News

Fiery Confrontation in Nigerian Senate Over Tax Reform Bill.

Published

2 years ago

November 27, 2024

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.

News

Senate Confirms Sani Muhammad Ndanusa as Ambassador.

Published

1 day ago

October 20, 2026

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

The Nigerian Senate has confirmed the appointment of Engineer Sani Muhammad Ndanusa as a non-career ambassador and high commissioner.

The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of the report submitted by the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, chaired by Senator Sani Abubakar, representing Niger North. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had nominated Ndanusa for the diplomatic position, after which he appeared before the committee for screening.

Presenting the committee’s recommendations during plenary on Tuesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced Ndanusa’s confirmation after lawmakers unanimously endorsed the nomination through a voice vote.

Akpabio congratulated the nominee and expressed confidence that Ndanusa would draw on his professional experience to advance Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives and strengthen the nation’s relations with other countries.

News

Ogun Police Rescue 11 Ghanaian Nationals in Sagamu Visa Scam.

Published

1 day ago

October 20, 2026

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

The Ogun State Police Command has rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals allegedly held hostage in Sagamu after being lured to Nigeria with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas.

The victims—seven males and four females—were rescued during an intelligence-led operation conducted by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit. According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the operation followed intelligence received on October 19, 2026, concerning a suspected hideout.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who promised to facilitate their travel abroad. Each victim reportedly paid GH₵40,000 before being brought to Nigeria and detained against their will.

The victims are currently receiving care and support, while detectives work to identify and arrest other members of the alleged criminal network.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its prompt response and professionalism. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and combating transnational crime, stating that Ogun State would not become a safe haven for criminals.

The police urged members of the public to verify overseas travel and visa arrangements before making payments and to report suspicious activities to the authorities.

News

Federal Government Confirms Ebola Case in the FCT.

Published

1 day ago

October 20, 2026

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

The Federal Government has confirmed one laboratory-diagnosed case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The case was confirmed on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, after a woman who recently arrived in Nigeria on an international flight from Uganda was admitted to a private hospital in the FCT. She had received treatment at the facility for several days before being isolated. She is currently receiving medical care.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, stated that contact tracing had commenced. So far, 44 close contacts have been identified, including healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and travel contacts.

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and FCT health authorities, is taking measures to contain the infection and prevent further transmission.

Authorities have urged Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant, practise regular hand hygiene, and report suspected exposure or symptoms to public health officials. The NCDC toll-free call centre is available 24 hours a day on 6232 for information and suspected case reporting.