#TodayInSenatePlenary

PROCEEDINGS OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF TUESDAY, 16TH OCTOBER, 2018

Welcome to a new Legislative Day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, led the Principal Officers into the chambers; took the official prayers; and began the day’s proceedings at 11:12am.

Senator Abdul Aziz Nyako moved for the approval of votes and proceedings of Thursday, 11th October, 2018. Senator Clifford Ordia seconded.

ANNOUNCEMENT
Senate President, Dr. Abubakar announced a newly introduced executive bill by Mr. President,
Environmental impact assessment Bill, 2018

POINT OF ORDER
Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu spoke on FCT Bill. The late Red Cross aid worker Hauwa Leman, we want to make sure that those responsible are paying the supreme price.

“I pay my respects to the girls who died serving their country. Policies should be put in place to avoid this from happening again, we cannot be toying with the lives of our citizens.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

“We have been commending our security agents but this problem has been lingering for several years now.”- Senator Barau Jibrin.

“Boko Haram gave notice of threats, the deadline expired. I ask, what is the job of our security agencies? This calls for national attention. Two days ago, a Nigerian who had worked all her life in the UK and returned was killed and a corper was also killed a few months back. This is beyond condolence visits.”- Senator Dino Melaye.

Senate resolved to:
1. Observe 2 minutes silence in honor of the deceased.
2. Extend condolence visits to the families of the deceased.
3. That the FG, through the security agencies ensure the release of Leah Sharibu and any other surviving hostages.

“Distinguished Colleagues, irrespective of the decision that we have taken, I believe that our committees on defence and security, as part of their own responsibilities should please engage with the security agencies to find out if there are other issues that need to be addressed in order to prevent such reoccurrences.”- Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

“Our Committees on Security and Defence should liaise with Intelligence agencies to look into this issue.”- Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

Senator Biodun Olujimi cited Order 42 and spoke on the 3.5billion dollars being managed by just 2 people in NNPC. “That amount is too large to be managed in such a manner. Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki mentioned the need for a budget on subsidy and that has not been done. I urge the Senate to cause the Downstream Committee to compel the NNPC to come before the Committee and explain what happened to those funds.”

“In light of the issues before us, when we passed budget I suggested that the FG come and explain this issue to us. I wish to direct that the Chairman of Downstream Committee look into the matter and bring a Report by next week, this matter is too serious to be treated that way. It is a very sensitive matter and anything we say now might appear partisan. Let an ad-hoc committee chaired by the Senate Leader look into this issue.”- Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

Dino Melaye cited order 14 and raised the issue of his attempted assassination “I travelled on Thursday to my Local Government where PDP supporters welcomed me. At 7:30pm, I got intel that SARS men were called to assassinate me. At 1am, men with covered faces invaded my residence and started shooting sporadically. They came to arrest me over an alleged offense I committed on 19th of July.

“This is the 5th time Kogi Government is using police to try to assassinate me. I have written to all relevant authorities; I want the senate to take note of this continuous attacks. There was an order asking the IG to release my international passport. I’m asking the IG to obey the court order.”- Senator Dino Melaye.

“The issues here as regards to the threat to the life of Senator Dino Melaye are real, we must see that steps be taken to address them.”- Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

“I also think that suggestions will be given, we have the responsibility today to look into this matter along with the chairman police and find a way out and address the concern of the leader of the Senate to lead members of the Senate and chairman of police to engage with the Inspector General of police in addressing this issue of Kogi State and security as it concerns one of our colleagues.”- Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

PRESENTATION OF REPORTS
1. Report of the Committee on INEC on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Act 2010 (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (SB. 699) by Suleiman Nazif.

Senator Rose Oko seconded that the Senate do receive the report of the Committee on INEC on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Act 2010 (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (SB. 699).

The Report was LAID.

2. Report of the Committee on Finance on the urgent need to review the excise tariff increment in order to save local distillers of beverages from looming extinction by Senator Umaru Kurfi.

Senator Joshua Lidani seconded that the Senate do receive the report of the Committee on Finance on the urgent need to review the excise tariff increment in order to save local distillers of beverages from looming extinction.

The Report was LAID.

3. Report of the Committee on Local and Foreign Debts by Senator Shehu Sani on:
a. The implementation of the new external capital raising of USD2.786 Billion from the International Capital Market approved in the 2018 appropriation Act; and

b. The external capital raising of USD82.54Million to refinance the balance of USD500Million matured Eurobond in the International Capital Market.

Senator Sam Anyanwu seconded that the Senate do receive the report of the Committee on Local and Foreign Debts by Senator Shehu Sani on:
a. The implementation of the new external capital raising of USD2.786 Billion from the International Capital Market approved in the 2018 appropriation Act; and

b. The external capital raising of USD82.54Million to refinance the balance of USD500Million matured Eurobond in the International Capital Market.

The Report was LAID.

MOTION
Recommittal of the Disability Bill by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

Senator Philip Aduda seconded the motion raised by Senate Leader.

Senate resolved to:
Refer the bill to the Conference Committee that had hitherto worked on the Bill.

“Director of legal services must scrutinize the bill after it has been completed at the committee level, before we take it to pass for 3rd reading, we don’t have to wait till we’ve passed it for 3rd reading and it has gone to conference committee, about to be transmitted to Mr President then the legal services to begin to make their observations.”- Senate President,Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

PRESENTATION AND CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS

1. Report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters on the confirmation of nominations of Senator Abba Ali and Mr. Mohammed Sagir for appointment as members (non-legal) of the Federal Judicial Service Commission by Senator David Umaru.

Senator Clifford Ordia seconded that the Senate do consider the report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters on the confirmation of nominations of Senator Abba Ali and Mr. Mohammed Sagir for appointment as members (non-legal) of the Federal Judicial Service Commission.

Senator David Umaru presented the report.

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Senate dissolved into the Committee of the Whole for the clause by clause consideration on the report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters on the confirmation of nominations of Senator Abba Ali and Mr. Mohammed Sagir for appointment as members (non-legal) of the Federal Judicial Service Commission.

Senate reverted to plenary and reported progress.

Appointment of Senator Abba Ali and Mr. Mohammed Sagir as members (non-legal) of the Federal Judicial Service Commission is confirmed.

‪“Let me take this opportunity to congratulate Senator Ali and Mr. Sagir on their appointments. I wish them a successful tenure.”- Senate President, ‬Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

2. Report of the Committee on Appropriations on the budget of security agencies for the 2019 election by Senator Goje M. Danjuma.

‪Senator Bassey Akpan seconded that the Senate do receive and consider the report of the Committee on Appropriations on the budget of security agencies for the 2019 general election.‬

The report was LAID.

Senator Goje Danjuma presented the report.

The report was approved.

BILLS FOR CONCURRENCE
Engineering (Registration, etc) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 1092) by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

Chartered Institute of Commodity Brokers of Nigeria (Est, etc) Bill, 2018 (HB. 528) by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

Immigration Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 480) by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

Small and Medium Scale Development Agency Act 2003 (Repeal & Re-enactment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 803) by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

Fisheries Institute of Nigeria (Est, etc) Bill, 2018 (HB. 595) by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

Senator Biodun Olujimi seconded the Bills for concurrence by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

Engineering (Registration, etc) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 1092) was read the Second Time.

Chartered Institute of Commodity Brokers of Nigeria (Est, etc) Bill, 2018 (HB. 528) was read the Second Time:

‪Immigration Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 480) was read the Second Time.‬

Small and Medium Scale Development Agency Act 2003 (Repeal & Re-enactment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 803) was read the Second Time.

Fisheries Institute of Nigeria (Est, etc) Bill, 2018 (HB. 595) was read the Second Time.

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
‪Senate dissolved into the Committee of the Whole for the clause by clause consideration of the Bills for concurrence.‬

Senate reverted to plenary and reported progress.

‪Engineering (Registration, etc) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 1092) was read the THIRD time and PASSED.‬

Chartered Institute of Commodity Brokers of Nigeria (Est, etc) Bill, 2018 (HB. 528) was read the THIRD time and PASSED.

Immigration Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 480) was read the THIRD time and PASSED.

Small and Medium Scale Development Agency Act 2003 (Repeal & Re-enactment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 803) was read the THIRD time and PASSED.

Fisheries Institute of Nigeria (Est, etc) Bill, 2018 (HB. 595) was read the THIRD time and PASSED.

ADJOURNMENT
Senate Leader moved that all other items on the order paper be stood down to another legislative day. Minority Leader seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Wednesday, 17th October, 2018.

#GavelBangs

Signed:
New Media Department,
Office of the President of the Senate,
Federal Republic of Nigeria.


TEV_Media

TEV_Media


Welcome to a new Legislative Day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, led the Principal Officers into the chambers; took the official prayers; and began the day’s proceedings at 10:51am.

Senator Kabiru Gaya moved for the approval of votes and proceedings of Wednesday, 10th October, 2018. Senator Jeremiah Useni seconded.

POINT OF ORDER
Senator Emmanuel Paulker cited Order 43 and moved a motion on the death of Late Senator David Cobbina Brigidi who was a Senator in the fourth republic.

“Only a few  senators here on the floor met Senator Brigidi. He was intelligent and didn’t hide his feelings on any national issue. He was a man of the moment who stood for the integrity of the Nigerian Senate. Bayelsa State and this Senate will miss Senator Brigidi.”-Senator James Manager.

Senate resolved to:
I. Observe a minute silence in his honour; and
II. Revisit the resolution of the 7th Senate on the immortalization of Late Senators.

PRESENTATION OF BILLS- First Reading
National Housing Fund Act CAP N45 LFN 2004 (repeal & re-enactment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 1077) by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

National Housing Fund Act CAP N45 LFN 2004 (repeal & re-enactment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 1077) was read the First Time.

Procurement Act 2007 (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (SB. 697) by Senator Magnus Abe.

Procurement Act 2007 (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (SB. 697) was read the First Time.

NDDC Act 2000 (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (SB. 700) by Senator Stella Oduah.

NDDC Act 2000 (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (SB. 700) was read the First Time.

EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION
1. Confirmation of nomination of the following persons for appointment as Chairman and members of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC)  by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

1. Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye- Chairman (Osun, South-West).
2. Dr. Grace N. Chinda- Member (Delta, South-South).
3. Okolo Titus M.- Member (Enugu, South-East).
4. Barr. Obiora Igwedebia- Member (Anambra, South-West).
5. Mrs. Olubukola Balogun- Member (Lagos, South-West).
6. Justice Adams Bello- Member (Katsina, North-West).
7. Hannatu Muhammed- Member (Jigawa, North-West).
8. Abdullahi Maikano Saidu- Member (Niger, North-Central).
9. Yahaya Umar Dauda- Member (Nassarawa, North-Central).

Senator Biodun Olujimi seconded that the Senate do consider the request of Mr. President on the confirmation of nomination of the above persons for appointment as Chairman and members of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC).

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki referred the executive communication to the Committee on Anti-Corruption to report back in 2 weeks.

MOTION
1. Recent flooding across the country by Senator Kabiru Gaya and Senator Stella Oduah.

”Everyone is aware of the devastating result of this flood. Our primary responsibility is to protect lives and properties. I am personally affected; if I go home I have nowhere to go. It is getting worse year by year.”- Senator James Manager.

“Government must do something otherwise our people will be in real trouble. NEMA alone cannot handle this, the government must intervene. If we are not careful it will consume all of us.”- Senator James Manager.

“I come from Ringim where seasonal flooding is recurrent. We lost 7 people and 200 houses submerged. A lot of rice fields were destroyed. I want to add that the people of Jigawa state need relief of food and clothing and material to build destroyed houses.”- Senator Abdullahi Gumel.

“The National Government should direct NEMA and other related agencies to make relief items available. I recommend we observe a minute silence for lost lives.”- Senator Abdullahi Gumel.

“We must be doing something wrong. This is a perennial issue and we keep lamenting. There needs to be a major stakeholders meeting to see what we are going to do. People are in serious agony.”- Senator Biodun Olujimi.

“What is happening now is nothing but climate change; it is a world phenomenon. It is beyond man. There is nothing we can do about it  All we can do is educate our people on where to build houses.”-Senator Sam Egwu.

“As I speak, Bayelsa is submerged. For some of us living in the riverine areas, our rivers cannot contain this volume of water. There must more effort by experts to come up with intermediary steps to have a roadmap. Government must rise to provide temporary solutions.”- Senator Emmanuel Paulker.

“It is technical and must be looked into comprehensively.  Most of the issues are reactive components; we need to be more proactive.”-Senator Aliyu Sabi.

“Some people refuse to leave their residential areas when alternative provision has been made for them. This issue is multi-dimensional. I recommend that the Federal Government work with all communities involved to provide a lasting solution.”-Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso.

“This problem is a global phenomenon. We have to accept that global warming is everywhere. NEMA is overstretched and cannot solve these problems. Institutions need to be strengthened and planning has to be involved, people build houses in high-risk areas with no planning or supervision at all.”- Senator Kabir Marafa.

“People cannot be allowed to build and live anywhere as though they live in a jungle. Most dams cannot hold all that water as well and refuse is dumped in drainages, rendering them useless during the rainy season.”- Senator Kabir Marafa.

“Most of our rivers and waterways have become so shallow due to accumulation of sand dunes and as such, when there is heavy downpour of rain, the dams overflow and affect villages and nearby settlements.”- Senator Victor Umeh.

“More provision need to be made for displaced persons and funding for dredging must be provided to tackle this challenge. Let the Senate and NASS approve funding for this to be done yearly during the dry season.” -Senator Victor Umeh.

“The government must review its policies on bilateral agreement that have to do with water. People with ancestral homes in high risk areas find it difficult to move out and must be settled. The Water Bill must be revisited in order to tackle these issues.” -Senator Binta Masi Garba.

“I would like to use this opportunity to appeal to the Niger State and Federal Government move people out of the danger zones. We should also think more of renewable energy in order to steer us away from traditional means of generating energy through dams.” -Senator David Umaru.

“Stakeholders must meet to end this issue of flooding. Town planners, environmental experts and others need to come together because NEMA cannot do this alone.”- Senator Sam Anyawu.

“Kogi is one of the most devastated states in this flooding problem as about 7 local governments are currently under water. The number of agencies to meet these issues need to be increased including the funding for NEMA and other agencies.”- Senator Atai Aidoko.

“A committee needs to be created to deal with this matter once and for all.”-Senator Barau Jibrin.

“There was no prior communication and so we did not expect this much water. Agencies involved in these matters should be able to alert everyone for proper preparation.”- Senator Gumau Lawal.

Senate  resolved to:
I. Urge NEMA to send relief materials to the affected victims in Kano state and other states of the federation;

II. Urge the Federal Government to convene a stakeholders meeting in collaboration with the Cameroonian Government to ex-ray the recurring situation with the view to preferring a lasting solution to flood disasters;

III. Urge the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to rehabilitate existing fans and dredge the major rivers to be able to take in flood waters;

IV. Commend NEMA, PCFR and other relevant agencies, organizations and individuals whose efforts in creating awareness has led to reduction in casualty level;

V. Set up a Federal Ad-Hoc committee comprising of chairmen and vice-chairmen of the Ministry of Environment to discuss solutions; and

VI. Set up an Ad-Hoc committee to critically analyze the Water Bill.

“Thank you for your patience in listening to the various contributions. Almost every state was affected and so a lot of us had to speak on behalf of our people. We thank God because flooding is not an easy thing to manage. I wish to appeal to the movers of this motion to ensure that these decisions we implemented.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

“This is a yearly occurrence and as such, provision must be made as even schools were affected. I appeal to our respective governments to make provision for those affected.” -Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

PRESENTATION AND CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS
1. Report of the Committee on National Identity Card and National Population on the commission Screening of Twenty Three(23) Nominees for Confirmation of Appointment as Commissioners by Senator Suleiman O. Hunkuyi.

Senator Yusuf Yusuf seconded that the Senate do consider the report of the Committee on National Identity Card and National Population Commission on the screening of twenty three (23) nominees for confirmation of appointment as commissioners for National Population Commission.

The report was LAID.

Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi presented the report.

“Dr. Abdul Malik Mohammed Durnnguwa’s nomination was stood down due to questionable certificates.”- Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi.

“When you have questionable certifications, it is the duty of the Committee to verify.”- Senator Ali Ndume.

“These screenings were done for months and now it is not right to give an individual another two weeks. We cannot function that way.”- Senator Sam Egwu.

“My concern is whether he took WAEC and passed.”- Senator Gumel Abdullahi.

“Let us take a decision on what the committee should do. The principal of the institution should be invited to verify.”- Senate Leader, Senator Ahmad Lawan.

“The Committee should be given four weeks to report back on this issue.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Senate dissolved into the Committee of the Whole for the clause by clause consideration on the screening of twenty three (23) nominees for confirmation of appointment as commissioners for National Population Commission.

Senate reverted to plenary and reported progress.

Nwanne Nwabuisi

Dr. Clifford T. O Zirra

Dr. Chidi Christopher Ezeoke mni

Barr. Isa Audu Buratai

Navy Captain Charles Iyam Ogwa

Sir Richard Odibo

Okereke Darlington Onuabuchi

Mr. A.d. Olusegun Aiyejina

Ejike Ezeh

Hon. Abubakar Mohammed Danburam

Prof. Uba S. F. Nnabue

Suleiman Ismaila Lawal

Prof. Jimoh Habibat Isah

Dr. Sa'adu Ayinla Alanamu

Nasir Isa Kwarra

Barr. Aliyu Datti

Yeye (Mrs.) Seyi Adereinokun Olusanya

Prince (Dr.) Olanadiran Garvey Iyantan

Senator Mudasiru Oyetunde Hussain

Mrs. Cecillia Arsun Dapoet

Dr. Ipalibo Macdonald Harry

Sale S. Saany

were confirmed as commissioners for the National Population Commission.

The confirmation of Dr. Abdulmalik Mohammed Durnnguwa was referred back to the Committee for further legislative action.

“Thank you all for your patience and congratulations to all those nominated and confirmed. The issue of population is vital to us as a country and so planning is important. There is a lot of planning involved and we hope these commissioners live up to expectation and provide a credible census. We wish them all the best.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

Report of the Committee on Appropriations and Finance on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) 2019 election budget by Senator Goje Danjuma.

Senator Joshua Lidani seconded that the Senate do receive and consider the report of the Committee on Appropriations and Finance on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) 2019 election budget.

The report was LAID.

Senator Goje Danjuma presented the report.

Senator Danjuma Goje commended the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki for his sound leadership as he presents the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) 2019 election budget report.

“This issue was only referred to the Committee yesterday. I commend Sen. Goje, Sen. Nazif and their respective committees for their hard work. Now that the issue of INEC is settled, I suggest that both reports be consolidated into one report so we can send it as a single report to the president.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

“Let us not wait for other agencies’ budgets to be ready before we pass this bill. Let us pass the INEC bill immediately.”- Senator Kabiru Gaya.

“We have invited the security agencies today by 12 to defend their budgets. Let us treat the INEC budget and the security agency budget separately even though they were brought in together.”- Senator Adamu Aliero.

“Let us approve this INEC budget. Because we need to scrutinize, our committees need to work on this till next week in order to cover all areas.” - Senate Leader.

“INEC has already complained that there has been a delay in receiving their required funding. This matter requires a high level of urgency. We should approve the INEC budget immediately.” -Senator Barau Jibrin.

“I believe we should approve the INEC budget . As a member of the Committee, I know we worked very hard to arrive at these figures you see here today and I understand it is imperative that we approve this.” - Senator Mohammed Hassan.

“The committee considered President Muhammadu Buhari’s request for N242 billion for INEC and security agencies to conduct the election.”- Senator Danjuma Goje

“The Committee recommended that the money be vired from the Special Intervention Programme under the Service Wide Vote of the 2018 Appropriation Act.”- Senator Danjuma Goje.

Senate passed N234 billion for the Independent National Electoral Commission in the 2018 budget.

This figure includes N189 billion requested by INEC to conduct the 2019 general elections and N45 billion provided for the commission under statutory transfer with the N189 billion be vired from both recurrent and capital components of the Special Intervention Programme captured in the Service Wide Vote of the 2018 Appropriation Act.

“I want to thank those who had series of meetings with parties involved in order to make this a possibility.” -Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki announced that members of the Committee on Appropriation and finance have a meeting with security agencies and are thereby excused for that purpose.

Conference Committee report on the Federal Audit Service Commission Bill, 2018 (HB. 107) by Senator Matthew Urhoghide.

Senator Sam Egwu seconded that the Senate do consider the Conference Committee report on the Federal Audit Service Commission Bill, 2018 (HB. 107).

Senator Matthew Urhoghide presented the report.

The report was approved.

“This piece of legislation is one of our major contributions in the fight against corruption. Thank you again for concluding this piece of legislation and I hope this bill is properly effected.” - Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

ADJOURNMENT
Senate Leader moved that all other items on the order paper be stood down to another legislative day. Minority Leader seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Tuesday, 16th October, 2018.

#GavelBangs

Signed:
New Media Department,
Office of the President of the Senate,
Federal Republic of Nigeria.

#TodayInSenatePlenary

PROCEEDINGS OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF WEDNESDAY, 10TH OCTOBER, 2018.

Welcome to a new Legislative Day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, led the Principal Officers into the chambers; took the official prayers; and began the day’s proceedings at 10:53am.

Senator Umaru Kurfi moved for the approval of votes and proceedings of Tuesday, 9th October, 2018. Senator Rose Oko seconds.

SWEARING IN
Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki swore in Senators Lawal Gumuau from Bauchi South and Ahmad Baba Kaita from Katsina North.

EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION:

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) 2019 election budget by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

Senator Biodun Olujimi seconded that the Senate do consider the request of Mr. President C-n-C for the approval of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) 2018 election budget.

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki referred the executive communication to the Committee on INEC to report back on the next legislative day.

New external capital raising of USD 2.786 Billion from the International Capital Market approved in the 2018 Appropriation Act and the external capital raising of USD82.54 Million to refinance the balance of USD500 Million matured Eurobond... by Senator Ahmad Lawan

Senator Biodun Olujimi seconded that the Senate do consider the request of Mr. President C-n-C in respect of: New external capital raising of USD 2.786 Billion from the International Capital Market approved in the 2018 Appropriation Act and the external capital raising of USD82.54 Million to refinance the balance of USD500 Million matured Eurobond.

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki referred the executive communication to the Committee on Local and Foreign Debts to report back on Tuesday next week.

Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) 2018 statutory budget proposal by Senator Ahmad Lawan.

Senator Biodun Olujimi seconded that the Senate do consider the request of Mr. President C-n-C for the approval of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) 2018 statutory budget proposal.

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki referred the executive communication to the Committee on Niger Delta for further legislative investigation.

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki read a letter on the request for the consideration of the INEC and Security agencies on the budget appropriation.

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki read a letter that the Nigeria police academy Bill, has been signed into law.

ANNOUNCEMENT
Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki announced the members of the Technical Committee to look into the returned bills by Mr. President

The members are: Senators
Baba Kaka Bashir,
Babajide Omoworare,
joshua lidani,
Rose oko,
Yahaya Abdullahi and Senator David Umaru as Chairman of the Committee.

PRESENTATION OF A BILL- First Reading
Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Act 2010 (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (SB. 699) by Senator Suleiman Nazif.

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Act 2010 (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (SB. 699) was read the First Time.

PRESENTATION OF A REPORT
Report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters on the confirmation of nominations of Senator Abba Ali and Mr. Mohammed Sagir for appointment as members (non-legal) of the Federal Judicial Service Commission by Senator David Umaru.

The report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters on the confirmation of nominations of Senator Abba Ali and Mr. Mohammed Sagir for appointment as members (non-legal) of the Federal Judicial Service Commission was LAID.

MOTION
Disappearance of Retired Major General I. M Alkali by Senator Mohammed Hassan.

“Let me send my condolences to the family of the General. It is very unfortunate that this has happened. We need to put hands on deck to resolve this. To my knowledge, it is still being investigated and so I suggest we move straight to the prayers.” -Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

“Let us be guided by the contributions of the Deputy Senate President and go straight to the prayers.” Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki

Senate resolved to:
I. Urge the Federal Government to set up an investigate panel of enquiries to:
a. Examine and determine the remote and immediate circumstances surrounding the dumping of cars in the ponds in DU District;

b. Identify and interrogate possible suspects in this dastardly act and ensure that the perpetrators face the full wrath of the law to serve as deterrence to other criminally minded persons in the strongest possible terms.

II. Condemn the act and urge all the surrounding communities (DU axis) to cooperate with security agencies to uncover this crime and criminality; and

III. Urge the security agencies to intensify effort towards finding Major General I. M Alkali and other missing Nigerians.

CONSIDERATION OF A BILL- Second Reading
A Bill for an act to amend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Act 2010 and for other matters connected there with, 2018 (SB. 699) by Senator Suleiman Nazif.

“I don’t think we should pass a law that cannot pass the litmus test. I don’t think some of these things listed here are realistic.”- Senator Kabir Marafa.

“I am worried about section 147. Little issues such as the misspelling of candidates’ names should not cause the cancellation of an election.” -Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

“These issues raised are very vital issues. Let the committee consider these amendments and have them adopted.”- Senator Kabiru Gaya.

“Some of the issues raised here for amendment are very technical. I advise that the committee consider all views expressed & come up with something acceptable, not just to the Senate but to Nigerians. Also, the Senate needs to take a critical look at expenses” -Senator James Manager

“Political parties and not INEC should choose their candidates. This amendment is very important. INEC should not be allowed to overrule a party’s choice of candidates.”-Senator Joshua Lidani

“We must consider that certain operations in INEC are very difficult in certain terrains and as such, more time should be given for the compilation of results.”- Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi

“These contributions are more technical than about principles. To add to what DSP said, samples of the ballot papers should be sent to every political party.”-Senator Ali Ndume

“There is a lot of undue interference in political parties here. Political parties are supreme and should have autonomy in their decisions. Also, given the size of this country, I suggest that the spending limits for the various elections be reviewed.”- Senator George Akume

“INEC should come up with a mock ballot paper so that all political parties can ensure that their logos are included in the paper.” -Senator Emmanuel Paulker

A Bill for an act to amend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Act 2010 and for other matters connected there with, 2018 (SB. 699) was read the Second Time

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki referred the Bill to the Committee on INEC to report back Tuesday next week.

PRESENTATION AND CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS
Report of the Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions on the confirmation of the nomination of Mr. Banire, Muiz Adeyemi Ph.D, SAN for appointment as Chairman of the governing board of AMCON Act, 2010 by Senator Rafiu Ibrahim

Senator Suleiman Adokwe seconded that the Senate do receive and consider the report of the Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions on the confirmation of the nomination of Mr. Banire, Muiz Adeyemi Ph.D, SAN for appointment as Chairman of the governing board of the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) Act, 2010.

The Report was LAID

Senator Rafiu Ibrahim presented the report.

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Senate dissolved into the Committee of the Whole for the clause by clause consideration of the report of the Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions on the confirmation of the nomination of Mr. Banire, Muiz Adeyemi Ph.D, SAN for appointment as Chairman of the governing board of Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) Act, 2010.

Senate reverted to plenary and reported progress.

The nomination of Mr. Banire, Muiz Adeyemi Ph.D, SAN for appointment as Chairman of the governing board of the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) is hereby confirmed.

Report of the Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions on the nomination of Mr. Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi for appointment as the Deputy Governor of CBN by Senator Rafiu Ibrahim.

Senator Emmanuel Paulker seconded that the Senate do receive and consider the report of the Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions on the nomination of Mr. Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi for appointment as the Deputy Governor of CBN.

Senator Rafiu Ibrahim presented the report.

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Senate dissolved into the Committee of Whole for the clause by clause consideration of the rport of the Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions on the nomination of Mr. Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi for appointment as the Deputy Governor of CBN.

Senate reverted to plenary and reported progress.

Mr. Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi was confirmed for appointment as the Deputy Governor of CBN.

Report of the Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on the FCT Appropriation Bill, 2018 (SB. 690) by Senator Dino Melaye.

Senator Shaaba Lafiagi seconded that the Senate do receive and consider the report of the Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on the FCT Appropriation Bill, 2018 (SB. 690).

The report was LAID.

Senator Dino Melaye presented the report.

COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY
Senate dissolved into the Committee of Supply for the clause by clause consideration of the report of the Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on the FCT Appropriation Bill, 2018 (SB. 690).

“I support this submission, it is worrisome to see that the FCT does not have street light, the security situation is bad and the streets are untidy. Even if more funding is needed, it should be provided for them as long as we will have a befitting FCT.” -Senator Jibrin Barau

“Let me commend Sen. Barau for a great presentation, I thank him for being a patriot. I support that more funding be provided to ensure more safety and encourage investors. Let us invite the FCT Minister to give us more insight on the security situation.” -Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu

“In the spirit of cooperation, I commend my colleagues on these contributions.” -Senator Bala Na’allah

“Let us first provide them with the necessary funding they have requested for and let us also provide oversight. Let us categorically assign the relevant committees on this issue. Something has to be done.” -Senator Ali Ndume

“The committee is up and about. There is a need for professionalism and technological know-how in all these issues. We assure you that these issues will be resolved.”- Senator Dino Melaye

“We need clarification on how much is allocated to each organization in charge of making Abuja clean.”- Senator Binta Masi Garba

Senate reverted to plenary and reported progress.

FCT Appropriation Bill, 2018 (SB. 590) was read the THIRD time and PASSED.

ADJOURNMENT
Senate Leader moved that all other items on the order paper be stood down to another legislative day. Minority Leader seconded.

Plenary was adjourned to Thursday, 11th October, 2018

Signed:
New Media Department,
Office of the President of the Senate,
Federal Republic of Nigeria.

TEV_Media

#TodayInSenatePlenary

*PROCEEDINGS OF THE NIGERIAN SENATE OF TUESDAY, 9TH OCTOBER, 2018.*

Welcome to a new Legislative Day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, led the Principal Officers into the chambers; took the official prayers; and began the day’s proceedings ‪at 11:05am‬.

*EXECUTIVE SESSION*
Senate moved into an Executive Session ‪at 11:09am‬ and resumed ‪at 11:25am‬.

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki reported that at the Executive Session the Senate deliberated on the workings of the Nigerian Senate in particular and the National Assembly in general.

Senator Babajide Omoworare moved for the approval of votes and proceedings II of Tuesday, 24th July, 2018. Senator Hope Uzodinma seconded.

*EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION*
Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki read the following letters. These are the letters;

1. Presidential Decision to decline assent to The Chartered Institute of Entrepreneurship (Establishment) Bill, 2018;

2. Presidential Decision to decline assent to The Subsidiary Legislation (Legislative Scrutiny) Bill, 2018;

3. Presidential Decision to decline assent to The National Agricultural Seeds Council Bill, 2018;

4. Suppression of Piracy and other Maritime Offenses Bill (2018) for passage into law;

5. Presidential Decision to decline assent to The National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (Establishment) Bill, 2018;

6. Presidential Decision to decline assent to The National Research and Innovation Council (Establishment) Bill, 2017;

7. Presidential Decision to decline assent to The Nigerian Maritime Administration And Safety Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2017;

8. Presidential Decision to decline assent to The Advance Fee Fraud and other Related Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2017;

9. Presidential decision to decline assent to The Electoral (Amendment) Bill, 2018;

10. Request for confirmation of the appointment of Olanipekun Olukoyede, Esq as the secretary of the Economic And Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC);

11. Presidential Decision to decline assent to The Industrial Development (Income Tax Relief) (Amendment) Bill, 2018;

12. Declining assent to five constitution of The Federal Republic Of Nigeria, 1999 (Fourth Alteration) Amendment Bills Passed by The National Assembly (Namely, Bills No. 8, No. 15, No. 22, No. 24 And No. 28;

13. Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) 2018 Statutory Budget Proposal;

14. Request for the resolutions of the National Assembly For: 1. the implementation of the new external capital raising of USD 2.786 billion from the international capital market approved in the 2018 appropriation act; and 2. the external capital raising of USD 82.54 million to refinance the balance of USD 500 million matured eurobond in the international capital market;

15. Presidential Decision to decline assent to The Stamp Duties (Amendment) Bill, 2018; and

16.  Declined assent to The Petroleum Industry Governance Bill, 2018.

Senate Leader, Ahmad Lawan cited order 43 and stated that the Senate should take the advantage to study all the bills that were returned to the Senate and understand what the real issues are. “I believe we will have something to learn from this.”

Senate Leader, Ahmad Lawan raised a motion on the deaths of former Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. B. U. Nzeribe and Hon. Funke Adedoyin and moved that all legislative activities be suspended until the next legislative day.

Senate resolved to:
Observe a minute silence in honour of the departed souls.

*ADJOURNMENT*
Senator Ahmad Lawan moved that all other items on the order paper be stood down to another legislative day. Senator Biodun Olujimi seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Wednesday, 10th October, 2018

#Gavelbangs

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