Month: February 2024

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Three freshly-elected senators have officially assumed their duties in the Nigerian Senate.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio administered the oath of office to the incoming senators during a formal ceremony held in the revered Red Chamber. 

Representing distinct constituencies and political affiliations, the trio of senators emerged victorious in the recent by-elections held on Saturday, signalling a renewed sense of democratic engagement and participation.

Prince Pam Mwadkon, hailing from the Action Democratic Party (ADP), now stands as the voice for Plateau North, while Professor Anthony Ani, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), assumes responsibility for Ebonyi South.

Additionally, Mustapha Musa, also of the APC, steps into the role of representing Yobe East. 

The induction process, steeped in tradition and significance, saw the senators-elect take their solemn oath of office, affirming their commitment to upholding the Constitution and serving their constituents with integrity and diligence.

With the formalities concluded, the new senators were escorted to their designated seats, ready to embark on their legislative journey and contribute to the democratic discourse shaping the nation’s future.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

In the latest development surrounding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, the Biden administration has introduced a bill seeking to provide an additional $10 billion in financial assistance to Israel.

This proposal, disclosed via social media by Senator Bernie Sanders, has sparked debate and criticism regarding the allocation of resources amidst the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. 

Senator Sanders, a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights, raised concerns about the decision to bolster military aid to Israel while acknowledging the dire situation facing civilians in Gaza.

Expressing his intent to oppose the bill, Sanders labelled the proposed aid package as “unconscionable” in light of the ongoing violence and suffering endured by Palestinians. 

Simultaneously, tensions between Israel and Hamas continue to escalate, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejecting a proposed ceasefire agreement put forth by Hamas.

Despite international mediation efforts, Netanyahu remains steadfast in his pursuit of what he deems victory in the conflict, citing significant losses inflicted upon Hamas’s military capabilities as evidence of progress. 

Netanyahu’s refusal to entertain the ceasefire proposal underscores the complexities and entrenched positions within the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, further perpetuating the cycle of violence and impeding efforts towards a peaceful resolution.

As diplomatic negotiations falter and violence persists, the fate of civilians caught in the crossfire remains uncertain, highlighting the urgent need for constructive dialogue and meaningful action to address the root causes of the conflict.

 By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Borno State Police apprehended a young man and woman for engaging in an inappropriate act within the premises of the All Saints Protestant Church on Monday, located in the Police College, Maiduguri, Borno State. 

The two defaulters involved have been identified as Kaka Ali Umar, a resident of Damboa Road, and Khadija Adam, who resides in the Ngomari area of Maiduguri.  

Rev. Danjuma Adamu, the pastor of the church, recounted how the couple was discovered engaging in an inappropriate act inside the sacred space.

Rev. Adamu expressed profound disappointment at the desecration of the church premises, describing the incident as deeply regrettable and unacceptable. 

Upon discovery, prompt action was taken, and the police were alerted immediately. They defaulters were subsequently arrested and detained at the Metro Division of the Police.

They did not deny the allegations and admitted to their involvement in the incident. 

The news of the duo’s behaviour has stirred widespread condemnation and disbelief among members of the community, who view such actions as a blatant disregard for the sanctity of the church.

Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation and pursue appropriate legal measures against the individuals involved.

By Kamal Alkasim

Last year, I hung out with my good friend Umar, a hotshot writer and all-around awesome guy. He proudly introduced me to his younger siblings, calling me a writer and poet. My heart did a flip-flop – being called that in front of his sisters made me a little nervous! But I took a deep breath and chatted with them, especially the super smart Maryam. 

Maryam showed me a cool book she had. I wanted to read it badly, but I didn’t want to seem rude by ignoring everyone else. You see, I’m all about cheering on women and helping them reach for the stars.

Not everyone likes the idea of strong women, which stinks. Girls should write their own stories, not have others write them for them. So, we decided to write a fun story together in our language. Maryam, her eyes shining, told me how writing was her passion and how she wished she could be like me. 

I shared my writing journey, the good and the bad, and told her, “The only way you fail is if you avoid making mistakes. Sometimes messing up is what gets you ahead.” Maryam seemed impressed, which was fantastic!

Here’s the thing: sometimes it’s better just to listen than to try and give advice. Words are powerful. They can build you up or tear you down. Think of yourself as a special gift to everyone you meet. And you never know where you might find success.

Maryam shared how her teacher had slammed her dreams. “They said I’m wasting my time on something nobody cares about. They even said girls shouldn’t be writers, especially if their boyfriend doesn’t like it!” she sighed. I told her to keep reading, even more than she wrote, like planting seeds of hope to water her dreams.

It’s crazy how often we forget to talk about dreams with our sisters like their voices don’t matter. Too many girls deal with this kind of drama at home. Our chat got a little sad when Maryam talked about her late sister, but it just made me even more determined to keep lifting women, no matter what.

So there you have it: a story about sharing ideas, encouraging dreams, and the power of friendship. Remember, everyone has a story to tell; sometimes, they need a little push to start writing it.

Kamal Alkasim is a Freelance Writer based in Kano, Nigeria. He wrote via kamalalkasim17@gmail.com.

By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

The issue of Police arresting gun runners is not new, but the nabbing of some gun runners by men of the Plateau State Police Command last week stands out. However, Nigerians are clamouring for more. They are equally making a case for swift prosecutions or thorough investigations of suspected criminals after their arrest.

In recent times, and under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force’s tireless efforts have been notably effective in apprehending criminals engaged in various nefarious activities across the length and breadth of the country. 

The Police Intelligence Department and Tactical Response Team last week arrested about 67 suspects, including those involved in kidnapping, gun-running, one-chance robbery, and banditry. They recovered 5,454 rounds of live ammunition, 300 live cartridges, 50 empty shells of ammunition, 68 rifles, and 33 different ATM cards. 

The feat undoubtedly is a testament to law enforcement’s dedication and strategic approach, showcasing the police force’s unwavering commitment to curbing crimes and maintaining community safety. While applauding these crime-busting accomplishments, it is crucial to consider the next steps to ensure justice serves as a deterrent to potential offenders and criminal-minded persons. 

Beyond arrests, there is a need for thorough Police investigations into the root causes and motivations for criminal activities, by Nigerian youths mostly. This will go a long way to curb the perpetration of crimes.

The delay in the immediate prosecution of arrested suspects is a matter of concern, which is not to undermine the complexities of the legal process but to emphasise the urgency in delivering justice, as prompt adjudication of cases related to criminal activities is crucial for maintaining public trust in the legal system. 

Investigating officers should adopt a meticulous approach to prevent innocent victims from being wrongfully accused. It is imperative to utilize advanced forensic techniques, gather credible intelligence, and collaborate with relevant agencies. 

A careful examination of identified evidence, coupled with the application of modern technology, will contribute to a more accurate and unbiased investigation process. Regardless of the influence and power a criminal may wield, justice should be made to prevail. 

It should be glaringly emphasised that no individual, no matter how influential, should be above the law. Law enforcement agencies should remain committed to upholding justice, irrespective of external pressures.

The fight against crime is not, and will never be a stroll in the park. But it is winnable, especially by the time crime offenders are diligently prosecuted, to send a strong message to their ilks.

Haroon Aremu, a NYSC member with PRNigeria center Abuja.

By Salihi Adamu Takai 

Religion is the most important thing to live with on earth – and for embracing the ultimate life as the avenue to a – successful life and the last day. As a Muslim, you have been ordained in the religion you have faith in to accommodate everything said therein. Various verses in the Glorious Qur’an have an emphasis on being submissive to the religion completely.

In chapter 2 of the Qur’an, Verse 208, Almighty Allah asks the believers to enter Islam to the fullest extent of its laws, adhere to the Book – and refrain from transgressing to everything disliked therefrom. This has encompassed the extent of being surrendered in anything of the Almighty Allah.

Contemporaneously, we interact in a secular world where religious belief is becoming disliked by some people who deem themselves “humanists”. But, there had been a generation that had manifested the idea of religion and propagated the natural school of thought. They believed that the world should be controlled by the Lord against manmade laws.

Nowadays, secularism allows for democracy, reduces the power of religion, and empowers manmade laws. To them, religious law undoubtedly must be in conformity with manmade laws. This is, of course, stated in every Constitution of every secular state.

Section 10 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria mentions that ” The Government of Federation or of a State shall not adopt any religion as State Religion. This is the same as in the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, Article 7, in which the Constitution says: “Uganda shall not adopt a State religion”.

Moreover, the same Constitutions give the right to practise a religion in both countries, Nigeria and Uganda. Section 38 of the 1995 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria gives the right to a religion in both countries, Nigeria and Uganda.

Section 38 of the 1995 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria gives the right to a religion. Also, in Article 29 of the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, the right to religion has been protected. But the Constitution of Uganda, in the aforementioned Article, continuously says that the practice of the religion shall be in a manner consistent with the Constitution as it’s said in Article 2 ( Supremacy of the Constitution).

Nigeria, as a Federal State that encompasses diversity in tribe, culture and religion, indirectly gives room for the adoption of a religion but not to the extent of its laws. The establishment of the Shari’a Courts by the Constitution is, of course, a move to the adoption in the Eighteen States of the Northern parts of Nigeria. The Courts are not yet as powerful as the conventional courts of the Country.

The Sharia Courts are limited to hearing only Islamic Personal matters – not other crimes. Section 277 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria says: “The Sharia Court of Appeal of a State shall, in addition to such other jurisdiction as may be conferred upon it by the law of the State, exercise such appellant and supervisory jurisdiction in civil proceedings involving questions of Islamic personal law which the Court is competent to decide in accordance with the provisions of subsection (2) of this section.”.

By Kasim Isa Muhammad

I write to bring to your attention the pressing concerns regarding the lack of adequate youth empowerment initiatives in Yobe South. Across various sectors of our constituency, there is a growing sense of disillusionment with your leadership, particularly in the realm of youth empowerment. It is saddening to witness the increasing frustration among constituents who feel abandoned by your office. 

Mr. Bomai has to bear in mind that the good people of Yobe South are aware of the Zonal Intervention Project (ZIP), where each senator has the opportunity to allocate funds for various initiatives such as motorcycles, skill acquisition programmes, or other projects totaling nearly N600 million and beyond. During the Tinubu-led administration, this allocation was increased to 50%. However, the pressing issue is whether Senator Bomai deliberately neglected to implement such empowerment programmes in Yobe South or simply overlooked the opportunity. 

Senator Bomai, it is essential to reflect on the expectations that accompanied your election to office in both 2019 and 2023. The people of Yobe South placed their trust in you with hopes of positive change and progress, particularly in addressing the needs of our youth. However, it seems that these expectations have yet to be met, leaving many to wonder if their concerns are being heard or acknowledged. 

In contrast to the apparent stagnation in Yobe South, neighbouring zones, such as Yobe North, have seen tangible efforts towards empowering their constituents through various skill acquisition programmes and financial support for entrepreneurial ventures. It is imperative that Yobe South receives similar attention and resources to uplift our youth and alleviate the alarming levels of unemployment and economic hardship prevalent in our communities. 

Senator, it is fundamental to recognise the untapped potential of our teeming populace, many of whom are graduates unable to secure employment opportunities within both state and federal government agencies. The need for meaningful intervention in this regard cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts the socio-economic well-being of our constituency. 

Furthermore, the failure to distribute Tinubu’s 200 million palliatives to the constituents during times of economic hardship stressed poorly on your commitment to serving the needs of the people. These missed opportunities only exacerbate the prevailing sense of neglect and frustration felt by many in Yobe South. 

I, therefore, urge you to awaken to the urgency of the situation and take decisive action to fulfil your responsibilities as a representative of the people. Time is of the essence, and there is no room for further delay or complacency. Yobe South is counting on your leadership to enact positive change and create opportunities for our youth to thrive. 

Kasim Isa Muhammad wrote from Potiskum, Yobe State.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service has announced the successful conviction of two smugglers, Felarun Oluwasegun and Fakorede Jelili, on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The convictions were secured following their involvement in contravening customs laws, possession of smuggled goods, and assaulting customs officers with charms and horsewhips in Owoyele-Igbogila, Yewa-North Local Government, Ogun State, in 2023. 

Honourable Justice Demi-Ajayi of the Federal High Court, Abeokuta, handed down the verdict, sentencing Felarun and Jelili to 2 years imprisonment with hard labour without the option of a fine.

This decisive action underscores the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of its officers. 

Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to combating smuggling activities and prosecuting offenders.

He noted that a total of 11 suspects have been convicted for various offences, including improper importation, assault of customs officers, and possession of illicit items like Pangolin scales meant for export.

Additionally, several other smuggling-related cases are currently progressing through the judicial system and will be diligently pursued. 

Felarun Oluwasegun and Fakorede Jelili were initially arraigned in court in May 2023 on a three-count charge and have since been remanded at the correctional center in Abeokuta.

Their recent conviction serves as a warning to individuals involved in illegal smuggling activities and highlights the Nigeria Customs Service’s unwavering determination to maintain law and order in the country’s borders. 

Abdullahi Maiwada, Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, issued the statement on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, noting the agency’s commitment to enforcing regulations and safeguarding national interests. 

This significant milestone underscores the Nigeria Customs Service’s resolve to combat smuggling activities effectively and underscores its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting its officers from harm.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

During a courtesy visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, the Emir appealed to her to convey the pressing concerns of the populace regarding hunger and starvation in the country to the President. 

The Emir affirmed that while various channels exist for communication with the government, the First Lady’s direct access offers a vital avenue to highlight the severity of the situation. 

He stressed the urgent need for attention to address the escalating hunger crisis and also raised concerns about the prevailing insecurity, urging for more decisive action to tackle the threats. 

Additionally, Emir Bayero called for clarity on issues such as the rumoured relocation of government agencies like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to Lagos. 

He also stated the importance of transparent communication with the Nigerian people to ensure understanding and trust in government actions.

By Uzair Adam Imam

President Tinubu is scheduled to travel to Senegal on Monday in response to the ongoing political crisis gripping the West African nation.

As reported by the Western Post, Tinubu, who also serves as the Chairman of ECOWAS, aims to engage in discussions with President Sall to advocate for upholding the country’s constitution and preventing Senegal from descending further into crisis.

One of the key objectives of Tinubu’s visit is to urge for the immediate conduct of presidential elections, highlighting the importance of restoring stability and democratic processes in Senegal.