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Kaduna Assembly Launches 13-Member Committee To Probe El-Rufai Administration

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In a bid to shed light on financial activities during Malam Nasir El-Rufai’s tenure, the Kaduna Assembly has established a 13-member adhoc committee.

The probe aims to scrutinize loans, grants, and project executions under the former governor’s administration, addressing concerns raised by various stakeholders regarding the utilization of borrowed funds.

The motion, tabled by Hon. Yusuf Mugu of Kaura Constituency, highlights the pressing need to investigate loans obtained by the previous administration.

Mugu stressed the importance of transparency in revealing how these funds were utilised for the benefit of the state.

Former Speaker Yusuf Zailani recounted his challenges during El-Rufai’s tenure, underscoring his efforts to oppose certain loan approvals.

Despite his reservations, the former governor proceeded with the borrowing process, leading to concerns about fiscal responsibility.

Members representing constituencies like Zangon Kataf and Jaba shed light on the legislative role in approving loans.

However, discrepancies arose in Kaduna’s case, prompting calls for accountability from past assembly leaders.

Speaker Yusuf Dahiru Liman emphasised the importance of inviting relevant stakeholders for thorough investigation.

The 13-man committee, chaired by Hon. Aminu Anti, will delve into financial dealings and project implementation spanning from 2015 to 2023.

Aside from examining El-Rufai’s administration, the committee will scrutinise top associates like Jimi Lawal.

Notable figures, including former speakers and commissioners, are expected to provide insights into financial transactions during the specified period.

Governor Uba Sani’s disclosure about inheriting substantial debts has sparked concerns within the APC ranks.

The revelation underscores the challenges in managing state finances and underscores the importance of transparency in governance.

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By initiating this investigation, the Kaduna Assembly aims to uphold accountability and restore public trust in governance, setting a precedent for transparency and responsible financial management.

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SSAP-SDGs Felicitates with Muslims on Eid-el-Fitr, Calls for Unity and Sustainable Development

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The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SSAP-SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, has extended heartfelt greetings to Muslims across Nigeria and beyond as they celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the successful conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement released in Abuja in her behalf by her Special Assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communications, Desmond Utomwen, the SSAP-SDGs emphasized the significance of Eid-el-Fitr as a time for gratitude, reflection, and unity. She highlighted the values of compassion, generosity, and solidarity, which define the season and align with the principles of sustainable development.

“Eid-el-Fitr is not only a period of celebration but also a moment for renewed commitment to building a more inclusive, just, and sustainable society where no one is left behind. The teachings of Ramadan inspire us to uphold peace, unity, and selflessness. These are values that are essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” she stated.

Princess Orelope-Adefulire called on Nigerians to use the occasion to promote harmony, foster mutual understanding, and work together in addressing socio-economic challenges. She reiterated the government’s commitment to accelerating progress on key SDGs targets, including poverty eradication, access to quality education, gender equality, and economic empowerment.

“As we mark this joyous occasion, let us remember those in need and extend kindness to the less privileged. Together, through collective action and a shared vision, we can advance sustainable development and create a better future for all,” she added.

The SSAP-SDGs concluded by wishing all Muslims a peaceful and blessed Eid celebration, urging them to continue embodying the virtues of Ramadan in their daily lives.

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Recall election costlier than constituency election – INEC

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it is more expensive to conduct a recall election than a constituency election.

Special Adviser to INEC Chairman, Mohammed Kunna, made this statement during an online discussion on “INEC Regulation and Guidelines for Recall 2024.” The discussion also covered BVAS and IREV: Facts and Myths.

The event was held on Saturday via the X social media platform.

Kunna explained that conducting a recall election was similar to conducting three constituency elections.

“Once a petition is received and verified to meet legal requirements, INEC must first conduct a verification exercise at the affected polling units.

“For that verification to happen, we have to use the Bi-Modal Voter Verification System (BVAS) because those who signed the petition must be verified as genuine registered voters in those units.

“Then, INEC needs to establish 50 per cent plus one signature from the constituency.

“After that, we proceed to the final stage: conducting the referendum, which involves a yes or no vote by registered voters in the constituency,” Kunna said.

He added that this process involved mobilising staff, deploying election materials, transportation, and other resources, much like conducting three senatorial district elections.

“In my opinion, the recall process is much more expensive than conducting a single senatorial district election,” he said.

The Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman, Mr Rotimi Oyekanmi, acknowledged the high cost but emphasised that INEC must adhere to the law.

“What is important is what the law says we should do in each case if constituents wish to recall their representatives,” Oyekanmi said.

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Earlier, Oyekanmi explained that INEC’s regulations and the Electoral Act specified the process for conducting a recall election.

“The law allows a recall election only if the petitioners meet constitutional requirements, including submitting signatures from at least half of the registered voters in the constituency.

“Once the petition is received, INEC performs a preliminary check and then verifies the signatures.

“The lawmaker facing recall is informed and has the right to deploy agents to observe the process.

“Observers and media personnel can also participate in the verification and referendum,” he said.

Oyekanmi also addressed the possibility of online voting, stating that the Constitution did not permit INEC to conduct electronic voting.(NAN)

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Ekiti governor approves waterway dredging to prevent flooding

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Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the dredging of more waterways in various communities to prevent flooding as the rainy season begins.

The Chairman of the Ekiti State Environmental Protection Agency (EKSEPA), Chief Bamitale Oguntoyinbo, confirmed this to journalists on Saturday in Ado-Ekiti.

Oguntoyinbo stated that some affected waterways are in Ado-Ekiti, Otun-Ekiti, Ido-Ekiti, Ise-Ekiti, and Ekiti West Local Government Area.

He emphasised that the initiative is necessary to curb flooding and urged residents to stop blocking waterways with refuse.

“I sincerely thank the governor for approving the dredging of waterways in towns and communities across Ekiti.

“EKSEPA has begun dredging in Otun-Ekiti, Ido-Ekiti, and other parts of the state to prevent flooding in all areas.

“I appeal to residents to refrain from dumping refuse in waterways to avert flooding,” he stated.

Oguntoyinbo commended the governor for taking proactive steps to protect life and property from flooding.

“I thank the governor for his efforts in safeguarding lives and properties. I urge all residents to dispose of their refuse properly at designated sites,” he said. (NAN)

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