Category: OPINION

By Philip Agbese A lot has been said about the 2024 budget proposal submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu. I recall a mention of an empty budget submitted without details. I struggle to come to terms with such a position. It is a no-brainer. However, we must be assured that there is no way such would work, not even in a banana republic. As a member of the House of Representatives, I am aware that the budget proposal submitted came with the necessary details on income and…

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It was the celebrated English Nobel Laureate, Rudyard Kipling who said- perhaps tongue-in cheek or in a moment of spirited devotion, that “God could not be everywhere at once, therefore he made mothers”. An effusive hyperbole on his part, no doubt, but I suppose he did drive home his intended point home, succinctly and with precision with that statement. I’m inclined to empathize with the sentiments that drove him to say that for it is my considered belief that Mothers were created to keep us mortals in remembrance of the…

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By James Pam In a democratic society, the rule of law is the bedrock upon which the system thrives. It ensures fairness, justice, and equal opportunity for all citizens. However, recent events surrounding the judgments between Yusuf Gagdi and Caleb Mutfwang have raised concerns about the integrity of our democracy. Yusuf Gagdi, a member of APC political party, has been unfairly targeted by the PDP. This vendetta seems to stem from their own mistakes and mishandling of electoral matters during the 2023 elections. By shifting the blame onto Gagdi, the…

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By Philip Agbese The Honourable Speaker of the House of Representatives is an audacious man. Those who know him would attest to his brilliance and clarity of thought. This much he has exhibited since the inauguration of the 10th Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He has set an audacious agenda that, if fully implemented, Nigerians would see a robust contribution of the House of Representatives to nation-building. His style could be likened to the People’s Assembly for all, regardless. I admire his courage and commitment to lead solely in…

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By James Abu The news report with the above headline, published by the Authority Newspaper on Friday 12 November 2023, is a sad reminder that in our country, the reward for working hard is being maligned. How else does one explain how the member representing Pankshin/Kanam/Kanke Federal Constituency of Plateau State, Hon. Yusuf Gadgi, was tenuously linked to what he did not say? The spin of the story beggars belief and is in the territory of Nollywood scriptwriting. My initial reaction to seeing the headline was curiosity, which prompted me…

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Today, I write with profound appreciation, admiration, and utmost respect to commend and pay homage to an extraordinary individual who has exemplified the true essence of democracy and the power of accepting the will of the people. It is with great honor that I take this moment to recognize and celebrate His Excellency George Weah, a man whose journey from the football field to the presidency has filled us with immense pride as Africans and shattered the misconceptions that democracy cannot thrive in our remarkable continent. George Weah, a name…

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By Ucha Wilberforce One of Nigeria’s finest learned minds, Pius Ukeyima Akuta, Esq, has been confirmed as Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC). Until his appointment and confirmation, Akutah was Principal State Counsel in the Office of the Honorable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Federal Ministry of Justice. The Nigerian Shippers’ Council is the Port Economic Regulator and a trade facilitation agency, with the responsibility to promote fair trade practices in the industry amongst the providers and consumers of shipping and port services. Its…

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-Dr Olukayode Ajulo, OON It is imperative for me to propose the urgent implementation of prison electronic tags for inmates awaiting trial in Nigeria. This initiative aims to address the pressing issue of overcrowding in prisons, expedite the judicial process, and optimize the utilization of government resources. The current state of Nigeria’s prison system is burdened by the high number of inmates awaiting trial. According to recent statistics, a significant proportion of the prison population comprises individuals who have not yet been convicted. This situation not only exacerbates issues of…

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By Okanga Agila In the world of politics, loyalty is a virtue that is often tested, and those who remain steadfast in their commitment to their mentors are few and far between. It is a rare sight to witness a politician who remains steadfastly committed to their mentor, regardless of the challenges and temptations that come their way. Femi Gbajabiamila, the former speaker of the House of Representatives and current Chief of Staff in Nigeria, is one such individual who epitomizes unwavering loyalty. His unwavering devotion to his mentor, Asiwaju…

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Without a word spoken about the forthcoming governorship contest in 2024, one individual has more than most, unsettled the political stratosphere in Edo State. That man is Dr. Asue Ighodalo. Various individuals have begun to organize phantom groups to make statements about Asue’s possible candidature, in clear display of jitters and fears that his entering the contest may cause a seismic shift. This heightened tension over the man who from a distance appears quite innocuous has forced me into some research into his background and the following are my findings…

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