Speaker Obasa Celebrates First Lady Oluremi Tinubu At 64
– calls her Nigeria’s shining light
The Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has congratulated Senator Oluremi Tinubu on her 64th birthday describing her as a compassionate Nigerian dedicated to impacting the citizens of the country.
In a message by the Speaker’s media office, Dr. Obasa noted the First Lady’s courage, commitment to a better society, support for the President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and her belief in an egalitarian society.
The Speaker further described her as a shining example of a Nigerian woman who commits her life and service to lifting the downtrodden.
“The First Lady’s love for Nigeria and her roles in national unity and development are worthy of emulation by every well-meaning citizen. She has continued to touch lives across the country, particularly lifting women and children out of poverty.
“With her philanthropic activities, it is noteworthy that Senator Tinubu has continued to etch her name in the history of Nigeria as a politician of repute, a champion of the downtrodden and an advocate for the youth, the aged and good governance,” Dr. Obasa said in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Eromosele Ebhomele.
The Speaker added that right from the time she played roles as First Lady of Lagos, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has remained a crusader for a more vibrant democracy in the country.
According to Obasa, “our First Lady has been a great pillar of support for the President as she takes up roles that further unify the country.
“History will never forget how, with Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, she played her part in the fight that finally gave birth to the democracy currently practised in Nigeria.
“As a true mother, she ensured that those exiled during the fight against the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election result won by Chief MKO Abiola were adequately cared for.
“It is also noted that as First Lady of Lagos State, she made sure that the children of the poor were lifted through educational programmes including The Spelling Bee Competition, which, delightedly, has produced great minds and future leaders.
“As a Senator, she stood for anything that would add to the growth and progress of Lagos in many capacities making the State proud of her. We can never forget the impact of her New Era Foundation through which many Nigerians were given fresh reasons to live.
“On this occasion of her 64th birthday, I pray, on behalf of my family and colleagues at the Lagos State House of Assembly, that God continue to fill her with His grace, good health and divine wisdom to carry on with the good work for which we remain proud, amen.”
Adron Games 2024 Unveiled: ‘Fit to Be the Biggest’ with Sports Icons Daniel Amokachi and Mutiu Adepoju Leading the Charge
Adron Homes & Properties is excited to announce the official unveiling of the 7th edition of the Adron Games, tagged “Fit to Be the Biggest”. The 2024 edition is set to take place at the renowned Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, from November 29th-30th, 2024, marking the second time the city of Ibadan will host the prestigious sporting event.
The Adron Games is a national platform designed to promote physical fitness, wellness, and community engagement through sports. Having previously held successful editions in Ogun and Lagos states, the 2024 edition is expected to attract over 10,000 athletes and fitness enthusiasts from across Nigeria.
The theme of this year’s Adron Games, “Fit to be the Biggest”, perfectly captures the spirit and ambition of the event. It signifies both the physical and metaphorical journey to greatness, where athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even spectators are encouraged to embrace the challenge of becoming their best selves—physically, mentally, and competitively.
The theme also promotes the idea that fitness is essential to achieving greatness, whether through competitive sports or in everyday life. It motivates participants to push their boundaries and excel, whether on the field, court, or track, and ultimately reminds them that the journey toward fitness and excellence never stops.
This year’s games will feature a wide array of sporting disciplines, including Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Athletics, Table Tennis, Snooker, Shot Put, Long Jump, E-sports, and the fan-favorite Tug of War.
In a special highlight, Nigerian football legends Daniel Amokachi and Mutiu Adepoju have been announced as the official ambassadors of the event. Both are renowned for their contributions to Nigerian football and are expected to inspire athletes and spectators alike with their presence.
Key Event Highlights:
* Event Dates: November 29th-30th, 2024
* Venue: Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan
* Ambassadors: Daniel Amokachi, Mutiu Adepoju, Vanessa Jones and MC Relax
* Sporting Events: Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Athletics, Table Tennis, Snooker, Shot Put, Long Jump, E-sports, and Tug of War
* Special Guests: Sports icons, fitness personalities, and celebrity appearances
* Participants: Over 10,000 athletes and fitness enthusiasts
* Prizes: Cash prizes, trophies, and awards for winners in various categories
Speaking at the unveiling, Daniel Amokachi emphasized the importance of corporate sponsorship in fostering young Nigerian talents, praising Adron Homes for their commitment to promoting sports.
He said “Sports in Nigeria need more support from businesses and brands to help discover and nurture talents among our youth. Organizations like Adron Homes, through their consistent support of sports, are boosting Nigeria’s global sports performance,” Amokachi said.
Meanwhile, Mutiu Adepoju lauded the unifying and transformative power of sports and commended Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, Group Managing Director of Adron Homes, for his unwavering commitment to organizing this event annually. “Sports is a powerful tool for unity and fitness, both physically and mentally. I commend Aare Adetola Emmanuelking for his continuous support of sports by organizing this prestigious event. His dedication is vital to the development of sports and the empowerment of youth in Nigeria,” Adepoju remarked.
it will be recalled that, Adron Games is an annual sporting event organized by Adron Homes & Properties to promote physical fitness, wellness, and community engagement through sports. Since its inception, the event has grown into a major national platform, bringing together thousands of athletes, corporate teams, and fitness enthusiasts in the spirit of competition and fun.
Adron Homes, through this sporting event, encourages everyone to view fitness and sports as key to unlocking personal and communal growth, building healthier lifestyles, and fostering unity across different regions, backgrounds, and demographics. “Fit to be the Biggest” represents not only the size and scope of the event but also the opportunity for everyone involved to elevate themselves and inspire others through the power of sport.
For more information, sponsorship, vendor registration and inquiries, please contact: Abiodun 08138432335
Segun Agbaje led GTCO’s Controversial N1 Trillion Profit: A Facade of Financial Triumph?
In a country facing soaring inflation and struggling startups, Guaranty Trust Holding, GTCO’s recent claim of a staggering N1 trillion profit raises eyebrows rather than celebrations. This figure, announced by CEO Segun Agbaje, appears less a beacon of success and more a troubling indicator of systemic issues within Nigeria’s banking sector.
Critics argue that GTCO’s reported profits stem from questionable practices rather than genuine financial growth. Many see Agbaje’s announcement as emblematic of a banking culture that prioritizes profit over customer welfare. Instead of nurturing innovation, GTCO’s approach has allegedly involved significant overcharging, dubious fees, and predatory lending practices that have eroded trust among its clients.
The disbelief among Nigerians is palpable. In an economy where businesses are cutting back and inflation is rampant, GTCO’s reported profits seem implausible. Industry experts and auditors have raised alarms, questioning the legitimacy of such gains. The prevailing sentiment is that these profits are not the result of sound banking practices but rather of exploiting customers.
Accusations against GTCO are mounting, with corporate clients like Innoson and Stallion Group calling for forensic audits. These businesses are beginning to suspect that their long-standing loyalty has been met with exploitation, as they uncover discrepancies in their accounts. A notable case is billionaire Femi Otedola, whose audit has prompted others to scrutinize their dealings with GTCO, revealing patterns of overcharging and illicit deductions.
Instead of contributing positively to Nigeria’s economic landscape, GTCO under Agbaje has been accused of engaging in practices that harm the very clients it serves. The bank’s focus appears to be on profit maximization at any cost, raising concerns about its impact on businesses and individuals alike.
As pressure builds, stakeholders are urging the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, to investigate GTCO’s practices and ensure that the full 35% tax on the reported profits is enforced. However, the call for accountability extends beyond tax collection; there is a growing demand for broader reforms within Nigeria’s banking sector to promote transparency and ethical practices.
As scrutiny of GTCO intensifies, Agbaje’s claims of financial success are increasingly viewed as a fragile façade, raising questions about the integrity of the banking system as a whole.
Adron Homes Felicitates with Muslim Faithful on the Occasion of Eid Maulud Nabiyy
Adron Homes and Properties Limited extends its warmest greetings and heartfelt felicitations to all our esteemed Muslim customers as they celebrate the auspicious occasion of Eid Maulud Nabiyy, the commemoration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
Eid Maulud Nabiyy is a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewed faith. As we join in celebrating this sacred day, we recognize the profound teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who embodied compassion, integrity, and dedication to the betterment of humanity. At Adron Homes, these values resonate deeply with our mission of providing affordable housing solutions and fostering a harmonious community where all individuals can thrive.
We are especially grateful to our Muslim clients and partners for their trust and unwavering support in our vision of making the dream of homeownership a reality for every Nigerian family. Your commitment has been pivotal in helping us shape communities where diversity, respect, and unity are at the forefront.
As we celebrate this blessed day, we remain dedicated to ensuring that our services continue to meet your housing needs while maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and innovation. Our goal is to contribute to the peace and prosperity that this special celebration represents.
May this Eid Maulud Nabiyy bring you and your loved ones joy, blessings, and renewed hope for a brighter future. We wish you peace, health, and happiness as you reflect on the timeless wisdom of the Holy Prophet.
Once again, Adron Homes celebrates with the entire Muslim Ummah and looks forward to continuing our journey together in building homes, strengthening communities, and fostering unity.
South East Development Commission: Rt Hon Ben Kalu’s Masterstroke By Ogo Okereke
Fifty five years after the civil war, the lingering effects of the war is still visible among the Igbo. Ndigbo being the worst hit of the civil war, still bear scars from the war,with ongoing displacement, poverty, trauma, environmental degradation, security concerns, infrastructural deficit and marginalization.
At one time or the other, past Nigerian presidents made varying efforts to address the negative effects of the civil war on the Igbo people, but they all left limited impact.
The most striking was the 3R sophistry by General Yakubu Gown in January 1970. Gowon had assured the world that there would be Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (3R), of the Igbo land,as a result of the war ravages, but 54 years after, the South East has witnessed the direct opposite of the 3Rs, even in exponential proportion.
In a similar move, General Olusegun Obasanjo, established the South East Development Initiative(SEDI), to address regional development challenges, but the challenges still persisted.
Alhaji Shehu Shagari made a corresponding effort in his launching of the Presidential Task Force on Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, for the sole purpose of addressing the civil war’s effects, but the impact was small scaled,due to his short tenure in office.
Other efforts by Gen Ibrahim Babangida,spanned across the introduction of the National Commission for Refugees,Displaced Persons and Rehabilitation to confront the plight of war-affected communities.
Gen Sabi Abacha, came up with the National Council on Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, while President Good luck Ebele Jonathan, launched the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peace in the Niger Delta, which included initiatives for the South East. He also established the Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, to promote education in the region.
President Muhammadu Buhari in his own dimension to tackle the region’s infrastructure deficit, began the construction of the second Niger bridge, the Enugu-Portharcourt Expressway and also, formed the Presidential Committee on South East Initiative (PCSEI), to handle the regional development challenges.
While these attempts were aimed to grapple with the negative effects of the civil war, they have been criticized for being inadequate,slow paced or politicized. The South East region still demands sustained attention and investment to fully handle the effects of the civil war. These were the pitfalls of past efforts to reposition the region.
None of the struggle by past national leaders could actualize the setting up of a South East Development Commission(SEDC), that will solely tackle head on the numerous challenges facing Ndigbo from education,healthcare, marginalization, security, infrastructure, and others.
Several Igbo leaders had equally attempted to bring the South East Development Commission Bill to Law, but Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu’s efforts remained phenomenon.
Let me quickly give an overview of the actions of some of our Igbo representatives in actualizing this course,so you could appreciate better, the leadership excellence of the current Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Senator Ike Ekweremadu in 2015, sponsored a Bill similar to the SEDC, but it didn’t pass the second reading. Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe in 2017, introduced a Bill,but it stalled,due to lack of support. Governor Dave Umahi in 2018, advocated for a South East Development Commission,but his efforts were met with limited success. In 2019, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the highest socio-cultural organization in Igbo land, went a step higher in pushing for the actualization of SEDC, but it did not gain traction.
Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu in 2020, rewrote history, by successfully sponsoring the SEDC Bill which passed the second reading and eventually passed into Law in 2024. This can only be likened to GRACE.
Interestingly, the passage of the South East Development Commission Bill to Law, marks a significant milestone in the quest for a regional development and growth. The ground breaking legislation sponsored by the indefatigable number 6 citizen of the country,is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the welfare ane progress of the region. The combination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Deputy Speaker,Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu, broke the over 54 years jinx with the SEDC Law.
President Tinubu has shown a major departure from the Buhari’s regime, by signing the SEDC Bill into Law. This further shows his intention about the development of the South East region and his believe in building the nation in the fulcrum of fairness, equity and unity, hence his commitment to ensuring equitable development, inclusive governance,and the provision of qualitative services to all Nigerians, no matter where they reside,while knitting more tightly together the national fabric.
Like the North East Development Commission (NEDC), which brought tremendous transformation in the North East, especially on the area of humanitarian support (where Internally Displaced Persons and victims of insurgency were aided), education/healthcare support(schools and healthcare facilities are being built and upgraded), economic empowerment; through skills training, entrepreneurship support and job creations and initiatives. Environmental remediation of areas in the region suffering ecological issue, pollution,among other interventions, the South East Development Commission will facilitate the development of critical infrastructure such as roads,bridges and public buildings in the South East region. The commission can implement policies and programs to boost economic growth, create jobs, and provide access to credit facilities for entrepreneurs and small businesses. Under education and healthcare, the SEDC can invest in education and healthcare infrastructure, improving access to quality education abd medical care.
SEDC will address environmental degradation by cleaning up pollution,rehabilitating damaged ecosystems, and promoting sustainable practices.The commission will ensure Ndigbo have a stronger voice in national politics and decision-making processes.
It can promote and preserve Igbo language and culture, collaborating with security agencies to address insecurity challenges in the region, manage special intervention funds to address specific regional challenges.
The South East Development Commission can foster economic integration and cooperation among southeastern states, addressing historical injustices and lingering issues from the civil war, such as, rehabilitation of war-affected areas and compensation for victims.
While past efforts to reintegrate the Igbo people met minimal result, the SEDC which covers the five eastern states of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo, would go a long way to assuage the feelings of the Igbo with respect to the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses and other infrastructural damages suffered by the region, as well as,tackle ecological problems and other related environmental or development challenges in the region.
However, by addressing these issues, the SEDC would help to bridge the developmental gap, promote economic growth, and improve the overall well-being of Ndigbo.
The key point of discussion is that the South East Development Commission, stands out from previous initiatives, as it incorporates vital elements that guarantee its long-term viability and success,such as:
*Legislative Backing:The commission is legislatively backed, giving it a strong legal foundation and authority to operate.
*Structured approach: SEDC has a clear structure, mandate, and funding mechanism, ensuring a systematic approach to development.
*Regional focus:The commission is specifically focused on the South East region, addressing its unique challenges and needs.
*Inclusive representation: It has a board comprising representatives from each South East state, ensuring diverse perspectives and regional buy-in.
*Comprehensive scope: The commission’s mandate covers various aspects, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development.
*Sustained commitment:SEDC is designed to be a long-term initiative, ensuring consistent effort and progress.
*Community engagement:It encourages community participation and ownership, fostering grassroots support and inclusivity.
*Accountability mechanisms:It has built-in accountability mechanisms, ensuring transparency and effective use of resources.
Though past efforts, while well-intentioned, often lacked one or more of these elements, limiting their impact and sustainability. The SEDC law addresses these gaps, providing a robust framework for meaningful reintegration and development.
At this juncture, it won’t be out of place if I say that Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu is not playing politics of rice and wrappers, but diving into the mainstream of governance, which goes beyond just touching the lives of an individual or group of people. Myopic critics would seek for mere empowerment for a set of people, but a strategic thinker, seeks for lasting avenues that could create endless opportunities for the entire region. He has created a platform for coordinated development, empowering the region to unlock its vast potential. “What no past Igbo leader could ever achieve, Ben Kalu broke the jinx”.
He made a historic achievement that can positively impact the lives of millions, leaving a lasting legacy. He prioritized the region’s interest over his personal gain and has established a precedent for future leaders to follow, encouraging them to prioritize regional development.
BOK as he is fondly called by friends, has demonstrated foresight and understanding of the needs of his region with an unwavering commitment,which showed dedication and perseverance in pushing for the Bill’s passage,despite potential obstacles.
This goes ahead to remind me of the words of Zig Ziglar that says,”With hardwork and determination,you can achieve anything you set your mind to”.
His suave, assertive, sagacious, outspoken and visionary dispositions were highpoints in achieving the South East Development Commission and they remained a very inspiring and veritable source of hope for Ndigbo. “Indeed, Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu,is a beacon of hope and a pillar of transformation for the South East region”.
The South East Development Commission, a long-awaited initiative decades in the making, was finally brought to fruition by Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu and his team.
North West Agenda for Peace (NOWAP) Lauds President Tinubu for Presence of Minister of State for Defence,CDS to Flush Out Banditry
The North West Agenda for Peace (NOWAP) commends President Bola Tinubu for his proactive measures in addressing the escalating security challenges in the region. The presence of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, in the region attests to the President’s commitment to ridding terrorism and banditry.
We applaud President Tinubu’s directive for the Minister and security chiefs to relocate to the North West, demonstrating his concern for the security situation in the region. This move is a clear indication of the President’s willingness to take bold steps to address the challenges. It is reassuring to note that Mr. President has not forgotten the people of the North West in this time of crisis.
The North-west region has been plagued by terrorism and banditry, with four of the region’s seven states among the top five states with the highest number of kidnap incidents between July 2023 and June 2024. Therefore, the presence of the Defence Minister and security chiefs is a welcome development in the fight against these criminal elements.
We are encouraged by the Minister’s assurance to the troops of the President’s support in crushing bandits across the country. The President’s commitment to providing all necessary resources to the troops is a clear indication of his dedication to ending the security challenges in the region.
We beseech Mr. President to do his best to fish out the sponsors of banditry and other forms of insecurity within the region. This will help to address the root causes of the problem and bring lasting peace to the region.
The presence of the Defence Minister and security chiefs will significantly improve security in the region. Firstly, it will boost the morale of the troops, who will feel supported and motivated to intensify their efforts against the bandits. Secondly, it will enable the security agencies to develop a more effective strategy to tackle the security challenges, with the Minister and security chiefs providing guidance and oversight. Finally, it will demonstrate to the bandits and terrorists that the government is committed to ending their reign of terror, and that they will be brought to justice.
Furthermore, the strategy will also involve the local communities, who will be encouraged to provide intelligence and support to the security agencies. This will help to build trust and confidence between the security agencies and the local communities, and will enable the security agencies to respond more effectively to security threats.
Additionally, the presence of the Defence Minister and security chiefs will also facilitate the deployment of additional resources and equipment to the region, which will enhance the capacity of the security agencies to tackle the security challenges.
We acknowledge the presence of the Armed Forces in the region all these years, but the recent visit has boosted the morale of the troops. The people of the region now feel safer with the troops combing everywhere to get results done.
We applaud the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for his leadership and commitment to ending the security challenges in the North-west. He has proven his dedication to finding solutions to the region’s security problems.
We hail the troops for their bravery and sacrifices in the fight against banditry and terrorism. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we commend them for their unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and properties of Nigerians.
We urge them to remain focused and undeterred in their efforts to flush out the bandits and terrorists. The recent failed mission should not be a setback, but rather an opportunity to regroup and intensify efforts to bring peace to the region.
We call on all stakeholders, including the local communities, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations, to support and cooperate with the security agencies in their efforts to bring peace and stability to the North-west. This is a collective responsibility, and we must all work together to achieve this goal.
We urge the federal government to provide all necessary support and resources to the security agencies, to enable them to effectively tackle the security challenges in the region. This includes providing additional funding, equipment, and personnel, as well as ensuring that the security agencies have the necessary legal and policy framework to operate effectively.
Signed,
Comrade Abba Gana Abba
President
Usman Abubakar
Secretary General
The reordering is sequel to a letter dated August 9, 2024 and sent to the House by the State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The House at plenary on Thursday gave the approval after the Chairman of the Committee on Economic Planning and Budget, Hon. Lukman Olumoh, presented the report and recommendations of the Committee which were adopted as the resolution of the House.
Though the total budget size remains the same, the recurrent expenditure was reduced from N952,430,566,998 in the original budget to N935,377,028,422 while the capital expenditure was increased from N1,315,545,553,871 to N1,332,599,092,448 following the reordering.
“That a bill for a law to authorise the issuance and appropriation of N935,377,028,422 from the Consolidated Revenue Fund for Recurrent Expenditure and N1,332,599,092,448 from the Development Fund for Capital Expenditure thereby totalling a revised budget size of N2,267,976,120,869 for the year ending 31st December, 2024 be passed into law,” the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, announced to his colleagues who unanimously voted in favour.
The Speaker, thereafter, directed the Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, to forward a clean copy of the bill to the Governor for his assent.
Prior to the passage of the reordered budget, Hon. Olumoh reminded the House that in the letter sent by the Governor, the latter explained that the rationale for the request to redistribute the budget included the need to boost the appropriation to some Ministries, Agencies and Parastatals.
The letter requesting the reordering had also emphasised the need to meet the State Government’s commitments to the residents through the budget.
Lagos Assembly Pledges Collaboration With Nigerian Army On Security
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has pledged the support of the House for the Nigerian Army with the goal of sustaining the peace experienced in the State.
Dr. Obasa gave the assurance on Thursday when he received Brigadier General Olawale Matthew Oyekola, 48th Commander of the 9 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, who visited the House of Assembly with his team.
According to the Speaker, the State’s legislature with 40 lawmakers is committed to ensuring peace and stability in all the local government areas of Lagos and welcomes every support from the right quarters in this regard.
“I want to assure you of our total support. Our arms are wide open. When you need us, all you have to do is just call on us. We are at the House of Assembly to protect the people’s interests, their rights and ensure they do what they are supposed to do.
“We love peace in Lagos, which you can call a mini-Nigeria. And with your coming, we hope to sustain the peace we have in the State.
“Our interest is to prosper Lagos economically, socio-politically and in infrastructure,” the Speaker said while commending Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his policies that have kept the State growing.
Obasa used the opportunity to hail men of the military who, he described as gallant, for their dedication and loyalty to Nigeria. He specially commended the military men tackling insecurities in some parts of the country, particularly in the Northeast.
Speaking earlier, Brigadier General Oyekola said he was in the House to associate with the representatives of the people of Lagos who he and his men are mandated to protect.
Noting that he was returning to Lagos 20 years after he left the State, he said Lagos is peaceful and that this status needed to be sustained.
He solicited the support of Lagosians for the Army, which he called the third layer of protection with the Nigeria Police Force as the first layer.
“Wearing this uniform does not make us different from the people. We are first civilians before becoming men in uniforms,” he said.
General Oyekola resumed at the Brigade’s Headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos on August 21, 2024 after previously serving as Chief of Staff at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI.
Domestic Violence: Lagos Assembly Urges Enlightenment Units In Schools
The Lagos State House of Assembly has emphasised the need for a proactive approach in addressing domestic and sexual violence in the state.
At a sitting presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the House stressed the importance of establishing guidance and counseling units in schools and religious institutions as a way to reach out to the public and prevent such violence.
The House also called on the Ministry of Information to continue its enlightenment campaigns.
In his position, Dr. Obasa pointed out the complexities involved in cases of domestic violence, particularly the impact on children.
“We thank the agencies in Lagos for their continuous efforts in raising awareness among residents.
“However, no law can entirely eliminate any crime. We must go beyond sensitisation and help people understand why relationships, which should be loving, sometimes turn sour,” Obasa said.
He questioned the effectiveness of interventions that involve removing children from their homes, asking, “If we take children away from their parents, who will care for them as their parents would? Even when NGOs intervene and ensure separation, what happens after the separation?”
The Speaker also expressed concerns about the lifestyle choices of some young people, particularly boys in their teens doing everything they can to own homes in affluent areas like Lekki, and young girls who spend days out of school in a bid to make money.
He advocated for educational programmes that would go beyond mere enlightenments to actively teach children about domestic violence.
Moving a motion under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’, Hon. Omolara Olumegbon, representing Lagos Island 1, highlighted the necessity of educating children about domestic violence.
She urged that the existing laws be given the needed spark while there should be improvement in sensation and enlightenment.
She further emphasised the urgency of sustaining awareness and educating the youth. She called on the relevant ministries to intensify their efforts.
Contributing to the debate, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa 2) expressed concern over the high incidence of domestic violence in the society.
While distinguishing domestic violence from parental discipline, he stressed the importance of prevention and the enforcement of existing laws.
On his part, Hon. Abiodun Tobun underscored the importance of teaching values and norms in schools and religious institutions.
Contributing to the debate, Hon. Rotimi Ajomale urged the concerned agencies to increase their efforts in encouraging victims to speak out.
Hon. Aro Moshood highlighted the alarming statistics of women being the primary victims of domestic violence. He called for stronger laws to address the issue while his colleague, Hon. Funke Osafile, advocated for the strengthening of laws and policies.
Alimosho Crisis: Lagos Assembly To Resend Resolutions to Council Chairman, Others
What would have resulted in the removal of the Alimosho Local Government chairman, Jelili Suleimon, was on Monday prevented by the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.
Lawmakers had suggested on the floor of the House that the council chairman be removed or suspended for ‘stubbornly disrespecting’ the House and refusing to obey its resolutions concerning toll collections in the Iyana-Ipaja area of Alimosho.
One person had been killed on April 16, 2024, when fracas occurred in Iyana-Ipaja over allegations that council chairman forcefully withdrew the collection of revenues from Abiodun Ejigbadero and handed same to a man allegedly loyal to him.
After what a member of the House, Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh, described as a painstaking two months investigation in which all parties to the issue were invited, the Assembly directed Jelili to return Ejigbadero, who was able to present all the vital documents requested during the inquiries.
However, the lawmakers surprisingly received a letter from the secretary to the Alimosho Local Government council, Dare Ogunkoya, stating that the chairman cannot obey the resolutions of the House concerning the matter.
The letter read by the Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, said any action by the council chairman on the resolutions of the House would be contentious.
Reacting to the letter, Hon. Sanni Okanlawon, who chaired the committee that investigated the crisis, described Jelili as a stubborn chairman who would go any length to debase the House.
He recalled that in resolving the matter, the committee invited all the stakeholders including Jelili, who the committee discovered to be the cause of the mayhem.
Okanlawon said while Jelili could not provide any documents, Ejigbadero produced all documents to prove his position as toll collector in the place.
According to Okanlawon, Jelili had remained “defiant and, to say the least, this is an affront against the House that had resolved the issue.”
He urged the House to invoke the right section of the law against the council chairman as a deterrent.
In his contribution, Majority Leader Noheem Adams, said the letter by Ogunkoya undermines the authority of the House which sought peace in the affected area.
Deputy Majority Leader Adedamola Kasunmu told his colleagues, “I can attest to his (Jelili’s) stubbornness. He has shown incompetence and irresponsibility. For us to avert further loss of lives, it is good that he is either immediately removed or suspended.”
In their individual contributions, the two lawmakers from Alimosho, Hon. Kehinde Joseph and Luqman Orelope, pleaded with the House for leniency on the council chairman.
The duo expressed surprise that the council could disobey the House in such a manner, while Joseph urged that the chairman could be suspended instead of an outright removal.
While noting all the contributions, Dr. Obasa wondered why Alimosho is always enmeshed in crises adding that the resolution by the House was to ensure peace in the community.
Pacifying the lawmakers, Dr. Obasa said the chairman should be given the benefit of doubt since the letter was not directly written by him and, as such, he could claim ignorance.
He, therefore, directed the Clerk to resend the resolutions of the House to the council chairman, the Local Government Service Commission and other top officials of the Alimosho Local Government council
