Nigeria ranks 2nd in global food, packaging technology

Posted on March 25, 2025 by Newsaccessadmin

The organisers of Nigeria’s Agrofood and Plastprintpack exhibition, FairTrade Messe, has rated Nigeria second in global food and packaging technology.

The Senior Project Manager, FairTrade Messe, Ms Freyja Detjen, said this at the 10th edition of Agrofood and Plastprintpack exhibition on Tuesday in Lagos.

Detjen said Nigeria invested €304 million in food and packaging technology in 2023.

“In 2023, investments in food and packaging technology reached €304 million , making Nigeria the second largest investor in Africa, ahead of Algeria, Egypt, and just behind South Africa.

“These numbers show the country’s commitment to advancing its industries and addressing cutting edge solutions to drive economy development.

“It is my great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all of you to the 10th edition of Agrofood and Plastprintpack exhibition Nigeria.

“The event is more than just a trade show. It is a platform for innovation, collaboration and growth.

“The journey of Agrofood and Plastprintpack Nigeria has been one of continuous learning and the potential ahead is incredible,” she said.

She noted that Nigeria had continued to make significant strides in Agrofood Plastprintpack technology.

Detjen said the exhibition had evolved into one of the most important industry platforms of Nigeria.

“This year, we are welcoming 115 exhibitors from 12 countries, including China, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Italia, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Poland, South Africa and Turkey, each bringing tailored products and solutions for the Nigerian party.

“This event would not be possible without the strength of our partners, and esteemed institutional partners,” she said.

In his opening address, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Sen. Abubakar Kyari, represented by Mrs Omolara Oguntunyi, said the achievement of food security and growth of the sector is priority.

Read Also: Nigeria ranks 5th in countries with cheapest Petrol in Africa

Kyari called for a collective efforts in ensuring sustainable growth and development.

“In the pursuit of sustainable development, today we gather at a critical junction in our collective journey toward achieving food security, the cornerstone of economic stability and social wellness.

“Our world faces unprecedented challenges, climate change, economic uncertainties and health crisis, that are threatening the very foundation of our food system.

“This conference represents a pivotal moment in the achievement of food security, as it brings together international experts and local stakeholders to explore solutions to the present agricultural and nutritional challenges we face.

“During the high level plenary discussion, our ministry will share insights into our current projects and policy strategies.

“We will elect initiatives aimed at promoting climate resilient agriculture, enhancing irrigation systems and supporting small scale farmers through training and financial assistance.

“Together, we can leverage our collective expertise to develop innovative solutions that address the complex interplay between agriculture, nutrition and climate change,” Kyari said.

He said the Federal Government would remain committed to policies and projects informed by the latest research.

“As we move forward, we are committed to ensuring that policies and projects are informed by the latest research and best practices from around the world.

“We believe that by working together, we can create a future where every individual has access to the nutritious food where agricultural systems are resilient to climate change, and where economies are stronger and sustainable,” he said.

(NAN)

N77,000 allowance to commence in March, says NYSC DG

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Newsaccessadmin

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, has assured that the payment of the newly increased monthly allowance of N77,000 to corps members will begin in March.

This is contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu.

Nafiu made the announcement while interacting with corps members at the NYSC Zonal Offices in Wuse and Garki, Federal Capital Territory.

He assured the corps members that both the scheme and the Federal Government were committed to their welfare and would continue prioritising their well-being.

Read Also: TIPS for corps members: NYSC releases call up letters for Batch B Stream II

“With effect from March, you are going to receive the sum of Seventy-Seven Thousand Naira as your monthly allowance.

“NYSC is good at record-keeping, and I can assure you that your money will be paid. The nation and the scheme appreciate you,” Nafiu said.

He thanked the corps members for their selfless service and encouraged them to remain calm, dedicated, focused, and disciplined.

Nafiu also emphasised the significance of the NYSC scheme, stating that it was an initiative that built bridges and exposed graduates to cultural values beyond their places of birth.

The Director-General further stated that the NYSC management would continue to instill virtues such as patriotism, discipline, self-restraint, good morals, leadership qualities, and teamwork in future batches.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal Government approved the increase in corps members’ monthly allowance to N77,000 in September 2024, with the new allowance taking effect from July 2024.

Prior to this increase, corps members received a monthly allowance of N33,000. The raise aligns with the enactment of the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024.(NAN)

BREAKING: Jandor returns to APC

Posted on March 17, 2025 by Newsaccessadmin

The 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has officially returned to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Jandor, who resigned from the PDP along with his Lagos4Lagos Movement, made the announcement during a press conference in Ikeja, Lagos.

He stated that his return to APC was not for personal gain but a reflection of his commitment to the development of Lagos.

Lastweek, while reacting to Jandor’s exit from PDP and his claims of anti-party activities within the PDP, party chieftain Chief Olabode George dismissed the accusations as “an insult” and downplayed Jandor’s political influence.

Speaking on Eagle 102.5 FM’s Frontline program, George ridiculed Jandor’s political standing, calling him “a little rat” who had no real impact in Lagos politics.

“I am in my 80s, and he is just a child. What does he know about this party? It is an absolute insult for me to even respond to him. This boy—my children are much older than him. Back in my school days, we called this an infradig—beneath my dignity,” George said.

He further criticized Jandor’s emergence as the PDP’s governorship candidate, saying he lacked experience and only got the ticket due to external influence. According to George, Jandor’s selection pushed out more qualified candidates, including Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, who later joined the Labour Party.

“We had a candidate who was far more competent, well-educated, and from a highly respected background—someone with a degree from MIT. He contested in the Lagos West Senatorial District, which alone covers 10 local governments. But we asked him to step down, and instead, Jandor was chosen,” George explained.

He also criticized Jandor’s decision to pick actress Funke Akindele as his running mate, suggesting it was a poor political strategy that further weakened the PDP’s chances in the election.

Read Also: JUST IN: Reps orders NCC to block all pornographic sites in Nigeria

Jandor’s Accusations Against PDP Leaders
Before his defection, Jandor had accused PDP leaders of sabotaging his candidacy, citing internal betrayals and anti-party activities. He alleged that party chairman Philip Aivoji falsely announced his withdrawal from the election and that Bode George openly endorsed another party’s candidate.

Jandor also claimed that some PDP leaders viewed his candidacy as a threat and actively worked against him, leading to attacks on his campaign and public condemnation from within the party.

In a cryptic remark, George hinted that Jandor had committed an “unforgivable sin” within the party—one he vowed not to disclose himself but to pass on to a certain Dr. Seye Dairo for public revelation.

While George did not specify the nature of this alleged wrongdoing, his remarks suggest that Jandor’s exit from the PDP may have deeper political implications beyond what has been publicly revealed.

With Jandor now back in the APC, the political landscape in Lagos continues to shift as parties gear up for future elections.

JUST IN: Reps orders NCC to block all pornographic sites in Nigeria

Posted on March 11, 2025 by Newsaccessadmin

The Nigerian House of Representatives has instructed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure the restriction of access to all pornographic websites in the country.

The lawmakers further urged the Commission to mandate internet service providers to immediately block such content.

Dalhatu Tafoki, an All Progressives Congress (APC), lawmaker from Katsina State, sponsored the motion.

While presenting the motion, Tafoki highlighted that cyber pornography is an escalating global concern and argued that Nigeria has not taken sufficient steps to address it.

He emphasized that Nigeria is a “highly religious country” where major faiths oppose and prohibit nudity and obscenity.

Read Also: Full List: Reps committee proposes creation of 31 new states

Tafoki also pointed out that several nations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have already implemented laws banning pornography.

Citing expert warnings, the lawmaker referenced psychologists and sociologists who have cautioned about the negative effects of pornography, stating that it could contribute to adultery, prostitution, and addiction.

“Renowned psychologists and sociologists worldwide have issued stern warnings on the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of viewing pornographic content,” he stated.

Following a voice vote conducted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the motion was approved by the House.

As part of the resolution, the House directed the NCC to enforce penalties on service providers that fail to comply with the directive.

The life and legacy of late Dr. Doyin Okupe

Posted on March 7, 2025 by Newsaccessadmin

As dawn broke on March 7, 2025, news of the passing of Dr. Doyin Okupe sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political and medical circles.

At 72, he had lived a life deeply woven into the nation’s history—both as a physician and a political strategist.

While details surrounding his passing remained unclear, family sources confirmed his demise, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, controversy, and dedication.

A Legacy Rooted in Medicine

Born on March 22, 1952, in Iperu, Ogun State, Okupe hailed from a distinguished family. His father, Chief Matthew Adekoya Okupe, was a banker at Agbonmagbe Bank. Following his early education at St. Jude’s School, Lagos, and Igbobi College, he pursued a medical degree at the University of Ibadan, setting the foundation for his early career.

Okupe worked at St. Nicholas Hospital and other medical institutions before taking a bold step in co-founding the Royal Cross Medical Centre with Dr. Seyi Roberts and Dr. Ladi Okuboyejo. He later became the Managing Director of the hospital, dedicating years to improving healthcare. His medical prowess was not just confined to the hospital—his quick intervention in 1994, alongside Dr. Seyi Roberts, saved a gunshot victim’s life, a moment that defined his passion for saving lives.

Beyond practice, he was a publisher, founding a health-focused newspaper, Life Mirror, which aimed to educate Nigerians on medical issues.

A Controversial Political Journey

Okupe’s passion for public service saw him step into the political arena in the 1980s. He contested for a House of Representatives seat under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1983, marking the beginning of a tumultuous career.

Read Also: Things to know about late PR icon mallam Kabir Dangogo

During the 1990s, he became the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC) and played a key role in the 1993 presidential election collation process. However, politics was not without its trials—he was detained under General Sani Abacha’s regime in 1996 and later disqualified from contesting the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) primaries in 1998.

Despite these setbacks, he remained undeterred. In the Fourth Republic, he was appointed Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and later vied for the Ogun State governorship under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2002. His expertise in political communication made him the Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan in 2012.

He went on to serve as spokesman for major PDP presidential aspirants, including Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, Bukola Saraki, and Atiku Abubakar. In 2017, he briefly left the PDP for the Accord Party, but was expelled in 2018 for supporting Saraki’s PDP presidential bid. He later rejoined PDP and became the campaign spokesman for Atiku Abubakar in the 2019 election.

His political journey took another turn in 2022 when he joined the Labour Party (LP) and temporarily served as Peter Obi’s running mate before a substantive vice-presidential candidate was selected.

Controversies and Legal Battles

Okupe’s career was not without controversy. In 2012, he was probed by the EFCC for unexecuted contracts in Benue and Imo States. Later, in 2019, he was linked to the ₦702 million arms deal scandal, which further added to his complex political profile.

Family and Personal Life

Okupe was married to Aduralere Okupe, with whom he had two children. His family made headlines for different reasons—most notably in 2019, when he supported Atiku Abubakar, while his son, Ditan Okupe, publicly backed Muhammadu Buhari.

In 2020, Okupe and his wife battled COVID-19 but made a full recovery. In 2021, his son, Bolu Okupe, made headlines when he came out as gay while living in Paris, a revelation that sparked national conversations on LGBTQ+ rights in Nigeria.

Despite political differences within the family, both Okupe and Bolu later united in support of Peter Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign.

A Life Remembered

With brothers Kunle, Owo, Wemi, and Larry Okupe, and sisters Aina Okanlawon and Bisola Ayeni, Okupe’s legacy extends beyond politics. He was a man of many parts—doctor, politician, strategist, and family man.

His passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to medicine, politics, and public affairs will not be forgotten.

Reno Omokri challenges Natasha to lie detector test over Akpabio allegations

Posted on March 7, 2025 by Newsaccessadmin

Former presidential media aide, Reno Omokri, has urged Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to undergo a lie detector test following her recent allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

In a video shared on social media, Omokri recalled that Akpoti-Uduaghan had previously made similar accusations against him in 2021.

Detailing the past incident, Omokri stated: “On October 12, 2021, Natasha Akpoti had a disagreement with me and afterward, she went on social media to accuse me of sexual harassment. She claimed that during a state banquet hosted by President Goodluck Jonathan for the visiting Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta, on May 6, 2014, at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, I had harassed her.

Read Also: Senate suspends Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months

“However, at that time, I was on an official assignment in the United States as a special envoy following the Chibok girls’ abduction in April 2014. I provided evidence, including my passport stamps and flight details, proving I was not in Nigeria during the period she alleged.

“After media outlets published my evidence, Natasha deleted all traces of her accusations, including a video in which she had insulted me, my wife, and my newborn daughter. Later, a prominent Christian clergyman and her now-husband, Emmanuel Oritshejolomi Uduaghan, reached out to mediate. The matter was settled out of court, and I was paid substantial damages.”

Omokri argued that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s past actions should not be overlooked, suggesting a pattern in her behavior.

“Now, after a dispute with the Senate President, she has made similar allegations against him. I cannot confirm whether her claims are true, but I know for a fact that she has lied before. And the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior,” he stated.

He urged Nigerians not to hastily judge Akpabio, insisting that Akpoti-Uduaghan should take a lie detector test to validate her claims.

“Let her come forward and take the test, accompanied by a senator who supports her and another neutral senator. Until she does so, the presumption is that she is following her past pattern,” he concluded.

Things to know about late PR icon mallam Kabir Dangogo

Posted on March 7, 2025 by Newsaccessadmin

Award-winning PR Practitioner and a former Scribe of the African Public Relations Association (APRA), Mallam Kabir Dangogo, is dead.

He was 76.

Sadiq Kabir Dangogo, son of the late Kabir Dangogo, confirmed his passing on Friday.

“My father died a while ago! Janaza will be at Sultan Bello Mosque Kaduna after Jumuat prayer Insha Allah,” he said.

Mallam Dangogo was a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relation (NIPR)

The deceased practised journalism at the New Nigerian newspaper, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and as Public Relations officer at the Bank of the North Limited and Union Bank of Nigeria Plc.

He was also the founding president of the Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB).

Mallam Dangogo made Nigeria proud as the Secretary General of the Federation of African Public Relations Associations (FAPRA) from 2002 to 2006.

Here are things to know about late PR icon mallam Kabir Dangogo

1. Renowned Public Relations Icon

• Mallam Kabir Dangogo was a highly respected figure in public relations across Africa. He played a crucial role in shaping the profession through ethics, mentorship, and leadership.

2. Started His Career in Journalism

• Before transitioning to PR, he worked as the Managing Editor of New Nigerian Newspaper (1988–1989) and a Senior Lecturer at Kaduna Polytechnic. He also served as Press Adviser for the U.S. Information Service in 1990.

3. Education from Prestigious Institutions

• He studied at Ohio University, USA (1981), and the University of Leicester, UK (1987), equipping himself with global expertise in media and communications.

4. Pioneer in Banking Public Relations

• He worked as a Public Relations Officer at Bank of the North and Union Bank of Nigeria. He also co-founded the Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB), setting PR standards in Nigeria’s banking sector.

5. Leader in African and Global PR Bodies

• He served as the Secretary-General of the Federation of African Public Relations Associations (FAPRA, now APRA) and as the Chairman of the Nigerian Chapter of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) between 2002 and 2006.

6. Recipient of Numerous Awards

• His contributions were recognized with multiple awards, including:

 Fellow, International Radio and Television Society (IRTS), New York (1981)

 NIPR President’s Award for Excellence in Public Relations (1996)

 Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) (2000)

 Fellow, Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON)

 NIPR Lagos Chapter Award for Excellence in Public Relations (2005)

7. Established a PR Training School

• After retiring from Union Bank in 2005, he founded Timex Communications, a PR firm and training school that mentored the next generation of communication professionals.

8. Mentor to Many PR Professionals

• He was deeply committed to grooming young PR practitioners, often emphasizing the importance of ethics, professionalism, and integrity in the field.

9. Honored with a Surprise 70th Birthday Celebration

• On February 21, 2019, his colleagues and mentees at the PRNigeria Centre organized a surprise birthday celebration, which was attended by top PR figures across Africa, including APRA and NIPR presidents.

10. A Life Dedicated to PR and Communications

• With over three decades of experience, Mallam Kabir Dangogo left an indelible mark on public relations, shaping industry standards and inspiring future professionals.

Senate suspends Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months

Posted on March 6, 2025 by Newsaccessadmin

The Senate, on Thursday, suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months over alleged misconduct during plenary sessions.

The decision followed the Senate’s consideration and adoption of the report from the Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, which was presented by the committee’s Chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen.

During the session, the Senate also issued a warning to the Kogi Central lawmaker, urging her to refrain from violating the upper chamber’s standing rules.

The Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, raised concerns about Akpoti-Uduaghan’s repeated refusal to stand whenever Senate President Godswill Akpabio led the procession to commence plenary. He stated that her actions directly violated Senate Standing Orders 55(1).

Monguno emphasized that while she often invoked Senate Order 10 to express her views, she could not selectively follow the rules while disregarding others.

Read Also: Senate Committee proposes six-month suspension for Natasha

“Senator Natasha has been consistently and persistently in breach of this rule,” Monguno stated.

“He who comes to equity must come with clean hands.

“If you are seeking refuge always under Order 10, you cannot approbate and reprobate.

“We urge her to study the rules and ensure compliance rather than breaching them,” he added.

In a related development, Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted another petition to the Senate on Thursday, alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She stated that the petition was signed by one of her constituents.

Akpabio, after confirming that the matter was not currently in court, referred the petition to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions for review, with a directive to report back within four weeks.

This was not the first time Akpoti-Uduaghan had brought up the issue. On Wednesday, she submitted a similar petition, but the Senate rejected it on the grounds that it violated Order 40(4), which prohibits a senator from presenting a petition signed by themselves.

Senate Committee proposes six-month suspension for Natasha

Posted on March 6, 2025 by Newsaccessadmin

The Senate is considering a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following an investigation by the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct. The committee accused her of violating Senate rules and recommended disciplinary action.

According to the report presented by the committee’s Chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen, the suspension is set to begin on March 6, 2025. As part of the sanctions, her office will be sealed, and she will be restricted from entering the National Assembly premises. Additionally, both her salary and those of her legislative aides will be withheld.

The committee further recommended that she be prohibited from representing Nigeria in any official capacity as a senator during the suspension. However, she may submit a written apology, which the Senate could consider in reviewing her suspension.

Read Also: Akpabio denies sexual harassment allegations by Natasha

The Senate will vote on the recommendation, and if approved, Senator Natasha will lose all legislative privileges for the duration of the suspension.

This development is the latest in an ongoing dispute between Senator Natasha and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The conflict initially stemmed from a seating arrangement disagreement but later escalated when Natasha accused Akpabio of sexual harassment.

On Wednesday, the same committee dismissed her petition alleging abuse of office, sexual harassment, and obstruction of legislative duties. Senator Imasuen, who represents Edo South, declared that the petition was “dead on arrival” and would not be considered by the Senate, despite being signed by her constituents.

Undeterred, Senator Natasha resubmitted the petition during Thursday’s plenary session. When asked whether the case was already in court, she responded in the negative. She was then instructed to submit the petition to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct for further investigation.

The committee is expected to review the matter over the next four weeks and present its findings to the Senate.

Senate rejects Akpoti-Uduaghan’s alleged sexual harassment petition

Posted on March 6, 2025 by Newsaccessadmin

The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, on Wednesday, declared the petition on alleged sexual harassment filed by Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP) against Senate President Godswill Akpabio as “dead on arrival.”

Chairman of the committee, Sen. Neda Imaseun (LP-Edo), made this statement during an investigative hearing on petitions related to alleged misconduct by Akpoti-Uduaghan and allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio.

During Wednesday’s plenary, Akpoti-Uduaghan had announced her petition, read it aloud, and submitted it, with Akpabio accepting it.

“I have a petition against the President of the Nigerian Senate, His Excellency Sen. Godswill Akpabio, for sexual harassment, abuse of office, and malicious obstruction of my legislative functions,” she said.

“You may recall, sir, that on Friday, during an Arise TV interview, I made certain statements. I have now decided to formalise those statements in a petition against the president of this senate.

“So, if it pleases you, I will humbly step forward and lay this petition.”

However, a heated debate ensued when Senate Chief Whip, Sen. Mohammed Monguno, citing Order 40(4), argued that Senate rules must be strictly followed.

Order 40(4) states: “No senator may present to the Senate a petition signed by himself.”

Monguno warned that any deviation from the rules could lead to “chaos and anarchy” and emphasised the senate’s duty to uphold its procedural integrity.

He further noted that the matter was already sub judice, as Akpoti-Uduaghan had taken the case to court.

“And also, the wife of the senate president has equally gone to court in respect of this matter. So, this matter is sub judiced.

” Therefore, the senate does not have to do anything to entertain this matter,” he said.

He advised that the matter should be referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions.

In his remarks, the President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio said “the Senate actually referred her matter not because I’m not aware of the provisions of the rules.

“It is because when people are watching from outside, they may not know we are guided by rules”.

Read Also: Akpabio denies sexual harassment allegations by Natasha

Imaseun at the investigative hearing after plenary said:

“It is the procedure of this committee, as a matter of fact, the first thing we ask when the petition comes to us is whether or not that petition is before any law court.

” And if the answer is yes, we do not touch such petitions.

“In addition to that, our Red Book also, under Order 40, has also laid down the processes that must be followed before a petition is laid.

“If you allow me, Order 40 of our rulebook, subsection 4, says that no senator may present to the Senate a petition signed by him or herself.

” In other words, I cannot submit a petition about myself, signed by myself,that petition ought to be presented by another senator.

“And I’m sure that there are three senators from Kogi, as it is with other states, and that was not done.

“That report, we will not even touch it because it’s a matter before the court.

“We do not place much emphasis on this order that was presented. We are referring back to our rulebook. As I said earlier, the petition she submitted today is ‘dead on arrival.’

“I say this because it directly contradicts Order 40, Subsection 4, which states that no senator may present a petition in the Senate that is signed by themselves.

“Since the petition was signed by her, this committee will not entertain it.”

The committee had earlier launched an investigation into the alleged disorderly conduct of Akpoti-Uduaghan during the plenary session on Feb. 20.

The senate had referred a petition, presented by its spokesperson, Sen. Yemi Adaramodu (APC-Ekiti), to the committee on Feb. 25, mandating it to submit its report within two weeks.

The petition stemmed from the controversy surrounding a recent altercation between Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate leadership over seat allocation.

Present at the hearing to make presentations were the petition’s author, Sen. Adaramodu; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules and Business, Sen. Titus Zam (APC-Benue); and the Sergeant-at-Arms of the Senate, Mr Murthar Usman.

However, Akpoti-Uduaghan was absent from the investigative hearing.

Speaking further on the alleged disorderly conduct, Imaseun said:

“Ladies and gentlemen, she’s not here, now I can understand why she’s not here,she’s probably not here on the order of her lawyers,that being the case, the committee will sit and will deliberate on what we’ve gotten.

” Senators have presented their cases before us based on our rulebook and all other documents that are available to us, we shall make a decision here, and then present to the full senate,”he said.

(NAN)