill was later read and adopted clause-by-clause before the Committee of Whole, after which the motion for the third reading of the bill was moved by the Majority Leader, Mr Yusuf Sheriff, seconded by the Minority Leader, Mr Adeleye Lukmon and supported by the Whole House through a unanimous voice vote.

Consequently, the Deputy Clerk of the House, Mrs Funmilayo Adeyemi, took the third reading of the bill before the lawmakers, while the Speaker, Mr Oludaisi Elemide directed that the clean copy of the bill be forwarded to the State Governor,  Prince Dapo Abiodun for his assent.

In another development, the speaker announced that the Assembly would hold a public hearing on the proposed State Rural and Semi-Urban Integration Development Law, 2023 on Wednesday, 22nd of May, 2024 by 10:00 am at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan.

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Legislature

Plateau Swears-in Nine from Sixteen APC Lawmakers  

By Web News 440

Plateau Speaker Gabriel Dewan has sworn-in nine out of the 16 All Progressives Congress, APC, lawmakers.

The swearing-in took place in the early hours of Friday 5th April, 2024, in Jos.

It was gathered that, the member from Jos-East was appointed as Deputy Speaker of the Assembly.

Dewan was said to have justified the swearing-in, based on a letter he received mentioning where it emanated from.

The Nation/Rasheedah Makinde/Taiwo Akinola

Legislature

Adeleke Writes OSHA over New Osun Logo

By Web News 1241 Post a comment

By Mojisola Oladele

Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has written a letter to the Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, presenting the new logo of the state government.

According to the letter, the logo, “State of the Living Spring” is the cornerstone of the state’s identity, as it is used to communicate the identity of the state to the outside world. 

Governor Adeleke in the letter urged the House to fast-track the legislative process on the new logo to make it the official brand of the Osun State Government.

The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, Prince Adewale Egbedun read the letter at the plenary held on the floor of the Assembly Complex, Osogbo.

On the order of the day, majority leader, Mr. Adewunmi Babajide presented the policy thrust on “Osun State Senior Secondary Education Board Establishment Bill 2023”, explaining that the bill when passed into law would enhance the efficiency of secondary education in the state.

Contributing, members including; Alhaji Sikiru Bajepade, Engineer Abiola Awoyeye, Mr Lawrence Adeoti, Mr Saheed Fatunmise and Barrister Tajudeen Adeyemi said the bill when passed into law would further coordinate polices, restore sanity and regulate the activities of senior secondary schools.

The bill, however, scaled through its second reading after the legislators had discussed extensively on its policy thrust.

In the course of the plenary, the House dissolved into the Committee of the Whole to make necessary corrections to the Osun State Primary Health Care Development Bill Number 1, 2023.

After the deliberations at the Committee of the Whole, the bill year was changed to 2024 and clauses 1, 4(b), 6, 9, 11 and 11(a) of the bill were also corrected.

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Legislature

OSHA Passes Resolution for More Constituencies

By Web News 652

By Mojisola Oladele

Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, has passed a resolution seeking to create four additional constituencies.

This resolution was made during a plenary presided by the Speaker, Prince Adewale Egbedun held at the Assembly Complex, Osogbo.

The resolution was reached after the legislators spoke extensively on an issue of personal explanation raised by the member representing Irewole/Isokan, Mr Abiola Ibrahim who explained that his constituency had more than a local government, therefore there is the need for additional constituencies to bring governance closer to the people.

Contributing on the matter, the member representing, Boripe/Boluwaduro constituency, Mr Simeon Popoola noted that section 91 of the 1999 Constitution states that, “a House of Assembly of a state shall consist of three or four times the number of seats which that state has in the House of Representatives” and this indicates that, Osun State having 9 federal constituencies is entitled to between 27 and 36 constituencies.

Other lawmakers, including the majority leader, Mr Adewunmi Babajide, member representing Ifelodun, Mr Tajudeen Adeyemi, member representing, Atakumosa East/West, Mr Sanmi Areoye noted that creating additional constituencies for the state became imperative to conform with constitutional provisions and has been long overdue.

Aligning with the legislators, the Speaker, Prince Adewale Egbedun said the resolution of the House would be forwarded to the National Assembly for consideration.

Also, Osun State Primary Health Care Development Board Amendment Bill No. 1 scaled through its second reading, during the plenary.

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Legislature

OGHA Confirms Adebisi Femi-Segun as President Ogun Customary Court of Appeal

By Web News 644

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Ogun State House of Assembly has confirmed the nomination of Justice Adebisi Femi-Segun for appointment as the President of the Customary Court of Appeal in the state, saying she is fit and worthy to occupy the office. 

The confirmation followed a motion moved by the majority leader, Mr Yusuf Sheriff, seconded by the minority leader, Mr Lukman Adeleye and supported by the whole House through a voice vote.

The confirmation was done shortly after the adoption of the report on the confirmation of the nominee of the governor for appointment as the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Ogun State.

The report was earlier presented by the Deputy Speaker, Mrs Bolanle Ajayi, while the majority leader, Mr Yusuf Sheriff moved a motion for its adoption, which was seconded by Mr Lukmon Atobatele and supported by the entire House through a unanimous voice vote.

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Legislature

Reflect Nigerians’ yearnings in constitution review – Ogundoyin

By Web News 395

By Mosope Kehinde 

The Speaker of Oyo state House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin has called on federal legislature to ensure the Constitution review process that is about to be embarked upon reflects the yearnings of Nigerians.

Mr. Ogundoyin, who also doubles as the Chairman, Nigeria Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures emphasized the importance of ensuring that the result of Nigeria’s Constitution review meets the expectations of Nigerians. 

The lawmaker made the call in Abuja at the official inauguration of the Federal Representatives Constitution Review Committee on Monday, February 26 during his goodwill message on the Review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as Amended. 

Honourable Ogundoyin however, noted that the move to review the nation’s Constitution again was a pointer to the fact that Nigeria not only found it expedient but important and necessary to amend and review some fundamental deficiencies in the law. 

He explained further that it was also very important for the exercise to fully appreciate and understand the nation’s diversities and complexities to enable the outcome of the Constitution review to address salient issues, realities and challenges ordinary Nigerians face daily so that the society can be better off after the review exercise. 

“It is important to appreciate and understand the true reflection of the nation’s diversities and complexities to better address the current issues, realities and challenges ordinary Nigerians face daily.  We must be responsive to the yearnings of Nigerians, especially in these tough times.

“There have always been and always will be debates and calls for the review of the 1999 Constitution until we get it right. While pundits and citizens alike have called for a review of some parts and sections, some others have clamour for a holistic review of the constitution. 

“I personally have always been a true Federalist. I support a system of government in which several states unite under a central authority, but in which the states are empowered to address their own challenges and navigate their own destiny. 

“This latest amendments will no doubt touch on key areas such as devolution of power, national and sub-national restructuring, resource control, and most importantly issues of security. 

“On this note, permit me to say that the members of the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly along with several other State Houses of Assembly consider the issue of State and Community Police a critical component of National Development.

“Security continues to be a weak area in our local domains and where is no security, there is no development. From our perspective, insecurity is the greatest challenge facing our country today. 

“I commend the House Of Representatives for already considering the amendment of Section 45 of the Exclusive Legislative List of the second schedule of the constitution which places the police and other Government security agencies established by law under the control of the federal government.

“Countries like the United States of America, the United Kingdom, India, France, Algeria and South Africa are successfully practicing State Police because it enhances swift approach to insecurity and allows those who understand the environment and terrain to handle security matters in their respective States.

“I assure you that through the Conference Of Speakers Of State Legislatures of Nigeria, all State Houses of Assembly in the country will collaborate and work diligently and strategically with the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended. We will also work studiously and expeditiously to ratify the documents once they are passed down to the States by the National Assembly.

“It is important that I congratulate members of the Constituion Review Committee and to recognize the task before them as important and critical. 

“I wish us all success in the task of aggregating people’s voices by public hearings, public opinions, consultations and engagements which are aimed at having a review that will further help in strengthening our democratic ideals and promoting true federalism.

“As I end this goodwill message, let us know that the task before all the stakeholders is huge but with sincerity of purpose, synergy and patriotism, outstanding result in terms of reviews and amendments will be achieved.” Ogundoyin said.

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Legislature

OYHA Orders Return of Faulty Earth Moving Equipment

By Web News 373

By Mosope Kehinde

Oyo State House of Assembly has directed all Chairmen across the 33 Local Government and 35 LCDA’s in the State to return all the faulty earth moving equipment outside their domains to their various council’s Secretariat.

This formed part of recommendations on a report presented by Chairman, Local Government on Chieftaincy Matters and State Honours, Mr. Akintunde Olajide

Mr. Olajide revealed that many earth  moving equipment at the Local Government and LCDA’s such as Tractors , Excavators cat, D6 Bulldozers , Lowbed Trailers and others that are not functional are still serviceable or need repairs for proper usage across the Local Governments. 

The House has however urged the Executive Arm of Government, through the Ministry of Local Government to coordinate the repair of all serviceable earth moving equipment in all Local Government and LCDA’s as a matter of urgency.

In the same vein , the House also directed its Committee on Local Government to meet with all Stakeholders and set the machinery in place to consider the increment of monthly take home of all the Ad – Hoc staff of the Local Government areas  in the State.

It advocated an increase from Seventeen thousand naira to Thirty-five thousand naira in order to enable them cope with the economic realities in the country. 

Legislature

We remain committed to due process – OSHA Speaker

By Web News 473

By Mojisola Oladele

The speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, Prince Adewale Egbedun, has reaffirmed the assembly’s commitment to always ensure due process and respect the rule of law.

Prince Egbedun gave the assurance in his remark during the maiden plenary of the year 2024, held at the Assembly Complex, Osogbo.

He explained that the legislature would continue to focus on its core areas of operations with emphasis on accountability and probity and how these have influenced good governance and democratic values in the state.

According to the speaker, OSHA has not wavered in steering legislation towards composite responsibility from the executive arm of government by ensuring that necessary information on public expenditures is obtained from time to time.

He explained that funds appropriated in respect of projects for the state assembly included, renovation of the Lawmakers Quarters, renovation of the Assembly Complex and purchase of official cars for the lawmakers, also payment of arrears of severance allowances to the former members of the 6th and 7th Assembly.

Also, in response to accusations of unaccountability levelled against the House by a group, “Centre for Sustained Dialogue”, Prince Egbedun said he’s discharging his duty as leader of the third arm of government to let the people of Osun State know the commitment of the legislature to due process and its resolve to uphold its tenets under democratic principles.

He dismissed what he called, orchestrated sponsorship of unfounded accusations, aimed to distract the executive and legislative arms of government in the state from the hard business of governance and the collective resolve to navigate the state towards genuine physical and human development.

He said: “Everything we have done so far as this 8th Assembly is concerned has been in synergy with due process and the rule of law.”

“All expenditures approved by the Assembly were done after careful correspondences for the requests.”

“As the speaker, I write for such requests to the executive after due process and unanimous approval by the House. That is my constitutional responsibility as leader of the third arm of government.”

“Ours is to uphold the constitutional mandate of the Assembly, meant to infuse fiscal discipline and accountability through periodic briefings of the media on how public funds are appropriated and expended.”

“I want to assure the people that the Assembly has nothing to hide and will continue to call all agents of government to order whenever infractions are noticed and in the process, help in effective delivery of democratic dividends. And this is inclusive of the Assembly itself,” he added.

Prince Egbedun had earlier welcomed the legislators back from its recess and urged them to be more resilient and embrace renewed determination geared towards creating a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive in the state.

Also during the proceedings, the Clerk of the House, Mr. Simoen Amusan with the approval of the Speaker administered the oath of allegiance to Mr. Tajudeen Alabi Alade as the Substantive Secretary of Osun State House of Assembly Service Commission, replaces Mr. Shola Omiyefa who retired in October, 2023.

Mr Alabi appreciated the speaker and pledged to make the commission one of the best across the nation and a standard for the 8th Assembly.

Also, inter-religious prayers were held at the Assembly Complex, before the plenary to commence the business of the year.

It would be recalled that the legislators had embarked on a recess on 21st December 2023.

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Legislature

Oluomo Appears Before Adhoc Committee, Disagrees with Composition

By Web News 834

By Omolara Adasofunjo

By Omolara Adasofunjo

The embattled Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Mr Olakunle Oluomo, has appeared before the Adhoc Committee that was set up to investigate the allegations levelled against him.

Speaking with journalists on his way out of a closed-door interaction with the Committee, Mr Oluomo maintained that the meeting was deadlocked because he protested that the committee’s composition violated the standing order of the House. 

He maintained that 5 of the 8-member committee were among the petitioners and not eligible to serve in the Adhoc Committee in line with the standing order adopted last year, asserting that the committee members who signed a petition should not be part of the inquiry committee.

He maintained that despite the claim that the particular order had been stepped down, he was resolute in challenging the committee’s structure, adding that his appearance before the said committee was borne out of his respect for the rule of law.

Earlier, the Ogun State House of Assembly set up an Adhoc Committee to look into the response of Mr Olakunle Oluomo, over the allegations levelled against him by 18 members of the House.

The committee’s inauguration marks a twist of events, from the publicised impeachment of Mr Oluomo to the announcement of Mr Oludaisi Elemide as the new Speaker and the subsequent insistence by the embattled Speaker that his impeachment was a nullity that had become a matter of litigation. 

The lawmakers during a plenary presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Mrs Bolanle Ajayi at the Oke Mosan, Abeokuta Assembly Complex advised the embattled Speaker to step aside pending the report of the Adhoc Committee set up to look into the matter. 

The Deputy Speaker announced the Committee’s make-up to include Mr Musefiu Lamidi, from Ado Odo/Ota II State Constituency as Chairman and Mr Oluseun Adesanya as Vice Chairman with Mr Babatunde Tella, Damilola Soneye, Lukman Adeleye, Fola Salami and Olusegun Odunuga as members, while the Director of Legislative Service, Mr. Temtope Hokon would serve as the Secretary.

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Legislature

OYHA Moves to Enhance Cooperative Societies

By Web News 335

By Mosope Kehinde

The Oyo State House of Assembly, OYHA, has directed its Standing Committee on Commerce and Cooperatives to investigate the causes of dwindling fortunes and the ailing nature of cooperative societies across the state and come up with workable solutions to revive and reposition them for effective performances.

The House issued the directive at its plenary while deliberating on a motion sponsored by the House Leader, Mr. Sanjo Onaolapo, representing Ogbomoso South State Constituency. 

Moving the motion on a “Passionate Appeal to the Executive Arm of Government to put necessary machinery in place towards Repositioning of Farmers’ Cooperative Society for Greater Agricultural output and Productivity in the State”, Mr Onaolapo explained that many Agricultural Cooperative Societies were now moribund and unattractive due to lack of loan facilities for the farmers and other logistics that could enhance their effectiveness.

He noted that many people were ready to engage in farming and other agricultural productive ventures but were hampered by a lack of finances.

“Access to loan from various commercial banks come with high-interest rate and demands from collaterals which would not be attainable by the rural dwellers.”

“It should be noted that many people are ready and highly committed to engaging in farming and other productive ventures but are being hampered and restricted financially and due to the unavailability of other logistics that this intervention will take care of”. The lawmaker said

Mr Onaolapo stressed that the upgrading of existing farm settlements with the provision of modern amenities and the establishment of new ones in all zones of the state was a viable means of revitalising the agricultural sector.

The House as part of its resolves also urged the executive arm of government, through the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Cooperatives to review its mode of engagement with registered Agricultural Cooperative societies for them to fulfil their mandates of poverty reduction, women empowerment, and employment creation among others.

Meanwhile, three executive bills passed through the first reading stage at the plenary presided over by the Speaker, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin. 

The three bills were the Oyo State Presumptive Tax Bill, 2023, the Oyo State Project Performance Monitoring Agency Bill, 2023, and the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority Bill, 2023.

The House has adjourned the plenary till Thursday, 18th January 2024.

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Legislature

Osun Federal Lawmaker Assures Constituents of Good Representation

By Web News 409

By Adewumi Faniran

The member representing Ayedire/Iwo/Ola-Oluwa Federal Constituency of Osun State at the House of Representatives, Mr Mudashiru Lukman has felicitated with his constituents over the successful completion of the year 2023.
Mr Lukman, who stated this in a New Year message, called on the people of Iwo, Ayedire, and Ola-Oluwa Local Govern­ment Areas to go into 2024 with mind of op­timism for better days ahead.

While stressing that 2023 had gone with its plethora of challenges, the lawmaker called on Nigerians to remain hopeful adding that federal government and the House of Representatives are working round the clock in making laws that will ease the sufferings of the citizens.

The lawmaker also promised to continue to provide good representation to give more robust and quality representation, while acknowledging the support of the people of the federal constituency, Mr Lukman assured that more Bills and motions to give Ayedire, Iwo, and Ola-Oluwa LGAs improved development and upliftment will be adequately sponsored and moved at the Green Chamber.
He promised to intensify his efforts in his quest to mobilize contractors back to the site for the long-abandoned Gbongan-Iwo-Oyo Road.
According to him, in his 6 months in office, he has sponsored bills for the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture in Bode-Osi, Ola-Oluwa Local Government, establishment of the Federal College of Fisheries and Aquaculture in Oluponna, Ayedire Local Government among many other Bills he has sponsored.

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Legislature

2024: Let’s Keep Hope Alive, Ogundoyin, Egbedun Urge Nigerians

By Web News 370

By Mosope Kehinde, Mojisola Oladele

Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin has urged Nigerians to embrace the new year 2024 with positive spirits and high hope of better days ahead.

Mr Ogundoyin who is also the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly said year 2024 was a brand new year hence Nigerians must begin the 365 days of the year with positivity.

” I welcome all Nigerians to year 2024. We thank the Lord for counting us among those that witness the beginning of another 365days. It is surely a grace of God. May He preserve our lives in sound health, happiness and abundant prosperity till the end of the year and beyond“

” It is expedient for us to be positive minded this new year. I want to advise that we look beyond the various crises currently facing the nation. Let’s express the belief that the best will happen to us soon. We should be optimistic that we will get through the problems. Though the unpleasant situation in terms of socioeconomic conditions is taking its toll on the nation and the citizens, we should see this new year as another opportunity for all of us to contribute our quota and strive for a better Nigeria. A positive attitude to life boosts ones confidence level and rekindles ones hope about a brighter future” Conference Chairman said

He urged all Nigerians to tap into the numerous opportunities and endless possibilities that abound in the nation in order to make ends meet and contribute to the growth of the nation’s economy

” Today, it is true we have not gotten Nigeria of our dream. But we are not losing hope. In this new year 2024, we will not allow negative thoughts to dampen our morale and hope. May our nation experience greatness and good turnaround this year.” Hon. Adebo prayed

He felicitated with the Executive Council of the Conference of Speakers of State legislatures, and other State Speakers across the country and wished them a productive and prosperous new year 2024.

” I will also like to extend a happy new year to all honorable members of State Assemblies in Nigeria. I pray to the Lord to bless us with sound health and mind from above to perform our legislative duties excellently in this new year. We shall not record untimely death of any of us and our families this new year.

In the same vein, Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Prince Adewale Egbedun has urged Indigenes and residents of the State to be resolute in prayers for the progress of the state at all times.

Prince Egbedun made the call in a New Year message made available to newsmen by his Chief Press Secretary, CPS, Mr. Olamide Tiamiyu.

The Speaker appreciated God for his protection and preservation over Residents of the State and prayed God for greater blessings for the state in the New year 2024.

He also prayed to God to grant the state Assembly the wisdom to navigate the affairs of the state to greater heights.

Prince Egbedun who expressed optimism of a brighter future for the State in the New year called for more support and commitment of residents towards the state government.

He pledged the commitment of the state legislature for The Executive Arm led by Senator Ademola Adeleke in his efforts towards making life better for the Residents.

The Speaker however advocated moderate celebration in solemn meditation for the peace and progress of Osun state.

According to him, “New Year is a time to thank God for past blessings and benefits received in the previous year and an opportunity to set goals with confidence in God for manifestation.”

He added, “I am confident that with prayers and renewed dedication, we will achieve more greatness for our dear state in 2024”

The speaker charged the people to keep hope alive in the New Year, with confidence that “better days are here again for our State”.

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Legislature

Lawmaker Commends Budget Defence Process

By Web News 371

By Mojisola Oladele

The Chairman, Osun State House of Assembly Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Mr Saheed Fatunmise says the ongoing budget defence presents a significant opportunity for the committee to scrutinize and access the financial proposals put forth by the State Government.

Mr Fatunmise stated this during the Budget Defence of some Ministries, Departments, Agencies, MDAs of the State held at the hallowed chamber of the State Assembly Complex, Osogbo.

He commended the State Ministry of Justice for an increased Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, attained in the last two months and urged them to sustain the tempo.

The Solicitor-General, State Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Morufat Bello led the Management team to present the budget of the Ministry with its Capital expenditure estimate of over four hundred million naira.

Also, the state Commandant of the Osun State Security Network known as “Amotekun Corps”, Retired Brigadier General Abiodun Adewinbe represented by the Amotekun Field Commander, Captain Soji Akanni during its Budget Defence emphasized the need to recruit more staff into the Agency for effective service delivery in all local governments of the state.

While commending the efforts of The AMOTEKUN CORPS on their efforts at curbing crimes across the state, the Chairman, the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Mr Saheed Fatunmise explained that the house acknowledges their challenges and urged them to strife to give their best.

Other Lawmakers in the Finance and Appropriation Committee as well as committees quizzed the MDAs on how to generate revenue for the Budget Estimate and how to make the 2024 Budget a reality.

Other Agencies that appeared for Budget Defense are; Osun State High Court, Judicial Service Commission, Osun State Customary Court of Appeal,  Ministry of Local Government and Chieftainancy Affairs, Local Service Commission, Civil Service Commission and Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSIEC.

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Legislature

OYHA Makes Case for Domestication of Women’s Peace Security Agenda

By Web News 495

By Mosope Kehinde 

As part of the effort towards realizing a more peaceful and gender-equitable society, the Oyo State House of Assembly has urged the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion to collaborate with the United Nations Women and other technical partners for support on the adoption of the resolution of the United Nations, UNSCR 1325.

The urge was contained in a motion presented before the House by the lawmaker representing Ibadan North state constituency II, Honourable Comforter Olajide at the plenary on Wednesday.

The motion was titled, ‘Need for Urgent Adoption of the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 and National Action Plans (NAPS) to Develop State Action Plan (SAP) on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Towards Realizing a More Peaceful and Gender-Equitable Society in Oyo State’.

Jointly sponsored the motion were Honourable 0. M. Micheal, Honourable Adebo Ogundoyin, Honourable Akintunde Olajide, and Rilwan Saminu.

The motion is to increase participation and address the needs and challenges of women in the promotion of peace and security.

Honourable Comforter identified violence, sexual assault, food insecurity, and internal displacement as issues affecting the rise of women’s rights in Nigeria, thereby exposing them to various forms of sexual and gender-based violence.

The lawmaker disclosed that the records of the Oyo State Gender Violence Response Team have indicated an increase in the number of violence against women from 132 cases in 2019 to 768 cases in 2021 occasioned by the lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Honourable Comforter maintained that rigid and cultural norms, low level of literacy, weak legal framework, non-inclusion of women in formal peace-building and conflict resolution processes, and weak capacity of existing government institutions, particularly in the justice sector are factors responsible for the increment in the number.

“Aware that the pervasiveness of violence against women has been attributed to a variety of factors, rigid and cultural norms, low level of literacy, weak legal framework, non-inclusion of women in formal peacebuilding and conflict resolution processes, and weak capacity of existing government institutions, particularly in the justice sector. 

“These and many other reasons have made the United Nations Security Council adopt Resolution 1325 in 2000. UNSCR 1325 introduces the important roles and responsibilities of women in constructing and enduring peace and security architectural framework. It outlines a comprehensive profile and strategic mechanism for the protection, promotion, and participation of women in peace processes.”

In her prayers, Honourable Comforter Olajide, called for a policy framework to enable the state to domesticate the National Action Plan (NAP) to develop the State Action Plan (SAP) on UNSCR 1325 to ensure that the state benefits from numerous grants and programs associated with the Women, Peace & Security Agenda.

“Concerned that among the 16 States in Nigeria that have developed and domesticated the NAP into SAP include Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Kaduna, Kano, Plateau, Rivers, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Bauchi, Benue, Kogi, Nassarawa, Kwara, and Ekiti. Thus, there is a dire need to ensure that Oyo State benefits from numerous grants and programs associated with the Women, Peace & Security,WPS, Agenda. The development of a State Action Plan on WPS is not only a strategy for gender equality but also a means to promote sustainable peace and security.

“By incorporating a gender perspective and addressing the specific needs of women in conflict and post-conflict situations, our state can create more inclusive and effective policies and programs. By aligning Oyo State with the women’s peace and security, WPS, agenda and by developing a State Action Plan, the state can access grants and programs that support gender-sensitive policies, women empowerment, and peace-building efforts by so doing, Oyo State would also be demonstrating a commitment to promoting the rights, and well-being of women, which contributes to a more just and peaceful society, in overall, empowering women is empowering the whole nation,” Hon. Olajide said.

The Speaker, while passing the resolutions, urged the concerned ministry to collaborate with the United Nations Women and other technical partners for support on the adoption of the resolution.

“I Urge the Executive Arm of Government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion to collaborate with the UN Women, an organization delivering programmes, policies and standards that uphold women’s rights and ensure that every woman and girl live up to her full potential, the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) and other relevant technical partners to have necessary technical support for the adoption of the State Action Plan on WPS to enable our Pace Setting state to have access to grants, interventions and programmes,” Ogundoyin said.

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Legislature

Osun MDAs Defend Budgets

By Web News 281

By Mojisola Oladele 

The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Prince Adewale Egbedun wants Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, of Government, including tertiary institutions to improve on their Internally Generated Revenue drive by looking inwards and blocking all revenue leakages as well as loopholes within their jurisdictions.

Prince Egbedun made the call while declaring open the Budget Defence exercise of Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, of the state held on the floor of the State Assembly Complex, Osogbo.

Prince Egbedun stressed that the state 2024 Budget is christened “Budget of Reconstruction and Recovery”, hence, the need to be mindful of the fact that the Budget would be revenue-driven to attain a successful revamping of all sectors of the Economy.

He emphasized the need for the State Internal Revenue Service to establish an effective collaboration with all revenue-generating agencies in the state in a bid to review the status and performance of various consulting firms and individuals engaged in revenue-collection exercise in the state.

The Speaker however directed that payment of taxes, levies, and other statutory revenue must be made to be simple, flexible and affordable.

Earlier in a remark, the Chairman, the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Mr. Saheed Fatunmise said the gathering dwelt extensively on ensuring the efficient allocation of the state’s financial resources.

The Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, Who appeared included; Ministry of Health, Osun State Hospitals’ Management Board, Primary Health Care Development Board, Osun Health Insurance Agency, Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State Agency for Control of HIV/ AIDS,  Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Social welfare 

The exercise is expected to last for two weeks.

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Legislature News

OSHA Directs Chief Judge to Step Aside

By Web News 487

By Mojisola Oladele

Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, has directed the Chief Judge of the State, Mrs Oyebola Adepele-Ojo to step aside, following the series of petitions leveled against her.

The decision was made during plenary presided by the Speaker of the House, Prince Adewale Egbedun held at State Assembly Complex, Osogbo.

Some of the allegations included; gross misconduct, lack of respect for the rule of law, abuse of office amongst other petitions received by the House Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Public Petitions and Legal Matters.

The motion that Mrs. Adepele-Ojo should step aside was moved by the Majority Leader of the House, Mr. Adewunmi Kofoworola and seconded by member representing Ife South, Mr. Lawrence Adeoti.

The speaker, Prince Egbedun said the decision for her to step aside became imperative to enable the State Assembly House Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Public Petitions and Legal Matters, chaired by Barrister Kanmi Ajibola and his team do proper investigations on the allegations and report to the House with seven (7) days.

Prince Egbedun called on the executive arm to swear-in the next person in order of seniority to the position of the Chief Judge, so as not to create vacuum in the judiciary.

In separate remarks, members representing the following state constituencies, Oriade, Barrister Kanmi Ajibola, Ife Central, Mr. Abiola Awoyeye, Ede South, Barrister Taofeek Olayiwola and Obokun, Prince Adeyemi Adewumi explained that the decision is which is in line with section 2271 sub section 4 of the constitution and also aimed to assure members of the public that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man. 

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Legislature

Oyo Lawmakers on Post-Inauguration Retreat

By Web News 417

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has led the thirty-two 10th State House of Assembly members and the management staff to Akwa-Ibom for a two-day post-inauguration workshop and retreat.

The two-day workshop which holds between November 12th and 15th has as its theme “Understanding Critical Processes, Practices and Procedures of the Legislature and the Application of Responsive Budget and Appropriation Mechanism for Effective Service Delivery”

It was organised in collaboration with the Center for Legislative Advancement and Support.

Declaring the workshop open, the Speaker said the post-inauguration workshop was put together to enable the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly members to be well-groomed in the processes, practices and procedures of the legislature.

Honourable  Ogundoyin said the theme of the workshop would help specifically in deepening the understanding and roles of the legislature in budget analyses, processes, amendments and passage.

“One of the major focuses of this workshop is therefore to foster our joint efforts in understanding the nitty-gritty of budgeting and willingness to make impactful contributions for the delivery of the dividends of democracy to the thirty-two State constituencies of Oyo State House of Assembly.

“With the knowledge and demonstration of effective legislative processes and procedures coupled with accountable and proactive legislative oversight, I believe that at the end of our tenure, we would all be proud to have improved the legislative system, represented our constituents to the best of our ability and strengthened democratic practices.

“Budget, as we all know is an important economic management tool for growth and development which touches the lives of our constituents and serves as the major vehicle for implementing public policy initiatives.  Due to its Importance, the Executive and Legislative arms of Government seek to increase their level of influence over it. Executives no doubt enjoy some natural advantages in budgeting. From global trends, however, legislatures are now developing means to assert their prerogatives. This, I must add is not to wrestle constitutional power from the Executive but to ensure that the interests of the people are taken care of, while also ensuring improved budgeting, implementation, evaluation and oversight.

“It is on this note that I declare this Two-Day Post Inauguration Workshop for the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly open.” Oyo Speaker said

He reiterated the commitment of the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly to its constitutional duties especially law-making, amendments and review as well as legislative oversight.

PR/Mosope Kehinde

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Legislature

Senate to Pass N2.18trn 2023 Supplementary Budget

By Web News 398

The Senate will on Thursday, pass the N2.18 trillion 2023 Supplementary Appropriation Bill forwarded to it for consideration by President Bola Tinubu.

As requested by Tinubu in the letter read in the Senate during plenary on Tuesday, the request was given expeditious consideration.

The budgetary proposals made in the bill were debated, passed for a second reading, and the Committee on Appropriations mandated to interface with heads of affected agencies for defence on proposals made.

The committee chaired by Senator Solomon Adeola, representing the All Progressives Congress, Ogun West, met with heads of the seven affected agencies till the late hours of Wednesday and told journalists that the reports on the supplementary budgetary proposals will be submitted to the Senate for final consideration and passage on Thursday.

Adeola said, “As mandated by the Senate on the strength of the request made by President Bola Tinubu, the Appropriations Committee has met with heads of the affected seven agencies supplementary budget proposals were provided for.

“Heads of each of the agencies have defended proposals made for them by the President and convinced the committee on the need for the Senate and by extension, the National Assembly to approve the N2.17tn 2023 supplementary budget.

The committee has carried out the assignment given in line with the urgency required on the basis which reports for final consideration and passage of the bill, will be submitted to the Senate today (Thursday).”

At the interface the committee held with heads of the affected agencies, the Minister of Housing, Ahmed Dangiwa, defended the N100 billion budgeted for the Federal Ministry of Housing in the supplementary budget which according to him, would be spent on construction of housing estates across the country.

In his presentation, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, defended N100 billion provided in the supplementary budget for the Federal Capital Territory out of which N22 billion was earmarked for the completion of metro rail.

For security and safety in FCT, Wike told the committee members that all abandoned structures would be brought down so as not to serve as hideouts for criminals from neighbouring states.

Other ministers who made presentations before the committee were the Minister of Works, David Umahi, who defended his almost N400 billion appropriation; the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawale, as well as service chiefs.

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko
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Legislature

House of Rep Gives AGF Ultimatum on Covid-19 Fund Report

By Web News 407

The House of Representatives, on Wednesday, issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Accountant General of the Federation, Mrs Oluwatoyin Madein, to submit a detailed report on the use of the N100bn COVID-19 intervention funds approved and released by the government of former President Muhammadu Buhari to Ministries, Departments and Agencies between 2020 and 2022.

The Chairman, House Committee on Public Accounts, Bamidele Salam, who issued the notice in Abuja expressed dismay at the AGF’s refusal to comply with the resolution of the committee to submit the report on October 27, 2023.

He noted that the House had mandated the committee to investigate the “expenditure incurred under the COVID-19 interventions especially in the year 2020 and up to 2022.”

Salam said, “A letter was written to the Accountant General to furnish the committee with details of all releases pursuant to the provisions of the Appropriation Act as well as other interventions captured by the releases from Central Bank of Nigeria to different Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government.

“That letter, I was duly informed, showed that submission is expected on or before October 27, 2023.

“As we speak, that input has not been received from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.

“That is a very important document that will guide our proceedings on the investigation the house mandated us to carry out within a timeframe.

“So, we are sending you (Deputy Director in the Office of the AGF) now to go back home and let the Accountant General know that she has defaulted at the request of the committee. We said on or before the 27th that if there were any objective reasons why she couldn’t meet up with that date, she should communicate to this committee to ask for the extension of time.”

Consequently, he directed the AGF to transmit the report before the close of work on Friday, November 3, 2023.

The House resolution was passed following the adoption of a motion on the ‘Alleged mismanagement of COVID-19 intervention funds from 2020 to 2022’, approved by the Federal Government for various Ministries, Departments and Agencies between 2020 and 2022.

Leading the debate on the motion, Nyampa Zakari, who underscored the role of the lawmakers in unmasking corruption in the use of public funds, lamented that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the loss of lives, jobs and economic opportunities for millions of world’s citizens including Nigerians.

“The House is mindful that the Federal Government of Nigeria initiated several measures, including budgetary provisions as well as funding from international donor agencies to combat the COVID-19 pandemic on the citizens.

“The House is also aware that a sum of N83.9bn was appropriated for the COVID-19 response in the 2020 Appropriation Act as well as another sum of over N100bn as intervention funds through supplementary budget and international donor agencies.

“The House is disturbed that the Auditor-General’s report and other sources reveal that significant funds for COVID-19 palliatives and international donations were diverted and unaccounted for by various Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government”.

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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Legislature

Senate Commences Screening of INEC RECs

By Web News 555

The Senate has begun the screening of the newly nominated Resident Electoral Commission (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The newly appointed RECs are; Etekamba Umoren (Akwa Ibom), Isah Shaka Ehimeakne (Edo), Oluwatoyin Babalola (Ekiti), Abubakar Ahmed Ma’aji (Gombe), Shehu Wahab (Kwara), Professor Mohammed Yelwa (Niger).

Others are Anugbum Onuoha (Rivers), Isma’ila Kaura Moyi (Zamfara), Bunmi Omoseyindemi (Lagos), and Aminu Kasimu Idris (Nasarawa).

President Bola Tinubu had written to the Senate seeking that it screen and confirms 10 new Resident Electoral Commissioners for a term of five years.

The President’s request was contained in a letter read by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio at plenary on Tuesday.

The RECs were appointed last week to serve in the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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