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Fiery Confrontation in Nigerian Senate Over Tax Reform Bill.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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On Wednesday, November 27, a significant confrontation unfolded in the Nigerian Senate as lawmakers engaged in a vigorous debate concerning the contentious Tax Reform Bill, which had not been included in the Order Paper for discussion.

The debate was initiated by Senate Leader Michael Bamidele Opeyemi, who invoked Order 12(1) to suspend Senate Rules, thereby permitting the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to provide clarifications regarding the bill. Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, presiding over the session, supported this motion, leading to the approval of the FIRS chairman and other tax experts to enter the chamber.

However, this decision incited considerable frustration among several senators, notably Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who vocally opposed the motion. Ndume, visibly agitated, contended that allowing guests to speak on matters not listed on the Order Paper contravened Senate rules. He underscored the necessity of adhering to procedural protocols, cautioning that such deviations could jeopardize the Senate’s legitimacy and erode public trust.

“This is a very important matter. We should not in any way try to use the position of the Senate because the Order Paper is clear,” Ndume asserted. He further emphasized the need for a supplementary Order Paper to reflect any changes, highlighting the voices of Nigerians and the National Economic Council in the discourse.

In response, Deputy Senate President Barau firmly maintained that the Senate’s actions were consistent with its regulations, stating, “We are not here for rhetoric. We are here for facts.” This exchange escalated tensions, leading to a chaotic scene as lawmakers shouted across the floor.

Ultimately, Ndume was ruled out of order, allowing the FIRS chairman and tax experts to present their perspectives on the proposed Tax Reform Bill. This incident not only highlighted the contentious nature of the reform but also underscored the deep divisions within the Senate, reflecting the broader public debate surrounding the issue.

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Lagos State Reaffirms Focus on Road Safety, Not Revenue, with Speed Enforcement.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Olawale Musa, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to road safety, emphasizing that the recently implemented speed limit enforcement and e-policing camera system is primarily designed to reduce accidents and fatalities, not to generate revenue.

Speaking on a local radio program, Mr. Musa clarified that the initiative aims to curb excessive speeding, a key contributor to road accidents. He stated that compliance with speed limits is crucial for saving lives and preventing injuries, and that the enforcement measures, though often met with resistance, are necessary for public safety.

Further, Mr. Musa addressed concerns regarding potential errors and assured the public that a transparent process exists for contesting perceived wrongful fines. He also highlighted the government’s commitment to equitable enforcement, noting that even government vehicles have been subject to fines for violations. He urged motorists to adhere to posted speed limits, especially along the Alapere axis and the Third Mainland Bridge, and to utilize designated locations for passenger pick-up and drop-off. The government is also addressing issues of missing or vandalized road signs through alternative measures like direct road markings.

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Entertainment

Val Kilmer, Acclaimed Actor, Passes Away at 65.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Hollywood mourns the loss of Val Kilmer, the acclaimed actor known for his diverse and memorable roles, who passed away in Los Angeles on Tuesday at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news.

Kilmer, a prominent figure in 1990s cinema, achieved widespread recognition for his performances in iconic films such as “Top Gun,” “The Doors,” where he embodied Jim Morrison, and “Tombstone,” where he portrayed Doc Holliday. He also donned the cowl as Batman in “Batman Forever.” His extensive filmography includes significant roles in “Heat,” “The Saint,” “Willow,” and the recent “Top Gun: Maverick.”

Beyond his on-screen achievements, Kilmer’s career was marked by periods of controversy and fluctuating box office success. He was reportedly diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, though he later recovered.

Val Kilmer’s talent and dedication to his craft will undoubtedly be remembered by audiences for years to come.

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Foreign

Case Dismissed: Federal Charges Against Mayor Adams Dropped.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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On Wednesday, District Court Judge Dale Ho dismissed, with prejudice, the federal criminal case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This action effectively terminates the possibility of the Department of Justice (DOJ) resurrecting the five-count indictment against the Democrat in the US District Court in Manhattan.

The dismissal follows a controversial request by the Trump administration, nearly two months prior, to drop the corruption charges. The DOJ argued that prosecution would impede Mayor Adams’ ability to govern New York City and collaborate with the administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

The request prompted significant internal dissent, culminating in the resignation of seven federal prosecutors, including the acting Manhattan US attorney. Their departure underscores the contentious nature of the decision to seek dismissal and the ethical questions it raised within the Department. The “with prejudice” ruling solidifies the finality of this complex and closely watched legal battle.

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