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NASS Plays Robust Role In Consolidating Nigeria’s Democracy Since 1999 -Dogara
By Aaron Ossai
By paying particular attention to capacity strengthening, the National Assembly has made appreciable progress in fulfilling its democratic obligations to Nigerians, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Yakubu Dogara, has said.
The Speaker explained that parliamentary capacity development is very important to ensure the balance of power between the branches of a democratic system – the Executive, Legislative and Judiciary – which enables the mechanism of checks and balances essential to sustainable economic growth and development.
The Speaker made this known at the third matriculation ceremony of the National Institute of Legislative Studies (NILS)/University of Benin (UNIBEN) Postgraduate Programme at the National Assembly.
He said it is common knowledge in parliaments across the world that nothing hinders the delivery of the promise of democracy more than lack of capacity.
Commending NILS/UNIBEN for the programmes designed to build capacity of legislative staff, while he noted has started yielding positive outcomes, he argued that the knowledge imparted on them will build a pool of competent staff and members to enhance international best practices in the discharge of their duties.
“The point must be made that it is knowledge that animates parliaments all over the world while nothing stultifies the promise of democracy more than an intellectually hollow Parliament.
“By paying particular attention to capacity strengthening, the National Assembly has made appreciable progress in fulfilling its democratic obligations. The capacity of the National Assembly to make laws, review existing laws and perform legislative oversight and representative roles has been significantly enhanced and the technical capacity of staff and legislative aides is progressively being strengthened and expanded.
“These legislative responsibilities have become even more critical since the coming into operation of the 1999 Constitution as demonstrated by the robust role being played by the Legislature in our democracy and the movement towards an open society in which citizens participate more in matters of national importance, contribute in decision-making processes and demand greater accountability on the part of political office holders”, he said.
He congratulated both the students and some of the icons of the legislature who were honoured with Fellowship of National Institute for Legislative Studies (NILS), saying it is in recognition of their contributions to the growth and development of the legislature in Nigeria.
Those awarded with Fellows of NILS are former Presidents of the Senate, Dr Joseph Wayas, Senator Ken Nnamani, former Speakers of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Ghali Umar Na’Abba, , and Rt Hon. Aminu Bello Masari.
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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