Erstwhile National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP) and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has called on the Inspector General of Police to order the immediate withdrawal of officers and men of the force stationed at the entrance to each of the 23 local government council secretariats in Rivers state.
He made the call following the dismissal of two appeals filed by former LGA Council Chairmen whose statutory three-year tenure elapsed June 17, 2024.
The LGA Chairmen are challenging the decision of the lower Court which nullified the elongation of their tenure by stranded former state lawmakers led by Martins Amaewhule,
Recall that the Police IG ordered the barricade of all 23 LGA headquarters following plots by the former Council Chairmen who loyal to the FCT Minster, to hinge on a purported tenure elongation as an entrapment to raise tension in the state by continuing to hold forth when in the eye of the law they have lost every legitimacy that sustains their position as council chairmen.
Delivering ruling on the appeals marked CA/PH/137M/2024 and CA/PH/145M/2024 respectively, and filed by former Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government, Enyiada Cookey-Gam and Ors., the Court ruled the appeals were lacking in merit and accordingly, dismissed them.
The ruling, according to Chief Eze marked the end of the controversy generated by the purported tenure extension ignited by the unlawful amendment of the state local government laws by some individuals who had no legitimacy to legislate for the state.
The APC Chief said the Appellate Court by its verdict, has reaffirmed the position canvassed by law experts and Nigerians of lettered mind that Martin Amawhule is a mere tool in the hand of Wike to perpetuate crisis in the state to shift the mind of the Governor from the cardinal objectives of his administration.
He said the exit of the Police from council gates has become necessary to allow the Caretaker committee Chairmen and their members face the primary function for which they were appointed which is chiefly to reach out to people at the grassroots to mitigate the impact of the towering economic hardship affecting the people as anything in the contrary will amount to sabotage by the police.
On the Supreme Court ruling directing the Federal Government to henceforth pay the allocation due to the Local Government Councils in Nigeria direct to the Council, Eze said it smacks of sycophancy for supporters of Wike to jubilate over the judgement as the FCT Minister mounted a strong opposition to local government autonomy when he held sway as Governor.
He said it is left for the Governors of the 36 State to decide what to do with the judgement as over 95% of the states run local government administration through interim administrators and given that the judgement offends Section 162(6) of the 1999 Constitution which provides for a joint state/local government account into which all allocations meant for each state and the local government therein would be paid.
‘Let me reiterate that the Supreme Court can only interpret the law but cannot change the law of any country, in this regard, until the National Assembly expunge the relevant portions of the constitution to give life to the Supreme Court Judgement on this those who are celebrating the judgement are doing so out of ignorance even as I wonder what the Wike’s supporters are celebrating as if they are still in charge of any Local Government Council in Rivers State if not once again showcasing their stupidity.”
Rivers crisis: Remove your men from 23 LGA secretariats – Eze charges IG
Rivers crisis: Remove your men from 23 LGA secretariats – Eze charges IG
2024 Population Day: UNFPA advocates inclusive data for equitable development
The United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA, Nigeria has called for comprehensive data capturing to ensure the identification and empowerment of marginalised populations.
This is as the Fund stressed on the crucial role of inclusive data in protecting human rights and fostering equitable development.
The Gender/Reproductive Health Analyst of UNFPA Nigeria Deborah Tabara made the call at the 2024 celebration of the World Population Day held at the State Secretariat in Bauchi.
According to her, it is a time to identify who remains uncounted, understand why, and consider the costs to individuals, societies, and global efforts to ensure no one is left behind.
“People may be hard to reach, but no one is unreachable. To realise the rights and choices of those pushed to the margins of our societies, we have to count them because everyone counts. Our rich human tapestry is only as strong as the weakest thread,” Tabara said.
The analyst explained that when data and other systems work for those on the margins, they work for everyone, and thus determines how progress accelerates for all.
She stated that UNFPA looks forward to continuing to strengthen collaboration with the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to leave no one behind by capturing everyone.
The gender analyst further assured that the global body stands ready to support the Federal Government to harness the power of inclusive data to build resilient systems and societies while noting that this is not an end in itself; but a means to informed decision-making.
Tabara maintained that decision-makers shape policies, programmes, strategies, plans, and budgets that promote inclusivity and equality, adding that “together with you, we can forge a future where every person is counted, every community is acknowledged, and every need is addressed”.
Earlier in his remark, Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Nasir Isa Kwarra explained how available data can be utilised by decision-makers to shape policies, direct actions, advise on development options and permits governments to be held accountable in such a way that truly reflects the needs of everyone.
Speaking on the theme of the celebration, “Embracing the Power of Inclusive Data Towards a Resilient and Equitable Future for All,” Kwarra said the it reflects the outcome of both global and regional reviews, and evaluations of progress and achievements attained in the last three-decades of the implementation of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD).
2024 Population Day: UNFPA advocates inclusive data for equitable development
Ex-BBN Housemate Frodd Signs as Brand Ambassador for Sugardaddy Nigeria
We at Sugardaddy.ng are excited to announce our latest brand ambassadorship with Dr. B. Chukwuemeka Okoye Jr., popularly known as Frodd. On the 15th of June, 2024, Frodd, his beautiful wife, Pharm Chioma Okoye, and his business lawyer, Mr. Victor Amalu, officially signed the contract at our HQ. The event was graced by Sugardaddy.ng’s CEO, Mr. Avishai Marziano, along with our dedicated team members, including Digital Marketing Manager Francis Uche, Graphics & Web Designer Zakariyya Abdualazizu, Customer Experience Officer Elakeche Adoga, Social Media Strategist and Content Writer Peju Jolaoso, Office Manager Chiny Izuka, and Chief People and Culture Officer Moyo Olalekan.
The contract signing was a memorable experience, offering the Sugardaddy.ng team an opportunity to showcase our brand, platform, and vision. Each team member presented different aspects of the Sugardaddy.ng experience, from what the platform is about to how the platform operates to its target audience. The presentations highlighted how Sugardaddy.ng is revolutionizing dating by transforming it into a luxurious and premium community experience, a first of its kind in Nigeria. The engaging session included insightful questions and thought-provoking comments, underlining our commitment to innovation and excellence.
Following the contract signing, Frodd celebrated with a heartfelt toast, saying, “Welcome to a beautiful new journey, I am the newest SUGARDADDY!” He popped a bottle of champagne, and everyone joined in the cheers and jubilation. Photographs were taken to capture the joyous occasion, followed by a delightful meal and bonding time. In a statement, Sugardaddy.ng expressed their excitement, “We are so happy and excited to have Mr. Frodd aboard the SD train, and we know that this elite journey we are embarking on with him will bring only greatness! We cannot wait!”
About Sugardaddy.ng
Sugardaddy.ng is a premium dating platform, pioneering the concept of luxury dating in Nigeria. We are dedicated to redefining the narrative of sugar dating by offering a sophisticated and exclusive experience for our members. Our platform connects discerning individuals seeking upscale relationships and luxurious experiences, fostering a community where elegance, quality, and mutual respect are paramount.
At Sugardaddy.ng, we believe in creating an environment that prioritizes safety, discretion, and authenticity. Our members enjoy access to a curated network of like-minded individuals, premium events, and exclusive benefits designed to enhance their dating journey. Whether it’s through high-end luxurious date planning, exclusive mentorship, or unique lifestyle experiences, Sugardaddy.ng provides a distinctive platform for those who desire more than just a typical dating experience.
Join us at Sugardaddy.ng and discover a world where luxury and romance converge, creating unparalleled opportunities for meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences.
To follow Frodd’s Journey into the world of Sugardaddy.ng, sign up here and follow our Social Media Community: https://linktr.ee/sugardaddyng.
We welcome you with joy!
FG floors govs as S’Court outlaws caretaker exco, joint accounts
The Federal Government on Thursday floored the 36 state governors at the Supreme Court as the apex court granted full financial autonomy to the 774 local governments in the country.
The seven-man panel in a unanimous decision outlawed the appointment of caretaker committees to administer the local governments by state governors.
The panel also declared that it was illegal and unconstitutional for governors to continue to receive or retain funds allocated to the local councils, under State and Local Government Joint Account.
The court delivered the landmark judgment in suit: SC/CV/343/2024, filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) against the 36 state governors.
The AGF had sued the state governors through their respective state attorneys-general.
By this development, the governors’ control of the 774 councils’ allocation has been halted.
An analysis of the monthly distribution document released by the National Bureau of Statistics indicates that the LGAs got N2.6tn allocations from the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee between January and December 2023.
In the first five months of 2024, the local councils have also received N1.42tn.
Also, several states without elected local government officials may have their council allocation withheld.
The states include Rivers, Ondo, Osun and Plateau whose LGAs are being run by caretaker committees.
In the originating summons, the AGF prayed the court to order the direct allocation of funds from the federation account to the local governments.
He also sought an order prohibiting the unlawful dissolution of local government administration and the state governors’ appointment of caretaker committees to run the councils.
AGF’s case
The suit was hinged on 27 grounds that the constitution of Nigeria recognises federal, state and local government as three tiers of government.
All the governors opposed the suit. They urged the apex court to strike out the case for being grossly incompetent.
They claimed the AGF lacked the locus standi to institute the suit for the local governments.
In the lead judgement delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim, the apex court declared that the government was portioned into three tiers-federal, state and local governments.
The court further declared that a state government had no power to constitute a caretaker committee and that a local government council is only recognisable with a democratically elected government.
“A democratically elected local government is sacrosanct and non-negotiable,’’ the apex court declared, putting an end to the practice of appointing caretaker committees to run the councils by the state governors.
The court held that the use of a caretaker committee by the state governments to administer the local government violated the 1999 Constitution.
S’Court faults caretakers
The Supreme Court further held that the LGAs should be governed by a democratically elected government but “the states by the abuse of their power has worked against this law.”
The court declared that the 36 state governors had no power to dissolve democratically elected local government councils to replace them with caretaker committees.
“Such an act is unlawful, unconstitutional, null and void,’’ Agim stated.
The apex court barred the state governors from receiving, retaining or spending the local government allocation.
It said the practice of receiving and retaining local government funds by the states had gone on for too long and that it was a clear violation of section 162 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.
The court held that the 1999 Constitution, as amended, states that any money leaving the federation account must be distributed to the three tiers of government.
It added the local government administrations should receive and manage funds meant for the local councils.
Agim declared, “I hold that the state’s retention of the local government funds is unconstitutional.
“Demands of justice require a progressive interpretation of the law. It is the position of this court that the federation can pay LGA allocations to the LGAs directly or pay them through the states.
“In this case, since paying them through states has not worked, justice of this case demands that LGA allocations from the federation account should henceforth be paid directly to the LGAs.”
Granting other reliefs sought by the Federal Government, the apex court affirmed “A declaration that the local government council funds must be paid to only democratically elected local government council. Anything other than this will be taken as a gross misconduct.”
Other reliefs granted include “a declaration that the state government has no power or control to keep the local government council money or funds.
“A declaration that the local government council is entitled to the local government allocation.’’
The Supreme Court also granted “An order of injunction restraining the defendants by themselves, agents or privies from spending local government allocation.
“A declaration that no state government should be paid any money meant for the local government; an immediate compliance to this judgement.”
Court faults govs
Earlier, the Supreme Court dismissed the preliminary objection of the state governors, describing it as frivolous.
The apex court held that as the chief law officer of the federation, the AGF has the right to sue in the public interest to protect and enforce public laws.
The court added that the AGF also has every right to file the suit as the subject matter of the suit is not speculative, noting that he also has the right to protect the Constitution and prevent any government features from going extinct.
“I hold that the plaintiff’s request is hereby approved and all the reliefs granted,’’ Agim stated.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu, the Nigeria Labour Congress, the National Union of Local Government Employees and others have lauded the judgement.
Welcoming the verdict, the President said it “Affirmed the spirit, intent, and purpose of (Nigeria’s) Constitution on the statutory rights of local governments.”
According to him, a fundamental challenge to the nation’s advancement over the years has been ineffective local government administration, as governance at the critical cellular level of socio-political configuration is nearly absent.
He stated this in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, titled ‘President Tinubu welcomes Supreme Court judgement affirming constitutional rights of local governments.‘
The President emphasised that the onus was on local council leaders to ensure that the broad spectrum of Nigerians living at that level were satisfied that they were benefitting from people-oriented service delivery.
He said, “The Renewed Hope Agenda is about the people of this country, at all levels, irrespective of faith, tribe, gender, political affiliation, or any other artificial line they say exists between us. This country belongs to all of us.
“By virtue of this judgement, our people – especially the poor – will be able to hold their local leaders to account for their actions and inactions. What is sent to local government accounts will be known, and services must now be provided without excuses.”
The President noted that Thursday’s judgement stands as “A resounding affirmation that we can use legitimate means of redress to restructure our country and restructure our economy to make Nigeria a better place to live in and a fairer society for all of our people.”
He said the provision of some essential amenities and public goods, such as the construction and maintenance of certain roads, streets, street lighting, drains, parks, gardens, open spaces, and other residual responsibilities, including community security, has tottered owing to the emasculation of the local governments.
Therefore, he affirmed that the decision of the Supreme Court to uphold the constitutional rights and ideals of local governments as regards financial autonomy, and other salient principles, is of historic significance and further reinforces the effort to enhance Nigeria’s true federal fabric for the development of the entire nation.
The NLC and NULGE similarly commended the Supreme Court’s ruling on the LG autonomy.
The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, in a statement, described the verdict wresting the councils from the control of state governors as courageous.
The statement read, “For years, we watched with dismay and discontent the remorseless and mindless erosion of the powers of the local governments and had embarked on a series of national protests as workers.
“We also note the effort made by the (Muhammadu) Buhari administration to prise off the stranglehold of governors on local governments. We must also mention the commendable role on this matter by the 9th Assembly.
“This statement will not be complete without paying tribute to the Tinubu government for its presence of mind to institute this action at the Supreme Court. We specifically commend the President and the Attorney-General of the Federation.”
Speaking further, Ajaero argued that true freedom for the local governments must come from those who govern them.
“Should SIECS (State Independent Electoral Commission) be allowed to conduct elections or should INEC take over (even as they are over-burdened and are not exactly the best example)? Should there be a regulatory agency or commission with oversight over SIECs? We will find the devil in the details through a stakeholder conversation,” he added.
In a statement, the National President of NULGE, Hakeem Ambali, said the masses would be better for it, surmising that LG autonomy would reduce the nation’s problem by at least 50 per cent.
“It will reduce the infrastructural gap, and improve community security, and food security. LG will return us to good years of functional and well-run primary education systems and health centres.
“We also want to warn the political class that the local level. We don’t expect to see looting of resources at that level. There must be transparency and accountability at the local government level.’’
A former Chairman of the Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State, Mr Wale Adedayo, hailed President Tinubu over the Supreme Court judgement.
Ex-chairman lauds Tinubu
Adedayo was impeached after alleging that Governor Dapo Abiodun diverted over N10.8bn meant for the 20 local governments in the state.
He had claimed that the 10 per cent of the state’s internally Generated Revenue, which the constitution also stipulated should go to the local government, had not been given to the councils since Abiodun got into office.
He was charged before an Abeokuta Magistrate Court for over the allegations against the governor.
The state government, however, denied the allegations, describing them as baseless and spurious, stating that the Abiodun administration had been augmenting the council funds.
Adedayo observed that the court order would reinforce the belief that the Tinubu-led administration was ready to deepen democracy.
The ex-council boss said, “For me, the current federal administration headed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appears ready to deepen the practice of democracy in Nigeria.
“Besides, it appears also that he is feeling the pain of our people at the grassroots and he wants them to have a feeling of good governance.
“The summary of my letter to former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, is what the Supreme Court just ruled on. But I was charged in court.
“My criminal trial initiated by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, continues tomorrow (today) at the Abeokuta Chief Magistrate Court, Isabo.’’
Speaking further, he noted that Nigeria might never develop without an effective LGA system.
“Once these funds go directly to each local government, you’ll be amazed at the number of quality people vying for positions at the local government level,” he submitted.
The Niger State NULGE Chairman who doubles as the state NLC Chairman, Idrees Lafene, said, “We welcome the judgement, we are happy. This is what we have been fighting for, we welcome it.’’
The Niger State governor’s Special Adviser on Political Strategy, Nma Kolo said the government was still studying the judgement.
In a related development, the Supreme Court judgment is expected to stop the allocations to local governments and local council development areas being run by caretaker committees appointed by the governors.
While the LGAs in Rivers are managed by caretaker committees those in Ondo and Enugu states are headed by senior career officers.
In Osun State, 30 local government areas, 32 LCDAs, six Area councils and one administrative Office are run by caretaker committees appointed by Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Findings indicate that LGAs in Benue, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Plateau and Kwara states are under the administration of caretaker committees appointed by their governors.
In Enugu State, career officers with the designation of higher personnel managers, are in charge of the councils’ administration.
Checks show that Lagos and Osun top the list of states with LCDAs which were created by the state governors as part of the local government structures.
In Osun, besides the 30 LGA and the Ife East Area Office recognised by the constitution, the state also has 32 LCDAs, six area councils and one administrative office created by the Rauf Aregbesola administration.
Ekiti State has 22 LCDAs, while Ebonyi has 66 Development Centres, equivalent to LCDAs.
Morrison Quakers, SAN, said the constitution only recognised the 774 LGAs in the country.
He said, “We have 774 local governments constitutionally recognised, but recall that the Supreme Court had made a pronouncement sometime back when the then President withheld funds that were meant for LGs. So, that decision is still in place.
“But what the Supreme Court has now said is that the money that is meant for the local governments cannot even be given to or be spent by caretaker committees. So, that now laid this issue to rest.”
On his part, Ifedayo Adedipe, SAN, affirmed that only the recognised 774 local governments would receive money from the federation account.
He added that governors who wished to keep the LCDAs in their states must devise a means to sustain them.
Atiku backs judgment
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar welcomed the Supreme Court’s judgement affirming fiscal autonomy for local government councils across Nigeria. In a statement released on Thursday via X, Atiku described the ruling as “A win for the people of Nigeria” and a step in the right direction.
He criticised the earlier arrangement, stating that it was borne out of “politics of hasty compromise.”
The Labour Party also commended the judgement of the Supreme Court.The party said that while the resolution of the crisis was late, it was better than never having such an end to the long due crisis where state governors take over funds disbursed for local government administration, from the federal coffer.
A statement by LP National Publicity Secretary, Obiorah Ifoh, read, “We at the Labour Party welcomed the Supreme Court decision granting financial autonomy to Local Government Councils in the 36 States of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory.
“This decision was long in coming but like the saying goes, it is better late than never.
“It has put to rest the debate as to whether or not local government areas that are the closest level of government to the ordinary people deserve to enjoy some form of autonomy to address challenges facing the masses within their jurisdiction.
“We can now safely say local government areas now have greater freedom to initiate and complete projects which will reduce suffering at the grass roots.”
•Additional reports: Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis, Tope Omogbolagun, Solomon Odeniyi, Damilola Aina, Dele Ogunyemi, Bankole Taiwo, Chika Otuchikere and Bola Bamigbola
Benue security council okays establishment of homeland security
The Benue State Security Council has approved that a Bureau of Homeland Security be established in the state, to coordinate and liaise between the office of the governor and the security agencies, for immediate responses on security matters in Benue State.
Governor Hyacinth Alia stated this on Thursday after a joint security meeting, held at the Benue State Government House, Makurdi.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Barrister Sam Ode, the governor, said the Security Council had agreed that the Bureau be headed by a Director General, appointed by the governor.
The Security Council directed that the curfew in the entire Sankera area of the state should continue, further placing a ban on protest in the entire axis until further notice.
According to the governor, the Council also agreed that a judicial panel of inquiry should be set up by the government to look into the destruction of government and private properties in Ukum, as a result of the recent protests in the area.
He frowned at the increasing number of illegal checkpoints in the state, urging all security agencies in the state to work together in synergy, so as to effectively combat crimes in Benue.
Gov Alia said the Benue State law against Matching Ground is still effective and operational and will soon be gazetted and made available to the public.
He directed the Special Adviser on Security to work in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, to organize a workshop and sensitize the people on the dangers of illicit drugs and human trafficking in the state.
Benue security council okays establishment of homeland security
NATO concerns grow as China, Russia flex military muscle
China said Friday it was conducting joint military drills with Russia along its southern coast, after a US-led Western defence alliance met in Washington and Japan warned of a growing threat from Beijing’s strong ties with Moscow.
China’s defence ministry said the two militaries had begun the exercises, called Joint Sea-2024, in “early July” and they would last until the middle of this month.
The drills in the waters and airspace around Zhanjiang, a city in southern Guangdong province, are “to demonstrate the resolve and capabilities of the two sides in jointly addressing maritime security threats and preserving global and regional peace and stability”, the ministry said.
It added that the exercises “will further deepen China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era”.
They were taking place in accordance with Beijing and Moscow’s annual plan for military engagement, according to the ministry.
The announcement came in the same week that NATO leaders convened in Washington to reaffirm support for Ukraine amid Russia’s invasion.
China and Russia have drawn closer in recent years and tout their friendship as having “no limits”, and both share hostile relations with NATO.
NATO leaders said in a declaration on Wednesday that China had “become a decisive enabler” of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, prompting Beijing to warn NATO against “provoking confrontation”.
China maintains that it is not a party to the Ukraine conflict but has been criticised by Western leaders for giving political and economic support to Russia, including in the trade of goods with both civilian and military uses.
Chinese forces are also staging drills this week with Belarus, another Russian ally, on NATO’s eastern border.
And Japan said Friday that joint China-Russia activities near its territory pose a “grave concern from the perspective of national security”.
AFP.
2025 budget: Rivers people to witness functional health system – Fubara assures
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said the state will witness a massive, quality functional healthcare system that will be reliable and affordable.
Fubara gave the assurance when he received a World Health Organisation, WHO, delegation, led by the Country Representative, Dr Kazadi Molumbo in Port Harcourt.
He said that his administration would commit huge budgetary allocation to the health sector in the 2025 budget to give necessary financial support for quality healthcare services.
The governor added that the reason for the huge budget was to strengthen what was done already, in ensuring that healthcare facilities are functional at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels.
According to him, the 2025 budget will focus on three key areas such as health, education and agriculture.
He explained that “we believe that when we roll out that budget, greater part of the health issues and services will be accommodated.
“I know quite alright that one of the most important things, if we go by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda, affordable healthcare is one major thing that is a key target.”
Fubara said that WHO is working with the state government to ensure that the facilities would not be for the privileged, but also for the less-privileged in the society.
He appreciated the global body for the wonderful work done both on supervisory and support roles in the health sector worldwide.
The country representative commended Fubara for efforts and political will to achieve the SDGs and ensure that the people enjoy good health and well-being by 2030.
He said that Nigeria, like most countries of the world, is lagging behind in terms of reaching the SDGs by 2030.
Molumbo emphasized the global call to do things differently to rescue people, telling the governor that but something is very encouraging in your administration, and I will like to commend your efforts in providing an enabling environment for stakeholders in the health sector.
“We also noted your commitment toward improving primary healthcare services and the drive to improve the health status of Rivers people.”
2025 budget: Rivers people to witness functional health system – Fubara assures
LG autonomy Tinubu’s biggest achievement so far — Ndume
The Chief Whip of the Senate, Ali Ndume, has said that securing the financial autonomy for Local Governments has been the greatest achievement of President Bola Tinubu since he assumed office in 2023.
Ndume made this known while hailing the administration of Tinubu, for initiating a court action at the Supreme Court, which has now birthed a new financial regime for Local Governments Councils across the country.
In a statement made available to journalists on Friday, Ndume described the judgment as the biggest achievement of President Tinubu so far since he assumed office in May 2023.
The Borno South lawmaker also called on Tinubu to immediately commence the implementation of the court judgment without further delay, noting that the people at the grassroots must begin to feel the impacts of good governance.
Ndume said since state governors hijacked the Local Government administration in Nigeria, by relying on a controversial section of the 1999 Constitution as amended, no meaningful development has happened at the grassroots.
He said, “This court action instituted at the behest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the biggest of his achievements. I’m very happy about the development, and I’m hoping that this will be the beginning of the liberation of local governments in Nigeria.
“I urge the President to immediately commence the implementation of the Court judgment. Local Government Councils need to start getting their monthly allocations immediately without any further delays. The people at the grassroots levels will begin to feel the impacts of good governance now.”
Ndume added, “The National Assembly made several attempts to amend the 1999 Constitution and address this grey area. But governors didn’t allow the State Assemblies to give the constitutional concurrence. That was how the attempts failed.
“President Muhammadu Buhari also tried to intervene. Governors didn’t allow him. With this Supreme Court judgment, the issue has finally been resolved. No more unnecessary deductions from funds earmarked for local governments.
“The people can now hold the Council chairmen accountable for how they spend their monthly allocations. They’ll begin to demand true accountability and judicious use of the funds they’ll be getting. I salute the courage of President Tinubu.”
In its judgment, on Thursday, the apex court directed that local government allocations from the Federation Account should be paid directly to them, going forward.
The Supreme Court declared that it was unconstitutional for state governors to hold onto funds meant for Local Government Areas.
In its lead judgment, read by Justice Emmanuel Agim, the highest court in Nigeria, observed that the refusal of State Governments on financial autonomy for Local Governments has gone on for over two decades.
Justice Agim said Local Governments have since stopped receiving the money meant for them from the state governors who act in their stead.
He noted that the 774 Local Government Councils in the country should manage their funds themselves. The revered Justice dismissed the preliminary objections of the defendants (state governors).
Kenya youths demand Ruto’s resignation, mull fresh protest
Young Kenyans on Friday dismissed President William Ruto’s decision to sack most of his cabinet, with some warning that they would resume street protests unless he steps down.
Ruto has been scrambling to contain the fallout of deadly protests against proposed tax hikes after last month’s peaceful rallies descended into violence and tapped into widespread anger against his government.
Organised online and led largely by young, Gen-Z Kenyans, the protests have plunged Ruto’s administration into the most serious crisis of his two-year presidency, forcing him to abandon the finance bill containing the tax hikes.
In the latest move to defuse tensions, Ruto on Thursday dismissed all cabinet ministers including the attorney-general, with the exception of Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
But the announcement, while welcomed by some, did not appease some young Kenyans frustrated with Ruto’s failure to deliver on his 2022 election promise to create jobs and boost their fortunes.
Hyrence Mwangi, 25, said: “We will be back on the streets until Ruto goes. He has wasted two years in office travelling and telling lies.”
Initially peaceful, the protests sharply escalated when police fired at crowds who stormed parliament, ransacking the partly ablaze complex.
While large-scale street protests have subsided, anger against the government has not, particularly towards the police, with rights groups saying that 39 people were killed in the demonstrations.
“When we first went to the streets, Ruto dismissed us as a bunch of hired goons and criminals, only to come later and start saying he will make changes,” said 27-year-old Jackson Rotich.
“We can’t trust him.”
Law student Melisa Agufana, 24, said she wanted to “thank the president for listening”, adding that ministers had “wasted two years doing nothing apart from being driven around with our national flag.”
Analysts said the move offered the possibility of a fresh start but warned of further risks.
“The challenge that Ruto now faces is forming a new cabinet that includes various vested interests, whilst simultaneously calming popular anger”, Gabrielle Lynch, professor of comparative politics at the University of Warwick, told AFP.
Last week, Ruto announced sharp cuts to government spending, including travel and refurbishment costs, and said he would increase borrowing to pay for some services even as Kenya grapples with massive foreign debt equivalent to roughly 70 percent of GDP.
The crisis led US-based Moody’s to downgrade Kenya’s debt rating further into junk territory, warning of a negative outlook, which will make borrowing even more expensive for the cash-strapped government.
Ruto said Thursday that he would “immediately engage in extensive consultations across different sectors and political formations, with the aim of setting up a broad-based government”, without elaborating further.
AFP
Ibom Air expands fleet with new Airbus A220-300
Ibom Air has announced the addition of a new Airbus A220-300 to its fleet, marking a strategic move to increase capacity and meet growing demand.
The General Manager for Marketing and Communication, Ibom Air, Aniekan Essienette, said this in a statement on Friday.
Ibom Air is a commercial airline owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government.
Essienette said, “The acquisition, sourced from Carlyle Aviation, underscores the airline’s commitment to expanding its services.
“In October 2021, Ibom Air placed a firm order for ten Airbus A220-300 aircraft, with the first delivery occurring in November 2023. However, the rising demand for the airline’s services has accelerated its expansion plans.
“The airline decided to purchase this A220 from Carlyle Aviation, a world-renowned aircraft lessor and global player in the industry.”
Recall that in February, Ibom Air announced the end of its wet lease operations, signifying a significant shift.
Essienette also said, “The imminent deployment of Ibom Air’s newly acquired A220-300 signifies the airline’s move away from temporary leasing arrangements.“
The event held at Maastricht Airport, in the Netherlands was graced by His Excellency Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno.
He was joined by several dignitaries, including Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, and Chief Whip of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Effiong Johnson.
Ibom Air’s Executive team, including Chief Executive Officer, Mfon Udom and Chief Operating Officer, George Uriesi, were present, reflecting the airline’s strong leadership and vision.
Essienette said, “The addition of this aircraft will bring Ibom Air’s fleet of A220s to 11, after the delivery of the outstanding nine units. It is worth noting the continuing embrace of aircraft financing by Nigerian banks.
“This new purchase was financed by both Fidelity and Union Banks, with Fidelity as the majority partner. Ibom Air is delighted to have Nigerian financial institutions supporting its growth, the statement read in parts.”