News
Fiery Confrontation in Nigerian Senate Over Tax Reform Bill.
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.
On Friday, May 16, 2025, Princess Opeyemi Bright was sworn in as the youngest Mayor in the United Kingdom, assuming the prestigious title of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham at the age of 29.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright’s election has been widely lauded as a testament to diversity, youth empowerment, and the increasing global impact of the Nigerian diaspora. Having served as a councillor since the age of 22, her ascent to mayoralty follows a legacy of public service, with her mother, Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright, previously serving as Civic Mayor of Hackney.
Princess Bright’s success exemplifies a broader trend of Nigerians achieving prominent positions in international governance, joining the ranks of figures like Kemi Badenoch and Chi Onwurah in the UK, and others globally. Her inauguration serves as an encouragement for youth engagement in politics and underscores the vital role young people and women play in shaping public life. This historic achievement offers valuable insights for Nigerian policymakers in diaspora engagement and leadership development initiatives.
Nollywood actress Mary Njoku has recently ignited a debate regarding the necessity of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination for university admissions in Nigeria. In a statement posted on her Instagram story, Njoku questioned the need for JAMB and post-UTME, arguing that the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) should be sufficient proof of a candidate’s completion of secondary education.
Her statement comes amidst recent controversy surrounding JAMB, particularly following widespread reports of mass failures in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME). While JAMB has admitted to errors and announced retakes for affected candidates, Njoku’s questioning highlights a deeper concern regarding the redundancy and potential inefficiencies within the current university admission process. The actress’s comments add fuel to an existing debate about the effectiveness and fairness of the JAMB examination in evaluating a student’s readiness for tertiary education.
South African sensation Tyla is poised to make history as the first African personality to host the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. Organizers announced the Grammy-winning artist as the host of the 2025 edition, scheduled to air live on June 21st from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.
Beyond hosting duties, Tyla has also secured two nominations: Favourite Global Music Star and Favourite Music Collaboration for “Show Me Love” with WizTheMc, and “bees & honey.”
The nominations list is topped by Kendrick Lamar, Ariana Grande, and Lady Gaga, each receiving four nods. Selena Gomez, Dwayne Johnson, Jelly Roll, and Jack Black follow closely behind with three nominations apiece.
Expressing her excitement on X, Tyla simply stated, “I’m really about to host the kids choice awards.” This landmark achievement further solidifies Tyla’s rising star on the global stage.
Princess Opeyemi Bright Inaugurated as Youngest UK Mayor.
Nollywood Actress Questions JAMB’s Relevance in University Admissions.
Tyla to Host 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.
Queen Phinadon Honored at the Cultural Exhibition and Award Ceremony 202
Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World Set for Theatrical Release
Nigeria’s SEC Grants Approvals to Crypto Operators: A Step Towards Regulation and Acceptance
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