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Afe Babalola VS Dele Farotimi: What it Means To Be Delisted From Legal Practise

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The legal profession in Nigeria is one of the most prestigious and highly regulated careers, governed by a strict code of ethics. As custodians of justice, lawyers are expected to maintain the highest standards of conduct, both professionally and personally. However, when a lawyer is accused of breaching these standards, the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) has the authority to investigate and, in extreme cases, strike the individual’s name off the roll of lawyers.

Recently, a petition filed by legal luminary Afe Babalola against Dele Farotimi has drawn significant public interest. The petition seeks Farotimi’s removal from the list of legal practitioners in Nigeria, citing alleged professional misconduct.

What Does It Mean to Be Delisted?

To be delisted from legal practice means having one’s name struck off the roll of legal practitioners maintained by the Supreme Court of Nigeria. In essence, the individual is no longer recognized as a qualified lawyer and is barred from engaging in any form of legal practice in Nigeria. The implications are far-reaching, as it involves both professional and personal repercussions.

Immediate Consequences of Being Delisted

If the LPDC upholds the petition and Farotimi is delisted, the following immediate consequences are likely:

Loss of the Right to Practice Law
Farotimi would no longer be able to represent clients in court, draft legal documents, or offer legal advice. His legal practice license, which is a symbol of his professional identity, would be revoked.

Damage to Reputation
The legal profession is built on trust and integrity. Being delisted is often seen as a mark of professional failure or misconduct, which can irreparably damage one’s reputation. For someone like Farotimi, who is also a public commentator, this could cast a shadow over his public engagements.

Exclusion from Legal Associations
Farotimi would likely lose membership in professional legal bodies, such as the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), further isolating him from the legal community.

Long-Term Effects of Delisting

Bar on Reinstatement
Although delisted lawyers may petition for reinstatement, the process is arduous and requires incontrovertible proof of rehabilitation and adherence to legal ethics over a long period. For many, the stigma remains even if reinstatement is granted.

Restricted Career Opportunities
Delisting may limit Farotimi’s career prospects beyond the legal field. Many roles in academia, consultancy, and public service require a spotless professional record, which could hinder his ability to transition to other sectors.

Public Perception
Being delisted is a high-profile disciplinary action that often attracts media scrutiny. The court of public opinion can be harsh, affecting personal relationships and public engagements.

Historical Cases and Lessons

The Nigerian legal profession has seen a few high-profile delistings in the past, often serving as cautionary tales. These cases highlight the importance of adhering to professional ethics and the severe consequences of failing to do so. However, critics argue that the LPDC’s process is sometimes opaque and influenced by external pressures, raising questions about fairness and impartiality.

Here is a list of delisted cases in Nigeria

Kunle Kalejaiye, SAN
Year: 2015
Reason for Delisting: Kunle Kalejaiye, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), was delisted by the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) after being found guilty of engaging in professional misconduct. He was accused of unethical communication with Justice Thomas Naron during the 2008 Osun State Governorship Election Tribunal, where his client was a party.

Biyi Delano
Year: 2019
Reason for Delisting: Biyi Delano, a prominent legal practitioner, was delisted for gross professional misconduct, including allegations of misappropriating funds entrusted to him by a client. The LPDC ruled that his actions were a breach of trust and professional ethics.

Kunle Ogunba, SAN
Year: 2018
Reason for Delisting: Kunle Ogunba, another Senior Advocate of Nigeria, was delisted by the LPDC over allegations of abuse of court process in cases relating to insolvency proceedings. The allegations included filing frivolous lawsuits to harass debtors on behalf of creditors. Although the decision was later overturned by the Supreme Court, the case highlighted the LPDC’s willingness to hold even the most senior members of the bar accountable.

Joe Agi, SAN
Year: 2021
Reason for Delisting: Joe Agi, SAN, faced delisting after being implicated in an alleged bribery scandal involving a judge. The LPDC found him guilty of professional misconduct, ruling that his actions violated the ethical standards expected of a legal practitioner.

Godwin Chijioke Obasi
Year: 2019
Reason for Delisting: Godwin Chijioke Obasi was delisted for mishandling client funds and failing to deliver professional services after receiving payment. He was found guilty of neglecting his duty to his client and failing to uphold the standards of the profession.

I. J. Udofia
Year: 2007
Reason for Delisting: Udofia was delisted after being found guilty of forgery and presenting falsified court documents. This conduct was deemed grossly unethical and incompatible with the standards of the legal profession.

What Could Farotimi Do if Delisted?

If delisted, Farotimi could:

Explore Non-Legal Careers
With his background as a writer, activist, and public speaker, he might pivot toward advocacy, journalism, or political commentary.

Challenge the Decision
Delisted lawyers have the right to appeal the LPDC’s decisions, often taking their cases to higher courts, including the Supreme Court, to seek redress.

Reinvent His Public Persona
Farotimi could focus on leveraging his public influence to continue contributing to society in other ways, distancing himself from the legal controversy.

The petition by Afe Babalola against Dele Farotimi is not just a legal matter; it is a test of the legal profession’s commitment to upholding ethical standards without bias. While the outcome remains uncertain, the implications of being delisted are severe and multifaceted, affecting one’s professional standing, financial stability, and public image.

For Farotimi, the stakes are high. Whether he emerges from this battle unscathed or as a cautionary tale, this case will undoubtedly shape conversations about ethics, accountability, and fairness within Nigeria’s legal profession.

INEC to Phase Out PVCs, Introducing Diaspora Voting

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has outlined major reforms aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s electoral system, drawing from insights gained during the 2023 general elections and subsequent off-cycle polls.

Among the key proposals are the introduction of diaspora voting and the gradual phasing out of the use of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) during elections.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, shared these plans on Thursday in Abuja during a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners.

He also noted that the commission intends to present these proposals to the relevant committees in both the Senate and House of Representatives in the near future.

He said, “Among the major highlights of the commission’s recommendations is the imperative of legal clarity in result management, with regard to manual transfer versus the electronic transmission of results.

“The commission also believes that with the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, the use of the Permanent Voters’ Cards as the sole means of identification for voter accreditation on election day should be reviewed. Those who already have the PVCs can still use them to vote, but going forward, computer-generated slips issued to the voter or even downloaded from the commission’s website will suffice for voter accreditation.

“This will not only save cost, it will also eliminate the issues around the collection of PVCs and the diabolical practice of buying up the cards from voters to disenfranchise them.

“There are also recommendations in support of diaspora voting, the unbundling of the commission with the establishment of electoral offenses tribunal and a separate agency to handle the registration and regulation of political parties.

“Similarly, the commission will step up action on voter access and distribution to polling units.”
INEC Chairman explained that these recommendations were captured in a 524-page review report on the 2023 general elections

He said, “With the conclusion of five major off-cycle governorship elections and nine out of 21 bye-elections since the 2023 general elections, this is the most appropriate time for us to commence the implementation of the recommendations arising from our review of the general elections.

“From the internal and external engagements, the commission has identified 142 recommendations dealing with the general state of preparedness, voter management, voter education and public communication, political parties and candidate management, electoral operations, and logistics management, election officials and personnel, partnership and collaboration, monitoring and supervision, election technology, voting and result management, election security, electoral offences, and the electoral legal framework,” the chairman said.

Of these, 86 require administrative action by the commission, 48 rely on collaboration with stakeholders like security agencies and civil society organizations, and 8 necessitate legislative amendments by the National Assembly.

Yakubu noted, “Out of the 142 recommendations, 86 require administrative action by the commission. It is therefore pertinent that we engage first with our Resident Electoral Commissioners because of your frontline role in the implementation of the recommendations.

“This is followed by 48 recommendations that require action by a variety of stakeholders, including security agencies, mobile network operators, statutory bodies, political parties, transport unions, civil society organisations, and the media.

“On the legal review, there are eight recommendations that require legislative action by the National Assembly. Very soon, the commission will make a presentation to the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Electoral Matters as they continue to deliberate on electoral reform.”

The proposed reforms focus on ensuring legal clarity regarding result transmission, particularly concerning the roles of manual and electronic methods.

Yakubu emphasized that the implementation of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System has underscored the need for a more efficient process.

He proposed replacing Permanent Voter Cards with computer-generated slips or downloadable credentials for voter accreditation, aiming to cut costs and eliminate voter card-buying practices.

Yakubu also announced plans to introduce early and diaspora voting to accommodate citizens unable to vote at their registered polling units, including INEC staff, security personnel, and Nigerians living abroad.

Furthermore, INEC is advocating for the decentralization of its functions, proposing the creation of an electoral offences tribunal and a separate body to manage political party registration and regulation.

Other key reform areas include updating the voter register in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission and strengthening partnerships with transport unions to ensure the timely distribution of election materials.

The commission also intends to intensify voter education efforts to counter misinformation and encourage greater participation, particularly among marginalized groups.

“As a matter of urgency, the commission also intends to develop protocols for the cleaning up of the voters’ register in collaboration with other agencies such as the National Identity Management Commission and the National Population Commission. Other areas of reform include advocacy for affirmative action for greater participation of under-represented groups, more robust voter education, and public communication to combat fake news and misinformation,” Yakubu stated.

The recommendations, detailed in an extensive report, will soon be accessible to the public in both print and digital formats.

Yakubu encouraged the RECs to thoroughly review the report and actively participate in shaping a more efficient and inclusive electoral system.

₦80.2 Billion: Court Grants Yahaya Bello ₦500 Million Bail

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

On Friday, the Federal High Court in Abuja granted bail to former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, for ₦500 million, with two sureties. The trial judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, stated that bail is a matter of the court’s discretion, whether opposed or supported while delivering his ruling.

Justice Nwite noted, “I have considered the application from both counsels. Bail is at the court’s discretion. Based on the circumstances of this case and the defendant’s conduct, I would have reconsidered the bail application. However, due to the cooperation shown by both the defense counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), and the prosecution counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), I am inclined to grant bail.”

The judge outlined the bail conditions: “Bail is granted in the sum of ₦500 million, with two sureties each in the same amount. The sureties must own property within the court’s jurisdiction in Abuja. They will swear to an affidavit of means, and the property documents will be verified by the court’s chief deputy registrar. The defendant must deposit his international passport with the court’s chief registrar and submit two recent passport photographs to the deputy chief registrar. The defendant will be released once these conditions are met. The case is adjourned to February 24, 28, and March 6 and 7, 2025, for trial.”

Bello is facing 19 charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) related to money laundering, breach of trust, and the misappropriation of public funds amounting to ₦80.2 billion.

During the hearing, EFCC counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, informed the court that the prosecution would withdraw a previous request to abridge the arraignment date, as the issue had been overtaken by events. Defense counsel, J.B. Daudu, did not object, and Justice Nwite agreed to strike out the application.

Following this, the 19 charges were read to Bello, and he pleaded not guilty. Afterward, his lawyer apologized for the earlier confusion and requested bail pending trial. He assured the court that Bello, who had served two terms as governor and had traveled abroad only twice during his tenure, posed no flight risk and would attend all court hearings.

Daudu stated, “I apologize if there was any impression that the defendant did not wish to appear for his arraignment. He merely challenged the court’s jurisdiction, which led to proceedings in the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. It was not an act of disrespect. He holds this court in the highest regard and will attend every trial date. I assure you that he will not jump bail.”

Pinheiro, for the prosecution, confirmed that they would not object to the bail request despite previously filing a counter. He expressed respect for the defense counsel and confirmed that the prosecution, as a prosecutorial body, is not seeking to persecute the defendant. He accepted the defense’s assurances regarding Bello’s attendance at trial.

Additionally, Bello faces a separate ₦110.4 billion charge before Justice MaryAnne Anenih at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja. Justice Anenih had previously ordered Bello’s remand in Kuje prison pending the determination of his bail application, which was rejected for procedural irregularities. Similarly, Justice Nwite has ordered Bello’s remand in Kuje prison until the bail conditions are fulfilled.

Macron Appoints Francois Bayrou as Prime Minister

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

President Emmanuel Macron appointed centrist leader François Bayrou as France’s new prime minister on Friday, entrusting him with the challenging task of navigating the country out of its ongoing political turmoil. Bayrou, 73, who leads the MoDem party allied with Macron’s La République En Marche, was selected after Michel Barnier’s government was ousted by a historic no-confidence vote following a dispute over an austerity budget.

The French presidency announced Bayrou’s appointment, specifying that he had been tasked with forming a new government, though further details were not disclosed. Bayrou becomes the sixth prime minister of Macron’s term, following the brief tenure of Barnier, who served only three months. He is also the fourth prime minister named in 2024.

Bayrou now faces immediate pressure to assemble a cabinet capable of surviving a no-confidence vote in a deeply divided National Assembly. Additionally, he must work on drafting the 2025 national budget to help stabilize France’s economy. His appointment follows intense discussions with Macron, which were reportedly “tense,” according to BFMTV.

A handover ceremony for Barnier was scheduled for later that day, with a red carpet rolled out in front of the Matignon Palace, the seat of the French government. The composition of the new cabinet is expected to be revealed in the coming days.

Macron’s political challenges have been compounded by the complex landscape created by the summer’s snap elections, in which no single party holds a majority in parliament. The left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) emerged as the largest bloc, and its leaders had pressed for Macron to appoint a prime minister from their ranks. Marine Le Pen, the far-right leader, has not been involved in the latest talks, despite her significant influence on the political scene.

Bayrou’s candidacy has sparked criticism from both the left, which opposes Macron’s policies, and the right, where he faces opposition from former president Nicolas Sarkozy’s allies. Other potential candidates for the role had included former Socialist prime minister Bernard Cazeneuve, Macron loyalist Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu, and former foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, who turned down the position, citing age concerns.

Public opinion is growing weary of the political deadlock. An Elabe poll showed that two-thirds of French citizens are eager for politicians to reach a deal and end the ongoing government crisis. Macron’s prime ministers have faced increasingly short terms, and Bayrou’s tenure may be no exception. Recent polling also shows far-right leader Le Pen ahead in potential 2027 presidential election matchups, with her upcoming embezzlement trial in March 2025 adding further uncertainty to the political landscape.

Afe Babalola Seeks Removal of Dele Farotimi from Legal Practitioners

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

Afe Babalola’s Law Firm has filed a petition with the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC), requesting the removal of lawyer and human rights activist, Dele Farotimi, from the list of Nigerian legal practitioners. The petition alleges that Farotimi breached several provisions of the Rules of Professional Conduct for lawyers.

The 90-page petition, dated December 6, 2024, was signed by Ola Faro, a partner at Afe Babalola & Co. The petition claims that Farotimi’s actions violated multiple sections of the Rules, including making defamatory allegations against prominent members of Nigeria’s judiciary, including Supreme Court justices and other legal professionals.

The petition is titled: “Petition Against Tomilola Titus Farotimi (aka Dele Farotimi Esq), A Nigerian Lawyer, for Violating the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners, 2023.” It specifically accuses Farotimi of undermining the integrity of the judiciary and his fellow lawyers by making unfounded allegations of corruption in his book, “Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.” In the petition, Faro argues that Farotimi’s actions include spreading false information, making derogatory comments about judicial officers, and engaging in unethical conduct by influencing court decisions for personal gain.

The petition details several instances where Farotimi allegedly facilitated misconduct, including bribery of judicial officers and attempting to manipulate court proceedings. Farotimi is also accused of showing disrespect to the judiciary by using offensive language against the Supreme Court and its justices.

The petition further claims that Farotimi obstructed the administration of justice by attempting to frustrate a Supreme Court decision for the benefit of his client. His actions, the petitioners argue, have the potential to damage the reputation of the judiciary and the legal profession as a whole.

Additionally, the petition highlights statements made in Farotimi’s book, which are believed to inflame tensions within the legal community and damage the reputations of respected legal professionals. These statements have already led to a court order barring the publication, sale, or distribution of the book, and Farotimi is facing multiple legal challenges related to defamation and cyberbullying.

In light of these serious allegations, Afe Babalola’s firm is calling for Farotimi’s removal from the list of Nigerian legal practitioners to preserve the dignity and integrity of the legal profession.

Senate Orders Arrest of Julius Berger MD Over Abandoned Highway Projects

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The Senate has issued a warrant for the arrest of Dr. Peer Lubasch, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, following his repeated failure to appear before its Committee on Works.

The resolution, passed on Thursday, was initiated by a motion from Senate Minority Whip Senator Osita Ngwu (PDP, Enugu West) and co-sponsored by Senators Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC, Cross River South) and Mpigi Barinada (PDP, Rivers South-East).

Senator Ngwu highlighted Julius Berger’s consistent refusal to provide details regarding the abandonment of projects and the sharp increase in contract costs from ₦54 billion to ₦195 billion.

He particularly referenced the Odukpani-Itu Highway project, for which the company allegedly received over ₦18 billion in public funds but failed to deliver. Ngwu also raised concerns about discrepancies in contractor performance, emphasizing Julius Berger’s inability to meet project targets.

Citing Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Ngwu reminded the Senate of its authority to summon individuals or organizations accountable for public funds. He also invoked Section 6(1) of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, which empowers the Senate to issue arrest warrants for those in contempt of its proceedings.

Ngwu alleged that Julius Berger’s contract for the Odukpani-Itu Highway was terminated due to the company’s demobilization and refusal to accept contract review terms, despite initially agreeing to a contract worth ₦54.1 billion before requesting an upward adjustment to ₦195 billion.

In response, he urged the Senate to exercise its constitutional powers and issue a warrant compelling the attendance of Dr. Lubasch at the rescheduled investigative hearing.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio confirmed that a specific date for Dr. Lubasch’s appearance would be included in the arrest warrant.

The motion sparked a debate among senators about the best course of action. While Senators Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North), Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), and Joel Onowakpo Thomas (APC, Delta) advocated immediate action, Senators Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West), Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North), and Ahmad Lawan (APC, Yobe North) suggested resolving the matter at the committee level to avoid escalation.

Ultimately, the Senate resolved to proceed with the arrest warrant, emphasizing its dedication to transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.

FG To Procure Essential Drugs For Nigerians

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The Federal Government of Nigeria is advancing efforts to ensure the availability, affordability, and quality of essential medicines in public healthcare facilities through a pool-procurement initiative. This was announced by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, during an event in Abuja commemorating Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day under the theme, “Health on the House of Government.”

Prof. Pate highlighted that the initiative is part of the three-year Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain, which was introduced to save lives, reduce physical and financial hardship, and improve health outcomes across Nigeria.

Short-Term and Long-Term Goals

“In the short term, we are pool-procuring essential medicines under the Presidential Value Chain Initiative to address the rising cost of healthcare and ensure affordability and availability,” Pate explained. He added that the government also plans to promote local pharmaceutical manufacturing in the medium to long term, reducing dependency on imports and stabilizing costs.

Addressing Healthcare Challenges

Prof. Pate acknowledged the rising costs of food, drugs, and transportation, which have increased the financial burden on Nigerians. To mitigate these challenges, he emphasized the need for strategic measures that ensure accessible healthcare without further economic strain on citizens.

The minister also noted the imbalance in Nigeria’s health expenditures, citing data from the National Health Account showing individuals bear over $70 per capita in healthcare costs, compared to $15.5 per capita spent by the government. He stressed the importance of transferring financial burdens from individuals to government programs and schemes.

Unified Approach and Increased Funding

To achieve these objectives, the government has adopted a Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) guided by principles like One Plan, One Budget, and One Report. Prof. Pate commended state governors for aligning with this vision through the signing of the Compact.

The Tinubu administration has mobilized over $3 billion in additional funding through the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII). This includes $2.178 billion in external financing for implementation between 2024 and 2026.

Expanding Health Insurance Coverage

The Federal Government has made significant strides in expanding healthcare coverage, increasing the number of Nigerians enrolled in health insurance schemes by 14% as of Q3 2024. Additionally, ₦45.9 billion has been disbursed under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) to support vulnerable groups and indigent citizens.

Special Initiatives

Prof. Pate highlighted targeted investments to address critical health challenges, including obstetric fistula and cancer. By October 2024, 879 fistula repair surgeries were conducted across 19 centers, with a target of 2,500 repairs by year-end. These efforts aim to restore dignity and improve the quality of life for affected women.

“The Tinubu administration envisions a resilient health system that caters to all Nigerians, regardless of their socioeconomic status,” Pate concluded.

FG Urges Journalists to Balance Press Freedom with Accountability

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to protecting media freedom and Nigeria’s civic space while urging journalists to exercise press freedom responsibly. This call was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the 2024 Annual General Congress of the International Press Institute Nigeria held in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, themed “Democracy, Media Freedom, and the Imperative of Protecting Nigeria’s Civic Space,” Idris emphasized the pivotal role of the press in sustaining democracy and called for greater accountability in media practices. The congress convened journalists, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss pressing issues affecting Nigeria’s media landscape.

The minister commended the Nigerian press for its assertiveness, describing it as one of the most fearless institutions globally. He highlighted its historical contributions to achieving independence, ending military rule, and nurturing Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

“In this important democratic journey, the media has been a steadfast companion. The Nigerian press remains unyielding and assertive, playing a critical role in shaping our nation,” Idris remarked.

However, he underscored the importance of balancing media freedom with responsibility, urging journalists to maintain professionalism and accountability. He cautioned against misusing their significant influence in shaping public opinion and discourse.

“The civic space must remain a civil space—one that encourages healthy debates and avoids demonizing opposing views,” Idris stated. He also emphasized the importance of holding public and private institutions accountable, reminding officeholders of their duty to serve the people with integrity and transparency.

Idris highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s efforts to uphold media rights, citing the president’s interventions since assuming office in August 2023. He praised Tinubu’s legacy as a media entrepreneur and advocate for democracy, reiterating the government’s commitment to fostering an open and inclusive civic space.

He also linked media freedom to the success of Nigeria’s reforms under the “Renewed Hope Agenda.” According to Idris, responsible journalism is vital for advancing the government’s initiatives, which include redirecting funds from wasteful subsidies to critical sectors like infrastructure, education, and social investment.

Idris called on the press to support the government’s efforts to achieve inclusive growth, laying the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.

NAFDAC Recalls Deekins Amoxycillin Batch Over Reported Adverse Reactions

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced the recall of one batch of Deekins Amoxycillin 500mg Capsules due to reports of serious adverse drug reactions. The affected batch, with lot number 4C639001, was manufactured by Eco-med Pharma Ltd and marketed by DevineKings Pharmaceutical Ltd.

According to NAFDAC, the recall follows reports of serious adverse drug reactions associated with this batch. A hospital reported three cases of severe reactions in patients who were administered capsules from this batch.

Product Name: Deekins Amoxycillin 500mg Capsules
Manufacturer: Eco-med Pharma Ltd
Marketer: DevineKings Pharmaceutical Ltd
Lot Number: 4C639001
Manufacturing Date: March 2024
Expiry Date: February 2027

NAFDAC has advised healthcare professionals and consumers to immediately stop using the affected batch and to report any suspicious cases of substandard or falsified medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office.

Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicion of substandard and falsified medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office, call 0800-162-3322, or email to sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng. Adverse events or side effects related to the use of the medicinal product can also be reported through the NAFDAC website or the Med-safety application

Tax Reform Bills: VAT Funds Will Be Transparently Managed – Oyedele

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has assured Nigerians that funds generated from Value Added Tax (VAT) under the proposed tax reform bills will be utilized responsibly and transparently.

Speaking at a one-day roundtable on tax reform bills hosted by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) in Abuja, Oyedele highlighted that the proposed bills include clear guidelines on how VAT proceeds should be allocated and spent.

“These reforms prioritize critical national needs such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation, avoiding wasteful spending on non-essential or impractical projects,” Oyedele stated.

He criticized past investments in projects such as underutilized airports, low-traffic flyovers, and unused malls while vital sectors like education and healthcare were overlooked. The new framework, he said, would ensure accountability and prevent governors or local authorities from mismanaging VAT funds.

The reforms also address other fiscal challenges, including borrowing and subsidy management. Oyedele questioned practices like borrowing foreign currency for domestic investments and subsidizing inefficient projects, which undermine fiscal sustainability.

Clarifying misconceptions, Oyedele noted that VAT is categorized as state revenue, not part of the federation’s general revenue. “VAT proceeds are shared among states and local governments through a special pool account, with the federal government retaining a small portion for administrative purposes,” he explained.

He also dismissed rumors that the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) would engage private tax consultants like Alpha Beta Company for VAT collection. The reforms, he emphasized, explicitly prohibit FIRS from outsourcing routine tax operations to consultants.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the tax reform bills as a vital step toward modernizing Nigeria’s tax system and promoting equitable distribution of tax burdens. While acknowledging some public concerns and political resistance, Akpabio affirmed that the reforms aim to create a robust fiscal framework to boost revenue and foster national prosperity.

“The National Assembly is committed to ensuring transparency and public trust in this process,” Akpabio said.

NILDS Director General, Professor Abubakar Suleiman, reiterated that the reforms seek to establish a fairer tax system, reduce the burden on ordinary citizens, and enhance accountability. “The ongoing debates reflect the public’s growing awareness of the need for a balanced and effective tax framework,” he added.

On October 3, 2024, President Bola Tinubu submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly, based on recommendations from the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms. These bills include:

  • Nigeria Tax Bill 2024: Establishing the fiscal framework for taxation.
  • Tax Administration Bill: Simplifying tax processes and minimizing disputes.
  • Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill: Replacing the Federal Inland Revenue Service Act.
  • Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill: Introducing a tax tribunal and ombudsman.

Despite initial calls by the National Economic Council (NEC) for more consultations, President Tinubu has urged the legislative process to proceed while ensuring that public hearings allow citizens to contribute their input.

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