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Senators champion Tinubu’s nominees, turning screening session into a comedic spectacle.
In the wake of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s presidential election win on February 25, expectations soared that the new leader would quickly assemble his cabinet, breaking from the pace of his predecessor, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, who took nearly six months to announce his ministers. Despite the initial anticipation, President Tinubu only released his list of 28 ministerial nominees close to the 60-day submission deadline after his swearing-in. Another batch of 19 nominees followed shortly after, totaling 47 names sent to the Senate for confirmation.
The screening process in the Senate was a blend of rigorous scrutiny, drama, and intrigue. Some nominees faced tough questions about their qualifications and past records, while others received a quick pass with the traditional “take a bow and go” gesture. Notably, nominee Bello Muhammed from Sokoto State stirred controversy over his academic qualifications. Another nominee, Prof. Joseph Utsev, raised eyebrows with his claim of starting primary school at three. During the session, tech guru and nominee, Bosun Tijani, faced questions about his past critical tweets on Nigeria.
The varied reactions and approaches by the senators during the screening sessions reflect the complex interplay of politics, personal histories, and the diverse expectations of a nation waiting for effective governance.
The Senate’s screening for ministerial appointments had its fair share of drama and unexpected turns. A significant instance was when former Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, appeared for screening. His previous confrontations with lawmakers came back to haunt him. Senator Darlington Nwokocha from Abia Central voiced concerns over Keyamo’s past actions, especially his alleged disregard for legislative summons and involvement in a controversial employment scheme. Despite these accusations, after a closed-door session, the Senate permitted Keyamo to apologize, after which he was allowed to proceed without further scrutiny.
However, not all went smoothly. Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, did not receive confirmation, alongside Abubakar Danlandi from Taraba State and Stella Okotete, former Nexim Bank Managing Director, from Delta State. The Senate cited ongoing “security clearance” as the reason for the delay. Following the non-confirmation, El-Rufai announced his disinterest in the ministerial position and subsequently left the country after meeting with the President.
Overall, the current Senate displayed leniency, with Senate President Akpabio often intervening to ease the process for nominees. This soft approach contrasts sharply with previous Senate sessions where nominees underwent rigorous screenings.
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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