Month: December 2024

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), an organisation focused on investigating global corruption and crime, has announced the list of the top individuals involved in corruption for the year 2024. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ranks third on this list.

OCCRP conducted this selection by gathering votes from people around the world to identify those who have significantly promoted corruption, dishonesty, and increasing poverty in their countries.

In this year’s list, President Tinubu secured the third position, following the former president of Indonesia, Joko Widodo. The president of Kenya, William Ruto, received the most votes. 

However, the prestigious “Person of the Year” award was given to former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who is said to have fled to Russia after years of plundering his country’s wealth.

By Uzair Adam  

Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf has approved a two-year service extension for the Head of Civil Service, select Permanent Secretaries, and senior civil servants, effective December 31, 2024.  

This decision, formalised through an Executive Order signed by the Governor, is rooted in the Doctrine of Necessity and aligns with Section 5(2) and Section 208 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended).  

A statement from Aliyu Yusuf, Director of Public Enlightenment, Office of the Head of Civil Service, highlighted the beneficiaries of the extension. 

They include Alhaji Abdullahi Musa as the Head of Civil Service and Permanent Secretaries Umar Muhammad Jalo, Bilkisu Shehu Maimota, Mu’azatu Isa Dutse, Abdulmuminu Musa, and Tijjani Muhammad Sharif. Bashir Idris Diso, the Clerk to the State House of Assembly, was also listed.  

The extension applies to civil servants who were due for retirement by December 31, 2024, under the Civil Service Rules and Kano State Pension Trustees Fund Law. 

According to the Executive Order, these individuals have demonstrated exceptional competence, dedication, and responsibility in their roles, making their retention critical to ensuring efficient service delivery.  

Senior civil servants granted the same extension include Comrades Kabiru Ado Minjibir, Marwan Mustapha, Tajuddeen Bashir Baba, Hashim A. Sule, and Kabiru Inuwa. Additionally, critical healthcare professionals, including Amina Idris (Psychiatric Nurse), Ahmad Lawan (Peri-Operative Nurse), Hussaini Nuhu (Pediatric Nurse), Salisu H. Nadosun (Peri-Operative Nurse), and Larai Ahmadu (Critical Care Nurse), also benefited from the extension.  

The statement emphasised the importance of these personnel in maintaining the functionality of the state’s civil service and directed the beneficiaries to continue their duties according to the Civil Service Rules.

By Uzair Adam

The Military High Command has labeled the notorious bandit and terrorist leader, Bello Turji, as a “dead man walking.”

Turji, infamous for his criminal activities in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Niger states, remains one of the most wanted terrorist figures in North-western Nigeria.

Speaking during a briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, reviewed the military’s 2024 efforts in counter-terrorism and banditry.

“Terrorists exist to perpetuate war, but they must be eliminated for peace to thrive. Our troops have maintained relentless pressure on terrorist enclaves, strongholds, and hideouts to hasten their defeat,” Buba said.

He disclosed that thousands of terrorists, including commanders and foot soldiers, were neutralized during the year.

“Bello Turji is a prime example. He is merely a dead man walking, and his end is inevitable, just like the others we have eliminated,” he added.

Buba went on to stated the military’s success against several high-profile terrorist leaders in 2024.

Among those neutralized were Halilu Sububu, Dutse Mainasara Idda, Mohammed Amadu, and Alhaji Baldu, alongside many others.

He further revealed that the sustained intensity of military operations had compelled numerous terrorists, including their families, to surrender.

The military, Buba assured, would continue to employ overwhelming force to defend the country and ensure lasting peace for Nigerians.

By Hafsat Jaafar 

2024 was an amazing and memorable year that changed my life. Having my parents and siblings alive is one of the most joyous gifts of life, for they give me a positive vibe. My mother and siblings support me through every phase of life in whatever path (good) I walk. 

I got a job with a popular private primary school around September 2023, and it was one of the most challenging working environments. I was new to teaching kids, new working environments, colleagues, and different standards/sets of rules. My mother and siblings supported me with the ‘you-can-make-it’ idea when I thought about quitting for certain reasons and incidents. 

I finally persevered through every hardship, believing that challenges are part of growth and experience. This experience made me realise that not all that glitters is gold, and not everyone you meet at your workplace who smiles and laughs with you is a true friend, though I made many friends who are like family.

For all the years I have been a teacher, teaching kids has been one of my best experiences and has changed many thingsin my life. Kids tend to give you joy and hope. Seeing them happy brings a sense of satisfaction to your soul, for they have no worries and don’t even know what life is about. They only care to be given whatever they wish or request, no matter the circumstances. ‘NO’ is not an answer to them.

Technological Kids, as I call them, are always curious; they ask many questions and expect you to know all the answers and everything in the world. Being an adult, they tend to see you as their role model, parent, doctor and saviour. They are the coolest, most annoying, innocent beings you would ever meet. 

One of the most memorable moments of my life was getting an offer for a teaching job. I wasn’t expecting it to come soon, but God was so kind that my prayers were answered. When a call came in about the job, I thought it was a scam,so I ignored it. My father was called and informed, and that was when it dawned on me that the call was for real.

My relationship of three years–we have already been friends for about six years–crashed and collapsed like the national grid in Nigeria. It died a natural death. Turning a blind eye to things in a relationship matters a lot, but when it’s been toxic with many red flags, letting go of whatever and whoever you are dating matters the most for your safety and mental health. It takes a lot of courage to do that, though. It was one of the most challenging decisions I ever made in 2024.

December, the last month of the year, comes with festivities, especially weddings. We were invited to many weddings. The one that stood out was that of a family friend, who is Kanuri: paternal side Yusufari, Yobe state, Nigeria and maternal Niamey, Niger Republic. 

The coming together of two countries with diversified cultures and traditions gave a unique picture of how the two ethnic groups, though from the same country, celebrate weddings as one of the most important events in a person’s life.

Events are celebrated with lots of food, especially snacks,fura (a different kind with chunks of cheese), grilled meat garnished with lots of vegetables, and bread (French bread). Guests are considered among the most important people and are treated with the utmost respect, especially elderly people. Their attire, Laffaya (a wrap around the entire body with a colourful fabric), is one of the most unique and modest modes of dressing for which the Kanuris are known.

Incense will be burned throughout any event, indoor or outdoor; it’s like a necessity in every part of their lives, creating an aromatic environment that changes their mood from being gloomy to a vibrant person. 

Three different languages are the means of communication between the two tribes (Kanuri, French, and Zarma), though some understand English, while a few speak the Hausa language. The wedding is one of the most elegant, colourful and the most expensive of the year 2024 that I have attended.

This year, I learned three lessons: to leave people where they are, accept situations for what they are, and realise that not every action needs a reaction. 

Come 2025. In sha Allah, I look forward to success, blessings, a calm heart, a peaceful soul, and lots of love.

Hafsat Ja’afar wrote from Kano via jaafarhafsat@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

International human rights organization Amnesty International has accused the Nigerian military of attempting to conceal the deaths of civilians in two Sokoto State communities during a December 25 operation targeting Lakurawa terrorists.

The Daily Reality reports that the airstrike, conducted in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in the Silame Local Government Area, resulted in the deaths of at least 10 citizens.

The Defence Headquarters attributed the fatalities to a secondary explosion at a terrorist logistic base, but Vice President Kashim Shettima apologized to the victims’ families.

The incident adds to a troubling history of military airstrikes unintentionally killing civilians, with Amnesty International estimating a total of 436 civilian deaths over the past eight years.

Amnesty International’s Country Director, Isa Sanusi, condemned the Sokoto bombing and accused the military of disregarding human lives. He called on the Nigerian government to conduct an independent investigation.

“The Nigerian military must hand over all records related to the airstrike to the Attorney General’s office for an impartial investigation,” Sanusi stated. “Failure to hold the military accountable only perpetuates impunity and endangers more lives.”

Sanusi urged President Bola Tinubu to establish an independent inquiry into the incident, ensuring justice for the victims and their families.

He reiterated the need for fair trials and compensation for those affected. Amnesty International also highlighted previous airstrikes in various states, including Borno, Zamfara, and Kaduna, which have collectively claimed hundreds of civilian lives.

Despite repeated assurances to minimize civilian casualties, these incidents continue to occur, raising concerns about the military’s operational protocols and accountability.

By Anas Abbas

The Katsina State Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Musa, stated that the police command in the state has apprehended approximately 916 criminals, neutralized 40 bandits, and rescued 319 victims of kidnapping in one year.

This announcement was made on Monday during an end-of-year event in Katsina, where Aliyu celebrated the command’s accomplishments in combating crime and enhancing public safety.

He expressed pride in the dedication shown by the police force throughout the year, which has led to a notable decrease in crime rates across the state.

“Our commitment to fighting crime has been unwavering, resulting in significant achievements that have improved the safety of our communities,” he stated.

The Commissioner listed several key successes, including the dismantling of multiple criminal networks, recovery of valuable evidence, and the successful rescue of numerous kidnapped individuals.

He reiterated that these accomplishments reflect the hard work and bravery of the officers who strive to protect the community.

Among the notable milestone, he explained that,”We rescued over 319 kidnapping victims, reuniting them with their families.”

The police neutralized 40 bandits, which has contributed to safer neighborhoods.

The recovery of 2,081 rustled animals, aiding local farmers and the economy.

While speaking he stated that “we arrested 199 suspected armed robbers, enhancing street safety.”

The prosecution of 23 major drug dealers, disrupting illegal drug activities.

These enhancements have increased operational efficiency and improved emergency response capabilities.

“Our community policing initiatives have also fostered stronger relationships between law enforcement and the public,” he added.

The Commissioner expressed gratitude to other security agencies for their collaboration over the year, underscoring the importance of teamwork in addressing security challenges.

Governor Dikko Radda, represented by the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, acknowledged that Katsina State continues to face significant security challenges but commended the efforts of law enforcement in addressing these issues.

By Anas Abbas

Civil rights advocate and former Senator, Shehu Sani, has said that there is need for honouring the nation’s freedom fighters, and urged both citizens and government officials to recognize their sacrifices.

During a visit to the graves of six deposed Emirs in Lokoja on Monday, Sani portrayed the legacy of those who resisted British colonial rule.

Accompanied by Comrade Suleiman Ahmed, he expressed his admiration for the bravery of these leaders.

“Today, I pay tribute to the Emirs from Northern Nigeria who were exiled by colonial forces to Lokoja, where they ultimately passed away. Among them is the late Emir of Kano, Mallam Aliyu Abdullahi (Maisango), who died in 1903,” Sani stated.

He stressed the need to honor those who fought for the country’s freedom.

“As a Pan-Africanist deeply committed to the struggle for justice and human rights, I believe it is vital that we recognize these noble Emirs who defended our nation. This visit serves as a reminder for all Nigerians to reflect on the past and appreciate those who made significant sacrifices for our freedom,” he said.

Sani, who represented Kaduna Central in the Senate from 2015 to 2019, reaffirmed his dedication to celebrating Nigeria’s freedom fighters.

In response, Etsu Lokoja Emmanuel Akamisoko Dauda-Shelika and other local leaders commended Sani for his visit, highlighting its significance.

“The presence of Senator Shehu Sani and his colleague is greatly appreciated. It is essential that we remember those who have contributed to our history. This recognition of the deposed Emirs reflects true leadership and a commitment to human rights,” Dauda-Shelika remarked.

By Garba Sidi 

It’s truly disheartening how some parents neglect their responsibilities in shaping their children’s behaviour. This lack of care can leave their biological sons and daughters feeling unloved. Love is crucial for a child’s healthy development.

On my way out of the city this morning, I overheard a conversation between two young men, no older than 24, who were smoking cigarettes. One said, ‘We have no value in people’s eyes because we messed up our lives.’ The other responded, ‘I swear, Nasiru, when I look at my friend Aminu, his life seems so good. Everyone likes him; he studied hard, has a good job, and looks at us, sitting in this dirty place. We ruined our lives, and we’re ashamed of ourselves.’

Nasiru’s friend spoke in a low voice, gathering his thoughts before narrating his story. He explained that his father was a car driver and his mother was from Bauchi State. When his father married his mother and brought her to Jigawa, she told him about his father’s recklessness in providing for their needs (his and his younger sister’s). After some years, his father married another woman, and whatever resources he brought came to her, leaving them with nothing but what their neighbours offered.

His mother sadly passed away, plunging him into deep sorrow. From that point on, their life became a struggle. He started going to the fish market to earn money for food and other necessities, as his stepmother used everything his father brought, even food, leaving them barely enough to eat. His stepmother, who didn’t have children herself, would sometimes even tell him his father wasn’t a man because he couldn’t give her a child.

He had friends who smoked cigarettes, and being around them constantly led him to become a drug addict. He blames two things for his current situation: the love he lost from his father and the death of his mother.

His friend, Nazy, then began his story about joining this group of drug addicts. He attributed the core reason for his situation to his mother’s neglect in shaping him in his youth. He explained that his mother sold food at home, and his father was a mechanic engineer. Many people came to their house to eat, and as the only male child, both parents showered him with love and didn’t punish him when he did wrong.

He started working as a shopboy for one of their regular customers. Things went well initially until he met the daughter of a wealthy businessman. They began a relationship, and she introduced him to a world of excessive entertainment, including smoking cigarettes, drinking syrup, injecting drugs, and inappropriate physical contact. Tragically, her father caught them drinking syrup in his apartment and handed Nazy over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) while his daughter continued to enjoy a comfortable life without consequences.

Nazy’s parents tried to get him out of jail but were too late. The wealthy man paid money to have Nazy imprisoned, blaming him for ruining his daughter’s life. Nazy spent five months in prison before being released. He heard the wealthy man’s daughter is now in Uganda. This is how he ended up in this cycle of addiction.

By Adamu Abdullahi 

As Nigeria’s capital city, FCT Abuja needs a university other than the University of Abuja, established in 1988, to cater to the increasing number of people seeking university education within the territory and in Nigeria at large.

Establishing the Federal Capital Territory University of Science and Technology, Abaji would provide the legal framework to close the knowledge gap in science and technology.

FCT is the fastest-growing city in Africa, with only one federal university and no single polytechnic. The FCT find it challenging to study, yet the federal government has only a name to change in the federal capital instead of commissioning the one that the weed snake has taken over. 

What reduction of congestion will change the educational sector of FCT? Will the rename accommodate our prospective admissions seeker seeking to study for their ambitious course? Has the renamed university had all the courses that will interact with the international community to study in Nigeria?

Universities can be viewed as brands, much like corporations. Just as corporate brands maintain their identities over time, educational institutions rely on stable branding for recognition and credibility. 

A troubling precedent is set when university names are changed impulsively—particularly to honour politicians. This practice undermines the integrity of these institutions and can create significant confusion, particularly in the global context.

For instance, renaming the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University raises several important concerns. Many foreign employers and academic institutions may now struggle to recognise the new name, which could impact their perceptions of the institution’s legitimacy and reputation.

The sudden name change may also confuse prospective employers, who might not be familiar with the new name but have been aware of the previous branding.

Moreover, graduates of these renamed institutions face a unique dilemma. They are handed Certificates that no longer align with the name they are familiar with from their years of study. This disconnect between the institution they attended and the name that appears on their degrees can lead to questions about the validity of their education and qualifications. 

It can also complicate further academic pursuits and job applications, as they may confront scepticism from potential employers or institutions unaware of the name change.

In essence, this practice of renaming universities to immortalise political figures can have far-reaching consequences. It disrupts the continuity and coherence of an educational brand built over the years, potentially diminishing the value of the degrees it confers and creating unnecessary barriers for its graduates in the competitive global job market.

Adamu Abdullahi wrote via nasabooyoyo@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested Mahdi Shehu, a political activist and commentator from Kaduna.

He was arrested following allegations that he spread a video of French soldiers on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

According to reports, the video shows Shehu claiming that the Nigerian government is planning to establish a French military base in the North West, a claim that has been denied.

Mahdi is currently in DSS custody in Kaduna, and there is a possibility he will soon be charged in court.

The DSS stated that they discussed the credibility of the video with Mahdi before his arrest, but the conversation did not lead to a resolution.

However, security agents have been instructed to respect his rights while in custody.