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Gasperini impressed with Lookman’s growth

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Gasperini impressed with Lookman’s growth

Nigerian forward, Ademola Lookman, has been in impressive form since his move to Italian outfit Atalanta, leaving his boss Gian Pero Gasperini very impressed with the Nigerian, According Sports Extra reports.

The 26-year-old completed a €9m plus performance-related bonuses transfer from RB Leipzig to join the Nerazzurri in 2022, having spent the 2021/22 season on loan at Leicester City.

Before joining Atalanta, Lookman’s nine-goal contributions (five goals and four assists) in the 2017/18 season was his best return in front of goal but in his debut season with the Italian outfits, he scored a remarkable 13 goals with eight assists from 31 appearances.

So far this season, the Nigerian already scored eight goals while contributing another three assists in 21 games.

While his goal drought in UEFA competitions continues, having failed to net in Europe since December 2017, Gasperini has been quite impressed with Lookman’s development.

“We all see Lookman‘s potential and speed, but we must admit that he once didn’t play so offensively,” Gasperini said per Pazzi di Fanta after their 1-1 draw against Sporting CP in the Europa League on Wednesday.

“He used to score six or seven goals a year, while now he is quick, good at dribbling, and even strong with his head. I encourage him because every now and then, he hides from the game, but I believe that when he approaches the area, he can become a reference player for our team.”

Lookman has been very important for Atalanta this season and Gasperini will hope the Nigerian forward can continue with his impressive form as they push for a Champions League spot in the Serie A.

Atalanta are currently sixth on the log with 46 points, 26 adrift Inter Milan, who are top of the table and five points behind Bologna, who sit fourth on the Serie A standings.

A thought for the childless woman on IWD 2024

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A thought for the childless woman on IWD 2024

On this year’s (2024) International Women’s Day, it behoves us to spare a thought for the childless woman in our society.

Who is a childless woman? A childless woman is that woman without a child either by choice or by circumstances. Childlessness is not a topic we boldly broach in our society. It is important to ensure understanding of this topic and at the same time show empathy and acceptance towards these individuals who are childless not by choice but by circumstances, and to buttress the point that everyone deserves dignity and respect irrespective of their parental status.

It is not a taboo to be childless, but society seems to have dubbed it so. Many childless individuals are stigmatised and drained by shame and stigma which circumstantial childlessness has thrust on them. There are many reproductive and excruciating challenges faced by individuals and couples struggling with childlessness that deter them from having biological children. Some amazing women in different interactions shared with me their instances that their childlessness is not a result of infertility or medical conditions. Some of them were desirous and passionate about building their own families but no spouse came, time elapsed, singleness and childlessness set in.

Sometimes in life, we come to the point where we feel the need to run away from self, home and comfort zone. This may be the case for the childless woman. This scenario is not peculiar to the childless woman. We all have these seasons in our lives and journeys when we think that we need to run, but for the childless, it is a serious issue and daunting challenge.

Oftentimes, some childless women who were driven by societal pressure fell victims to calamitous circumstances in the hands and domains of unscrupulous people who claimed to have solutions to their problems.

While there is limited specific research on the challenges faced by childless women, some studies and statistics shed light on certain aspects of this topic. Here are some statistics and research findings related to the challenges faced by childless women:

Social stigma: Childless women, especially those who are involuntarily childless, may face social stigma and judgment. According to a study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, childless women are often perceived as less fulfilled, competent, and happy compared to mothers, which can contribute to feelings of isolation and inadequacy.

Emotional wellbeing: Research has shown that childless women, particularly those who are involuntarily childless, may experience higher levels of psychological distress, anxiety, and depression. A study published in the journal, Human Reproduction, found that women who are unable to have children may face emotional challenges and feelings of grief and loss.

Lack of support: Childless women may also experience a lack of support from family, friends, and society. A survey conducted by the UK-based organiation Fertility Network UK found that many childless women feel isolated and unsupported, with limited resources available to help them navigate their unique challenges.

Workplace discrimination: Childless women may face discrimination in the workplace, including assumptions about their availability and commitment due to their lack of caregiving responsibilities. Research has shown that childless women are sometimes overlooked for promotions or opportunities because of stereotypes about their work-life balance and priorities.

Healthcare access: Childless women may encounter challenges in accessing healthcare services related to reproductive health and fertility treatments. Research has shown that some healthcare providers may not adequately address the needs of childless women, leading to feelings of frustration and neglect.

While more research is needed to fully understand the challenges faced by childless women, these statistics and findings highlight some of the key issues that may impact their well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. Addressing these challenges through awareness, advocacy, and support can help create a more inclusive and understanding society for all women, regardless of their reproductive choices.

As productive members of society, childless individuals have a right to their lives, dignity and fair hearing. They need support, understanding, inclusivity, consideration and equity in families, workplaces, places of worship, associations and society at large. As we celebrate this year’s International Women’s Day, let us free the childless woman from societal judgment, castigation, stigma, insinuations, shame and humiliation.

Pride can be reached on email: [email protected]; and [email protected]

Invest in women, quicken Nigeria’s progress

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Invest in women, quicken Nigeria’s progress

AS the global community celebrates the 2024 International Women’s Day themed, “Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress,” today, Nigeria needs to push for reforms, investing in the social, economic, cultural, and political potential of women. Beyond the need for inclusion, the progress of the country lies in its action to foster equal opportunities for women in every sector of society.

Officially observed from 1975, the IWD is commemorated annually to raise awareness about women’s oppression and inequality and function, as a call to action for women to actively campaign for change. The IWD theme this year aligns with the priority theme for the UN’s 68th Commission of the Status of Women and examines pathways to greater economic inclusion for women and girls everywhere.

“The world is facing many crises, ranging from geopolitical conflicts to soaring poverty levels and the escalating impacts of climate change,” says the UN. “These challenges can only be addressed by solutions that empower women. By investing in women, we can spark change and speed the transition towards a healthier, safer, and more equal world for all.”

A 2023 survey by UN Women and UNDP shows that no country has achieved full gender parity. The report added that less than 1.0 per cent of women and girls live in a country with high women’s empowerment and a small gender gap.

A 2022 survey published by the World Bank Gender Data Portal shows that the labour force participation among Nigerian females is 52.1 per cent, while for males it is 65.5 per cent. Data compiled between 2016 and 2020 shows that while male Nigerian business owners are 66 per cent, female business owners are 34 per cent. A 2018 survey by the same source showed that adult literacy is lower among women (52.7 per cent) than among men (71.2 per cent) in Nigeria.

Politically, Nigerian women hold the short end of the stick. Women’s representation in the country has been on a downward slide since 2011 down to 2023. The number of women in the 10th National Assembly has fallen by 19 per cent, compared to the last NASS with women now occupying 3.0 per cent of seats in the Senate and 4.7 per cent in the House of Representatives, per the Independent National Electoral Commission.

“In the cut-throat, zero-sum game of Nigerian politics, novice aspirants lack political capital and a more competitive advantage in more competitive parties and positions,” says the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace charity.

Experts have noted that women who became prime ministers in countries such as the United Kingdom, Bangladesh, Iceland, Italy, France, Denmark, and New Zealand, have demonstrated innovative and effective leadership and offered unique and fresh perspectives on the challenges faced by their countries.

Objective analyses have shown that countries where women have equal opportunities and rights in terms of education, economic empowerment, policies, social welfare, and healthcare, are usually more progressive than otherwise. A 2022 World Bank report says that at present, just 14 countries – all high-income economies – have laws that give women the same rights as men. The report also indicated that nearly 2.4 billion women of working age still lack the same rights as men.

Governments in Nigeria need to institute reforms that would ensure that women are invested in to quicken the country’s progress. Certain cultural or religious norms that oppress and repress women should be jettisoned. There should be deliberate policies to address poverty by empowering women and girls and enabling them equal access to education, politics and financial opportunities.

Fans held spellbound as fighters clash in

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Fans held spellbound as fighters clash in

In what will be a fourth clash in sports between Nigeria and Cameroon in 2024, British-Nigerian Anthony Joshua is set to battle the formidable Cameroonian-born Francis Ngannou on the main event of the ‘Knockout Chaos’ card in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Friday (today), PETER AKINBO writes

The first clash between Nigeria and Cameroon in 2024 was in handball, when Nigeria, on January 26, defeated Cameroon 33-25 to emerge champions of the President’s Cup, a continental handball competition.

The next clash is probably the one which garnered the most attention among fans and citizens of both nations as it came in the Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 in Ivory Coast on January 27.

Two goals from Ademola Lookman ensured the Super Eagles won the game 2-0 in a superior performance over archrivals Indomitable Lions.

In the most recent meeting between both countries on February 26, Nigeria won once again, this time in the Olympic qualifiers against the Cameroonians. The Falcons edged the Lionesses 1-0 on aggregate in the third round of the qualifiers to edge closer to a ticket to the Paris Games.

Now, on Friday (today) night (11:30pm Nigerian time), two boxers of Nigerian and Cameroonian descent will face-off once again as Anthony                                                                             Joshua and Francis Ngannou take to the ring at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh and Nigerian fans will be keen on continuing the winning streak over their eastern neigbours.

After the Super Eagles defeated the Lions in Ivory Coast, some Cameroonians took to social media saying Joshua will pay for the Eagles win when heclashes with Ngannou.

Jude Asahmbom III warned on Facebook, “It is Anthony Joshua that will suffer the consequences.”

Another Cameroonian Beardedzz posted, “Let Anthony Joshua just prepare himself to end up at a Hospital. Ngannou will unleash our anger on him.”

Trust Nigerians, they gave it back to their neighbours in equal folds.

An X user, Sports Doctor said, “Anthony Joshua, this fight is now more than just your fight, it’s ‘Nigeria vs Cameroon’ part 2. No gree for Francis Ngannou oooh.”

Now that the D-day is here, fans from both countries will be glued to their screens when both men step in for the highly-anticipated bout.

In the first half of 2023, Joshua repeatedly dismissed the prospect of facing Ngannou, viewing him purely as a legendary UFC heavyweight champion, yet not someone who could ever challenge any of the top names in boxing.

That view ended as soon as Ngannou dropped Fury in the third round of their bout in October. It was a punch that momentarily shocked the world before Fury did what was required to win on points.

After that bout, however, the Cameroonian earned appraisal as a bona fide threat to boxing’s heavyweight division.

Joshua will be keen to put on a show at the Kingdom Arena for the second time in the space of 10 weeks.

His last opponent on December 23, Otto Wallin, had been expected to provide Joshua with a tricky test, but the 34-year-old was at his composed ruthless best, quickly removing the pre-bout belief that Wallin had showed as he raced to a fourth-round KO win.

This was Joshua’s third win of 2023 as he returned to the top of the heavyweight rankings behind only champions Oleksandr Usyk and Fury.

Ngannou will be a completely different beast due to his power, toughness and sheer size and Joshua has promised that he will not underestimate the Cameroonian.

“He’s been boxing. His first dream was to be a boxer, which people forget. I know what I am up against; I look at all of these small details. I spar; I do my film study, all that type of stuff,” he said.

However, Joshua still wants to make a statement with a knockout.

“I believe I can knock him out,” Joshua exclusively told Sky Sports. “Definitely. I would love to knock him out and make a statement.

“Physically I feel strong, feeling good. Strong enough to get the job done and mentally I’m in a place where I’m ready for war. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Ngannou, who now has the experience of fighting a top boxer, believes his strong showing in his pro boxing debut against Fury has given him confidence.

“I feel confident enough, based on my training, the hard work that I put in, it (fight against Fury) was a good experience and it definitely guided me better to have proper training.

“Every space I have open, I am going to hit … I am not going to leave any stone unturned and any opportunity unexplored,” the former UFC heavyweight champion said.

Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya shared his thoughts on the boxing bout between his friend Ngannou and his compatriot Joshua.

He said, “Joshua can box, he’s a master at it, but I know how Francis fights.

“Ngannou knows how to make a great fight. He showed in his last fight in the ring that he can beat, if not the best, then one of the best boxers of this generation or ever. It’s not my place to pick a winner but I have a strange feeling that you can’t blink in this fight.”

Interim NBF president Azania Omo-Agege is confident of a Joshua win as he trusts his technical ability over power punches.

“My bet is on Joshua. With the kind of experience Joshua has in boxing, he is sure to win. Ngannou is hoping his power punch knocks out Joshua but it’s all about technical ability, which makes Joshua have the advantage,” Omo-Agege told our correspondent.

A Nigerian combats sports lover, Adeolu Sangobowale, believes anything can happen in a heavyweight bout but expects Joshua to win.

“I think Joshua wins, but they are heavyweights and so anything can happen.

“Joshua just has to outbox and outmaneuver him and avoid his right hand, same as Usyk did to him. He should box first and look for the knockout second because Ngannou’s reach will be a problem.”

UNILESA oil processing factory to commence operations soon

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UNILESA oil processing factory to commence operations soon

The Vice-Chancellor, University of Ilesa, Osun State, Prof. Taiwo Asaolu, has disclosed the apiculture section and palm oil processing factory of the institution’s integrated farm would soon commence operations.

Asaolu disclosed this during the official handover of a farm belonging to him to the university and the opening of its Faculty of Law buildings.

The vice chancellor recalled how he started the farm with four cows, four sheep and one ram a few monthagock and considered it his personal property until January this year, when he decided to donate it to the institution.

According to Asaolu, the farm would be used for teaching and research purposes by the lecturers and students.

He, however, warned unauthorised persons against farming or engaging in hunting expeditions on the farm, adding that anyone caught would be appropriately sanctioned.

He said, “I took it upon myself to start something on a small scale, starting with four cows bought at N100,000 each, four sheep and one ram. With professional support from Dr Niyi Adegbite and some experts as our consultants, the farm started developing gradually.

“Up until January 2024, I still considered the farm as my own, but an incident occurred when the area commander of police visited the university. In line with our tradition, we took him on a guided tour around the campus. On getting to the Faculty of Law, we saw some herdsmen, who intruded into the campus and the police officer called them and warned them against bringing their herds to the university.

“As we were still standing, we saw another set of cows around the same area. I thought it was from another set of intruders, we were about to summon the herdsmen before some staff members on my entourage told us they were our own. This statement brought out some emotions in me as it gladdened my heart that my member of staff at the university has taken ownership of the cows. There and then, I decided to donate the farm to the university.”

According to the VC, the farm currently has ranches for cows, sheep and rams, catfish ponds (artificial, earthen and natural), rabbit and snail farms, which are under construction.

“The poultry and apiculture sections, the feed mill and the palm oil processing section will be up and running soon,” he noted.

Group plans 2.4m reward for 12 teachers

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Group plans 2.4m reward for 12 teachers

The Grooming Endowment Teachers Appreciation Program will reward 12 teachers in low-income communities across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria with N200,000 each.

A statement by the group said the objective of the Grooming Award was to appreciate teachers who were making an impact especially those who went the extra mile.

“The initiative is searching for teachers who are in underserved communities, but exhibiting laudable ideas,” it read.

Spokespersons of GETAP, Michael Adegoke and Orji Emmanuel said the initiative would reward and encourage the individuals for their hard work, dedication, and innovation.

It said, The Grooming Endowment Teachers Appreciation Program, is an Initiative set up to support 12 deserving teachers, two each across the six geo-political zones in Nigeria. It is important to encourage the reduction of out-of-school children in Nigeria by encouraging main drivers in the sector. The gesture is to help alleviate some of the economic burdens these teachers face while carrying out their essential functions in the society. A sum of N200,000 and other resources in kind await successful applicants.”

GETAP highlighted the criteria to qualify for awards, “The applicants must currently be working in any undeserved and remote environment.

“Must be teaching in a primary or secondary school. Must show impact or innovation in teaching. Must show passion and plans for continuity in the profession to help more children and encourage others in the field. Above all, he/she must have a minimum of five years teaching experience.”

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Nigerian physicist bags International Record for longest mathematics lesson

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Nigerian physicist bags International Record for longest mathematics lesson

Physicist Reken R. Maikama, from Taraba State, has been adjudged to have led the longest mathematics lesson ever recorded.

This recognition followed verification process of Maikama’s ACA-Tong attempt, with the International Book of Records (IBR) confirming his feat on Thursday.

According to the IBR website, Maikama conducted a 15-hour offline mathematics class on December 21, 2023, in Jalingo, Nigeria, covering 10 topics, thereby setting a new world record.

IBR wrote, “The World Record of “Longest Mathematic lesson’ was achieved by Reken Renos Maikama on 21st December 2023 from Jalingo (Taraba) Nigeria.

“He conducted a 15-hour offline math class in which he covered 10 topics of Mathematics and has set a new world record for International Book of Records.”

In December 2023, Maikama also pursued a Guinness Book of Records attempt, aiming to become the first to undertake the ACA-Tong in the category of the longest math lesson.

During this attempt, the 25-year-old conducted another 15-hour offline math class covering the same 10 topics of mathematics.

Upon confirming Maikama’s achievement, IBR notified him of his official record holder status and the impending delivery of his Record Holder Certificate.

Confirming his feat, IBR in a mail said: “We feel overjoyed that your application for Application ID: ‘IBR17274’ is successful and you are now the official record holder of the International Book of Records.

“Your Record Holder Certificate will soon be delivered to your postal address.

“At the International Book of Records, we take great care to evaluate every application we receive.

“Before we accept or reject a new proposal, we always carry out specific research, we can require the expertise of an external consultant.”

In response, Maikama reflected on the emotional and technical challenges encountered during his journey, emphasizing his determination with the motto, “Nothing must block our path.”

A comparison reveals that the previous record holder, Prof Suresh Babu, achieved this feat in 2018. Babu, an Indian born on May 31, 1961, organised a world record programme aimed at raising awareness about mathematics.

The event, held on September 14, 2018, at Municipal Town Hall, Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, involved the participation of about 500 students, teachers, parents, and villagers, who collectively covered 15 chapters in basic mathematics over the course of a 12-hour session.

IWD: Tinubu celebrates Nigerian women

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IWD: Tinubu celebrates Nigerian women

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to Nigerian women, describing them as the cornerstone of the nation’s progress and prosperity.

The President’s maiden message to mark International Women’s Day is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, titled ‘President Tinubu celebrates Nigerian women, says they are the pivot of the nation.’

Underscoring the occasion with the theme ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’, Tinubu noted the exceptional contributions of Nigerian women across various fields of endeavour.

He emphasised that their achievements are not only national assets but also serve as global symbols of resilience, strength, courage, and ingenuity.

According to Tinubu, these accomplishments underscore the remarkable quality of Nigerian women as beacons of hope and agents of change worldwide.

This year’s theme, he said, “fits well within his administration’s policy initiatives on educating and empowering women, not only through inclusion in governance but also by ensuring that they remain relevant and unimpeachable voices in the development process across all sectors of the economy.”

The president stated that his government is focused on providing investments in educating the girl child while fostering inclusive programmes and initiatives that bolster their active roles in the areas of knowledge, science, technology, research and innovation into the future.

International Women’s Day is celebrated globally on March 8 every year, marking a focal point in the movement for women’s rights.

The day owes its origins to the early 20th century, during the labour movements across North America and Europe.

Although the first National Woman’s Day was observed in the United States on February 28, 1909, designated by the Socialist Party of America in honour of the 1908 garment workers’ strike in New York, the concept of an International Women’s Day only can be traced back to Clara Zetkin, a German Marxist and advocate for women’s rights, at the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen in 1910.

It was agreed upon by over 100 women from 17 countries, highlighting the universal demand for women’s suffrage and rights.

Consequently, the first IWD was celebrated on March 19, 1911, in several European countries.

Over the years, however, IWD has evolved from a day of protests and suffrage marches to a global day of celebration, recognising women’s achievements and continuing the fight for gender parity.

For the IWD 2024, Tinubu celebrated with Nigerian women, assuring them that his administration will always prioritise their welfare, protect their rights and advance their causes.

N’Assembly will support implementation with

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N’Assembly will support implementation with

The senator representing Kebbi Central, Adamu Aliero, has said the Senate will do “whatever is required in terms of legislation” to ensure the implementation of the Oronsaye report. ⁣
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“We are in support of the implementation of the Oronsaye report and whatever is required, in terms of legislation, the National Assembly will do it,” Aliero told journalists after he emerged from closed-door talks with President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja on Thursday.
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Aliero described the report’s implementation as “overdue,” calling for a 50/50 per cent split in allocations for recurrent and capital expenditures, respectively.⁣
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Twelve years after it received the Stephen Oronsaye Report, the Federal Executive Council, on Monday, February 27, 2024, approved the implementation of some of its recommendations to reduce the cost of governance. ⁣
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Consequently, 29 government agencies were earmarked for merger, even as eight parastatals will be subsumed into eight other agencies. Four agencies have been relocated to four various ministries, while one was tagged for scrapping.⁣
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Submitted in 2012, the Oronsaye report on public sector reforms revealed that there were 541 statutory and non-statutory—Federal Government parastatals, commissions and agencies.⁣
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A year earlier, then-President Goodluck Jonathan had set up the Presidential Committee on Restructuring and Rationalisation of Federal Government Parastatals, Commissions and Agencies under the leadership of former Head of Civil Service, Stephen Oronsaye.⁣
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The 800-page report recommended that 263 of the statutory agencies be slashed to 161, 38 agencies be scrapped, 52 be merged and 14 be reverted to departments in various ministries.⁣
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A Sunday According analysis revealed that the Nigerian Government could save over N241bn if the report is duly implemented.⁣
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Aliero, who has chaired the Senate committee on land transport since August 2023, maintained, “The Oronsoye report implementation has been long overdue because the cost of governance is getting extremely high to the extent that over 70 per cent of whatever is budgeted goes into running government leaving only 30 per cent for capital projects. ⁣
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“This is not good for a developing country like Nigeria. I will be very glad if we can reduce the cost of governance by about 50 per cent and then 50 per cent of the budgeted amount should be used for capital development.⁣
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“So the National Assembly is certainly in support of the implementation of the Oronsoye report and anybody who means well for Nigeria will certainly support the implementation of this report. It is a well-intentioned report. It should have been implemented a long time ago.”⁣
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Asked about the National Assembly’s contribution to ease implementation, the former Kebbi State Governor said, “The National Assembly is working hand-in-hand with the executive branch of the government. There is harmony. There is a cordial relationship between the National Assembly and the executive arm and it will continue.” ⁣
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Aliero, a member of the main opposition, the Peoples Democratic Party, argued that his party is a “responsible opposition.” ⁣
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He urged lawmakers to prioritise the nation over party affiliations when deliberating on matters critical to Nigerians’ welfare. ⁣
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“We have a responsible opposition. Wherever the government is going wrong, we come and tell the government, ‘You are wrong. Do the right thing.’ And it doesn’t mean that cooperation or harmony means compromising whatever is your party’s stance. ⁣
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“Once you are elected, and particularly in the National Assembly, we have only one government. We have one senate. ⁣Even if you have differences of party, it should not show in the debate you are doing. ⁣
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“What is most important is to defend the interests of Nigeria. Do what is good for the entire country. Don’t look at your party.” ⁣
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Aleiro described his visit to the President as a “friendly” engagement that allowed him to “talk about the situation in the country generally, particularly the security situation and also the inflationary trend.” ⁣
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However, he admitted discussions on “several issues” some of which, he said, “I cannot reveal to you because it’s so personal to me and him.”

Saraki’s office knocks Akpabio over constituency project funding

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Saraki’s office knocks Akpabio over constituency project funding

The Abubakar Bukola Saraki Media Office has responded to Senate President, Godswill Akpabio’s recent accusations that the leadership of the 8th Senate failed to fully fund constituency projects for its members.

Reacting to a comment by the Chief Whip of the red chamber, Ali Ndume, on Wednesday, Akpabio said he was a member of the “Nigerian Senate” and not “Saraki’s Senate.”

Akpabio said, “This is the Nigerian Senate. If you say I was part of Saraki’s Senate, it means I was part of those who paid 40 per cent of the constituency project, and 60 per cent has not been paid up till today.”

However, In a statement released on Thursday by the Head of Abubakar Bukola Saraki Media Office, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki’s office stated, “Our initial response was to ignore the report because Dr. Saraki believes there are more serious existential issues confronting our country and her people like hunger and extreme hardship which should keep the leaders disturbed, busier, and more focused than throwing banters.

“However, the office felt compelled to explain the project funding process to prevent the public from being misguided about the roles of various institutions and individuals.

“For clarification, the Saraki Media Office will want members of the public to note that then President Muhammadu Buhari deliberately refused to approve funds for the constituency projects of members of the Eighth National Assembly obviously to punish the members for questioning some of the loan requests presented by the executive before the legislature.”

The office accused the Buhari government of being hostile towards the legislature’s scrutiny of loan requests, stating, “Instead of viewing the legislature’s scrutiny of the loan’s request and the demand for elaborate explanations that would help in making informed decisions as democratic necessities, the Buhari government’s reaction was to be hostile and to seek to stifle the performance of the legislature.”

“The refusal to fund constituency projects of members of the legislature was used as one of the retaliatory instruments. That was the experience of the 8th National Assembly,” the statement read.

The office also took a swipe at Akpabio, who served as Senate minority leader for over three years during the 8th Senate’s tenure.

“Mr. Akpabio, as Senate minority leader for over three years in the four-year tenure of the 8th Senate ought to know better and even his experience as Senate President in the last eight months also ought to have made him more informed.

“Therefore, Mr. Akpabio is very well aware that the leadership of the Eighth Senate cannot be held responsible for failure to fund constituency projects,” it noted.

The statement said Akpabio was playing politics with facts and making a joke of serious national issues, stating, “Unfortunately, he chose to play politics with facts, and as usual, make a joke and jest with serious national issues.”

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