News
APC Condemns Edo State Government’s Harassment of Media
The All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council wishes to address the recent controversy surrounding the burrow pits in the Obagie N’ Evbosa axis of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.
Authoritative sources have confirmed that these pits, traditionally operated by the Palace of the Benin Monarch, were allocated by the Edo State Government to a private individual. This decision has sparked significant concern among the people of Edo State.
We are aware that the Edo State Government’s decision to reverse its allocation was largely due to the public outcry following the exposure of this information by an online medium. The dissemination of this information to the public has been instrumental in prompting the government to reconsider its position.
The APC Campaign Council commends the role of the media in bringing such issues to light, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
However, we strongly condemn the subsequent actions taken by the Edo State Government to harass the publisher of the online medium. The reported threats of court orders, alongside the involvement of the Police and the Directorate of State Services (DSS), are unnecessary and constitute an attempt to intimidate and suppress the freedom of the press. Such actions are counter-productive and undermine the principles of democracy and free speech.
The appropriate course of action for the government, if it believes it has been misrepresented, is to issue a rejoinder or formal response to clarify its stance. Resorting to intimidation tactics only serves to distract from the core issue under reference, and raises further questions about the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
It is pertinent to note that this incident is not an isolated one but part of a broader pattern of anti-people and anti-Palace policies executed by the current Edo State administration. The allocation of communal resources to private individuals without adequate consultation and transparency is indicative of a governance style that prioritizes personal interests over the welfare of the citizens.
The APC Campaign Council calls on the Edo State Government to uphold the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability. We urge the government to respect the role of the media in society and to desist from actions that are direct and deliberate attempts to stifle free expression. The government should focus on addressing the genuine concerns of the people and implementing policies that promote the common good.
As we approach the gubernatorial election, it is crucial for the citizens of Edo State to be vigilant and informed about the actions and policies of those in power. The APC remains committed to advocating for the interests of the people and ensuring that their voices are heard.
The Edo DSS should not be a tool in the hands of Edo state Government to witch-hunt and harass innocent citizens on trumped up accusations. The Nigeria Police, Edo State Command should also not get itself involved in taking compromised position on issues such as the one under reference.
In conclusion, we reiterate our condemnation of the harassment of the media and call on the Edo State Government to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to intimidation. We stand firm in our commitment to holding the government accountable and ensuring that the rights and interests of the people of Edo State are protected.
It is for this reason that we call on all Edo voters to support and vote for the aspiration of Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC, to usher in a new lease of life for the overall good of the people. This high level intimidation, harassment and threat must stop, and DSS must live within the bounds of law and order.
…as reps panel reviewed over 150 bills
By Gloria Ikibah
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has reaffirmed the 10th National Assembly’s commitment to delivering a Constitution that reflects the interests and aspirations of Nigerians.
Speaking at the close of a two-day retreat in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, organized by the House Committee on Constitution Review, Kalu commended lawmakers for their dedication. The retreat focused on reviewing bills, incorporating expert input, prioritizing proposals based on national interest, and preparing for zonal public hearings and a harmonization process with the Senate.
As Chairman of the Committee, Kalu stressed the importance of the constitutional review process, urging members to stay resolute in their task. He expressed confidence that their collective efforts would produce a people-centered Constitution.
During the retreat, the committee reviewed, amended, and voted on over 151 bills referred by the House. These bills, grouped into key thematic areas, covered federal structure and power devolution, local government autonomy, fiscal federalism, revenue allocation, and electoral and judicial reforms.
…advocate PPP, endowment at ZEDA AGM
By Gloria Ikiba
The Speaker House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has emphasised the need for diversified funding sources in Nigeria’s education sector to reduce dependence on government allocations.
He highlighted Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and endowment funds as viable alternatives to sustain and improve education financing.
Speaker Abbas made this call on Saturday during the 31st and 32nd Annual General Meeting of the Zaria Education Development Association (ZEDA) in Zaria, Kaduna State.
He was also honoured by constituents for his contributions to society.
As Chairman of the combined AGM, Abbas encouraged ZEDA to explore various funding opportunities to support educational development.
The Speaker stated that human capital development remains the cornerstone of our national progress, citing the examples of Japan, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Luxembourg, Ireland, and Denmark, which have achieved remarkable progress.
He said: “Diversifying funding streams is critical as well. By establishing endowment funds or engaging in public private partnerships, we can reduce our reliance on government funding. Successful models in countries such as Denmark and Ireland have demonstrated that diversified funding can drive long-term, sustainable growth in the education sector”.
“They have done so not by relying solely on natural resources but by investing heavily in education, training, and innovation. Their success is reflected in their high rankings on the Human Development Index and ease of doing business.
“Nigeria, blessed with vast natural resources, must equally prioritise the development of its people to realise its full potential”.
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas underscored Zaria’s long-standing educational legacy, tracing back to the 16th century, as a cornerstone of academic excellence and national development.
Recognized as home to Ahmadu Bello University and several other institutions, he highlighted Zaria’s vital contributions to Nigeria’s intellectual and professional landscape.
“Our collective history compels us to safeguard and expand this legacy for future generations,” said Abbas, who represents Zaria Federal Constituency. He noted that several new educational initiatives he facilitated would significantly enhance learning opportunities in Kaduna State and beyond.
Among these are a Federal College of Education, a College of Health Sciences, a National Open University of Nigeria campus, and a College of Legal Studies. “Once fully operational, these institutions will drive both educational and socio-economic progress within our community,” he stated.
However, Abbas stressed the need to tackle obstacles hindering educational growth, particularly at the primary and secondary levels, and noted challenges such as out-of-school children, support for learners with special needs, and overall education quality as urgent issues requiring attention.
He said: “I commend the proactive measures by Governor Uba Sani’s administration in Kaduna State. The efforts have notably reduced the number of out-of-school children through the construction of over 62 new secondary schools, thereby addressing critical infrastructure deficits.
“Looking ahead, it is imperative that ZEDA continuously evolves to meet emerging challenges. Successful models, such as the United Kingdom Education Development Trust and Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research, have shown the benefits of embracing digital innovation.
“ZEDA should integrate technology in order to transform how we monitor educational outcomes, facilitate virtual training for teachers, and expand access to learning resources. By doing so, we can connect stakeholders, streamline processes, and enhance transparency.”
In the House of Representatives, the Speaker pointed out that the Legislative Agenda is aligned with these priorities.
He said: “We remain committed to advancing universal basic education, enhancing secondary and technical education, and integrating innovative reforms that address both current and future challenges.”
Speaker Abbas hailed the Grand Patron of ZEDA , His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, LLD, for his “fatherly guidance and unwavering commitment have been a beacon for ZEDA.”
Later, Emir Bamalli thanked the Speaker and other prominent indigenes of Zaria for their developmental strides in the ancient city. The monarch emphasised the importance of ZEDA to Zaria, while seeking more support from stakeholders.
By Gloria Ikiba
The Speaker House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has emphasised the need for diversified funding sources in Nigeria’s education sector to reduce dependence on government allocations.
He highlighted Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and endowment funds as viable alternatives to sustain and improve education financing.
Speaker Abbas made this call on Saturday during the 31st and 32nd Annual General Meeting of the Zaria Education Development Association (ZEDA) in Zaria, Kaduna State.
He was also honoured by constituents for his contributions to society.
As Chairman of the combined AGM, Abbas encouraged ZEDA to explore various funding opportunities to support educational development.
The Speaker stated that human capital development remains the cornerstone of our national progress, citing the examples of Japan, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Luxembourg, Ireland, and Denmark, which have achieved remarkable progress.
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas underscored Zaria’s long-standing educational legacy, tracing back to the 16th century, as a cornerstone of academic excellence and national development.
Recognized as home to Ahmadu Bello University and several other institutions, he highlighted Zaria’s vital contributions to Nigeria’s intellectual and professional landscape.
“Our collective history compels us to safeguard and expand this legacy for future generations,” said Abbas, who represents Zaria Federal Constituency. He noted that several new educational initiatives he facilitated would significantly enhance learning opportunities in Kaduna State and beyond.
Among these are a Federal College of Education, a College of Health Sciences, a National Open University of Nigeria campus, and a College of Legal Studies. “Once fully operational, these institutions will drive both educational and socio-economic progress within our community,” he stated.
However, Abbas stressed the need to tackle obstacles hindering educational growth, particularly at the primary and secondary levels, and noted challenges such as out-of-school children, support for learners with special needs, and overall education quality as urgent issues requiring attention.
Rep Salam Congratulates Governor Adeleke On Successful Conduct Of LG Elections
10th NASS Committed to Constitutional Reforms – Kalu
Speaker Abbas Urges Alternative Education Funding, Less Reliance on Govt
Just in: Terrorists ambush military truck, kill all soldiers on board
Nigerian Dancer, Korra Obidi Attacked with acid, stabbed on stage In UK
Meet Rare Gem 16 Years Old Chiaza, CEO of ‘RUN MARKET PLACE’
-
News23 hours agoNo New States as House Committee Rejects 31 Creation Requests – Deputy Speaker
-
News8 hours agoBook launch: Abacha’s daughter, Gumsu derides Babangida
-
News22 hours agoOSUN LG POLLS: Gov Adeleke Orders Restriction Of Vehicular Movement
-
News22 hours agoPolice Call for Suspension of Osun LG Elections, As Adeleke announces poll for tomorrow
-
News22 hours agoNAFDAC Uncovers Loads Of Vaccines For Yellow Fever, Others Hidden Under Staircase In Lagos
-
News8 hours agoJustice Delayed: The Imperative for Accountability in the Wake of Ibrahim Babangida’s Autobiography
-
News8 hours agoSocial media in awe as former RCCG pastor ties nuptials with male lover
-
News16 hours agoIBB’s attempt to alter history must be dismissed – Odumakin