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Organisation Seeks Legal Framework to Protect Whistle Blowers

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The African Centre for Media and Information Literacy (AFRICMIL), a nonprofit organisation, has called for  urgent legal framework for the Federal Government’s whistleblowing policy to protect informants.

Dr Chido Onumah, Coordinator of AFRICMIL, made the call at a Policy Roundtable tagged “Towards a Whistleblower Protection Law in Nigeria’’ in  Abuja.

Onumah said that whistleblowers play positive roles in the prevention of and fight against corruption and the promotion of human rights in Nigeria.

“Over the years, we have uncovered and disclosed information on various corrupt and suspicious dealings linked to politically exposed persons and corrupt officials.

“This lead to wider public debates about corruption and the need for accountability, however, instead of being recognised for their work and encouraged, whistleblowers are hindered by those whose interests they threaten.

“ Some face reprisals such as dismissal, threats, physical violence or abusive legal proceedings, while others are forced into exile or even killed.

 “Regrettably, in Nigeria, whistleblowers face a lack of safe and an enabling legal environment that allows them to report wrongdoing without fear of reprisals,” he said.

According to Onumah, this lack of effective whistleblower protection regime is compounded by the existence of ineffective access to laws to enable citizens obtain information held by public institutions.

He added that the lack of effective and independent judicial institutions that could provide access to justice and effective remedies for human rights violations was also ineffective.

“Over the years, particularly since the Federal Government introduced a Whistleblowing Policy in December 2016, there have been efforts to enact a whistleblower protection law in Nigeria without success.

“Today’s event is one more attempt in this regard. So far, about ten out of 55 African countries have adopted specific laws to protect whistleblowers.

“At a time when many jurisdictions in Africa and around the world are adopting whistleblower protection laws, this intervention seeks to put the spotlight on whistleblower protection in Nigeria,’’he said

Onumah said through a nationwide survey conducted by AFRICMIL in 2021, it was observed that Nigerians were of the view that the absence of a whistleblowing law was the major hindrance to the success of whistleblowing in Nigeria.

He, therefore, said the aim of this intervention was to develop key ideas and strategies to put whistleblowing and the passage of a whistleblower protection law in Nigeria on the front burner of national conversation.

Also speaking, Dr Orji Ogbonnaya  Orji, the  Executive Secretary and National Coordinator of Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI)  affirmed NEITI’s commitment to advocating for the safety, protection, and welfare of whistleblowers.

Represented by Mr Kingsley Ochasi,Legal Officer, NEITI, Orji  that whistleblowers are real heroes of transparency  and stressed the need for the National Assembly to promptly pass the whistleblower protection bill.

He commanded AFRICMIL for its contribute towards building a more accountable and equitable Nigeria adding that NEITI was proud to have the centre as its partner.

In his contribution, Dr  Kole Shettima, the Director of MacArthur Foundation said that whistleblowing as a tool in the fight against corruption has great value, however, lack of legal protection remained the challenges and setbacks.

Shettima said that the importance of ensuring the safety and protection of individuals who engaged in whistleblowing activities was a collective concern, thus emphasising the need for a legal framework.

A representative of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission(ICPC)  Ms Nneka Chukwuma-Okere, Legal Officer, ICPC said the commission had put measures in place to make good use of whistleblowers’ information.

Chukwuma-Okere said the commission tries to keep the identities of whistleblowers secret to protect them.

“Our section 27, gives us the rights as public individuals to report and we also have anti-corruption unions which we up in various MDAs  to help with the fight against corruption.

“So today, we are looking forward to  deliberations with other sister agencies to move forward in this whistleblowing  policies.’’

Reports says that the Whistle-blower Policy is not a Law of the National Assembly.

NAN reports that tthe whistle-blowing Policy in Nigeria is an anti-corruption programme that encourages people to voluntarily disclose information about fraud, bribery, looted government funds, financial misconduct, government assets and any other form of corruption or theft to the Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Finance.

NAN reports that a former Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami,SAN,  said that within the first two months of the Whistle-blowing policy in Nigeria, the federal government recovered over 178 million dollars  that were stolen from the government.

By June 5, 2017, Federal Ministry of Finance received a total of 2,150 tips from the public, 128 tips came through the website of the ministry, 1,192 was through phone calls, 540 through SMS and 290 through email to the ministry. By July/August 2017, a total of 5000 tips was received.

Also, in October 2017, former acting ohairman of the EFCC, Ibrahim Magu said that N527,643,500; $53,222.747; GBP21,222,890 and Euro 547,730 was recovered since the policy was launched.(NAN)

POLITICS

Anambra: INEC Registers 96,085 New Voters, Extends CVR by Three Days

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said it has registered 96,085 new voters in nine days and extended the exercise by three days in Anambra.

The commission disclosed this in a statement by Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, on Thursday in Abuja, after its weekly meeting.

He said that on the preliminary stage of the CVR, 56,017 representing 58 per cent of new registrants were female while 50,429 52 representing 48 per cent were young people between the ages of 18 and 34.

“The commission is pleased with the turnout of registrants in Anambra and the peaceful conduct of the Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) in all the 326 registration centres in the state.

“As of yesterday, Wednesday, 96,085 new voters have successfully registered in nine days. On average, the Commission registered over 10,600 voters per day.

“In addition, 12,595 voters applied for transfer of their registration both within and outside the state while 7,061 persons applied for the update of their records or the replacement of their damaged or lost Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs).

“The CVR in Anambra ends today. However, in response to appeal from citizens, the Commission hereby extends the exercise for three more days. It will now end on Sunday, July 20,” he said.

Olumekun said that the commission would thereafter display the register for claims and objections by citizens as provided by law.

This, according to him, will be followed by a further clean-up of the data using the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS).

“Subsequently, the detailed breakdown of the new registrants by age, gender, occupation and disability will be published for public information,” he said.

Olumekun also disclosed that INEC had received five more letters of intent from associations seeking registration as political parties.

According to him, the new application brings the number received so far by the commission to 134.

Olumekun stated that the details of the new associations, indicating their proposed names, acronyms, logos, addresses and interim leaderships were already published on INEC website and other platforms for public information.

He said that INEC would continue to keep the citizens up to date on all its activities.

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PDP Stakeholders Olorunda Pass Vote of Confidence on Gov Adeleke

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From Ayinde Akintade, Osogbo

The Olorunda Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, Stakeholders has passed vote of confidence on Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, re-affirm loyalty, and pledge to support his future political alignment.

Following a critical meeting of the Olorunda Local Government Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), held at the residence of the Apex Leader, Senator Dr.

Oluwole Alabi, stakeholders across the political spectrum unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the Executive Governor of the State, His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke.

The meeting, chaired by Senator Dr. Oluwole Alabi and moderated by Aare Ganiyu Ayobami Olaoluwa Asejere, brought together key political functionaries, state appointees, and party executives at state, local, and ward levels from Olorunda Local Government area of the state.

In the communiqué made available to our Correspondent in Osogbo the Osun State capital shortly after the meeting, the stakeholders collectively expressed their unwavering loyalty and unflinching support to Governor Adeleke and committed themselves to following his political direction in the interest of continued progress and good governance in Osun State.

The communiqué reads in part

“We, the undersigned leaders and stakeholders of the PDP in Olorunda Local Government area, having extensively deliberated on the current political climate, hereby pass a unanimous vote of confidence in the sterling leadership of His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke

“We commend his people-oriented governance style, visionary leadership, and impactful delivery of the Imole developmental agenda, which stands as the most transformative in the history of Osun State.

“As loyal party stakeholders, we reaffirm our total and unshaken loyalty to Governor Adeleke, who has continuously demonstrated commitment to inclusive development, good governance, and service to humanity.

“We further resolve to follow His Excellency’s political direction and align with his future political choices irrespective of platform, believing in his judgment as the authentic custodian of the Imole mandate and the symbol of progress in our dear state.

“We stand united behind Governor Adeleke’s leadership and remain resolute in our commitment to actualizing his vision for Osun State, now and beyond 2030.”

“This communiqué reflects the collective will of the leadership and stakeholders of Olorunda PDP and symbolises their unwavering readiness to continue working under the guidance of Governor Adeleke for the continued upliftment of Osun State”.

The meeting has in attendance, Senator Dr. Oluwole Alabi, Aare Ganiyu Ayobami Olaoluwa Asejere, Rep. Maruff Adewale Gangaria, Dr. Muyiwa Oladimeji, Elder Funsho Isola, Hon. Olaide Ajibola, High Chief Apesin Olanrewaju Akolade, Hon. Obafemi Akolade, Hon. Ademola Nurudeen Hamzat, Hon. Nathaniel Ojetola, and Hon. Kunle Olaniyan while the communique was duly signed by all of them.

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2027: Why Governor Sule Must Not Exit the State Yet

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Nasarawa state Governor Abdullahi Sule
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By Abel Zwanke, Lafia

As 2027 approaches and the end of Governor Abdullahi Sule’s second term draws nearer, political voices across Nasarawa State are growing louder not in the usual clamor for succession, but in a rare, unified call for continuity. From political stakeholders and traditional rulers to civil society actors and the youth, a consensus is emerging: Governor Sule must not exit the political stage just yet.

Though his constitutional term as governor winds down, many believe his experience, credibility, and technocratic leadership are needed beyond 2027—either in the Senate or in a stabilizing role within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

From Akwanga to Nassarawa Eggon and Wamba which are his immediate constituency, voices are rising—not just within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), but also from non-partisan stakeholders and everyday citizens—urging Governor Sule to remain actively involved in shaping Nasarawa’s political and developmental future beyond 2027, even if not from the seat of power in Government House.

A Legacy in Progress

Governor Abdullahi Sule, a technocrat with roots in the private sector, has been lauded for running a government built on planning, transparency, and purposeful development. His second term in office has seen vast investments in infrastructure, agriculture, health, education, and industrialisation.

David Sylvester, a political analyst based in Lafia, noted:

“What Sule has done is lay a template that is difficult to reverse. The people are seeing real governance—not just speeches. That’s why the public wants him to remain, perhaps in the Senate or as a stabilizing figure within the party.”

The recent endorsement of Governor Sule by stakeholders from Nasarawa North Senatorial District further validates this momentum. At a political gathering in Akwanga, party elders and youth leaders alike resolved to back him for a senatorial bid.

Dr. Kassim Muhammed Kassim Executive Chairman of the Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB), one of the strongest voices in this call remarked that:

“This is not just about politics. We are talking about someone who has brought credibility to governance. Nasarawa cannot afford to lose that influence, whether in the Senate or as a guiding force.”

Dr. Kassim, also described Governor Sule as “a stabilizer in Nasarawa’s democratic journey.”

“Governor Sule is not only a performer; he is a symbol of political maturity, calmness, and inclusive governance,” Kassim stated during a stakeholders’ meeting in Akwanga.

“We need him in the Senate or any strategic position to ensure the continuity of this leadership philosophy that has brought peace and progress to our state.”

Kassim’s sentiments echo what many in the North Central state now describe as a “popular mandate” for Sule to continue representing the people, not necessarily from the Government House, but from Abuja, where his voice and connections could do even more for Nasarawa.

 Influence, Preserving Vision

Stakeholders view the Senate as the most logical next step for the governor. With his strong background in engineering, finance, and public policy, analysts also believes he could play a vital role in national policymaking, especially around mining regulation, agricultural development, and intergovernmental cooperation.

Maryam Abdullahi, a civil society coordinator in Keana, explained:

“We’ve seen what he did with the Dangote sugar refinery, lithium investments, and agribusiness zones. With access to the Senate, Nasarawa stands to benefit even more.”

Observers also point to Sule’s rising influence within the Tinubu-led APC government as another reason to retain his relevance beyond 2027.

“Sule is seen as a strategic player in North-Central politics—his calm, development-first approach gives him credibility not just within Nasarawa, but also in Abuja.”

Balancing Zoning, Stability, and Merit

Of course, politics in Nasarawa cannot be divorced from the longstanding tradition of power rotation. Already, conversations around zoning the governorship seat to the Western zone have gained traction.

But stakeholders caution that zoning should not come at the cost of performance.

Dr. Madaki Williams, a lecturer and political commentator, noted: “Zoning has its place, but it must not override competence. Sule’s style of leadership is issue-based, result-driven. That kind of governance shouldn’t be zoned out.”

Many say Governor Sule is uniquely positioned to balance these concerns—by playing a mentoring role in succession planning, ensuring a candidate with both competence and acceptability emerges.

A local youth leader in Karu, Ibrahim Baba, stated:

“We don’t want a return to the old ways—where politics was about godfatherism and patronage. Governor Sule should help us choose a worthy successor and also represent us at the federal level.”

Civil Society and Youth Join the Chorus

The calls for continued leadership aren’t just political. Civil society groups, especially youth and women’s organisations, say Governor Sule’s administration has given them more inclusion, access, and attention than previous governments.

Programs like the Nasarawa Health Insurance Scheme (NASHIS), mass teacher recruitment, educational infrastructure development, and the revitalization of primary healthcare centres have directly impacted citizens.

Juliet Yakubu, a volunteer with a grassroots health NGO, shared:

“Before now, people died in silence. But under Governor Sule, health centres are functional, and rural areas now have better access to doctors. We need this kind of leadership to continue—even if not in the same office.”

Youth groups also praised the governor’s investments in skill acquisition, small enterprise grants, and digital initiatives, urging that such policies must not be discarded after his tenure ends.

Risks of a Power Vacuum

Some political observers warn that Nasarawa could face a regression if the transition from Sule’s administration is not well managed. With multiple interests jostling for control, both within and outside the APC, a power vacuum could reverse much of the developmental progress.

“Without a steady hand to manage the transition, we may end up with infighting, weak governance, and even a divided house in 2027,” warned Yusuf Danlami, a political journalist.

That’s why many see the governor’s continued presence, whether in the Senate, as a mentor, or national policy figure as vital to preserving unity and focus.

Beyond the Office, A Symbol of Governance Reform

Even those who believe Sule should step aside from direct elective office concede that his influence must remain part of the Nasarawa equation.

As Daily Asset editorialized in a recent opinion:

“Governor Sule has redefined what it means to lead in Nasarawa. His legacy goes beyond roads and buildings; it’s about systems that work. That kind of leadership cannot be left to chance.”

The editorial continued, noting that Nasarawa needs “a visionary elder statesman who can watch the house and guard the blueprint.”

The People Have Spoken

Whether it is in the calm voice of an elder in Akwanga, the hopeful chants of youth in Nassarawa Eggon and Wamba or the precise arguments of analysts in one message stands out: Governor Sule’s job is not yet done.

From fiscal transparency to rural development, stakeholder consensus is growing that Nasarawa must not drift into uncertainty. As the 2027 political cycle begins, the state faces a choice—either to allow reforms to take root or risk losing the governance gains achieved.

And for many citizens, the solution lies in not just who takes over but who remains to guide, mentor, and safeguard the future.

“He doesn’t need to run for governor again,” said Hauwa Ahmed, a trader in Lafia. “But let him go to the Senate. Let him still be there for Nasarawa.”

Nasarawa still needs Sule beyond 2027.

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