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Wildlife bill passes second reading in Reps
The bill addressing wildlife trafficking and habitat destruction passed its second reading in the House of Representatives during Thursday’s plenary session.
Hon. Terseer Ugbor, the bill’s sponsor and representative for Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency of Benue State, explained the bill’s general principles, noting that the illegal wildlife trade and trafficking are becoming increasingly dangerous, necessitating legislative action to stop this menace.
Ugbor, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, emphasized that the 10th National Assembly must address pressing issues like illegal wildlife trade, habitat loss, and the decline of Nigeria’s unique wildlife populations, aligning the country with global best practices.
He stated that Nigeria’s legal framework on wildlife needs a review to effectively combat poachers and traffickers, who are a significant challenge.
“The bill aims to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement agencies, grant investigators more power to examine financial matters and conduct intelligence-led operations, and enable judges to expedite wildlife cases and recover assets,” he explained. “It also aligns with international treaties, fosters global cooperation, and introduces stringent penalties for poachers and traffickers.
“By taking a stand against illegal activities targeting our wildlife and forests, we protect our future. This bill represents our commitment to counter the use of our borders for trafficking illegal wildlife products such as pangolin scales and elephant ivory.
“A combination of lack of public awareness, weak legislation, and minimal enforcement has hindered efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and biodiversity loss in Nigeria. Consequently, Nigeria’s wildlife has significantly declined, with species like lions, elephants, gorillas, and chimpanzees nearing extinction,” Ugbor added.
After contributions from other members affirming the importance of protecting endangered species in line with international treaties, Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu passed the bill for a second reading upon a vote. He then referred it to the House Committee on Environment, instructing them to submit their report within two weeks.
The Federal Government has announced the closure of the Eko Bridge and Ramps for eight weeks to carry out essential asphalt resurfacing work.
Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, shared this information in a statement on Saturday. She noted that the resurfacing project is set to begin on Friday, September 20, at 7:00 a.m., and will continue until November 20.
Due to the closure, drivers will need to follow detours and alternative routes. Kesha advised that motorists traveling to the Island from Funsho Williams Avenue should utilize the service lane at Alaka to connect to Costain and access the Eko Bridge.
She explained that some sections of the bridge will be fully closed while others will have partial access.
“This important project aims to enhance road safety and improve the driving experience for motorists,” she stated. The work will involve milling the existing asphalt and laying down new asphalt on both the bridge and ramps to address wear and tear and create a smoother, safer roadway.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has appointed Akinwale Sarafadeen Adeyemi as the new Chairman of the Governing Council for Osun State College of Education in Ila-Orangun.
The announcement was made in a statement on Friday by Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed. The statement described Adeyemi as an experienced educationist and noted that he will succeed Peter Babalola, the former chairman, who was dismissed by the state government earlier this month.
Babalola, who was also a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, faced suspension from his local ward in Irewole due to public criticism over alleged financial misconduct before his removal.
The statement highlighted, “Governor Ademola Adeleke has approved the appointment of Mr. Akinwale Sarafa Adeyemi, a seasoned educationist, as the new Chairman of the Governing Council of Osun State College of Education, Ila-Orangun. Mr. Adeyemi replaces Dr. Peter Babalola, who resigned following a controversial term at the college.”
Adeyemi holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Education from the University of Ibadan and is a retired principal of the Federal Girls College in Ipetumodu. His swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Monday at the EXCO lounge.
The police have reported that their operatives apprehended political thugs and seized firearms during overnight operations in Edo State, where the governorship election is taking place today, Saturday.
They also vowed to address illegal weapons possession and prevent any disruptions to the electoral process in the state.
Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, shared this information in a statement on Friday night, along with images of the recovered firearms.
He identified the arrested individuals as Edwin Obanor, 43, and Audu Tajudeen, a 41-year-old PDP member from Ugbogbo quarters in Igara Akoko, Edo.
“The Nigeria Police Force has made a significant breakthrough in combating electoral violence in Edo State with the arrests of Edwin Obanor, 43, and Audu Tajudeen, a 41-year-old PDP member,” the statement noted.
According to DAILY POST, residents of Edo State will be voting for a new governor today, September 21, 2024, who will succeed Governor Godwin Obaseki after his eight-year term ends.
Nigerian Govt shuts Eko Bridge, ramps for 8-week repairs
Gov Adeleke appoints new Governing Council Chairman for Osun College of Education
Edo Decides: Police arrest armed political thugs ahead of election
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