IMO BREAKING NEWS BLOG

The House of Representatives on Thursday overturned its earlier decision on a bill seeking to revoke the immunity of the vice president, governors, and their deputies.

The reversal came after House Majority Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, moved a motion during plenary.

Additionally, the House rescinded its approval of a bill proposing the abolition of the death penalty.

Both bills had initially passed second reading on Wednesday.

The stage is set for the highly anticipated BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Open Championship, scheduled to take place on April 3rd–7th 2025, at the Lake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, Ogun State. Sponsored by BetKing, this championship marks a major milestone in the growth of wheelchair basketball in Nigeria, solidifying its status as one of the country’s premier para-sports.

Speaking ahead of the event, the President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation (NWBF) expressed deep appreciation for BetKing’s unwavering support, describing the partnership as a game-changer for adaptive sports in Nigeria. "When we approached BetKing, it felt as though they were already expecting us. Their immediate willingness to support us shows they truly understand Nigeria’s sports history and the vital role Special Sports have played in our international successes over the years," he stated.

The NWBF President also emphasized the need for greater corporate investment in para-sports, urging more organizations to follow BetKing’s example. With the National Sports Commission (NSC) spearheading reforms in the sector, he believes such collaborations will complement ongoing efforts to restructure and revitalize Nigerian sports. Beyond competition, the championship serves as a crucial scouting ground for the national team, as Nigeria prepares for the Commonwealth Games qualifiers later this year in South Africa.

The NWBF remains optimistic about securing a historic place at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, crediting BetKing’s support for helping the team build momentum.

The tournament will bring together elite wheelchair basketball players from across Nigeria, showcasing their skill, resilience, and competitive spirit. Fans and sports enthusiasts are encouraged to attend and witness the thrilling action, as the event not only highlights athletic excellence but also champions inclusivity in sports. 

The House of Representatives has advanced a bill that seeks to bar individuals above 60 years from contesting for the offices of President and Governor in Nigeria.

Sponsored by Rep. Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, the bill proposes amendments to the 1999 Constitution, setting a maximum age limit of 60 years for candidates and requiring them to hold at least a Bachelor's degree. It amends Section 131 for the presidency and Section 177 for governorship eligibility.

Alongside this bill, several others passed second reading, including:

--Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Bill, upgrading Alvan Ikoku College of Education to a federal university.

--Creation of Ideato West Local Government Area Bill, proposing a new LGA in Imo State.

I--nclusion of Youths & Persons with Disabilities in Political Appointments Bill, ensuring reserved positions in governance.

--Trade and Commerce Bill, allowing both federal and state governments to regulate trade.

--Reserved Seats for Women Bill, increasing female representation in legislative bodies.

--Judicial Reform Bills, including proposals to expedite justice and increase Supreme Court and Court of Appeal justices.

--Creation of New States Bills, proposing Wan State (North Central) and Gobir State (Northwest).

These legislative efforts aim to reshape governance, promote inclusivity, and enhance economic and judicial efficiency in Nigeria. 

King Charles III canceled his appointments on Thursday and Friday after experiencing temporary side effects from his ongoing cancer treatment, Buckingham Palace announced. The 76-year-old monarch was briefly observed in the hospital before returning to Clarence House, where he continues to work.

Despite the setback, Charles remains in good spirits, and his scheduled trip to Italy in April is expected to proceed. The palace reaffirmed the king’s commitment to transparency regarding his health while maintaining his royal duties. 

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has relaxed the 24-hour curfew in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun, reducing it to a 17-hour restriction from 2 PM to 7 AM daily, effective March 28, 2025.

The decision aims to ease residents' hardships while maintaining security. Though hostilities have declined, the governor expressed concern over a recent killing and warned against further violence.

Security forces remain on high alert, with ongoing surveillance and relief efforts for displaced residents. Adeleke urged compliance with the adjusted curfew to ensure peace. 

CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso has revealed that women make up 35% of appointed directors in Nigerian banks.

Speaking at the CBN’s International Women’s Day grand finale in Abuja, Cardoso emphasized the importance of gender equality in leadership, noting that three out of seven non-executive board members in the financial sector are women.

He reaffirmed the CBN’s commitment to inclusive leadership, highlighting the economic and moral benefits of diversity in the sector.