SDP Condemns Suspension, Recall Process Against Kogi Senator Natasha

SDP condemns suspension, recall 0rocess against Kogi senator Natasha. The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kogi State has strongly criticized the suspension and recall process initiated against Senator Natasha Akpoti, describing it as politically motivated and excessive.

In a statement signed by factional Kogi SDP Secretary, Isaiah Davies Ijele, the party accused the state government of orchestrating the move to silence Akpoti, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District.

“While the Senate has rules for addressing misconduct, the actions against Senator Akpoti are unjust and politically driven,” the statement read.

Kogi Senator Natasha

The party praised Akpoti’s dedication to addressing key issues such as poverty, unemployment, and infrastructure deficits, insisting that the recall effort aims to undermine her commitment to public service.

The SDP vowed to resist what it termed a “blatant disregard for due process” and called on supporters and citizens to reject the attempt to silence the senator.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and take all necessary steps to protect Senator Akpoti’s rights. The Senate must reconsider this decision to uphold democracy,” Ijele added.

Sanwo-Olu Swears In 8 New Permanent Secretaries

Sanwo-Olu swears in 8 new permanent secretaries. With this batch, Mr Sanwo-Olu has sworn in 111 permanent secretaries—the highest in the state’s history.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has sworn in eight newly appointed permanent secretaries, urging them to embrace the THEMES Plus developmental agenda with vigour.

The governor gave the charge during the swearing-in ceremony on Thursday at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja.
Mr Sanwo-Olu described the new appointees as drivers of innovation, tasked with formulating policies to improve the lives of Lagos residents.

“As you take office, embrace the development agenda with renewed energy, working towards sustainable progress and prosperity for all Lagosians,” Mr Sanwo-Olu advised.

He reiterated that Lagos State prioritises excellence to ensure the best hands tackle social and economic challenges facing the state.
“With your elevation comes greater responsibility and expectation. You are entrusted with public service and must lead by example at all times.

“We expect nothing less than excellence, which has earned you this position through your hard work and dedication,” the governor said.

Mr Sanwo-Olu emphasised that governance is a collective effort, urging collaboration with colleagues and citizens for effective service delivery.
“Engage with feedback, respond constructively to criticism, and always prioritise the public good over personal interests,” he stated.

Sanwo-Olu

The head of service, Bode Agoro, said the appointments aim to revitalise civil service structures for the benefit of Lagos residents.

The new permanent secretaries include Abiola Idowu, Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, and Olarewaju Adebanjo, Citizens Mediation Bureau.

Others are Olarenwaju Bajulaye, Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism; Also Mahmood, Ministry of Finance; Wasiu Agbabiaka, Civil Service Commission.
Gbolahan Oki, Urban Development, Ministry of Physical Planning, and others were also sworn in and assigned to various portfolios

With this batch, Mr Sanwo-Olu has sworn in 111 permanent secretaries—the highest in the state’s history.

High Court Rejects EFCC’s Additional Proof Evidence On Emefiele

High Court rejects EFCC’s additional proof evidence on Emefiele. Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court Abuja, has rejected the additional proof of evidence brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, in the alleged procurement fraud trial brought against him.

Delivering ruling in a motion on notice filed by Emefiele to object to the action of the EFCC, Justice Muazu held that the Commission had on February 12, 2024, first filed additional proof of evidence against the former CBN governor to accommodate the evidence of a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha and one Bamayi Haruna Mairiga.

The judge, who noted that the charge against Emefiele was filed since August 14, 2023 and his plea taking on November 16, 2023, said that the action of the EFCC would amount to denial of fair trial because the former governor of CBN was not confronted with the new evidence during investigation as required by law.

Justice Muazu further added that the action of EFCC amounted to trial by ambush and a clear case of fishing for evidence in the trial that commenced since November 28, 2023.

Justice Muazu pointed out that allowing the additional proof of evidence after the charge had been amended severally was prejudicial to the defendant, as his right to fair hearing is being breached.

Emefiele

The judge held that the position of the law is that the charge was filed upon the completion of investigation and prima facie case established against any defendant in a criminal matter, adding that in the instant case, the contrary is the case.

The judge however, declined to strike out the charge for being a product of incomplete or ongoing investigation and therefore speculative as claimed by Emefiele.

Justice Muaza said that the charge cannot be struck down because both the defendant and the prosecution had joined issues with each other and trial almost completed.