Television Nigerian

Tukur Mamu, a former terrorist negotiator, was given permission by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday to see his doctor.

In relation to the terror attack on a Kaduna-Abuja train in March of last year, which resulted in the deaths of at least eight people and scores of others being kidnapped for ransom, the publisher and preacher residing in Kaduna is on trial.

Mamu was charged with ten charges, including financing of terrorism, when she was arraigned in March of this year.

He was charged with accepting $120,000 in ransom payments from the relatives of the hostages of the train attack on behalf of the terrorist group Boko Haram. Mamu was also charged with speaking with a Boko Haram spokesman named Baba Adamu via voicemail on terrorist activities.

The Department of State Services requested that he be tried in private in order to protect the prosecution’s witnesses.

Mamu requested permission from the court to see his doctor in a Motion on Notice with the file number FHC/ABJ/CR/96/2023 because his health was getting worse.

In addition, he requested that the court direct the DSS to take him for surgery in accordance with the advice of his Egyptian and Nigerian physicians.

The application was contested by the Federal Government, represented by David Kaswe, in a counter-affidavit.

He said that the DSS had a working hospital and a group of physicians who could take care of his problem.

Next, in light of the charges against him, Kaswe implored the court to deny the application.

In her ruling on Tuesday, Justice Inyang Ekwo questioned Kaswe about the defendant’s right to see his doctor.

“Yes, My Lord, he is, as long as it is within the supervision of our team (of physicians),” he replied in response.

However, Mamu’s doctor was directed by Justice Ekwo to treat him under the DSS medical team’s supervision.

“I issue an order allowing the treating physician to administer medical care to him under the observation of the prosecution’s physician. The judge declared, “This is the order of this court.”

The budget plan for 2024 will be approved on December 30, 2023, according to Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas.

At the Tuesday plenary session’s restart, Abbas made this statement from the Green Chamber floor.

He informed the chairmen of the committees that they had received instructions from the Appropriations Committee to create reports detailing the budget defences made by the various ministries, departments, and agencies, and to submit them by Tuesday at the latest, at 8 p.m. ($04).

The Speaker opened plenary by welcoming his colleagues and announcing that the formal day for the passage of the budget would be planned for Saturday, December 30, 2023. This was done to allow the various committees to examine the 2024 Appropriations Bill. The break had lasted for two weeks. All other related tasks, such as bill processing, compilation, and harmonisation, will occur in between. Thus, if you’re planning a Christmas trip, try to remember that Saturday, December 30th is the day we formally approve the 2024 budget.

Additionally, he made a request to all the committees to do their work on budget defence by Tuesday at the latest, adding, “This is an appeal to all committees that are unable to finish their budget defence and submit their reports.” The deadline for them to complete and perhaps present their reports for defence at the Appropriations Committee office is this Tuesday at 8 p.m.

Tuesday saw the House decide to look into the loopholes that prevent the country’s ports and harbours from fully realising their economic potential.

After a motion co-sponsored by Ibrahim Isiaka and Julius Ihonvbere, the House Leader, was adopted, this happened.

In the midst of the motion’s debate, led by Ihonvbere, the House noted that the maritime sector—which has underutilised seaports that could boost revenue and the country’s Gross Domestic Product—is essential to Nigeria’s economic survival.

According to the House, only 10% of West African imports reach Nigeria’s seaports, out of 60% of total imports intended for the country. This represents a substantial economic loss resulting from ineffective management and inefficiencies, estimated to be worth $7 billion yearly.

“Most ships carrying commodities to Nigeria would rather dock at foreign ports than in Nigeria, which worries the House. In fact, Benin Republic gains from Nigeria’s sizable market, but Cotonou continues to be a well-liked haven for importers. However, due to inadequate shipping connectivity and shallow drafts in the port channels, massive trade cargoes are lost to Togo and other neighbouring countries, where they are then offloaded and transshipped to Nigeria. These losses are estimated to have cost N250 billion in 2016 alone.

“Why the country cannot develop the ports of Calabar, Port Harcourt, Warri, and Koko as a haven for importers in the region, and why it cannot relieve the load on the ports of Lagos, are concerns that the House has. Another major concern we have is that the expanding cargo and maritime industry may not have enough infrastructure or capacity.

The House charged its Committees on Ports and Harbours, Maritime Safety Education and Administration, National Planning and Economic Development, and Nigerian Shippers’ Council with “investigating the gap affecting the full realisation of the economic advantage of Ports and Harbours and other Blue Economy in Nigeria” when it adopted the motion.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has been applauded for his laudable reforms in the aviation sector in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations for Monitoring and Evaluation of the Renewed Hope Agenda gave the commendation in collaboration with the Coalition of Middle Belt Groups and Faith-Based Organizations.

The groups said significant progress has been made in infrastructure development, safety and security, reforms, policy formulation as well as institutional Strengthening.

In a detailed report signed and made public by the convener, Tobias Ogbe, the group noted that the industry under Keyamo is experiencing an evolution thanks to President Tinubu’s resolve to prioritise the development and modernisation of the aviation sector.

“One of the key areas of focus has been the upgrade and expansion of airport infrastructure across the country. Several airports have undergone extensive renovations, leading to improved facilities, enhanced capacity, and increased operational efficiency. These infrastructure developments have not only boosted economic activities but have also positioned Nigeria as a regional aviation hub, attracting more airlines and promoting tourism,” Ogbe said.

“We are happy with the way President Tinubu’s administration has placed a strong emphasis on enhancing safety and security measures in the aviation sector, and the Minister made sure to speak this development into reality through his actions. Stringent regulations, improved training programs, and the implementation of advanced technology have so far contributed to a significant reduction in accidents and incidents. It is also worthy of note to state that the establishment of effective security protocols has also played a crucial role in safeguarding passengers, crew, and airport facilities.

“The aviation sector reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda have been instrumental in reshaping the industry and promoting sustainable growth. Key reforms have been implemented in various areas, including regulatory frameworks, policy formulation, and institutional strengthening. Several reformations have implemented to further solidify this agenda.

“President Tinubu’s administration has prioritized the review and update of existing aviation regulations to align with international standards and best practices. This has created a more conducive environment for both domestic and foreign investors, fostering healthy competition and encouraging innovation in the sector.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda has also focused on formulating policies that promote the growth and development of the aviation industry. Streamlined processes, simplified procedures, and the removal of unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles have made it easier for stakeholders to operate efficiently. These policies have also encouraged the emergence of new airlines, improved connectivity, and increased accessibility for remote areas.

“Owing to the need to ensure effective implementation of reforms, the Tinubu administration has worked towards strengthening the institutions responsible for overseeing the aviation sector. Training and capacity-building programs have been introduced to enhance the skills and knowledge of industry professionals. Collaboration with international aviation bodies has further facilitated knowledge transfer and exchange of best practices.”

The group, however, admitted there is still a lot of work to be done. Ogbe harped on: “Continued investment in airport infrastructure to support the growing demand for air travel and ensure passenger comfort.

“Strengthening of safety and security measures through regular audits, training, and adoption of advanced technologies. Enhancement of regulatory frameworks to promote healthy competition, protect consumer rights, and attract more foreign investment.”

On Tuesday, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde delivered the Instrument of Office and Staff of Office to Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the new Soun of Ogbomosoland, at Ogbomoso Township Stadium.

Makinde confirmed the selection of Oba Olaoye from Olaoye Ruling House on September 2, and the kingmakers in the ancient town led by the Areago of Ogbomoso, High Chief Sobalaje Otolorin, installed him as the new Soun of Ogbomosoland on September 8.
Makinde, while presenting the staff of office to the new Soun, said, “I will now hand over the Instrument of Office and Staff of Office to Oba Ghandi Olaoye, Orumogege III.”

In his acceptance speech, Oba Olaoye said, “My service is premised on a clear vision. I am very aware of the words that the wisest of Kings recorded for us in the book of Proverbs that without a vision, the people perish.
“My vision for a prosperous and peaceful Ogbomosholand rests on a detailed 25-year plan, to be unveiled in the coming months. I promise to serve this vision with all I have, the relationships I have built over the years here in Nigeria and abroad, the experience I have garnered from running several successful businesses, and the skills garnered from more than 30 years of pastoring churches and other pastors. As I have said on several occasions, I have stopped being a church pastor and now become a shepherd of a people”, Oba Olaoye assured.

The monarch, therefore, urged other contestants to join hands with him to move the town forward.

Among the dignitaries at the presentation included the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja III, Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, immediate past Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, former Minister of Information, Lai Muhammed, and a host of other eminent Nigerians.

The 2024 budget will be approved on Saturday, December 30, 2023, according to House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

As the House reconvened in plenary on Tuesday, Abbas made this declaration.

He was doing this when he conveyed a message from the Committee on Appropriations to several House committees, directing them to complete and turn in their reports on the defence of the government’s budget by 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 19, 2023.

According to him, other budget-related activities like compilation, processing and harmonization would take place in between.

Recall that the House had suspended plenary on December 1, to conduct budget proposal defence towards speedy passage of the Appropriation Bill.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had in November, proposed a budget of N27.5 trillion for the 2024 fiscal year.

The budget was presented to a joint session of the National Assembly for scrutiny and deliberations for final approval.

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In his presentation, Tinubu declared, “The 2024 Appropriation has been themed the Budget of Renewed Hope. The proposed budget seeks to achieve job-rich economic growth, macro-economic stability, a better investment environment, enhanced human capital development, as well as poverty reduction and greater access to social security.”

Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Minister, said the Rivers State political issue is not an ethnic war and advised politicians not to pull the ladder they used to rise to power.

He claimed his state political team won’t let anyone bring it down.

The immediate past Rivers State governor said this on Sunday when addressing Ogba traditional rulers who visited him in Port Harcourt.

As they sought peace over the state’s problem, the traditional rulers, led by Nwachukwu Nnam-Obi III, visited Wike to celebrate his 56th birthday.

Wike told the monarchs he would listen to their counsel and accept peace on the political turmoil in the state, adding they did not vote by ethnicity in the last governorship election.

He responded, “No politician will fold his hands and be dragged down.

I and my crew would welcome peace, but we won’t be dragged down. Who will protect our people? Who will discuss our interests?

The former governor said every social group has norms for behaving.

He said, “Rules are everywhere, even in traditional institutions. You cannot escape them. Political groups have rules.

“You cannot say that because an Oba has emerged and will not follow traditional institution rules.

““No! Obas always follow rules. You must also avoid certain actions in politics.

“Do not pull your climbing ladder. Coming down, the ladder may not be there. Leave the ladder for others to climb.”

Wike and his political godson, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, have been fighting.

After the bombing of the state House of Assembly building and an attempt to impeach Fubara, 27 Wike supporters defected to the All Progressives Congress.

Jonathan Majors, an American actor, was convicted of assaulting and harassing his ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari.

ABC News reported that a six-person New York jury decided the case on Monday after four hours of deliberation.

After a fight with his ex-partner in March, Majors was arrested and charged with four assaults. Jabbari claims she saw a message from another lady on his phone during a night out and fought.

Jabbari had a laceration behind her ear and a broken finger when inspected. In his trial, the 34-year-old actor pled not guilty and did not testify.

The Marvel star was convicted of third-degree reckless assault and second-degree harassment on Monday. The jury acquitted him of two other deliberate assault and aggravated harassment charges.

Ross Kramer, the victim’s attorney, said the jury’s verdict was justice.

Ross said, “Ms. Jabbari testified publicly and truthfully, even though reliving these traumatic events on the witness stand was obviously painful. Please thank the jurors, judge, and Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for their time and support.

“Ms. Jabbari’s determination to finish this case shows her strength and resilience. Unfortunately, for every survivor like Ms. Jabbari who holds their abuser accountable, many more fear they cannot. Her actions should motivate more survivors to speak up and seek justice.”

Next year, Majors will be sentenced on February 6.