Abuja, June 27, 2024 (NAN) The Senate, on Thursday, said there was no request from the Presidency to approve the purchase of a Presidential aircraft.
Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, during plenary, dismissed speculations that the Upper Chamber was debating approval of a Presidential aircraft in the 2024 supplementary budget.
Opeyemi said: “Senate is aware of insinuations that the its President, Godswill Akpabio ,either had at one time, indicated that we had a request for purchase of a new plane to be approved for President Tinubu.
“And that President of the Senate had indicated that regardless of what Nigerians were going through, that it will be approved.
“As we sit here, a section of the social media had also been circulating that we had gone into an executive session to discuss about the presidential request for a new plane and how we are going to approve it.
“Let me alert Nigerians that there is the presence of a fifth columnist and some other propagandists who are doing everything possible to destabilise this country and also destabilise the parliament.
“I say for the record, as the Leader of this Senate, that there is no request before this us as of yet.”
The Senate Leader added that there had not been a basis for the Red Chamber to debate whether to approve a Presidential aircraft or not.
“It has never been discussed either on the floor of this Senate or among individual senators or at the executive session.
“There is no such request. If the request comes, it is not about the President of the Senate alone.
“It is for 469 elected representatives of the Nigerian people to discuss and take a position. 360 in the House of Representatives, 109 in the senate.”he said.
Reacting ,Akpabiosaid: “When you hear stories such as the death of the Vice President of Malawi as a result of a defective plane and then you hear stories such as the death of the President of Iran, as a result of defective helicopter, we should never dream and allow such to be our portion, it will not be.
“The Senate is responsible, the National Assembly is very responsible. We will look into issues that will benefit the governance of the country.
“Those speculating know very well that something like that may come in future, and if it is a necessity, the Senate will look into it. But ,there is nothing like that before us now,” Akpabio said.(NAN)
(www.nannews.ng)
NNL/CHOM/BHB
Reps to investigate renewable energy investments performance
Investigation
By Constance Athekame
Abuja, June 27, 2024 (NAN) The House of Representatives says it plans to conduct a thorough investigation on the underperformance of investments in renewable energy.
Rep. Afam Ogene, Chairman House Committee on Renewable Energy, said this in Abuja on Thursday at the workshop on aligning strategies across the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan’s five key sectors with net zero commitments.
The workshop is with the theme, ’’Aligning Energy Transition Programme (ETP) Sector Strategies with Net Zero Commitments’’ organised by the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN).
Ogene said that the House had mandated the committee on renewable energy to conduct a comprehensive investigation into government agencies involved in renewable energy investments, procurement, and grant management since 2015.
He said that the resolution followed a motion sponsored by Rep. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, representing Oshodi/Isolo Federal Constituency, Lagos State.
The motion according to him was on the urgent need to investigate government investments and grants received in the renewable energy sector from 2015 till date.
“In spite of significant investments and grants, including a 750 million dollar World Bank facility approved in Dec. 2023, and over 2 billion dollar received as investments and grants in the past decade.
“The sector has failed to show tangible progress or contribute meaningfully to the national grid, “he said.
According to him, the House is concerned about the seeming lack of transparency and accountability in the management of these funds.
Ogene said that as chairman of the committee on renewable energy, he would conduct a thorough investigation, leaving no stone unturned, to uncover the truth behind the sector’s underperformance.
He also said that the committee would ensure that the House’ mandate was fulfilled, and appropriate action taken against individuals or organisations found to have mismanaged funds or engaged in unethical practices.
“The investigation aims to hold accountable those responsible for the sector’s poor performance and release the sector from dullness and stunted development.
“Promoting in the process, sustainable economic development and addressing Nigeria’s persistent electricity challenges, ‘’he said.
Ogene appealed to REAN as stakeholders in the renewable energy sector to provide relevant information about the investments and grants in the sector within the period.
“The National Assembly is committed to supporting the renewable energy sector through legislation and oversight.
“This we must do to ensure that we move forward in our commitment to the net zero emissions journey as a nation.
“I urge REAN to continue its excellent work in advocating for policies and programmes that support the growth of the renewable energy sector.
“Let us work together to create a sustainable energy future for Nigeria, “he said.
Earlier, President of REAN, Mr Ayo Ademilua, said that the workshop was to track how Nigeria had fared in its commitment in the energy transition programme plan.
He said that the commitment of REAN to Nigerian Energy Transition Programme (NETP) was the reason the association monitored the progress so far.
“So this particular event is to measure the tracks across different sectors, the cooking sector, the transport sector, the industrial sector, to see how much we have done concerning energy transition in Nigeria.
“We are moving forward but a bit slowly. I believe that there is room for improvement in terms of the speed towards our commitment.
“But I see that there is the willpower on the government side to see how the ETP can move forward, but we need to move a little bit faster, “he said.
Ademilua said that one of the challenges of the transition programme was funding adding that more commitment by the nation was needed to make it work.
“Our people need a paradigm shift because the energy transition plan and commitment is not just a government commitment alone; all of us are in it.
“We have to plan to make sure that we do all that we are supposed to do,” he said (NAN)(nannews.ng)
Arewa community seeks Tinubu’s intervention in Kano Royal crisis
Tussle
By Abdul Hassan
Abuja, June 27, 2024(NAN)The Arewa Community in Southern Nigeria has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the Kano royal tussle to save the traditional institution from further ridicule.
The Chairman of the community, Alhaji Musa Saidu, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.
He alleged that the entire crisis was orchestrated by politicians for their selfish end, not minding the collosal damage to the revered Kano Emirate.
He added that the crisis would in no way benefit the collective interest of the generality of the people of Kano State, or will it add any value to the traditional institution.
“Kano is a political nerve of the country and President Tinubu needs the state for his second term in 2027, as such should not allow the current royal tussle to degenerate.”
Saidu said that the impasse over the Kano Emirate stool was a huge embarrassment to not only the state but the country as a whole.
“It is a huge disrespect to law and order as well as the traditional institution.
“ The frequent dethronement of emirs in the North by politicians within the last three decade is a symptom of collapse of our cultural and traditional society,’’ he said.
The Arewa leader said that President Tinubu’s silence on the matter was “worrisome and wrong”.
“ If former president Buhari, in spite of his controversies, could set up a committee to mediate and reconcile Emir Sanusi and former Kano State governor Abdullahi Ganduje in 2020, why can’t Tinubu do the same,’’ he said.
Saidu advised both Emir Aminu Ado Bayero and Muhammadu Sanusi II to consider the damage the impasse had made on the traditional institution they represent.
He reminded them to take heed to the general belief that power comes from God, who bestows it on whom He wishes.
“Allah gives power to whoever He wishes and takes it whenever He wants, so let’s accept destiny in our lives,’’ he said.
He appealed to politicians to stop disuniting the people for their selfish interest.
Meanwhile, Saidu has supported ongoing investigation process of former Kaduna State governor, Nasiru el-Rufai.
“We support the investigation of el-rufai government, we support EFCC intervention as well,’’ he added.
He described the action of Kaduna State House of Assembly as worthy of emulation by other lawmakers, adding that democracy cannot flourish under state of corruption.
“El-rufai is an advocate of transparency in governance, today is his turn to prove his innocence or otherwise.
“ Don’t go to court, go and appear before the investigation committee and defend yourself,’’ Saidu advised elrufai. (NAN)
Road safety stakeholders during a news conference on National Drivers’ competition in Nigeria
PDSA unveils Best Driver in Nigeria competition
Competition
By Ibironke Ariyo
Abuja, June 27, 2024(NAN) The Professional Driving and Safety Academy (PDSA) in collaboration with the National and International stakeholders in transportation sectors unveiled the 2024 best driver in Nigeria competition and free road safety education for drivers nationwide.
Speaking at a news conference to officially kick-start the programme on Thursday in Abuja, the Registrar and Chief Executive, PDSA, Mr Jide Owatunmise said that driving remained one of the most complex tasks.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the briefing is: “Drivers’ Education, Recognition and Motivation: Vital tools for Road Traffic Crash (RTC) Reduction”.
Owatunmise said that several global and national research reports have affirmed that over 80 per cent of Road Traffic Crashes (RTCs) were caused by human factors while over 70 per cent were attributed to drivers.
He said that if the causative factors associated with the drivers were effectively addressed, the rate of RTCs would be significantly and sustainably reduced.
He also said that as high as the rate of RTCs, injuries and deaths were, they were preventable with adequate knowledge and compliance to road rules.
He, however, said that over 70 per cent of all classes of drivers currently knew little or nothing about safety measures.
According to him, vehicle technology has been changing, road traffic regulations are regularly updated, the mental and physical fitness of drivers/riders is not static and the road environment is also dynamic among other developments.
“Section 57 (1) of the National Road Traffic Regulations (NRTR 2012 and 2016 Amendments) clearly states that Drivers (and Riders) are to undergo a minimum of Cumulative Nine hours of Competence training before every renewal of their Licence.
“The Resolutions of the National Council on Transportation (NCT, Dec.8, 2022) also affirmed that the employers of drivers and even drivers of personal vehicles should periodically undergo seminars in driving and road safety use in Nigeria, thereby, reducing the rate of RTCs on Nigeria roads.
“It is, however, disheartening that over 80 per cent of drivers’ are not complying with provisions of the NRTR and Resolutions of NCT on the need for regular updating of knowledge, skills and attitudes on driving in Nigeria.
“Driving is one of the most complex tasks because it involves simultaneous use of the eyes, ears and nose to gather information.
“It also needs the brain to interpret information gathered and hands and legs to apply the interpreted information in a continuously changing environment to enhance effective and safe vehicle control,” he said.
The Registrar said that research reports revealed that most of the Government MDAS, Private sector organisations, professional commercial divers and drivers of self – owned vehicles had not been complying with provisions of the Laws.
He said the Law provided compulsory regular proficiency training, adding that they all complained of lack of time and or money to undergo regular training while some were not even aware of the existence of the laws and resolutions.
He added that in view of the high rate of RTCs, injuries and deaths in Nigeria, there was, therefore, an urgent need to bridge the gaps toward ensuring Safety on Nigeria roads.
According to him, our organisation, in collaboration with several road safety stakeholders initiated and commenced the annual drivers’ day event in Nigeria on Nov. 15, 2023.
He said “representatives of the relevant stakeholders attended the event including Ministry of Transportation, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Directorate of Road Traffic Services (VIOS), and Lagos State Drivers Institute (LASDRI), Transport Unions, NGOs/CSOs, Media and driving schools among others.
“The expanded year 2024 edition of the Annual Drivers’ Day has three branches of events as follows: Best Driver in Nigeria Competition and Free Road Safety Education, International Drivers Conference and Awards to deserving Organisations and Individuals in Transportation and Road Safety.
“The goal is to collaborate with all stakeholders to advocate for Policies, Initiatives and Activities which effectively enhance road safety education and safer road use in Nigeria.
“Our objective is to boost road safety education, enhance road safety consciousness, reiterate the relevance of drivers and riders in the prevention of RTCs, and to boost Drivers’ and Riders’ Motivation for improved performance and safety.
“Other objectives are to significantly reduce the rate of RTCs, injuries and deaths, to emphasise the fact that road safety is a shared responsibility and to promote road safety culture for all road users in Nigeria.
Representatives of various stakeholders like FRSC, DRTS, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Women Drivers Association, VIO mayors of the Federation among other present at the briefing all pledged their support for the 2024 National Drivers Day Competition.
NAN reports that special awards, certificates of participation, books on driving, riding and safety tips and other packages shall be given to participants and staff of organisations that will participate.
Best driver will be given a car worth N20 million, First Runner up will get fN5 million, Second runner up- N3 million, fourth to 10th position – N1 million each and varieties of consolation prizes for all other contestants.
Registration for participation starts from Friday June 28, nationwide with a fee of N2, 000. Screening and Free Road Safety training starts from July while the grand finale is Nov. 21, 2024.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
FG backs calls for establishment of Restorative Justice centres
Centres
By Ebere Agozie
Abuja, June 27, 2024 (NAN)The Federal Government has thrown its weight behind stakeholders’ calls for the establishment of Restorative Justice Centres in the country.
Mrs Beatrice Jedy-Agba, the Solicitor-General of the Federation, said this at the Validation Session of Restorative Justice Documents; the Policy, Bill, Practice Direction, and Training Manual on Thursday in Abuja.
The programme was organised by the Ministry of Justice and sponsored by UNODC.
“These centres will run as forms of alternative dispute resolution and will be deployed as tools for decongesting many of the less serious cases in the docket of the courts.
“This will invariably decrease the overcrowded correctional centres.
“It is proposed that the centres will receive referrals from the police, courts and prosecutors to settle some criminal matters amicably’’.
She called for support for government policies towards reforming the criminal justice system, through developing restorative justice mechanisms.
“The criminal justice system faces tremendous challenges, ranging from recidivism, prolonged duration for trials, overcrowded custodial centres and the failure of punishment for offences to meet with standards of justice for the victims and survivors of crime.
“These challenges are addressed through restorative justice mechanisms, with the overall objective of improving the criminal justice system.
She explained that restorative justice is an evolving approach to justice that seeks to repair harm by providing an opportunity for those harmed and the perpetrators to communicate and address needs in the aftermath of a crime.
“It gives offenders an opportunity to make amends and to try to correct some of their wrongs and hurt which they may have caused to their victims.
“It is also an innovative approach that has been known to reduce re-offending rates by making the offenders face the consequences of their action’’.
She noted that while the traditional criminal justice process solely focuses on punishment for the offender, restorative justice focuses on victims and survivors who have been harmed by the conduct of the offender.
“Victims are empowered to participate more fully than in the traditional system, and the community also has an important role to play by establishing standards of conduct and helping to provide support to the parties involved.
“I hope that the validation and eventual passage of these legal and regulatory frameworks will serve as model to be adopted by the states’’.
Also speaking, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun added that as a way of building a more inclusive justice system, police will champion adoption of the restorative system.
“As we review and validate these documents, I urge us to prioritise a justice system that encourages re-integration, the police is committed to work with all stakeholders.
“The concept holds immense potential for nation legal frame work. It encompasses policy, practice direction and training manual of restorative justice.
Mrs Leticia Ayoola-Daniels, Director of Administration of Criminal Justice and Reform Department noted that the ultimate goal is to have a justice system that not only punishes offenders but also heals communities and restores relationships.
“The purpose is not merely a formality but a testament to our dedication to reforming our justice system to better serve our people.
“Restorative Justice represents a paradigm shift from the traditional punitive approach to one that emphasizes healing, rehabilitation, and reconciliation.
“It is relevant now more than ever as we face the challenges of recidivism, overcrowded correctional facilities, and lengthy prosecution processes’’.
Ms Muchaneta Mundopa a representative of UNODC says the documents emphasise Nigeria’s dedication to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 16, which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions.
“UNODC believes that restorative justice can play a crucial role in achieving this goal by addressing the underlying causes of conflict and promoting a culture of dialogue and understanding within communities.
“We recognise that adopting these documents is the first step in establishing a criminal justice system that provides an opportunity to all affected parties.
“However, the true impact will be experienced through the implementation phase of restorative justice,’’ she added.
She said that in line with the newly revised 2030 Strategic Vision for Nigeria, UNODC is proud and remains steadfastly committed to supporting Nigeria in this transformative journey. (NAN)
EPA/SH
2 minors, one other arraigned over alleged shop breaking, theft
Arraignment
By Funmilayo Okunade
Ado-Ekiti, June 27, 2024 (NAN) Two brothers, Love Adesigbin, 13, and Heritage Adesigbin, 16 , along with one Michael Agboola, 19, were on Thursday, arraigned before an Ado-Ekiti Chief Magistrates’ Court, charged with breaking into a shop and stealing.
The defendants, whose addresses were not provided, are facing a three-count charge of breaking-in, stealing and receiving stolen property.
However, when the charges were read to the defendants respectively, each pleaded not guilty.
The Prosecutor, Insp Akinwale Oriyomi told the court that the defendants committed the offences on Feb. 5 at 7:30 p.m. in Ado-Ekiti.
He alleged that the first defendant broke into the shop of one Rabiu Kudirat and stole a Samsung Galaxy AO4S phone valued at N250,000 and cash sum of N110,000.
Oriyomi said that the second defendant on Feb. 6, at 9:00 a.m. collected the stolen Samsung Galaxy phone from his brother and on March 10 at 9:00 p.m. transferred the stolen Samsung Galaxy phone to Michael Agboola.
According to him, the offences contravened Sections 324(1) and (2), 302(1)(a) and 343(2)(a) and (b) of the Criminal Law of Ekiti State, 2021.
The prosecutor asked the court for adjournment to enable him to study the case file and present his witnesses.
Counsel to the defendants, Mr Gboyega Abiola, urged the court to grant his clients bail, and promised that they would not jump bail.
The Chief Magistrate, Mr Olarewaju Owoleso, granted the defendants bail in the sum of N100,000 each, and one surety each in like sum.
He adjourned the case till Aug. 5, for hearing.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Comptroller Faith Ojeifo during a news conference at the Area Command headquarters in Ilorin on Thursday.
Revenue
By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo
Ilorin, June 27, 2024 (NAN) The Kwara Command of Nigeria Customs Service generated more than 10 billion in five months to surpass the amount realised from the same period in 2023, an official has said.
The Command’s Area Comptroller, Faith Ojeifo, told newsmen on Thursday in Ilorin that a comparative review of year 2023 indicates that the command surpassed the revenue with a 40.41 percent increment.
“From January to May 2024, we collected and remitted a total sum of N10, 027, 580,694.63).
“A comparative review of the preceding year 2023 indicates that the command surpassed what was collected same period last year with N2,885,779,644.03, which represents 40.41 per cent increment.
“Within the period under review, I rejig my operation teams which had led to 21 seizures of different prohibited items.
“These include 507 bags of foreign rice, one unit of used vehicles, 1,055 pieces of used tyres, 164 jerry cans of PMS of 25 litres each (4,100 liters). The total duty paid value is N35,416,140,000,” he said.
The Comptroller, however, announced that the command had donated some food items to vulnerable people in the state.
He said this was through the state’s Commissioner for Social Development, Mrs Abosede Burahimo, and that of Women’s Affairs, Folashade Opeyemi.
Ojeifo thereafter presented some relief materials on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr Bashir Adeniyi, to the Kwara Ministry of Social Development.
“We are aware that the ministry is not a revenue-generating ministry and only benefits from monthly allocations from the State Government.
”That is why we are recognising the tireless efforts of the ministry in serving the less privileged, the vulnerable and the disabled in the society,” the comptroller said.
Ojeifo said that the items donated include cartons of indomie noodles, spaghetti, sugar, toilet paper, semolina, cartons of tin and sachet milk.
”These are all aimed at providing relief, comfort, support, and hope to those who have been affected by specific crises or challenges.”
Responding on behalf of the state government, Burahimo lauded the support and promised that the items would be judiciously shared to the needy.
Ojeifo said the command also gave out empowerment equipment to the Customs Officers’ Wives Association.
“After months of extensive training of registered wives and widows of Customs officers in different empowerment training programmes, such as baking, cosmetics, sewing, and other skills acquisition, today under my leadership, we are empowering 67 wives and widows of Customs officers with sewing machine, baking oven and make-up kits.
“The aim of the empowerment is to keep you busy, self-dependent and productive while we are far away from home, which will no doubt reduce the burden of always waiting on your husbands,” the Comptroller said.
One of the students, Mr Isaac Ogbaji (r) receiving an award from Prof. Mutiullah Olasupo, the Director, Sultan Maccido Institute for Peace, Leadership and Development Studies, University of Abuja during the institute’s pre-graduation dinner and award ceremony.
Sultan Maccido institute wants students to contribute to peace-building
Peace
By Abiemwense Moru
Abuja, June 27, 2024 (NAN) Prof. Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, outgoing Vice Chancellor University of Abuja, has urged students of the Sultan Maccido Institute for Peace, Leadership and Development Studies, University of Abuja to practice peace-building.
Na’Allah, who advised the students at a pre-graduation dinner and award ceremony in Abuja, also urged them to uphold the ethics of conflict resolution in their various professions.
The vice chancellor, who was represented by the Director of the institute, Prof. Mutiullah Olasupo, highlighted the importance of participating in peace-building processes in the society.
He said the institute would continue to strengthen its manpower base through training of employees, research, and advocacy.
“We celebrate your milestone achievements; you have worked hard and persevered to reach this point, and now it is time for you to spread your wings and soar high in pursuit of your dreams.
“I wish you success as you venture into the real world and take on new challenges and opportunities.
“Throughout the year of your course work, we have shared so many experiences. From the challenging exams and late-night study sessions to the laughter-filled events and heartfelt discussions, each moment has shaped the person you are today.
“I hope you have learned not only courses of your study but also valuable life lessons about teamwork, resilience, conflict resolution, astute leadership, and the power of curiosity.
“I wish you all the best in your future endeavours, and may you continue to impact the world,” he said.
A lecturer at the institute, retired Maj.-Gen. Bola Koleoso, emphasised the need for the students to embrace the spirit of discipline and be good ambassadors of the institute wherever they found themselves.
He urged them to regulate their behaviours so that they do not make a negative impact on society, saying: “You must be aware of who you are and the impact you are having on others.’’
He urged them to learn intelligent skills to enable them to interact positively with people for the benefit of mankind.
A student of Criminology and Security Students, Mr Isaac Ogbaji, who is also the Chairman of the event’s Planning Committee, said the institute offered him the opportunity to learn about the security challenges in the country.
“I have finished my project and submitted it as expected. Right now I am waiting for my certificate.
“I feel so delighted to be here. Mahatma Gandhi once said that wisdom comes with so much pain. I have gone through so much pain here.
“As I look forward to the next phase of my life, I am better than I used to be because my wisdom, understanding, and enlightenment have increased.
“I have increased in all areas of my life because I am a student of Sultan Maccido Institute for Peace, Leadership and Development Studies,’’ he said.
Ogbaji praised the institute for the quality of training it offers, saying: “The institute is well-arranged, well-programmed. The teaching and learning experience is well-structured and I got more than I expected.
“With all that I have learned from the institute, I am prepared to attack and deal with challenges that affect the world and Nigeria in particular,” Ogbaji said.
One of the Award recipients, Dr Khadija Abdulrahman, who commended the Institute for finding her worthy, urged all Nigerians to place the unity, peace, and development of the country above all other interests.
“We should love the country ahead of thinking of ourselves.
“We should be encouraged that in our oneness is where our greatness lies as a country and our strength as Nigeria lies together in our unity.
“For the students, we have shown exemplary attitudes and leadership to them and I think we have equipped them enough to face the challenges in Nigeria.
“They are good to go and I believe they will contribute to the peace-building, unity, and strength of this country, by God’s grace,’’ she prayed. (NAN)
Centre trains police duty solicitors across 5 states
Participants at two-day Access to Justice Police Duty Solicitors Scheme training, organised by the Public and Private Development Centre on Thursday in Abuja
Justice
By Jacinta Nwachukwu
Abuja, June 27, 2024 (NAN) The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) has trained about 50 police duty solicitors across five states including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to aid quick dispensation of justice in police stations.
The Chief Executive Officer, PPDC, Mr Jubril Shittu, disclosed this during the “Access to Justice Police Duty Solicitors Scheme” (PDSS) training on Thursday in Abuja.
Shittu, represented by Mr Kenechukwu Agwu, Senior Programme Manager, PPDC, listed the states to include Adamawa, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kaduna, and the FCT.
“And we have 10 young lawyers in each of the states, the crop of the lawyers includes lawyers, who are still undergoing their National Youth service programme and those who have had one or two years experiences at the bar.”
He said the training was designed to equip the duty solicitors with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in their vital roles.
According to him, PDSS is a scheme where the centre uses young lawyers and corps members stationed at the police stations to provide justice to Nigerians.
He said the essence of the initiative was to provide free legal representation and assistance to indigent suspects and reduce the number of detainees at the police stations.
“Indeed, this gathering is a step in the right direction as we become essential contributors to our justice system, where our expertise, commitment, and professionalism will play a vital role in upholding the rights and freedom of many Nigerians.
“PPDC is committed to catalysing societal transformation towards enhanced governance transparency, accountability, and active citizen’s participation.
“Our Access to Justice programme tackles pressing issues and fosters evidence-based solutions, promoting a more just and equitable society.
“Through targeted strategic initiatives, we are committed to enhancing the operational capabilities of these institutions, making justice delivery more efficient and equitable,” he said.
Shittu, therefore, urged the duty solicitors to have compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to justice, saying “every individual you represent is entitled to fair treatment.
“It is your duty to advocate for their rights with diligence and empathy. You stand at the forefront of legal representation, often encountering people at some of the most challenging moments in their lives.
“Whether it’s in the early hours of the morning in a police station or during a critical court appearance, your role is pivotal in ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done,” he added.
The chief executive, while appreciating the participants thanked the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the U.S. Department of State, for the support which enabled PPDC to start off the
PPDC’s PDSS Scheme.
Similarly, Mr Bamidele Ibikunle, Technical Assistant to the Director-General, Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, encouraged the participants to be passionate about their duties and always sensitise their clients to their rights.
Speaking on the topic “PDSS in Nigeria: The role of PDSS in protecting detainees”, Ibikunle said that the major challenge Nigerians had was ignorance of their rights.
“As a duty solicitor you’re expected to provide legal aid and assistance to indigents suspects within the first 48 hours of arrest at the police station.
“Ensure that due processes of law are undertaken in the course of investigation, and also ensure that all facilities needed by the suspect for his/her defence are available.
“And also ensure that you reduce the duration of pre-trial detention at the police station among others,” he explained.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training was organised by the Public and Private Development Centre as of one of its interventions towards enhancing the justice system in the country.(NAN)(www.nanews.ng)
Crypto
By Ginika Okoye
Abuja, June 27, 2024 (NAN) The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) says the regulation of crypto-currencies and other digital assets are under its full control and regulation.
The Director-General of SEC, Dr Emomotimi Agama, said this at the first Annual Conference of the Association of Capital Market Academics of Nigeria (ACMAN) on Thursday in Abuja.
Agama described crypto assets as digital or virtual assets utilised by cryptography for security.
He said there were over 15,000 crypto currencies created which had Bitcoin as the most popular.
The director-general said that the regulatory landscape for cryptocurrency was not yet firm even in the United States.
According to him, Nigeria’s crypto transaction volume had reached $56.7 billion between July 2022 and June 2023, hence the efforts by SEC.
Agama quoted a survey which said that 33.4 per cent of Nigerians were using or owned crypto currencies.
”Secrecy of crypto usage is what is driving its adoption by the youth.
”Some people don’t have bank accounts but they have crypto wallet.
”Crypto is like an air, can you cage it, No. What you can do is to build a risk management around it, ”he said.
Agama said the commission would continue to educate investors on the risks associated with digital assets to be able to make wise investment decisions.
Chief Osita Izunaso, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market, said the country required effective crypto regulation to benefit from the gains of the market.
Izunaso said the absence of effective regulation on crypto currencies had exposed so many investors to fraud.
He called for synergy from all stakeholders to harness opportunities in the crypto space.
The Director-General of the Debt Management Office, Ms Patience Oniha, called for awareness creation to educate investors to make informed decisions.
Mr Bello Hassan, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, said that crypto currencies had come to stay as younger people were patronising the market.
Hassan called on SEC to constantly update investors with unbiased information of the associated risks of trading in the crypto market.
Prof. Uche Uwaleke, the President, ACMAN, said the conference was aimed at considering the possibilities of expanding the financial sector regulations.
Uwaleke said the conference would also explore ways to accommodate crypto assets within the regulatory space.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ACMAN conferred awards on many stakeholders in the financial and capital markets for their various contributions in moving the markets forward.
The conference was organised by ACMAN in collaboration with SEC. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
GINI/JNC
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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma
