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Melaye Returns to Senate with Theatrics, Fuels Rumour of Defection

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Senator Dino Melaye
  • Melaye Returns to Senate with Theatrics, Fuels Rumour of Defection

It was drama galore wednesday when the Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Dino Melaye, stirred the Senate on the very first day of his resumption with a special request at plenary that he should be allowed to sit among PDP Senators.

Melaye’s move immediately set tongues wagging and provoking whirlwind rumour that he was perhaps sending a signal as to his next direction, given that he is an ally of the Senate President; both of them are equally key players in the defunct nPDP that is currently keeping its options open in its discussions with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) with the likely option of decamping to the Action Democratic Party (ADP).

Melaye who came to the Senate Chambers at about 10.55 a.m limping with a walking stick and donning a neck brace had been away from plenary since last month to answer to criminal charges against him in his home state, spoke under Order 14 of the Senate Rules to request that he be allowed to henceforth sit at the section reserved for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Senators.

His words: “I don’t feel comfortable sitting where I am now and if you don’t mind Mr. Senate President I will want to request that I be allowed henceforth to sit beside ranking Senator David Mark. I will be more relaxed and comfortable there than where I am sitting now”.

Melaye’s request charged the atmosphere in the Senate Chambers with senators speaking for and against the proposal.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu and Minority Leader Godswill Akpabio in supporting Melaye’s request cited Order 43 and Section 45 of the Constitution of Nigeria, saying he should be free to move and sit anywhere he likes within the Senate Chambers.

Akpabio for effect emphasised that Melaye and other Senators like him “are free to join us on this side anytime they wish to come as we are ready to provide best sitting positions for them as we are Senators of the Federal Republic and not along party lines.

Rising to oppose Melaye’s request, Senate Leader Ahmad Lawan and Chief Whip Olusola Adeyeye, quoting Constitutional Order 65 Section 2b warned that a bad precedence should not be set by institutionalising chaos if Melaye’s request is granted.

They advised Melaye to feel free to sit on any of the seats reserved for APC Senators “including those reserved for principal officers of the Senate”.

Summing up the contributions, Senate President Bukola Saraki, said there is the need to consider Melaye’s comfort and his state of mind with his return to the Senate.

He said based on this “we will accommodate Melaye’s request and will make his seat comfortable through the Chief Whip and Senate management”.

At this point, Melaye moved to the back of the PDP Senators’ wing at the Chambers and sat beside Senator Ben Murray-Bruce who warmly received him.

Name Corrupt N’Assembly Members

The Senate yesterday formally reacted to corruption allegations levelled against some members of the National Assembly by former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, saying he should be bold enough to reveal the identities of the said lawmakers.

Jega had at a public lecture held in Abuja on Monday to commemorate Democracy Day accused some National Assembly Committee Chairmen of demanding bribes from government agencies and parastatals before passing their budgets Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, who spoke at plenary in reaction to Order 43 raised by Senator Isah Misau over Jega’s accusations wondered why Jega failed to mention names “if actually, he was sure of his facts.

Saraki who said he was present at the occasion where Jega made the allegations stated that such a statement was highly embarrassing.

According to him, the former INEC Chairman should bring the evidence to prove his bribery allegations.

“He should be specific and not make a blanket statement by mentioning names of those who told him that some National Assembly members give bribe and the affected law makers so that appropriate sanction can be taken.

“We are not trying to cover up for any lawmaker. If he has the proof he should just come up with it and wait for our action on it If not, the matter should be laid to rest”.

He stressed the commitment of Senate leadership towards the fight against corruption. Said he, “we are fully committed to the drive towards eradicating corruption in the system and will continue to do everything towards achieving this aim.

Senator Isah Misau had earlier while drawing the attention of the Senate to Jega’s allegation canvassed for a stern position to be taken by the Senate on the matter.

Expressing concern about the accusation, Misau wondered why Jega failed to disclose the identities of those involved ” if actually, he was sure of his facts”.

Invites OAU VC Over Sex for Marks Scandal

Also wednesday, the Senate resolved to invite the authorities of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife to appear before it to explain steps taken so far by the institution on the sex for marks allegation levelled against Prof. Richard Akindele by a post graduate student, Monica Osagie.

This followed a motion on the growing trend of sexual harassment in higher institutions of learning moved by Senator Biodun Olujimi which was adopted with a resolution to mandate the Senate Committees on Tertiary Institutions, Human Rights and Legal Matters to carry out full investigation of the case of Monica Osagie and the OAU lecturer ” in order to ensure that there is transparency and accountability and that satisfactory justice is done to the victim involved and our laws are further strengthened for effectiveness.

The Senate also urged House of Representatives to concur with the Senate on Sexual Harassment in Tertiary Educational Institutions (Prohibition) Bill ” which has been transmitted to the House as this will provide succour and a window of solace for victims of these kind of atrocities in our higher institutions of learning”.

Is the CEO/Founder of Investors King Limited. A proven foreign exchange research analyst and a published author on Yahoo Finance, Businessinsider, Nasdaq, Entrepreneur.com, Investorplace, and many more. He has over two decades of experience in global financial markets.

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Lagos Eyes Investment Surge as Sanwo-Olu Unveils Growth Strategy

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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State is spearheading a bold push to attract significant investment inflow to boost the state’s economic growth.

During a Pre-Summit Investor Roundtable at the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS 3.0), held at Eko Hotels and Suites, the governor outlined strategic opportunities for investors.

With the theme “Invest Lagos – Investment Opportunities,” the summit was organized by the Sterling One Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment.

Attended by business leaders, chambers of commerce, and industry captains, the event underscored Lagos’ potential as a hub for economic activity.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’ positive economic outlook, citing an expanding population and sustainable infrastructure as key growth drivers.

Despite challenging business environments, the state’s economy has shown resilience, welcoming new investments while sustaining existing ones.

The governor emphasized reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business. He mentioned that digitizing services had reduced bureaucratic hurdles, fostering a stable business climate.

Sanwo-Olu assured potential investors of the state’s commitment to creating a supportive environment that ensures returns and security for investments.

“In the last five years, Lagos’ GDP has grown by 50 percent,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “We aim to sustain this growth and ensure the gains of the past years are not reversed.”

Sanwo-Olu identified sectors ripe for investment, including transportation, tourism, health insurance, and waterways. He expressed the government’s dedication to advancing development plans in these areas.

Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, highlighted Lagos’ economic strides, noting that the state’s GDP had increased from N27 trillion to N41 trillion in five years.

She detailed strategic investments, particularly the allocation of N550.7 billion for infrastructure in 2024, and the commitment of N44.33 billion to food security initiatives.

Sterling Bank’s Managing Director, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, pointed out that economic growth in Africa is often hindered by an unstable investment climate.

The summit aimed to build investor confidence by fostering trust and transparency in business environments.

“Lagos remains a leading destination for investors,” Suleiman noted. “The state provides clarity and access to markets, maintaining consistency in its investment strategies.”

Sanwo-Olu’s administration continues to focus on diversifying Lagos’ economy through strategic investments in various sectors.

The state’s proactive approach has positioned it as a global city and an emerging African financial center.

The governor’s initiative is expected to further solidify Lagos’ reputation as a prime investment destination, paving the way for sustained economic growth and development.

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Vice-President Harris Gathers Momentum as Democratic Nominee

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Vice-President Kamala Harris has secured the support needed to become the Democratic nominee for president.

This was after President Joe Biden announced he would not seek re-election, endorsing Harris as his successor.

According to CBS News, Harris has received endorsements from over 1,976 delegates, surpassing the threshold needed to clinch the nomination in the first round of voting at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) scheduled for August.

Delegations from at least 27 states have expressed full support, showcasing a strong backing across the nation.

In her address to campaign staff in Wilmington, Delaware, Harris expressed gratitude for the widespread support, adding that she committed to uniting the party and the country.

“We have 106 days until Election Day, and in that time, we have some hard work to do,” she stated.

Harris laid out her vision for America, contrasting it with that of her likely opponent, Donald Trump.

Speaking on the direction of the campaign thus far, she said “Our campaign has always been about two different versions of what we see as the future of our country. One focuses on the future, the other focuses on the past.”

She acknowledged the accomplishments of the Biden administration, highlighting her pride in serving as vice-president.

“My time serving as vice-president was one of the greatest honors of my life,” Harris said, underscoring her dedication to continuing the work they started.

In a phone call to his campaign team, Biden praised Harris, urging his supporters to rally behind her. “I’m hoping you’ll give every bit of your heart and soul that you gave to me to Kamala,” he said.

Despite stepping back from the race, Biden vowed to remain actively involved in supporting Harris and emphasized the importance of defeating Trump, calling him “a danger to this nation.”

Harris’s nomination marks a significant milestone, but challenges remain. The campaign will focus on addressing key issues such as healthcare, climate change, and economic inequality.

With millions of dollars pouring into her campaign since Biden’s announcement, Harris aims to capitalize on the momentum and build a coalition that appeals to a broad spectrum of voters.

As the DNC approaches, Harris is expected to formally accept the nomination, solidifying her position as the Democratic leader.

The coming months will be crucial as she works to unite the party and reach out to undecided voters. With her historic nomination, Harris stands poised to make a lasting impact on the future of American politics.

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President Declines Nomination, Endorses Harris for 2024

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In a significant political announcement on his X.com account, President Joe Biden has decided to forgo the opportunity to seek re-election in 2024, instead throwing his full support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.

The surprise move, shared with the public this morning, represents a pivotal moment in the Democratic Party’s journey toward the upcoming presidential election.

In his statement, Biden said that his choice to step aside is driven by a desire to concentrate on his remaining duties as President.

He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside Harris, calling her selection as his Vice President in 2020 “the best decision” he has made. “My fellow Democrats,” Biden began, “I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”

The President’s announcement signifies a strategic shift in the 2024 election landscape. By endorsing Kamala Harris, Biden not only aims to consolidate support within the party but also to set the stage for a unified front against former President Donald Trump.

“Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year,” Biden declared. “Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.”

This endorsement comes as a surprise to many, given Biden’s earlier commitment to seeking re-election.

However, it reflects a broader strategic maneuver to ensure party unity and strengthen the Democratic position in the face of a formidable opponent. By focusing on Harris, Biden aims to leverage her growing popularity and political acumen to fortify the party’s chances in the upcoming election.

Kamala Harris, who has served as Vice President since January 2021, will now be thrust into the spotlight as the presumptive Democratic nominee.

Her campaign is expected to build on the legacy of the current administration while addressing key issues facing the nation.

The move also raises the stakes for the Republicans, who will need to prepare for a robust campaign from a seasoned political leader in Harris.

As the 2024 election cycle ramps up, Biden’s endorsement is likely to reshape the dynamics of the race, influencing both Democratic strategies and Republican responses.

The coming months will be critical as Harris and her team work to solidify their platform and rally support from voters across the nation.

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