Politics
You Can’t Shield State Assemblies From Accountability — Pro-Democracy Group Replies Conference of Speakers
The Citizens Coalition for Transparency and Accountability (CCTA) has strongly condemned the recent stance of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, who rejected the summons issued by the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions to the Speakers of the Benue and Zamfara State Houses of Assembly.
In a statement released on Saturday, the CCTA called out the speakers for attempting to shield state assemblies from scrutiny, asserting that no institution or arm of government should be above accountability, especially in the face of allegations that could affect public trust and the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes.
The CCTA described the response of the Conference of Speakers as an attempt to subvert the core principles of transparency and accountability that are fundamental to Nigeria’s democratic fabric.
According to the group, the Speakers’ objection to the National Assembly’s investigative powers is a flawed interpretation of the law designed to protect the interests of individuals, rather than the greater public good.
“While we respect the autonomy of state legislatures, we must make it clear that no institution is beyond the reach of accountability. The people of Nigeria deserve to know how their representatives and leaders are conducting public affairs, whether at the federal or state level,” said Olufemi Adewale, President of the CCTA.
The pro-democracy group argued that the National Assembly, under its constitutional mandate, has the power to intervene when there are clear allegations of misconduct, particularly when such allegations can tarnish the image of democratic institutions.
The CCTA emphasized that the checks and balances system is essential to uphold the rule of law and ensure that no individual or entity is able to undermine the trust placed in public offices.
“The Conference of Speakers seems to forget that Nigeria’s democracy is not a system of unchecked autonomy for any of its parts. If state assemblies are exempted from public scrutiny, we risk creating a parallel system where state governors and legislators operate with impunity,” Adewale added.
“The Constitution of Nigeria, under Sections 88 and 89, grants the National Assembly the authority to investigate any person or group involved in a matter of public concern. Section 88 empowers the National Assembly to conduct investigations into any issue of national interest, including those affecting the functioning of the government or the exercise of power.
“Section 89 further authorizes the National Assembly to issue summons and compel attendance, ensuring accountability across all levels of government. This power is not confined to federal matters alone but extends to issues affecting the broader democratic integrity of Nigeria.”
In defense of the actions taken by the House of Representatives, the CCTA highlighted that the petitions in question were made by Guardians of Democracy and the Rule of Law, a civil society group, indicating that the issue was not a mere political ploy but a matter of public concern that warranted examination.
The CCTA also pointed out that the National Assembly’s oversight role is not limited to federal issues alone, as established by the Constitution.
The group noted that the Federal Government has a vested interest in ensuring that all arms of government operate with the utmost integrity, particularly when matters of public interest and governance are at stake.
“We cannot afford to ignore complaints from civil society or avoid investigating credible claims of wrongdoing. The people’s right to a transparent government cannot be trampled on by those who wish to shield corrupt practices,” the group asserted.
The group’s called for stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments to foster accountability, transparency, and good governance across Nigeria.
It urged the Conference of Speakers to reconsider their position and allow the investigative process to unfold in the interest of the Nigerian people.
“We challenge the Conference of Speakers to put aside political interests and support efforts to uncover the truth. Only through transparency and accountability can we safeguard the future of Nigeria’s democracy,” Adewale stated.
Cover
Renewed Hope Group Welcomes Tinubu’s Appointment of Faleke as Deputy Secretary for Party Outreach
The Renewed Hope Advocacy Network (RHAN) has described the appointment of Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke as Deputy Secretary for Party Outreach, Engagement, and Mobilisation of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors (South West zone) as a well-earned recognition of merit, loyalty, and proven capacity.
In a statement released today and signed by its Convener, Opialu M. Opialu, the grassroots organisation praised President Bola Tinubu for entrusting the strategic role to a man widely regarded as one of his most dependable and longest-serving political allies.
“Rt. Hon. James Faleke’s appointment is the logical elevation of a tested hand who has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, organisational brilliance, and rock-solid loyalty to President Tinubu and the Renewed Hope project,” Opialu stated.
The statement highlighted Faleke’s critical contribution during the 2023 presidential campaign, where he served as National Secretary of the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
Describing the lawmaker as the engine room coordinator of nationwide mobilisation efforts, the group credited him with bridging ethnic, regional, and ideological divides, galvanising party structures, and sustaining momentum even amid intense opposition.
“Despite daunting challenges, he never flinched. His strategic mind, tireless work ethic, and unshakeable belief in Asiwaju’s vision were decisive factors in delivering the Tinubu-Shettima victory,” the statement added.
RHAN also underscored Hon. Faleke’s legendary loyalty, noting that for over two decades he has remained a consistent pillar of support for President Tinubu across multiple political battles and campaigns.
“In an era when political fidelity is increasingly rare, Rt. Hon. Faleke stands out as a shining example of principle, sacrifice, and steadfastness.
“His faithfulness has inspired countless party members and remains one of the strongest proof to the enduring bond between him and our President,” Opialu remarked.
On the legislative front, the statement celebrated Faleke’s distinguished record as the representative of Ikeja Federal Constituency.
Looking ahead, RHAN expressed confidence that Faleke’s wealth of experience will now supercharge grassroots engagement, strengthen party structures in the South West, and deepen national support for the implementation of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We are convinced that this appointment will inject fresh energy into our mobilisation efforts and set the stage for even greater electoral and governance successes in the years ahead,” Opialu concluded.
The Renewed Hope Advocacy Network wished Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke “resounding success” in his new assignment and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and divine guidance as he discharges his duties.
Politics
RSHA continues impeachment of Fubara, writes Chief Judge
The Rivers House of Assembly has continued its resolution to impeach Gov. Siminalaye Fubara and his deputy, Nma Odu.
All 26 members of the Assembly on Friday unanimously resolved during plenary to proceed with the impeachment process against both Fubara and Odu.
Consequently, the lawmakers resolved to write to the Chief Judge(CJ) of the State, as enshrined in Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
They are urging the CJ to constitute a seven-man investigative panel to examine the alleged gross misconduct leveled against the governor and his deputy.
Politics
Sen. Yari’s constituency office lauds APC e-registration exercise in Zamfara
Hon. Sha’ayau Sarkinfawa, the Coordinator, Sen.. Abdul’aziz Yari Constituency office for Zamfara West Senatorial District, has commended the ongoing nationwide membership e-registration exercise of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Sarkinfawa, who stated this while speaking with journalists in Gusau on Thursday, stated that the exercise would promote integrity and credibility in the party membership.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the APC nationwide e-registration exercise commenced recently and would run until the end of this month.
He described the exercise as the bedrock for internal democracy.
“The APC e-registration would strength the party’s membership.
“The ongoing APC e-registration exercise is a wise political initiative and imperative determined to upgrade the data of the progressive party members electorally,” Sarkinfawa further said.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for making the APC proud and wished him more strength ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
According to him, Yari and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, had already built a stronger political platform in the APC structure of the state.
“Therefore, we are expecting a tremendous success.at the end of the exercise” he added.
Sarkinfawa further said, the exercise would provide an ample opportunity for all the eligible members of the party to be duly captured in its digital register.
He added, “It will also ensure accuracy, transparency and integrity in the party’s membership.
“The exercise guarantees sanity and credibility of the party’s membership register.
“A data-driven membership registration is expected to capture every eligible member of the party across the 147 political wards of the state.
“Therefore, our members should participate fully in the exercise and make sure they are captured electronically.
“I therefore urge all APC members and stakeholders in the state to take full advantage of the e-registration and participate promptly and responsibly.$
Sarkinfawa further described the APC as the most dominant political party in Zamfara and Nigeria. adding that it would record massive victories in the 2027 General Elections.
-
Cover7 months agoNRC to reposition train services nationwide.. Kayode Opeifa
-
Fashion9 years agoThese ’90s fashion trends are making a comeback in 2017
-
Entertainment9 years agoThe final 6 ‘Game of Thrones’ episodes might feel like a full season
-
Opinion1 year agoBureaucratic Soldier, Kana Ibrahim heads Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace After Transformative Tenure at Defence
-
Opinion1 year agoHon. Daniel Amos Shatters Records, Surpasses Predecessor’s Achievements in Just Two Years
-
Opinion4 months agoBarrister Somayina Chigbue, Esq: A rising legal leader shaping institutioal excellence in Nigeria
-
News8 months agoNigerian Nafisa defeats 69 Countries at UK Global Final English Competition
-
Special Report1 year agoGolden Jubilee: Celebrating Tein Jack-Rich’s Life of Purpose and Impact
