From Natasha’s suspension to Obasa’s comeback, events that shaped Nigeria this Week
Nigerians were glued to their screens as many interesting events happened in the week, which generated mixed reactions from both individuals and groups.
Some of the major events that happened in Nigeria’s social, legal, and cultural landscape, include:
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension:
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for six months by the Nigerian Senate following what was described by the leadership of the Senate as her unruly behaviour towards the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, after her seat was changed.
The ethics committee also dismissed her petition on sexual assault allegedly by Akpabio due to procedural error, a decision that has sparked controversy and criticism.
Supreme Court’s suspension of allocations to Rivers State:
The Supreme Court ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria to halt the disbursement of monthly federal allocations to Rivers State.
This decision has raised concerns about the state’s financial management and development projects.
The Supreme Court also restored the Martins Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly due to the fact that a House of Assembly must be formed as stated in the 1999 Constitution.
FCCPC suing MultiChoice over price hike:
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission filed charges against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its CEO, John Ugbe, for implementing a price increase on their pay-TV services, DStv and GOtv, despite explicit regulatory directives to suspend such hikes.
The FCCPC had ordered MultiChoice to maintain existing pricing pending an investigation into the proposed increase.
However, MultiChoice proceeded with the hike on March 1, 2025, leading the FCCPC to accuse the company of obstructing its inquiry and undermining regulatory authority.
Mudashiru Obasa returmed as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
He was reinstated following the resignation of Mojisola Meranda, who stepped down from the role with immediate effect.
He was returned as the speaker during Monday’s plenary session.
Recall that in January, the lawmakers impeached Obasa over multiple allegations, including poor leadership style, high-handedness, frequent lateness to plenary sessions, abuse of office, and intimidation of colleagues.
Meranda’s resignation as Lagos Assembly speaker:
Mojisola Meranda resigned as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Meranda assumed office on January 13, 2025, following the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
Despite her brief tenure, lawmakers lauded her ability to lead effectively and foster a positive atmosphere in the Assembly.
Meranda resigned alongside all principal officers appointed with her.
She resigned after a meeting with high-ranking All Progressives Congress leaders to address the leadership crisis.
