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Breaking: Akpabio Takes Fresh Move Against Natasha; Tackles Justice Binta Nyako

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Akpabio, Natasha Urged To Seek Out-of-Court Settlement

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has challenged the judgment of the Federal High Court judgment in favour of suspended Senator Natasha Akpati Uduaghan

In an 11-ground appeal, the Senate president argued that the court lacked the jurisdiction to hear the matter

The Senate president also accused Justice Binta Nyako of erring, adding that she raised matters that were not presented by any of the parties in the ruling.

Channels TV reported that the legal team of the Senate president is seeking to challenge the jurisdiction of the High Court, insisting that the matter remains the internal affairs of the National Assembly and that the court did not have the power to hear the matter, citing Section 251 of the 1999 Constitution.

Akpabio’s legal team presented 11 grounds of appeal and faulted the ruling of the Federal High Court that dismissed its preliminary objection. The team claimed that the court order affected the procedures of the parliament that were protected by the law.

The Senate president explained that the issues relating to suspension, comments uttered during plenary, and the resolution of the Chamber are protected under the Legislative Houses (Power and Privileges) Act, and thus cannot be a subject of judicial interference

Another argument Akpabio presented was that the suit was premature and Natasha failed to exhaust all the channels for internal dispute resolution within the Senate, particularly the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, as stipulated in the Senate Standing Orders, 2023 (as amended).

He also faulted the court trial for breaching his right to a fair hearing by raising issues that were not presented by any of the parties in the suit. The example cited was the question of whether Natasha’s suspension was excessive.

The Senate president explained that Justice Nyako erred when he made recommendations for her to be recalled without giving the parties to address the core issue.

Justice Binta Nyako of the court, in a judgment on Friday, July 4, ordered the recall of Senator Natasha, adding that the six-month suspension that the Senate slammed on the Kogi lawmaker was “excessive”.

The court also faulted the Senate Standing Rules’ Chapter 8 and Section 14 of the Legislative Houses, Powers and Privileges Act, stating that the two provisions were overreaching. The two legislative guidelines did not specify the maximum period of time that a sitting lawmaker can be suspended from office.

 

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Tinubu Makes 2 Fresh Appointments, Senate Takes Action

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President Bola Tinubu has announced the appointment of Amina Gamawa, representing Bauchi, and Abdullahi Muktar, representing Kaduna, as Commissioners to the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).

The announcement was made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, adding that the president forwarded the names of the nominees to the National Assembly for screening and confirmation.

The president’s letter reads in part: “Confirmation of appointment of commissioners for Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

In accordance with the provisions of Section 154(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, I am pleased to forward for confirmation by the Senate the appointment of the two underlisted nominees as commissioners in the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

“Amina Gamawa, as commissioner representing Bauchi State, and Abdullahi Muktar, commissioner representing Kaduna State.

While I hope that the Senate will consider and confirm the nominees in the usual expeditious manner, please accept, distinguished Senate President, distinguished Senators, the assurances of my highest consideration.”

Akpabio further referred the letter to the Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs. He said that the committee should report back to the Senate within the next week.

The appointment was one of the numerous appointments that President Tinubu will be making since the commencement of his administration.

Tinubu’s appointment has been criticised, and many issues raised have been addressed.

Nigerians have started reacting to the announcement by the Senate president during Tuesday’s plenary.

Below are some of their reactions:

Adetunji Adewolu called for fairness in the sharing formula: “New names at the revenue table. Nigerians will be watching closely to see if the slices of the national cake get any fairer. #OmoOlofaIna.”

Dan_Baba criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu: “Every day, we keep seeing appointments without a positive impact on the masses. We will continue praying while we patiently wait for 2027.”

Pepperito congratulated the appointee, describing her as a loyal party member: “Once again, to our party lover, stalwart and servant, @gamawa_amina, congratulations. This is one appointment that thoroughly sweetened my belle.”

Idris Garba explained what should be the focus of the government: “The focus should be how revenue will be better managed for the benefit of citizens.”

Oma Ann criticised the administration of President Tinubu:  “Positions filled every day, but no real economic relief. Wetin dey happen.”

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BREAKING: Tinubu Issues Nationwide Message to Nigerians , “We Will Never Surrender”

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the country will never yield to forces seeking to destabilise its peace, unity, and sovereignty.

The President spoke while hosting religious and traditional leaders for an interfaith breaking of the fast at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

A statement shared via X, by Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu acknowledged the critical role of religious and traditional figures in fostering peace and moral guidance across communities.

“Yes, we are challenged; the terrorists are very desperate now because they are getting barraged and defeated, they leave trails of blood in their wake.

But I assure you of one thing: Nigeria will never surrender. We are not discouraged. We are going to win and win well,” he said.

The President emphasised that the government remains committed to protecting citizens and securing the nation from insurgents and other threats to stability.

President Tinubu also reflected on the economic progress since assuming office, highlighting measures to stabilise public finances and support pensioners.

“I am just grateful, one person among millions, that I have been given the opportunity to serve. And all I can do is promise that I will continue to be faithful in discharging my duty.  I can report that the economy has turned the corner. It is getting better. Pensioners are getting their relief gradually. We have saved Nigeria from bankruptcy,” he stated.

He added that his administration has ensured that no governor struggles to pay salaries and is focused on long-term development in sectors such as agriculture and education to leave a lasting legacy.

In his remarks, Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, praised President Tinubu for bringing together leaders of Nigeria’s major religions, describing the occasion as a symbol of national unity.

He prayed for guidance, protection, peaceful coexistence, and the President’s success. Representing the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe underscored the importance of faith leaders in promoting harmony.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), through Archbishop Daniel Okoh, assured President Tinubu of the church’s continued support for his government’s efforts to transform the economy and strengthen security.

Traditional rulers and religious leaders from all six geopolitical zones attended the event, reinforcing the administration’s message of national unity, peace, and resilience.

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SO SAD: Top APC Chieftain Collapses, Dies In Abuja; Party Reacts 

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed that it is “shocked and deeply saddened” by the death of “a highly respected” party chieftain, Chamberlain Dunkwu.

Dunkwu, president of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, tragically passed away after collapsing at his residence on Saturday morning, March 7, 2026. His sudden death came just hours before he was scheduled to attend the “Swim to the Future” programme, a key talent discovery event he had helped organise at the National Stadium Swimming Pool (Package B) in Abuja.

According to Leadership, sources close to the family confirmed that efforts to revive Dunkwu were unsuccessful.

Apart from leading the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, Dunkwu also served as deputy chief of staff (legislative) to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. Previously, he was a special adviser on members’ affairs to the Speaker of the 9th House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

In its condolence message, signed by national spokesperson Felix Morka, the APC described Dunkwu as “an energetic, selfless, and loyal party man who contributed enormously to building and strengthening the party in his native Ika federal constituency, Delta State, and beyond.”

The APC’s statement reads on X: “Dr. Dunkwu lived a vibrant life of service and philanthropy that touched many within and beyond his homeland. His exit has created a yawning void that will be difficult to fill. Our Party prays God to grant his immediate family the fortitude to bear this huge loss. And may He comfort all members of the APC family in Ika Federal Constituency, Delta State and around the country at this difficult time.”

It added: “Amazing Grace! Amazing Grace! May His Grace lead you home, and may it be true for you as proclaimed in the old hymnal: “To that old rugged cross I will ever be true, its shame and reproach gladly bear; then he’ll call me someday to my home far away, where his glory forever I’ll share.” Fare thee well, dear compatriot!”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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