- Senate panel rules Senator Natasha’s petition dead on arrival
- FEC signs ₦10 billion for diabetes and HIV/AIDS treatment
- National grid generated highest record of electricity at 6,003 megawatts
- FCCPC files a lawsuit against Multichoice over violation of regulatory directives
- Senator Akpabio speaks out on Senator Natasha’s accusations, claims to have never sexually harassed her
Across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, these are the five top Nigerian news stories you shouldn’t miss.
Senate panel rules Senator Natasha’s petition dead on arrival
The Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges dismissed the petition filed by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a Kogi Central lawmaker, against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
On March 5, Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted a sexual harassment complaint against Akpabio in the upper legislative chamber.
The committee ruled against the petition, citing violations of due process and legal constraints.
Neda Imaseun, the committee chairman, stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan signed the petition herself instead of obtaining another person’s endorsement, rendering the document legally flawed and void.
FEC signs ₦10 billion for diabetes and HIV/AIDS treatment
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved ₦10.3 billion for the purchase of diagnostic kits for diabetes, anti-retroviral medications for HIV/AIDS patients with resistant strains, as well as antibiotics, antihypertensives, and anti-diabetic drugs.
Prof. Ali Pate, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, stated that the government’s efforts in the health sector align with the President’s vision of providing Nigerians with access to quality and affordable healthcare services.
“Today, we discussed two memos regarding the health and social welfare sector, which reflect the President’s goal of ensuring that Nigerians have access to quality healthcare that is also affordable, and we are committed to making consistent progress in this area,” he mentioned.
National grid generated highest record of electricity at 6,003 megawatts
Bolaji Tunji, Special Adviser on Strategic Communication to the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, announced that the national grid had achieved a record generation of 6,003 megawatts, marking the highest level in the nation’s history.
He claimed that these accomplishments signify a significant advancement in the sector’s ability to address the country’s increasing energy needs. This progress aligns with ongoing reforms in the power sector and the unwavering commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to ensure a consistent electricity supply, which is vital for boosting the economy.
“These achievements go beyond mere figures; they symbolise a brighter future for Nigeria, where businesses can flourish, homes can benefit from uninterrupted power, and the economy can experience sustainable growth. We hope for the continued stability of these remarkable records and anticipate further enhancements,” he stated.
FCCPC files a lawsuit against Multichoice over violation of regulatory directives
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has initiated legal action against MultiChoice Nigeria and its CEO, John Ugbe, for allegedly breaching regulatory directives and hindering an ongoing investigation.
On February 24, MultiChoice publicly announced an increase in subscription prices for its DStv and GOtv packages, effective March 1.
This announcement, almost a year after the last price hike, sparked public outrage and prompted the FCCPC to take action.
In response, the FCCPC summoned the CEO of MultiChoice Nigeria to its headquarters on February 27 for an investigative hearing regarding the company’s proposed increase in subscription fees.
Senator Akpabio speaks out on Senator Natasha’s accusations, claims to have never sexually harassed her
Godswill Akpabio, the former governor of Akwa Ibom and Senate President, stated at the plenary that he has received numerous calls from Nigerians regarding the sexual harassment allegations against him, which he firmly denies.
“I have never engaged in any form of sexual harassment towards Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan or any other woman,” Akpabio asserted.
“My late mother, who passed away in 2000, raised me and my siblings with strong values during challenging times, instilling in us a deep respect for women.”
“Additionally, I am the father of four wonderful daughters. I would never harass a woman, as I have never done so.”
