Month: October 2024

By Uzair Adam

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has addressed reports of a national grid breakdown on Saturday, describing the incident as a “temporary grid disturbance.”

The grid collapse, which occurred early Saturday morning, marks the third disruption this week, leaving many states in a total blackout.

According to data from the Nigerian System Operator’s portal (niggrid.org), the grid recorded zero Megawatts (MW) as of 8:16 a.m. on Saturday, with all 22 generation companies (GenCos) down.

This latest incident is the eighth grid disturbance recorded in 2024.TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, confirmed that power has since been restored, explaining that the disturbance was triggered by an explosion in the bus section of a current transformer at the 330kV Jebba Transmission Substation.

“The protection system responded immediately, opening the busbars to prevent further damage and the outbreak of fire,” Mbah said.

Engineers at the Jebba station were able to isolate the faulty transformer and reconfigure the busbar arrangement, restoring power to the station and other parts of the grid.

By Uzair Adam

Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar A. Namadi has ordered the immediate suspension of Auwalu Danladi Sankara, Commissioner for Special Duties, following serious allegations raised by the Kano State Hisbah Board.

The suspension, announced in a statement signed by Malam Bala Ibrahim, Secretary to the Government of Jigawa State, is intended to allow a thorough investigation into the matter.

Sankara is accused of engaging in an illicit relationship with a married woman, among other offenses.

The Kano Hisbah Board confirmed the arrest of Sankara on Friday after tracking his activities.

According to the board’s Director General, Dr. Abba Sufi, Sankara was caught in an uncompleted building with a married woman, following complaints from her husband’s younger brother.

“We have arrested Auwalu Danladi Sankara, the Jigawa Commissioner, with a married woman in an uncompleted building,” Dr. Sufi told reporters, adding that the arrest was part of a broader investigation into Sankara’s alleged immoral behavior.

The woman’s husband, Nasiru Bulama, had filed a formal complaint with the Kano Police, Department of State Services, and Hisbah Board, accusing the commissioner of having an affair with his wife, Tasleem Baba Nabegu, the mother of his two children.

In addition to the adultery accusations, Sankara is reportedly facing charges for allegedly operating illicit drug centers under names like Picklock and 360.

The Jigawa State Government emphasized that the suspension is a precautionary step to ensure transparency and integrity in the state’s administration, with Governor Namadi committed to upholding accountability in governance.

“The suspension is a precautionary measure intended to facilitate a fair investigation,” said Bala Ibrahim, underscoring the government’s dedication to ethical standards and its responsibility to the people of Jigawa.

By Sumayyah Auwal Usman

The late arrival of materials marred Saturday’s local government election in Kaduna State. Voters were seen stranded at various polling units across the metropolis and its environs.

The Daily Reality correspondent, who visited some polling units at Kawo, Unguwar Kanawa, Badarawa, Hayin Bakin, Kabala, Barnawa, Tudun Wada, and Badikko, among others, noted that the election materials had not been received as of 3:00 p.m.

However, a few voters were still seen at the collection centers awaiting the distribution of election materials. A voter at the Kawo polling unit, known as Dauda, told The Daily Reality that several people who came out to cast their votes left when the materials did not arrive on time.

At the time our correspondent left the metropolis around 3:38 p.m., only a few voters were still awaiting the arrival of election materials.

By Hassan Idris

Honestly, I’m tired of Wadata Community, Makurdi. I have spoken out and written several articles and been published in various newspapers, yet things continue to worsen. The incessant killings in the name of cultism are exhausting and appalling. Every day, we wake up to the sound of continuous heavy gunshots. And with each shot comes injury or death.

Some weeks ago, there were serious gunshots at night. I had to close my gate tightly and hide inside my room. Not less than ten bullets were fired into the sky. Last night, I was startled awake by gunfire in our Wadata Community again. Sadly, these disturbances aren’t uncommon, so I tried to go back to sleep despite feeling uneasy.

This morning, as I rushed to the Islamiyya where I teach, eager to start the day with my students, I saw people around the area. I was told that the gunshots I heard last night killed Nurah and injured another young man. Bullets had pierced through Nurah’s neck while he was having tea and bread at a Mai Shayi joint. Nurah was rushed to the hospital but died instantly, while the other young man, who was shot in the leg, is still receiving treatment.

This is a stark reminder of the grip cultism has on our community. Like many others, this young man paid the ultimate price due to our collective negligence—parents, society, and the government alike. As I stood there this morning, I couldn’t help but imagine the pain and fear he must have felt in his last moments.

Cultism in the Wadata Community, Makurdi, is a tragic cycle of violence that has claimed too many young lives, leaving families devastated and dreams shattered. It’s tempting to blame parents, society, or the government, but the reality is more complex. Cultism thrives in neglected and indifferent communities, preying on vulnerable young people. It’s a symptom of deeper issues—a lack of opportunities, guidance, and protection for our children.

As I stood before my students, unable to find the words to teach, I felt a deep sense of urgency. We can’t keep losing our young people to cultism. It’s up to all of us—parents, teachers, leaders, and policymakers—to come together and tackle this problem head-on.

May we find the wisdom and courage to act decisively, to protect our children’s future, and to heal the wounds caused by senseless violence. Only then can we restore the promise and potential lost to the darkness of cultism.

Hassan Idris wrote via idrishassan035@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has felicitated with General Yakubu Gowon, GCFR, on the occasion of his 90th birthday today. 

Mr. Inuwa described the ex-head-of-state as an exceptional patriot and statesman whose life epitomises service, unity, and peace. 

Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the former Head of State as an iconic leader and uncommon patriot whose resolve to preserve the unity of the country during the civil war remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s national identity. 

The NSGF Chairman recalled General Gowon’s post-war efforts, encapsulated in the “No Victor, No Vanquished” policy, and the launch of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), which he noted cemented his vision of healing and national integration. 

He also noted the former Nigerian leader’s influence in the formation of ECOWAS, which continues to promote regional cooperation and development. 

“As you celebrate this milestone, we reflect on your legacy with gratitude and pride,” Governor Inuwa Yahaya remarked, on behalf of the 19 northern governors.   

“Your exemplary life has inspired generations of leaders, reminding us of the importance of unity, peace, and service to nation and humanity. We pray that the Almighty will continue to bless you with good health, strength, and fulfillment in the years ahead.”

By Abbas Datti

As citizens of Kano State, we have witnessed the power of effective leadership in fostering youth empowerment and curbing youth restiveness. Under the fair representation of former House of Representatives Member, Rt Hon Aminu Sulaiman Goro of Fagge Federal Constituency, there was a clear commitment to improving the lives of young people. 

We call on the incumbent Fagge House of Representatives Member, Barr. Muhammad Bello Shehu to step up and continue the vital work that his predecessor began. There is an urgent need to reinvigorate efforts to fight youth restiveness through job creation, vocational training, and mentorship programs. 

Similarly, women must be given the tools and opportunities to succeed through economic empowerment initiatives, access to loans, and business development programs.

Ex-Rep Aminu Sulaiman Goro was a youth and women’s empowerment champion, leaving behind a legacy of initiatives that addressed the pressing needs of both groups. Through programs aimed at reducing unemployment, promoting skill acquisition, and empowering women economically, he provided pathways to prosperity for many, contributing to a more stable and thriving environment.

Since the end of Aminu Sulaiman Goro’s tenure, the challenges of youth restiveness and the marginalisation of women have resurfaced with greater intensity. Many of our young people are again feeling the weight of unemployment and lack of opportunities, leading to increased frustration and social unrest. Therefore, we call on Barr. M. B. Shehu to emulate the footsteps of his predecessor by implementing impactful youth empowerment initiatives and women empowerment programmes 

M. B. Shehu needs to focus on job creation, scholarship, and skill-building programs tailored specifically for young people. These efforts can reduce youth restiveness and position the younger generation as crucial contributors to economic progress, instilling a sense of hope and optimism in our community.

The well-being of our youth and women is central to the prosperity and peace of the Fagge Federal Constituency. As a community, we urge M.B. Shehu to prioritise these issues and make youth and women’s empowerment a central part of his legislative agenda. It’s our collective responsibility to ensure that the most vulnerable are given the support they need to thrive. 

Abbas Datti wrote from Kano via comradeabbasdatti@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

A minor fire broke out at the Federal Ministry of Works headquarters in Mabushi, Abuja, shortly after workers resumed on Friday.

The fire, caused by a spark from a faulty circuit breaker on the ground floor, was swiftly controlled before significant damage occurred.

The Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed A. Ahmed, confirmed that the fire started at 11:30 am in Block A of the building.

The Station Commander of the Federal Fire Service, Mr. Kekai Bekebi, reported that the quick response from his team, including the use of available fire extinguishers, successfully brought the situation under control.

A staff evacuation was also carried out without incident.

Director of Human Resource Management, Mr. Aliyu Abdullahi, commended the staff for their orderly conduct during the fire, adding that no documents were lost, and no injuries or casualties were reported.

Normal activities have since resumed, with maintenance staff working to clean up the affected area and restore operations.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has approved the appointment of a new Chairman and Board Members for the Gombe State Housing Corporation to strengthen efforts in tackling housing challenges and providing affordable housing solutions for the people of the state.

The Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi who conveyed the Governor’s approval, indicated that the newly constituted leadership of the Corporation includes representatives from the three senatorial districts of the state and key ministries. Those appointed are as follows:

Arc. Mohammed Habu Shinga – Executive Chairman

Mohammed Gurama Dukku – Representative, Gombe North (Member)

Saleh Ahmed Danmasani – Representative, Gombe Central (Member)

Abubakar Hussaini Cham – Representative, Gombe South (Member)

Representative from the Ministry of Housing – Member

Representative from the Ministry of Finance – Member

Similarly, the Governor has approved the reorganization of Gombe United Football Club with appointment of new leadership to align with the government’s objective of repositioning the football club for better performance and improving the management of sports in the state.

The SSG announced the new appointees as follows:

Mallam Anas Bamusa – General Manager

Mr. Ishaya Usman – Team Manager

Comrade Abubakar M. Maina (Dameji) – Secretary

Governor Inuwa Yahaya expects the new appointees to bring innovative ideas and leadership, as well as work in synergy with stakeholders to support the government’s agenda in housing and sports sectors respectively.

All the appointments are with immediate effect.

By Uzair Adam

Authorities in Kano have apprehended 31-year-old Salisu Bala, who has been impersonating a police officer to extort and intimidate residents in the city.

Bala was arrested by members of the Police Special Constabulary at Koki Quarters while wearing a black uniform and a camouflage peak cap.

The Kano State Police Command Spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Thursday, revealing that Bala, a resident of Kurna Quarters, had been defrauding members of the public and tarnishing the reputation of the police force.

Reports had been circulating about individuals posing as officers, particularly in areas like Sabon Gari, Fagge, and Koki Quarters.

In response, the Commissioner of Police, CP Salman Dogo Garba, directed Divisional Police Officers to take action, leading to Bala’s arrest on October 14, 2024.

Investigations revealed that Bala was not affiliated with the police force, despite his use of multiple police uniforms.

He also admitted to being a drug user.

The police have urged the public to come forward with any complaints about Bala or similar incidents of impersonation.

For emergencies or to report suspicious activities, the Kano State Police Command can be contacted through their emergency lines: 08032419754, 08123821575, and 09029292926.

By Uzair Adam

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has condemned policemen and soldiers for allegedly stealing and selling arms and ammunition from their units to criminal elements.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday during the destruction of arms event organized by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, Ribadu expressed concern over security agents involved in these activities, describing them as “worse human beings.”

He called for urgent measures to address the issue in order to restore peace and stability in the country.

Ribadu further denounced the actions of those facilitating the movement of weapons to terrorists, bandits, and other non-state actors, noting that many of the illicit arms used for crimes in Nigeria originally belonged to the government.

Nigeria continues to grapple with a range of security challenges, with insurgency, banditry, and violence affecting various parts of the country.