President Bola Tinubu has asked leaders of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to put their house in order instead of accusing him of turning Nigeria into a one party state, saying it was his pleasure seeing them in disarray.<\/p>\n
Tinubu, who taunted the PDP national leadership while addressing the joint sitting of the National Assembly on the occasion of June 12 Democracy Day also seized the occasion to confer national honours on living and late heroes and heroines of Democracy.<\/p>\n
This included wife of the symbol of the June 12 struggle, AlhajaKudiratAbiola.<\/p>\n
Other beneficiaries of the presidential gesture were environmental crusaders, rights activists, leaders of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), journalists and other Nigerians, who played crucial roles in the pro-June 12 struggle to enthrone democracy in the country.<\/p>\n
Tinubu appealed to the leaders of the opposition PDP to tackle their internal crisis which was making their leaders to defect in droves to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and denied insinuations that the APC was nursing the ambition of turning Nigeria into a one party State.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo those who ring the alarm that the APC is intent on a one-party state, I offer you a most personal promise. While your alarm may be as a result of your panic, it rings in error. At no time in the past, nor any instance in the present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state as good for Nigeria.<\/p>\n
\u201cI have never attempted to alter any political party registration with INEC. Equally, my friends, we cannot blame anybody seeking to bail out of a sinking ship even without a life jacket.<\/p>\n
\u201cLook at my political history. I would be the last person to advocate such a scheme. In 2003, when the then-governing party tried to sweep the nation clean of political opposition through plot and manipulation, I was the last of the progressive governors standing in my region.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn all their numbers and false grandeur, they boasted of ruling, not governing Nigeria for the next half century or more. Where are they now? Yet, I stood alone. My allies had been induced into defeat. My adversaries held all the cards that mortal man could carry.<\/p>\n
\u201cEven with all of that, they could not control our national destiny because fate is written from above. A greater power did not want Nigeria to become a one-party state back then. Nigeria will not become such a state now.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe failed effort to create a one-party state placed progressive political forces on a trajectory to form the APC. It put me on the trajectory which has brought me before you today. I dare not do such a favour to any political adversary by repeating the same mistake of political overreach.<\/p>\n
\u201cA one-party state is not in the offing. Nor should it ever be. That said, we would be guilty of political malpractice if we closed the door on those from other parties, who now seek to join the APC.<\/p>\n
\u201cI sincerely welcome our party\u2019s newest members from Delta and AkwaIbom States led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Pastor UmoEno and other members of this National Assembly.<\/p>\n
\u201cPolitical parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes and affairs rather than fearfully conjuring up demons that do not exist.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor me, I would say try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you do so. It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness you in such disarray. We must welcome and accept the diversity and number of political parties just as we welcome and embrace the diversity of our population.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur efforts must never be to eliminate political competition but to make that competition salutary to the national well-being by working across the political aisle whenever possible.<\/p>\n
\u201cOne area in which democracy calls us to work together, whether in the legislative or executive branch, whether in this or other political parties, is that of economic and social development.\u201d<\/p>\n
Tinubu said upon assuming office, his team moved to reform the country\u2019s ailing economy, saying, \u201cWe introduced fundamental reforms to correct structural imbalances that prevented maximum growth,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n
He, however, seized the occasion to confer a post humour national honour of CFR on KudiratAbiola, the heroine of the June 12 struggle.<\/p>\n
He also conferred posthumous national honours on Shehu Musa Yar\u2019Adua (GCFR), Prof. Humphrey Nwosu (CON), Rear Admiral NdubuisiKanu (CON), AlhajiBalarabe Musa (CFR), Pa. Alfred Rewani (CFR), BagaudaKaltho (OON), ChimaUbani (OON), Dr. BekoRansome-Kuti (CON), and Alao Aka Bashorun (CON).<\/p>\n
Others were Chief Frank Kokori (CON), Emma Ezeazu (OON), BamideleAturu (OON), Professor Festus Iyayi (CON), Dr John YimaSen (OON), AlhajaSawabaGambo (CON), Dr. Alex Ibru (CON), Chief Bola Ige (CFR), Pa. Reuben Fasoranti (CFR), Sen. Ayo Fasanmi (CON), Sen. Polycarp Nwite (CON) and Dr. NurudeenOlowopopo (CON).<\/p>\n
The president also conferred national honours on Prof. Wole Soyinka (GCON), Prof. Olatunji Dare (CON), the journalist and journalism teacher; KunleAjibade (OON); NosaIgiebor (OON), DapoOlorunyomi (OON), BayoOnanuga (CON), Ayo Obe (OON), Dare Babarinsa (CON), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON), Senator ShehuSani (CON), Governor UbaSani (CON), and Barrister Femi Falana, SAN (CON).<\/p>\n
The list included Prof. ShafideenAmuwo (CON), Barrister Luke Aghanenu (OON), Senator TokunboAfikuyomi (CON), Hon. LabaranMaku (OON), Dr. TunjiAlausa (CON), Mr Nick Dazang (OON), Hon Abdul Oroh (OON), OdiaOfeimun (CON), SeyeKehinde (OON) and Barrister Felix Morka (CON).FredrickFasehun (CON), Dr. Edwin Madunagu (CON),<\/p>\n
Other beneficiaries were LedumMitee (CON), Hon. OlawaleOsun (CON), Dr. Amos Akingba (CON), Prof. SegunGbadegesin (CON), MobolajiAkinyemi (CFR), Dr. KayodeShonoiki (CON), Prof. Julius Ihonvbere (CON), Prof. Bayo Williams (CON), Sen. Abu Ibrahim (CFR), and Sen. AmeEbute (CFR).<\/p>\n
Additionally,\u00a0 he conferred the national honour of CON on Uncle Sam AmukaPemu, a legendary journalist and publisher, who remains true to his lifetime calling as he marks his 90th birthday on June 13.<\/p>\n
Tinubu also granted full pardons and conferred posthumous national honours on Ken SaroWiwa (CON), the leader of the Ogoni Nine and others namely, Saturday Dobee (OON), NorduEawo (OON), Daniel Gbooko (OON), Paul Levera (OON), Felix Nuate (OON), BariborBera (OON), BarinemKiobel (OON), and John Kpuine (OON).<\/p>\n
\u201cI shall also be exercising my powers under the prerogative of mercy to grant these national heroes a full pardon, together with others whose names shall be announced later in conjunction with the National Council of State,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
The president, thereafter, decorated the presiding officers of the National Assembly with the National Honours earlier conferred on them last year<\/p>\n
National Assembly Institutionalises June 12 Annual National Presidential Address<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, the two chambers of the National Assembly, yesterday, passed a resolution to Institutionalise the annual presentation of the June 12 Democracy Day address by the President at a joint session of the federal parliament.<\/p>\n
This followed a motion by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, when President Bola Tinubu appeared before the federal lawmakers to address Nigerians<\/p>\n
Abbas called for the institutionalisation of the presidential address at the National Assembly because the apex legislative institution was the symbol of democratic strength and accountability<\/p>\n
The President of the Senate, GodswillAkpabio, put the motion to vote and the entire federal legislators voted in support and it became the resolution of the parliament.<\/p>\n
Earlier, Akpabio commended Tinubu as one of the architects of Nigeria\u2019s democracy and taking courageous decision as the leader of the country.<\/p>\n
He made the commendation in his remarks at the joint sitting of the National Assembly, addressed by President Tinubu as part of the activities to mark the 2025 Democracy Day celebration.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe National Assembly is proud to host you, our president, our compatriot, and one of our own, as you fulfil the solemn constitutional duty of addressing the nation.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis chamber honours you not merely as the President, but as one of the architects of the very democratic foundation we commemorate today. Under President Tinubu\u2019s leadership, we have seen transformation in his bold approach to difficult reforms.<\/p>\n
\u201cFrom unifying the foreign exchange market, to local government autonomy, to the formation of the regional development commissions, to Nigerian Education Loan Fund, to removing fuel subsidies, to attracting foreign investments, to tax reforms, this administration has not shied away from the hard decisions required to stabilize and grow our economy.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese efforts are gradually restoring investor confidence, laying the foundations for long-term prosperity, and refocusing government expenditure toward productive investments.<\/p>\n
\u201cMr President, we commend you for your boldness, your vision, and your unwavering belief in Nigeria\u2019s future. Likewise, the 10th National Assembly,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Akpabio further described Tinubu as a great democrat, who suffered personal loses for democracy to thrive in Nigeria.<\/p>\n
\u201cMany, including Your Excellency, stood tall in those days of darkness. While others chose silence or compromise, you chose courage.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt great personal cost, NADECO which you were part of, helped sustain the flame of liberty when it was most at risk of going out. So as we mark this day, let us remember those who bled so we could vote.<\/p>\n
\u201cThose who took risks so we could speak. Those who were buried so that freedom might rise. Let us also pay tribute to all those who played pivotal roles in Nigeria\u2019s democratic transition.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis year\u2019s theme\u2014\u201c26 Years of Democracy: Renewing Our Commitment to National Development\u201d\u2014is not a slogan. It is a call to purpose,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Akpabio also listed some of the achievements of the NASS, ahead of its second anniversary on June 13, saying, \u201cFrom its inception, the 10th Senate demonstrated a renewed vigor for addressing the country\u2019s complex challenges through purposeful legislation.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis commitment is reflected in its extraordinary output: a total of 844 bills have been introduced within its first two years\u2014an unprecedented figure that underscores the Senate\u2019s proactive posture in tackling pressing national issues.<\/p>\n
\u201cOut of this impressive volume, 107 bills are currently at the committee stage, undergoing the necessary scrutiny and stakeholder engagement that ensures quality legislation, 206 bills are awaiting first reading, reflecting a robust pipeline of legislative ideas prepared for formal introduction, and 409 bills have advanced to second reading.<\/p>\n
\u201cNotably, the Senate has passed 96 bills, a record for any Nigerian Senate at this stage of the legislative cycle. Even more significantly, 52 of these bills have been assented to by the President, translating into enforceable laws that will shape governance, economic development, public welfare, and national security.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese bills include the National Education Fund, local government autonomy bill, regional development commissions, tax reforms, universities and tertiary institutions, agricultural institutions etc.<\/p>\n
\u201cMoreover, the Tenth Senate has acted decisively on 26 Executive Bills, showcasing a healthy balance of cooperation and oversight in its engagement with the executive arm.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese executive-sponsored legislations address key policy areas and benefit from the Senate\u2019s thorough review and refinement before passage.<\/p>\n
Abbas, on his part, acknowledged the progress made by the current administration under Tinubu, but emphasised that significant challenges remained.<\/p>\n
The Speaker noted that while there have been commendable achievements, Nigeria\u2019s journey towards comprehensive development was far from complete, stressing the need for intensified efforts across all critical sectors.<\/p>\n
Abbas urged Tinubu to focus on a thorough transformation of Nigeria\u2019s power sector to ensure optimal performance.<\/p>\n
He also highlighted the National Assembly\u2019s determination to deliver a revised Constitution that reflects the people\u2019s aspirations by December 2025.<\/p>\n
This revised Constitution, he noted, would include provisions for gender equity, such as the inclusion of a 35% affirmative action clause for women\u2019s representation in governance.<\/p>\n
He said the Assembly remains committed to addressing critical national issues and reforms, including the allocation of reserved seats for women, assigning formal constitutional roles to traditional rulers, and ensuring legal backing for gender equity policies.<\/p>\n
He urged the president to shift from the country\u2019s heavy dependence on thermal and hydroelectric sources to a more diverse and sustainable energy mix, including renewable options like solar, wind, and nuclear.<\/p>\n
According to him, only a leader with Tinubu\u2019s political will can make this transformation happen.<\/p>\n
He announced the House\u2019s plan to urgently review the 2007 Mining Act, allowing state governments to lawfully engage in mining operations while enhancing regulatory oversight and addressing security risks.<\/p>\n
Reflecting on the historical significance of Democracy Day, Abbas said President Tinubu\u2019s presence at the National Assembly was a reaffirmation of the strength of Nigeria\u2019s democratic institutions.<\/p>\n
Highlighting the work done under the 10th National Assembly since June 2023, Abbas said it has adopted an eight-point Legislative Agenda that aligns with Tinubu\u2019s Renewed Hope vision.<\/p>\n
He noted that of the 2,263 bills introduced, 65.3% have passed Second Reading, 186 have been passed into law, and 51 have received presidential assent\u2014an unprecedented achievement for any Nigerian president in his first two years.<\/p>\n
He stated that the legislature has contributed to progress in key sectors like the area of national security, N6.11 trillion\u201411.1% of the 2025 budget\u2014was allocated to defense.<\/p>\n
He noted that the House Public Accounts Committee recovered over N61.5 billion in unpaid debts from oil and gas companies.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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