Federal Government Restores 8,000 Delisted Civil Servants to IPPIS
A whopping 8,000 civil servants previously delisted from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) have been restored to the payment portal. While announcing the decision, the federal government explained that their previous exclusion was due to alleged infractions. The disclosure of their reinstatement came from Mr. Joshua Apebo, the General Secretary of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), during a function in Lagos on Wednesday. Recall that earlier in September, the federal government had removed over 17,000 workers from the IPPIS platform, citing non-compliance with a verification process spanning five years. However, following the intervention of ASCSN, the government, facilitated by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, initiated the verification of the 17,000 civil servants in October. Mr. Apebo highlighted this new development, stating, “As of yesterday (Dec. 19, 2023), over 8,000 delisted civil servants have had their names reinstated on the IPPIS, and the government has pledged to pay their December salary along with three months’ arrears.” Moreover, he mentioned that the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria had submitted a list of committee members to the government for negotiating the minimum wage. The committee, according to Apebo, is set to be inaugurated in January 2024 to commence the negotiation process. “The last minimum wage was inaugurated in April 2019, and the regulation stipulates every five years for a review. By April 2024, it will be five years. Therefore, I hope that the negotiation will be concluded before then,” he affirmed.
Kano Guber: S/Court reserve ruling on Yusuf’s appeal
The Supreme Court of Nigeria, Thursday, reserved judgment in an appeal instituted by the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf and it’s party, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). The Governor is before the court, praying it to set aside the decisions of the state governorship Tribunal and Appeal Court which nullified his victory in the March 18 governorship election. The five-member panel of justices headed by Justice John Okoro heard the matter in suit number SC/CV/1179 and cross appeals questioning the membership of Abba Yusuf abiding with the outcome. In his argument, the Governor, through his counsel, Wole Olanipekun SAN, faulted the nullification of his victory on grounds of the INEC presiding officer failing to sign or stamp the ballot papers. Olanipekun noted that it has nothing to do with the Electoral Act, insisting it is on INEC’s guidelines and as such not sufficient grounds to deem the votes unlawful warranting nullification. Olanipekun told the Apex Court panel that based on the evidence given by an expert witness during the Tribunal stage of the matter, only about 1,800 ballots were not signed or stamped. And that those are insignificant figures and as such insufficient to void the election. On the membership of Yusuf, Olanipekun stressed that it is the internal affair of the party concerned, with the courts therefore lacking jurisdiction to decide on the choice of a political party’s candidate. He therefore prayed the court to upturn the decision of the Appeal Court which affirmed the decision of the Tribunal sacking the governor. However, the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC), through its counsel, Abubakar Mahmoud, insisted that the key witness whose testimony was the ground for deducting the 165,616 votes of Yusuf deemed unlawful was a subpoened to give evidence. According to INEC, the witness testimony was inadmissible having not been front loaded along with the main petition at the Tribunal and as such his testimony and exhibits tendered are therefore incompetent. He maintained that the 165,616 ballot papers were authentic and originated from INEC and not elsewhere, adding that it’s not the duty of a voter, on the day of election, to check if a ballot paper is signed or stamped and without date of election, adding that’s the task of a party agent. Mahmoud further informed the Apex Court panel that the recounting of votes was done privately at the Tribunal chambers after the deduction of the contested 165,616 votes. He adds that even when they were brought to the Court of Appeal they weren’t demonstrated. INEC’s Counsel further told the Apex Court panel that only a portion of the unlawful ballots were examined at the Tribunal. Mahmoud thereby clarified that he is not taking sides except with respect to the correct interpretation of the law. On Yusuf’s membership of the NNPP, he stated that is an internal affair of the political party concerned and not for an external body, citing previous decisions of the apex court. He therefore added that it is not a constitutional matter as being claimed by the APC which relies on Section 177(c) of the Constitution, as amended, and Section 77 of the Electoral Act. He informed the Apex Court that the NNPP submitted the name of Abba Yusuf as its candidate for the governorship election, and that if the APC had anything against Yusuf’s candidacy it should have done so after INEC published the names of candidates. On his part, counsel for the All Progressive Congress (APC), Akin Olujimi, drew the attention of the court to the Section 177(c) of the Constitution, urging it to ride on it to determine the matter as it’s a constitutional issue
Tinubu Asks Senate To Confirm 11 Supreme Court Justices
President Bola Tinubu has formally submitted the names of eleven justices to the Senate, seeking confirmation for their appointments to the Supreme Court of Nigeria. This action, detailed in a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and disclosed during Wednesday’s plenary session, aligns with the constitutional provisions outlined in section 231(2) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. In the communication, President Tinubu identified the jurists slated for consideration and subsequent elevation to the apex court. The nominated justices encompass a diverse array of legal expertise and experience, including Justices Jummai Sankey, Stephen Adah, Mohammed Idris, Haruna Tsammani, Jamilu Tukur, Abubakar Umar, Chidiebere Uwa, Chioma Nwosu-Iheme, Obande Ogbuinya, Moore Adumein, and Habeeb Abiru.
Nigeria’s Public Debt Rises To N87.91 Trillion
Recently released data by Nigeria’s Debt Management Office (DMO) reveals a slight rise in the country’s total public debt, reaching N87.91 trillion in the third quarter of 2023. This represents a small 0.61% increase compared to the previous quarter’s N87.38 trillion. Breaking it down, the external debt amounted to N31.98 trillion, while the domestic debt was N55.93 trillion for the same period. The overall increase in debt was influenced by a drop in external debt, declining from $43.16 billion to $41.59 billion between June 30, 2023, and September 30, 2023. Conversely, domestic debt saw a moderate rise of N1.8 trillion during this period. The reduction in external debt was due to paying off a $500 million Eurobond and an initial payment of $413.859 million as part of the principal repayment on a $3.4 billion loan obtained from the International Monetary Fund during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The DMO stressed that consistently servicing these debts showcased the Federal Government’s dedication to meeting its financial responsibilities.
Lagos Government Orders Tankers, Trailers To Vacate Apapa
The Lagos State Government has urged trailers and tankers to clear the Apapa-Oshodi expressway promptly. Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser on Transportation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, made this call through an official statement today. He emphasized that these large vehicles continuously block traffic on the expressway, leading to disturbances and inconvenience for commuters. The aim of the directive is to ease traffic congestion and improve accessibility on the road for residents. Giwa highlighted that this action aims to create a more seamless commuting environment for everyone navigating through Lagos.
FG Announces 50% Reduction In Transport Fare
President Bola Tinubu has given the go-ahead for a 50% reduction in interstate travel fares for Nigerians during the festive season, starting from December 21, 2023, until January 4, 2024. Additionally, he has approved free rides on all train services within this period. The announcement was made by Mr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, during a briefing with State House Correspondents at Aso Rock Villa. He stated that travelers can benefit from this special presidential intervention by enjoying a half-price discount on public transport like mini and luxury buses. Moreover, all train services operating during the holiday season will be available at no cost. Alake emphasized that the government, in collaboration with transporters, road transport unions, and the Nigerian Railway Corporation, is committed to ensuring the seamless implementation of this initiative. He confirmed that consultations with relevant stakeholders have taken place, and the Minister of Transportation is fully informed and ready for effective execution. However, the initiative does not cover air travel, as it’s aimed at benefiting the masses rather than luxury air passengers. Alake clarified that since air travel is considered a luxury, the focus remains on providing support to the majority who rely on ground transportation.
Appear in 24 Hours: Senate orders Registrar General of the CAC
The Senate Committee on Finance has ordered Ishaq Hussain Magaji (SAN), the Registrar General of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), to appear before it in 24 hours. The Senator Sani Musa led Committee expressed deep frustration at the failure of Lawal to honor their invitation for the third consecutive time. The primary reason for Lawal’s appearance, according to the chairman, was to provide explanations regarding discrepancies discovered in the Commission’s 2024 budget, a matter that raised concerns among committee members. Despite multiple invitations sent to the CAC boss, Lawal remained absent, prompting outrage among senators. Senator Musa expressed disappointment, highlighting the significance of Lawal’s presence, especially in light of the financial irregularities found within the Commission’s financial records. Several senior officials from the Corporate Affairs Commission, present at the hearing, were unable to provide convincing reasons for Lawal’s absence, further aggravating the Committee members. Senator Bello Mandiya, representing Katsina South Senatorial District, strongly criticized Lawal’s non-appearance, drawing a parallel between the absence of the CAC’s Registrar General and the willingness of even the President to appear before such committees. The Committee, in reaction to the repeated absence of the Registrar General, deliberated on potential punitive actions. Senator Abdul Ningi emphasized the necessity of Lawal’s presence, urging the CAC officials not to shield him from accountability. Ningi stressed the importance of understanding the financial discrepancies and clarified that the responsibility of explanation rested with the Registrar General. Senator Musa, invoking Section 89(2), mandated the Inspector General of Police to ensure Lawal’s appearance before the Senate Committee on Finance within the stipulated 24-hour timeframe. The Committee reiterated the seriousness of the matter, emphasizing Lawal’s role as the custodian of the Corporate Affairs Commission’s financial affairs and the need for accountability in light of the detected irregularities. The outcome of this directive remains to be seen, as the Senate Committee on Finance continues its efforts to address the financial discrepancies within the Corporate Affairs Commission, placing significant pressure on Garba Lawal to provide the necessary explanations.
Nigerian Army Honours113 Retiring Generals
The Nigerian Army hosted a grand dinner gala to honor 113 retiring generals in an event to commemorate their remarkable service to the nation. Among the distinguished group were a full General, a Lieutenant General, 67 major generals, and 44 brigadier generals, individuals who either retired or were slated for retirement within the year. The ceremony, graced by esteemed figures including retired Gen. Lucky Irabor, the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, former Chief of Army Staff, and retired Maj.-Gen. Samuel Adebayo, Ex-Chief of Defence Intelligence, stood as a testament to these senior officers’ 35 years of unwavering dedication to the nation. Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru, lauded the retiring generals for their extensive experience, exceptional skills, integrity, discipline, dedication, loyalty, and inclusive mindset. Badaru emphasized the pivotal role these attributes would continue to play in guiding the retired officers in their future endeavors. He urged them to consider entering politics, citing their potential to instill discipline and patriotism in governance. While expressing gratitude to the retiring officers, Chief of Army Staff, LT.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, commended their honorable service and congratulated them on their meritorious disengagement from military duty. He extended heartfelt appreciation for their immense contributions to national security and wished them success in their retirement. Maj.-Gen. Jimmy Akpor, Chief of Administration (Army), underscored the significance of the dinner gala, stating its purpose was to pay tribute to the retiring generals for their unwavering commitment to the nation. He reiterated that such events were instituted by past Nigerian Army leaderships to ensure a memorable departure for retiring officers. In an expression of gratitude on behalf of the retired generals, Maj.-Gen. Victor Ezugwu conveyed profound thanks to the Chief of Army Staff for the honor bestowed upon them. He assured everyone of their continued dedication to upholding the core values and ideals of the Nigerian Army, even in retirement.
Chief, 20 residents kidnapped in Taraba by Gunmen
Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers, in the early hours of Tuesday, kidnapped a Second-Class Chief and 20 residents in the Pupule area of Yorro local government of Taraba state. The gunmen, according to locals, invaded the community around 2:am and took away 21 members of the community. Reports from the locals also indicated that, Umaru Abubakar, a Second- Class Chief in the area, his son and his pregnant daughter as well as his police orderly were kidnapped during the operation. “Twenty one members of our community here in Pupule, were kidnapped this morning. The gunmen invaded our community around 2: am and carried out the attack. “They kidnapped a second-class chief of our area, Alhaji Umaru Abubakar Nyala, his son and pregnant daughter as well as his police orderly,” the source who pleaded anonymity narrated. Usman Abdullahi, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Taraba State Police Command, also confirmed the attack.
UN Appoints Nigerian Professor a Member of Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan
The United Nations (UN) has appointed Professor Joy Ezeilo, a distinguished Nigerian legal expert, as a member of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan. This was announced by Václav Bálek, the President of the UN Human Rights Council. In a statement on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 Prof. Ezeilo will work alongside with Mohamed Chande Othman of Tanzania and Mona Rishmawi of Jordan/Switzerland on the mission. Othman shall Chair the three members of the new Independent International Fact-Finding Mission. The statement partly read: “The Human Rights Council established the Fact-Finding Mission in October, through resolution A/HRC/RES/54/2, “to investigate and establish the facts, circumstances and root causes of all alleged human rights violations and abuses and violations of international humanitarian law, including those committed against refugees, and related crimes in the context of the ongoing armed conflict that began on 15 April 2023, between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, as well as other warring parties.” The Mission, which was established for an initial duration of one year, was further requested to collect and analyse evidence in view of any future legal proceedings; to identify, where possible, individuals and entities responsible; and to make recommendations with a view to ending impunity and ensuring accountability and access to justice for victims. Prof Ezeilo has served as a Member of the United Nations Civil Society Advisory Board on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (Feb 2019 to Feb 2021); Board Member, UN Trust Fund for Victims of Trafficking (2013-2016). She is also Council Member Human Rights Institute of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and was recently appointed (April 2023) to the NBA Legal Education Committee. She was also a former Commissioner for Gender and Social Development, Enugu State, a federal delegate to the National Political Reform Conference, and served as a member of the Governing Council, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) between 2012 to 2015 and also Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) 2018- 2021. She is the founder of Women Aid Collective (WACOL) and Tamar SARC that collectively have provided over 60,000 free legal aid to women and children in difficult circumstances, including victims/survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.