News
Anti-graft war must be won against all odds, says Senate President
Published
3 years agoon
By
News Editor
…As Witness Protection bill scales second reading
President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, has said that the war against corruption by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government must be won irrespective of temporary setbacks.
Lawan stated this in his remarks after a bill seeking to establish the Witness Protection and Management Framework scaled second reading during plenary on Tuesday.
According to him, the fight against corruption is one that must be vigorously pursued by government to ensure the eventual elimination of graft, given that same is capable of hindering Nigeria’s development.
He added that the Witness Protection bill, if passed and signed into law, would be an incentive that encourages witnesses to testify in corruption cases since their protection is guaranteed under the law.
Lawan said, “Distinguished colleagues, almost every administration in this country would work against corruption that has bedeviled the development of this country.
“The witness protection bill that we are debating today is a way forward to encourage witnesses to testify against corruption. And by protecting them properly, that will incentivise such witnesses.
“The war against corruption is a must, and it must be won. It is not about the quantum of funds or resources that we have, but how we are able to put to use even our scarce resources.
“So, this is a very important bill, and I’m sure all of us would lend our support.”
Sponsor of the bill for an Act to establish the Witness Protection and Management Framework, Senator Suleiman Abdu Kwari, said the bill was first read on February 23, 2021.
According to the lawmaker, it was also listed among the bills of interest and international significance, contained in the recent Executive Communication from President Muhammadu Buhari, which was read on the floor of the Senate on the 19th of January 2022.
“Empirical evidence show that one of the major causes of the inability to successfully prosecute criminal cases in our courts is the lack of witnesses.
“Many of them face intimidation and threats just as prosecutors most times do not have the funds and management framework to safely bring witnesses to testify in court.
“The passage of this bill into law will fill this gap as well as fulfill some of our Country’s international commitments to various conventions and protocols, like the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) amongst others”, Senator Kwari said.
He further recalled that the Witness Protection and Management Bill and Whistle Blower Bill were initially considered as co-joined in a single bill by the 8th National Assembly and passed in 2017.
He added that following a technical stakeholders roundtable comprising of representatives of relevant criminal justice system operators, it was resolved that both bills be unbundled in order to allow Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAS) currently running witness protection programs continue in that wise.
“This necessitates the separation of the two bills and accordingly paves the way for witness protection programmes across the broad spectrum of Law Enforcement Agencies, thereby discouraging duplicity and multiplicity of agencies”, he said.
Section 1 of the bill provides for the establishment of a legal and institutional framework to protect witnesses and related persons, with responsibilities for carrying out all administrative duties relating to witnesses and related persons.
The bill under the section ensures that the relevant agency takes responsibility for entering into a witness protection agreement, regulate the procedure while harmonizing existing laws and policies on witness protection and management.
The Bill in Section 2 also specifies offences and laws in which the bill apply, and comprise terrorism, money laundering (prevention and prohibition), economic and financial crimes, corrupt practices and other related offences, drugs and narcotics and their trafficking, trafficking in persons, Criminal and Penal Code offences.
It further provides for customs and excise management, any legislation dealing with proceeds of crimes, confiscation and forfeiture of assets, and to all justice sector institutions and authorities, including the courts, law enforcement as well as security agencies, and other relevant regulatory institutions towards the protection of witnesses in the course of the investigation, detection and prosecution of offences.
Part 2 sets standard for establishing and managing the witness program, while Section 3 mandates all public institutions having responsibility under their laws of investigating and/or prosecuting offences under any law, to establish a witness protection and management program.
The section further provides for rights, duties, privileges and obligations of other bodies such as courts, lawyers, parents/guardian in relation to witness protection and management.
In addition, Part 3 provides for protections such as allowing a witness to establish a new identity or restore a former witness’s original identity by an application from a relevant agency made to the Court, for a new entry in the birth, marriage or death registry and issuance of a certificate as the case may be.
Part 4 mandates relevant agencies, to designate a Witness Protection office at each of their branch offices to enable the adoption and management of the Witness Protection Program.
On the other hand, Part 5 of the bill provide for the establishment of a Witness Protection Fund to be managed and controlled by relevant agencies.
According to the bill, such funds include moneys appropriated by the National Assembly for payment into the Protection Fund, which shall amount to at least fifty per cent of the total estimated expenditure of the Protection Fund, moneys approved by the President for Witness Protection Programs, moneys accruing to the Protection Fund from any fund or account established by an Act for the lodgment of proceeds of confiscation and forfeited assets.
Other sources include a percentage of the total amount recovered by the Government as direct result of information provided by a protected person, subventions, grants, aid and donations from Federal or State Government, etc.
Part 6 criminalizes certain acts relating to false or misleading and unlawful disclosures, false representation and unauthorized access to a witness.
Part 7 under Miscellaneous provides for legal proceedings such as 30 days pre-action notice, non-compellability of witness, restriction on execution against property of the relevant agency, indemnity of officers of the relevant agency including powers of the Attorney General of the Federation to make regulations in respect of the bill.
The bill after consideration was referred by the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, to the Committees on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters; and Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes.
The Joint Committee is expected to report back in four weeks.
Meanwhile, a bill seeking to establish the Federal Polytechnic Shagamu also scaled second reading in the Senate.
The bill sponsored by Senator Olalekan Mustapha (Ogun East) was referred by the Senate President after consideration to the Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND for further inputs.
The Committee was also given four weeks to report back to the chamber in plenary.
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By AbdulRahman Obaje
The Ajia Ogbonde family of Ilorin has expressed deep and heartfelt appreciation to individuals, families, religious leaders, institutions, dignitaries, and well-wishers who stood by them during the mourning period following the passing of their beloved matriarch, Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia.
In a press statement personally signed by Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, the Dan Amanar Fune, on behalf of the family, the Ajia Ogbonde clan expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and condolences received from across the country and beyond.
Describing the support as overwhelming, the family acknowledged the role played by those who participated in the Janaza rites at the National Mosque, Abuja, and those who made time to attend the 3rd Day and 7th Day Fidau prayers held in Abuja and Ilorin respectively, despite their tight schedules.
“We are truly grateful to everyone who stood in solidarity with us during this painful moment. Your presence, prayers, and words of comfort meant so much to us,” the statement read.
The family offered special thanks to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Mai-Martaba Sheikh (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, for his fatherly support and spiritual leadership during the mourning period.
They also appreciated His Royal Highness, the Emir of Fune, Dr. Idris Saleh Uthman, for honouring the family through a powerful delegation led by the District Head of Cubana to the Abuja Fidau prayer.
The statement listed an array of dignitaries and high-profile personalities whose presence and messages of condolence brought great comfort to the bereaved family. These include former Senate Presidents Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim (GCON) and Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, the Waziri of Ilorin, and former Inspector-General of Police IGP MD Abubakar (CFR).
Also acknowledged were former Kwara State Governor, HE Abdulfatah Ahmed, former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, former Minister of Power, Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, current Senator representing Kwara Central, Sen. Saliu Mustapha, Sen. Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, former DG of NEMA, Alhaji Sani Sidi, and Prof. Oba Abdulraheem, former Chairman of the Federal Character Commission.
The sitting Governor of Kwara State was represented by Alhaji Abdulrazak Jidda at the 7th Day Fidau prayer in Ilorin.
Other prominent individuals and community leaders recognized for their support include Alhaji Tajudeen Ibrahim Eleku, Alhaji Toyin Abubakar, Prof. Zanna Mohammed (Nile University), Alhaji Mohammed Bukar, Sarkin Sumaila Alhaji Bello Dansumaila, Engr. Musa Saidu, Engr. Ibrahim Usman, Engr. Kamaldeen Ubandawaki, Barr. Ismail Ahmed, Alhaji Mohammed Adamu Cimo, and executives of Saiha Network.
Particular gratitude was extended to the Council of Ulama of Kwara State, led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir (CON), and the FCT Council of Ulama, including Sheikh Abdulkadir Oba Sholagberu, Sheikh Fuad Adeyemi, and Sheikh Sharafudeen Aliagan, for their spiritual guidance and physical presence during the mourning.
The family also commended members of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly Courses 21 and 36/2002, various youth groups, political party stakeholders from the PDP, APC, and a new coalition party, as well as War College Estate Muslim Community and Resident Association, members of the National Assembly, Federal Executive Council, and the business and academic communities.
Also mentioned among the sympathizers were Engr. Suleiman Yahaya Alapasanpa (Danmasani of Ilorin), Sarauniya of Ilorin, Hajia Muinat Shagaya, Hajiya Saadat Dogobauchi, Princess Aisha Bubaram (ED North, First Bank Plc), Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara, Sen. Haliru Jika, Hon. Ibrahim Jimba Baba, Hon. Nalaraba, Hon. Kabir Tukura, Hon. Jaafar Mubi, Chairman of Sobi FM, Alhaji Lukman Mustapha, Hon. Ladi Hassan, Engr. Kale Kawu, Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki, Hon. Ahmed Yinka Aluko, Hon. Muktar Shagaya, Alhaji Sheriff Shagaya, Alhaji Hakeem Shagaya, former Kwara Assembly Speakers, Hon. Ali Ahmad and Hon. Razaq Atunwa, as well as the executives of IEDPU and IEYDPU.
“We are indeed overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support during our moment of grief. The legacy of our beloved mother, Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia, lives on in our hearts,” the family stated.
The Ajia Ogbonde family concluded the message by praying for Allah’s mercy upon the departed soul and asking for divine blessings upon all who shared in their pain.
“We pray that Almighty Allah grants our dear mother Aljannatul Firdaus and continues to unite us in peace and brotherhood. We shall forever remain grateful.”
Late Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia was a revered matriarch known for her piety, wisdom, and compassion. Her life, the family said, remains an enduring source of inspiration and spiritual strength.

From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Ododo in a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, described President Buhari’s passing as a monumental loss not only to Nigeria, but to the African continent, and indeed the world.
He described President Buhari as a leader of quiet strength, deep convictions, and a patriotic heart wholly committed to the unity, progress, and stability of Nigeria.
Ododo further described the death if the former president as “a moment of national grief and a reminder of the enduring legacy of discipline, integrity and sacrifice that President Buhari stood for.
“President Buhari was a man who came at different times in our national history to steer the ship of state with a deep sense of responsibility.
“He was not a man of many words, but one whose actions consistently reflected his belief in a better, safer, and more self-reliant Nigeria.”
“Kogi State will remember him for his commitment to critical infrastructure, national security, and his consistent stand against corruption.
“His efforts laid a solid foundation upon which successive administrations, including ours in Kogi, continue to build.
“We stand in solidarity with the Government and people of Katsina State, the family of the late statesman, and indeed all Nigerians, as we mourn a patriot who gave his all in service to the nation.
“May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus.”
News
DG Kogi State Government House Administration Honors Outgoing Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olajide Samuel
Published
1 week agoon
July 11, 2025
By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Director General of the Kogi State Government House Administration, Dr (Alh) Shuaibu Umar Oricha, July 10, 2025 in Lokoja described Mr. Samuel Olajide JP as “truly worth celebrating,” commending his humility and exceptional character. “I have no doubt that he is heading to greater heights. He should prepare for even bigger responsibilities,” Alhaji Oricha said.
Dr Oricha during a Sendforth Party Organized by the Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning in collaboration with the Pooled PRS Staff noted that he was always happy with the level of dedication of the celebrant, stressing that any time it was the time for budget preparation and the celebrant was around , I will always go and sleep because a capable hand is available.
“Today I can stand tall to congratulate you as a permanent secretary of Budget and Economic Planning.
I stand bold to say that your have retired but not tired.
I want to personally appreciate you for recognising yesterday. You are indeed a normal human being”
On behalf of Government Administration I wish you success in your endeavours” he said.
He also assured the Celebrant that the Governor, the Chief Servant of the state His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo was aware of your retirement adding that the celebrant deserves higher responsibility.
The Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Hon. Asiwaju Idris, praised Mr. Samuel’s tireless role in developing the State Development Plan, emphasizing the importance of diligence and integrity in public service. “When given a task, do it with all your heart. The results will speak louder than the praises of men,” Hon. Idris stated.
Head of the Civil Service, Mr. Elijah Evinemi, noted that Mr. Samuel’s name became synonymous with excellence during his tenure, thanks to his ability to lead with empathy and empower others. “This transition marks not an end, but the beginning of a new chapter,” Mr. Evenemi added.
The ceremony was attended by various stakeholders, including the Acting Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Sarah Ocheja, who commended Mr. Samuel for his service and mentorship.
Amb. Idris Muriana, Chairperson of the Kogi NGOs Network, also praised Mr. Samuel’s people-oriented mindset and commitment to serving the public.
Mr. Olajide Samuel, the outgoing Permanent Secretary of Budget in Kogi State’s Ministry of Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, was celebrated for his dedication, impactful contributions, and meritorious service. He was praised of his humility, exceptional leadership, and commitment to fiscal discipline.
The ceremony highlighted Mr. Samuel’s achievements and the impact of his service on Kogi State’s development
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