Month: September 2024

By Anwar Usman

The Kano State Police Command has warned residents against demonstration on the streets in any guise as the command is ready to deal seriously with any person or group of persons that violated the order.

SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the Command’s spokesperson, gave the warning while parading some arrested criminals at the Command’s headquarters in Bompai Kano on Monday.

He said that the police will not allow a repeat of the thuggery witnessed in the state during the recent #EndBadGovernance protests.

“On the forthcoming Independence Day celebration on 1 October 2024, the Police Command has concluded all necessary arrangements to provide adequate security during and after the event period.

“I therefore urge all Kano State people to cooperate with the Police as well as other security agencies and participate in the Independence Day celebration responsibly, adhering to all safety guidelines and respecting the rights of others.”

He further stated, “Security deployments have been concluded at strategic locations within the state to forestall any likely security threats on the alleged planned 1st October nationwide protest. We have to appreciate the fact that all forms of crime are reducing drastically”.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will make a nationwide broadcast tomorrow Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at 7 a.m.

The broadcast is part of activities to commemorate the 64th Independence Anniversary of the nation.

Television, radio stations and other electronic media outlets are enjoined to hook up to the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria for the broadcast.

By Anwar Usman

Detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri, on Monday, busted a notorious child trafficking syndicate involved in the abduction of children from unsuspecting parents.

In a statement issued by the police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, he said, “The operation led to the rescue of three children, who were abducted on 4 July 2024 in Ndinwegbu Umuoma, Onicha, and Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Areas.

“The arrested suspects include Ifeoma Anyanwu, aged 41, from Oloko, Ikwuano LGA, Abia State; Chibuzor Lucky, aged 42, from Umuezeala Umuerim, Ubakala, Umuahia, Abia State; Charity Kalu, 24, from Okono, Ohafia LGA, Abia State; and Isidore Ozioma, 56, from Umuhu Onicha, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA, Imo State.

“Investigations revealed that the suspects tempted the children into their tricycle while they were playing outside and subsequently transported them to a hidden location in Aba, where they were sold for 1,000,000 naira. Prompt police action led to the rescue of the children and the apprehension of the suspects.”

The suspects are currently undergoing a rigorous investigation at the State CID, and efforts are ongoing to locate additional missing children. The rescued children have been safely reunited with their families.

These syndicates operate both locally and internationally, often targeting vulnerable children from poverty-striken or conflict-affected areas.

Traffickers use force, abduction, and deception to recruit or kidnap children, who are then smuggled across borders or within countries for sale or exploitation.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of ASP Yusuf Balami, who until his death served as the Personal Assistant to the Commissioner of Police in Gombe State.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the late ASP Balami as a fine gentleman and an exemplary officer whose commitment to duty left a positive mark on the command and the state.

“ASP Yusuf Balami was a humble and committed officer who served with distinction. He was well known and respected for his dedication to his professional duties and the well-being of Gombe State,” the Governor said.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late officer, his colleagues in the Gombe State Police Command, and the entire Nigerian Police Force.

He prayed for Allah’s comfort and strength for the bereaved, and for Him to grant the deceased Aljannat Firdaus.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun took the oath of office as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on Monday, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirming his administration’s commitment to upholding the judiciary’s independence and sanctity.

Justice Kekere-Ekun, the second female CJN in Nigeria’s history, was sworn in following her confirmation by the Senate.

The ceremony occurred at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja.

Four former chief justices of the Federation, including the first female Justice, Aloma Mukhtar, the President of the Court of Appeal, and other heads of the judiciary divisions, witnessed it.

President Tinubu underscored the pivotal role of the judiciary in safeguarding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.

”The judiciary is an important pillar constituting the tripod that holds our constitutional democracy. Indeed, the Nigerian judiciary, at various times in history, has proven to be the moderating force ensuring everyone remains in check.

”Your role as the last hope of the common man serves to sustain our people’s confidence in democracy, knowing well that there is an important arbiter that can always give them redress if they are wronged.

”For this function, it is important that our judiciary remains truly independent. It is my administration’s total commitment to preserve the sanctity of the judiciary.

”While we may have reasons to interface as complementing components of the same government, under my watch, the government will also be mindful of the clear line demarcating the two of us.

”We will never interfere or abuse the relationship between us as separate organs of government in our democracy. This is important for sustaining our constitutional democracy, ” the President said.

President Tinubu reiterated his government’s dedication to improving judicial officers’ welfare and working conditions, noting recent decisions to enhance their effectiveness in administering justice.

He urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue upholding the principles of ethical leadership, fearlessness, and honesty that have defined her career.

”The Nigerian judiciary needs a leader with these qualities at this time, and I have no doubt that you will set the pace for others to follow,” he said.

The President lauded Justice Kekere-Ekun’s rise as a testament to hard work and an inspiration to women, particularly young girls, in a male-dominated profession.

”This day has also cemented the judiciary as a self-evolving and progressive institution. I specifically congratulate the Nigerian women. Any girl child can dream big and have her dreams come true. It is worth celebrating, ” he said.

President Tinubu also acknowledged the presence of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s 89-year-old mother, Mama Wilfred Layiwola Ogundimu (Nee Savage), and other family members led by Akin Kekere-Ekun, Justice Kekere-Ekun’s husband.

By Abdurrazak Muktar

The DanBello’s standard of classrooms is not a far-fetched goal, but one that can be achieved with commitment and gradual effort. Improvement in educational infrastructure, like any meaningful change, requires time and sustained focus. Often, people expect change to happen overnight, but real progress takes time. Just as one cannot earn a degree in a day, transforming a nation’s educational facilities must be seen as a long-term goal. What is needed is dedication and a clear plan to move towards this vision step by step.

One essential way to initiate this transformation is for governments to commit resources towards upgrading school facilities. Imagine if a government will dedicate an entire year’s income specifically for renovating schools, bringing them up to the DanBello standard. If each subsequent administration followed the same path, in 30 years or even less, the educational landscape of the country would be entirely different. Each government would leave behind a legacy of improvement, contributing to a better future for generations of students.

While the government plays a crucial role, it is equally important that they avoid falling back on excuses. Too often, we hear claims of limited resources or competing priorities. However, the reality is that every journey, no matter how long, begins with a single step.

The excuse of limited resources should not hinder the progress that could be made by taking that first step. Even modest improvements made consistently will accumulate into significant advancements over time.

In addition to the government’s efforts, other sectors of the society should also play a role in transforming education. Commercial banks, companies, and philanthropists have the capacity to contribute meaningfully to this cause. These institutions and individuals can partner with the government to provide funding, materials and expertise. Such collaboration would not only expedite the renovation of schools but also ensure the maintenance of high standards.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) can be an excellent platform through which companies support education. By investing in schools and improving infrastructure, companies not only contribute to the public good but also create a more educated workforce for the future.

Many global corporations have long understood that investing in education is investing in their future workforce, and local businesses should embrace the same perspective.

Philanthropists can also have a powerful impact. Individuals with the means to give can sponsor entire schools or contribute to educational projects that raise the standard of learning environments. Their contributions may come in the form of scholarships, infrastructure improvements, or the provision of resources like books and technology. Such generosity can help bridge the gap where government funding falls short.

In conclusion, achieving the DanBello standard of classrooms is within reach, but it requires the concerted effort of all stakeholders. Governments, businesses, and philanthropists all have important roles to play in transforming the educational system. Change may not happen overnight, but with a gradual, focused approach and the commitment of diverse sectors of society, the vision of a high-standard education for all can be realized. The journey has begun, and every step taken brings us closer to a brighter future.

Abdurrazak Muktar Makarfi
08038219091

By Uzair Adam

Organizers of the October 1 protest against economic hardship in Nigeria remain firm in their decision to move forward, despite the Federal Government’s call for calm and requests for the demonstration to be canceled.

One of the lawyers representing those detained in the August 1 protests, Deji Adeyanju, highlighted the government’s failure to address previous demands as the main reason for the new wave of protests.

According to Adeyanju, the government has made no progress on issues raised earlier, and President Bola Tinubu’s promise to engage with protesters has gone unfulfilled.

As a result, police commands in several states, including Lagos and Jigawa, are preparing for the protests.

In Lagos, the police have met with protest organizers, assuring them of security while maintaining restrictions on the protest areas to prevent disruptions.

The Lagos State government has reaffirmed that the protest must be confined to two designated venues: Freedom Park and Peace Park, to maintain order.

In response to the planned protests, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, appealed to Nigerians to remain peaceful as the country marks its 64th Independence Day and celebrates 25 years of democracy.

Idris emphasized the government’s commitment to peace, unity, and prosperity, urging citizens to see the opportunities in the administration’s policies.

However, Adeyanju and other protest leaders argue that citizens have the constitutional right to protest, especially when their demands have not been met.

“The government cannot ignore the voices of the people,” Adeyanju stated.

“The promise to engage was never fulfilled, and the issues remain unresolved.”

In Jigawa State, police authorities have announced the deployment of officers to ensure security at critical locations across the state.

While no group has officially approached the police about the protest, they are taking precautions to prevent any potential disruptions.

Similar measures are being taken in Lagos, where the police have engaged with protest organizers and promised security while emphasizing the need for a peaceful demonstration.

The Lagos Commissioner of Police, Olanrewaju Ishola, assured organizers that security would be tight and urged them to remain law-abiding.

The protest in Lagos is expected to commence from Ikeja and proceed to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota.

The protest, organized by the “Take It Back Movement,” is aimed at addressing widespread economic challenges, including rising fuel and food prices.

Organizers demand a reversal of fuel price hikes and electricity tariffs to pre-May 29 levels, the revitalization of government refineries, and measures to reduce food prices.

Other demands include addressing insecurity, banditry, and terrorism, as well as the implementation of a N70,000 national minimum wage.

Protesters are also calling for the unconditional release of those detained during previous protests, including journalists and activists.

The organizers have made it clear that more protests will follow if their demands are not met.

The Lagos State government has maintained its stance on restricting the protest to designated areas.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, through the State Attorney-General, Lawal Pedro, SAN, emphasized that while the government does not oppose peaceful protests, it must be done within legal boundaries.

The state government insists that protests should be confined to Freedom and Peace Parks to prevent the disruption of daily activities and to safeguard public safety.

As the October 1 protest approaches, the government and protest organizers remain at an impasse, with security forces on high alert and citizens preparing to exercise their right to demonstrate peacefully.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has emerged as one of the top contenders at the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon 2024, showcasing exceptional performance in the competition.

Organised by ECOWAS, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the event brought together cybersecurity professionals from across West Africa. 

Competition Overview According to DCG, ICT/Modernisation Kikelomo Adeola, the hackathon consists of two phases.

The first phase involved an online Capture the Flag (CTF) competition via the Sec-Dojo platform, held from August 6 to August 31, 2024.

The upcoming second phase, scheduled for October 14-16, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria, will feature an in-person CTF competition designed to foster cross-border collaboration and assess advanced cybersecurity skills. 

Led by CSC Abubakar Mustapha Jauro, the NCS team competed against 340 teams from ECOWAS member states, securing an impressive 1,100 points.

The team demonstrated expertise in cryptography, steganography, reverse engineering, web exploitation, and binary analysis, utilising tools like Kali Linux, BurpSuite, and Metasploit. 

“The NCS teams’ performance reflects their strategic thinking and resilience in tackling complex cybersecurity challenges,” stated Kikelomo Adeola.

Jauro added, “The ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon has not only sharpened the skills of NCS officers but also noted the importance of regional collaboration in strengthening our cybersecurity framework.” 

With continued investment and support, the NCS is poised to play a crucial role in protecting Nigeria’s cyberspace.

As the second phase approaches, anticipation builds for the final leg of the competition, where the best teams will be identified and recognised for their cybersecurity prowess.

By Uzair Adam

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has reiterated the need for full implementation of the research and recommendations provided by the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (AANI) to address the nation’s challenges.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by AANI National President, Ambassador Emmanuel Okafor, at his palace in Sokoto on Saturday, the Sultan highlighted the valuable insights AANI members have contributed over the years.

“No problem in Nigeria has not been carefully examined by AANI, with comprehensive solutions proposed,” Abubakar said, expressing his confidence in the ability of AANI’s research to improve governance and strengthen the relationship between leaders and citizens.

He also acknowledged the association’s role in contributing to policy-making and its dedication to supporting the government in creating policies that foster national development.

Ambassador Okafor, while commending the Sultan’s role in the association, stated the need for all levels of government to tap into AANI’s wealth of expertise to build a better society.

He also praised the involvement of traditional leaders in governance due to their strong ties to the grassroots.

As the Sokoto State chapter of AANI held its Annual General Meeting, newly elected Chairman Alhaji Shehu Ladan pledged to strengthen the association’s visibility and partnerships.

The outgoing Chairman, Dr. Abubakar Mohammad, reaffirmed AANI’s commitment to advancing beneficial policies for the country.

The new leadership team includes Vice Chairperson Aisha Hassan, Secretary General Aisha Dantsoho, Financial Secretary Bello Wamakko, and other key officers.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Organisers of the #FearlessOctober1 protest have declared that the police, Department of State Services, and the military would not stop them from embarking on the demonstration as planned.

The organisers have also written to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to request security during the demonstration, noting that protest is a fundamental right they would not submit to any state agent.

Nigeria will celebrate its 64th independence on Tuesday, October 1, the day some Nigerian youths have taken to protest the hardship occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy and the devaluation of the naira.

The National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, and Director of Mobilisation of the group, Damilare Adenola, said mobilisation efforts had begun, adding that Nigerians were mobilising from different parts of the country for the protest.

“We have also written to the Inspector General of Police, informing him of our protest locations and reminding him of the constitutional duty of the police to protect protesters as opposed to the repression we have witnessed in times past,” said Sanyaolu.

The group explained that the FCT protest would be held at the Eagle Square, the same venue of the Independence Day parade, while the Lagos protest would take place at the Ikeja Under Bridge.

The organisers noted that the protest would be across the country, adding that only ‘immediate reversal of fuel subsidy removal’ would dissuade them from the demonstration.

The IG, Egbetokun, had directed the Force zonal and state commands to deploy men from Monday to strategic locations until a stand-down order was given.

Egbetokun also directed that the policemen should dress in camouflage with hats, even as he asked the Assistant Inspectors General of Police and Commissioners of Police to engage and discourage available civil society groups and individuals from participating in the protest.

We are not afraid – Sowore, Adeyanju

However, a leader of the protest, Omoyele Sowore, said the youth were not afraid of the police, adding that the protest would hold as planned.

Sowore explained that the reported fear of some people about the possibility of violence during the protest was not true.

“Nobody has expressed to us or anyone that they’re afraid because they know we are not violent protesters; maybe you should ask that of the government,” he added.

Lawyer to the organisers, Deji Adeyanju, said it was wrong for the police to summon protesters who were exercising their right.

“The police do not have the right to summon protesters like they are currently doing. It is the responsibility of the police to protect the protesters anytime they embark on a demonstration. The protesters are not political parties; security agencies should not harass them,” he stated.

The counsel noted that the crackdown on #EndBadGovernance protesters in August was to discourage people from participating in further demonstrations in the country.

He, however, said the arrest and detention of some of the demonstrators would not deter youths from joining the #FearlessOctober1 protest.

Adeyanju said, “The government plans to discourage people from coming out to protest; that is why they are still detaining our comrades who participated in the August protest. But that will not dampen the morale of the youths on the #FearlessOctober protest.”

Eight groups to join Lagos protest

He added that the #FearlessOctober1 demonstration was a continuation of the #Endbadgovernance protest, which took place in August, adding that the demonstration was necessitated by the failure of the Federal Government to address their demands.

He listed some of their demands to include the reversal of the subsidy removal policy, amendment of the constitution, overhauling of the legislature, and the unconditional release of protesters in police custody.Adenola said,

“We are unperturbed by the threats issued by security agencies. What we have seen so far is that they (security agencies) don’t respect the rights of protesters; they may end up instigating violence against protesters.

“But we will keep warning them to ensure that they respect people’s right to express their grievances as guaranteed by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We are also using this opportunity to call on the Nigerian people to come out unafraid and express their grievances. When we have enough protesters on the ground, the police and other security agencies will dare not harass them.

“People are experiencing hardship, and the government is telling them not to protest. It is just natural; people have to speak up against this hardship inflicted by President Bola Tinubu’s government,” Adenola said.

The Secretary of the Democratic Socialist Movement, Peluola Adewale, said no harassment or intimidation from any security agencies would stop the protest, disclosing that about eight civil society groups would participate in the demonstration in Lagos State.

He warned the government against sponsoring hoodlums to infiltrate genuine protesters during the protests, stating that the demonstration would be peaceful in Lagos.

“We cannot rule out the fact that the government can sponsor violence to discredit the protest, but we want to warn them against that. People should not be deprived of their freedom of expression and assembly. Protest is our fundamental right, and we cannot surrender it to the police or anyone. We are not afraid of the police, DSS, or military,” he added.

Another leader of the protesters, Taiwo Hassan, said Nigerians had the right to freedom of expression and lawful assembly.

He said, “We are never going to submit our rights. Yes, you know many people might be afraid of what will happen if they are shot or what happens if they are arrested. But increasingly as people are thinking of that, people are also realising that our condition in this country is one between the devil and the deep blue sea. If you come out to protest, yes, maybe there is a chance that you might be arrested or you might be killed.

“But people also realize that even when you stay at home and don’t come out to protest, it doesn’t mean your life will be safe. Hunger is killing people right there in their bedroom. People are committing suicide and the state of insecurity means that none of us is safe.”

Police give assurance to Katsina protesters

Meanwhile, the Katsina State Police Command has said it had implemented measures to ensure the planned nationwide protest does not descend into chaos.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Abubakar Sadiq, on Saturday, said the command had mobilised both human and intelligence resources to guarantee safety before, during, and after the protest.

Sadiq said, “We have taken proactive measures to ensure public safety and security. Adequate personnel have been deployed to prevent any breakdown of law and order, with enhanced intelligence gathering, surveillance, and patrols across the state.

“While we recognise the rights of citizens to protest, we urge protesters to exercise these rights responsibly and within the framework of the law,” he said.