News
True Federalism: Bauchi Gov Advocates More Powers to States
By Sule Aliyu, Bauchi
The Bauchi state government has observed that devolving more powers to the states especially in the areas of agriculture and educational sectors will give them some measures of autonomy and ensure the calls for true federalism which is being yearned for by some Nigerians.
According to the state government, if there should be restructuring, it should be on the basis of national consensus so that the yearnings and aspirations of the generality of Nigerians can be met.
Governor Mohammed Abubakar was speaking while giving this position at a zonal public hearing comprising four North Eastern states of Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe and Borno on ‘True Federalism’ held Monday in Bauchi.
Represented by his deputy, Engr. Nuhu Gidado, the governor advised that whatever position may be taken on the issue, it should be in tandem with the wishes and aspirations of the people as encapsulated in the manifestoes of the APC and in line with the change agenda which the party came along with.
He told the public hearing organized by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) that generality of Nigerians did not ascribe for the break-up of the country, as they believe that Nigeria can fare better if it remain as one indivisible country.
“There is the belief in some quarters that there is a Constitution in place in the country which has been the working document of government, it only need interpretation in areas that appears grey to some people and some adjustments within the ambit of the law”, he said.
Abubakar stressed the need for those that are dissatisfied with the system to freely channel their grievances through legitimate means, including those who argued that more power is concentrated in the Federal governments which make it difficult to execute some projects effectively.
He advocated for more powers to states especially in areas Education and Agriculture with the Federal Government formulating enabling policies on these sectors, and helping in research, saying states are on the land, and can organize schools based on their peculiarities.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) that organized the public hearing stressed the need for addressing memoranda on Creation/merger of States, Derivation Principle, Devolution of Powers, and Federating Units as to whether or not Nigerian federation be based on regions or zones as units or maintain the current 36 state structure.
It also enumerated other issues to be addressed such as Fiscal Federalism & revenue Allocation, Form of Government whether Presidential or Parliamentary, as well as Local Government Autonomy, Power Sharing & Rotation and Resource Control, among others.
The issues enumerated were forwarded to the public hearing by the APC committee on true Federalism, being chaired by former governor of Edo state, Senator O A Osunbor who also did not foreclosed other issues the forum believe deserves the attention of the party.
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
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