Month: December 2024

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a moment of great joy, the academic community celebrates the promotion of Dr Muhammad Sani Umar Rijiyar Lemo from Associate Professor to Full Professor at Bayero University, Kano.

The announcement has been met with enthusiasm, as Dr Umar Rijiyar Lemo is a well-known Islamic scholar within and outside the university.

Rijiyar Lemo’s promotion reflects years of hard work, dedication, and significant contributions to both the academic world and Islamic scholarship in the Hausa-speaking world.

Colleagues and students alike have expressed their happiness and offered prayers for continued success and blessings in his new role.

As he reaches this milestone in his career, it is hoped that this promotion will bring even greater prosperity and impact to his work.

The entire academic community wishes him well in this new chapter of his career, praying for further blessings and success.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has expressed profound sorrow, and extended heartfelt condolences to his Jigawa State counterpart, Mallam Umar Namadi, over the loss of his son, Abdulwahab Umar Namadi.

Abdulwahab, aged 24, tragically lost his life on Thursday, December 26, 2024, in a ghastly motor accident along the Dutse-Kafin-Hausa Road.

This devastating incident occurred barely hours after the family suffered the loss of Governor Namadi’s mother, Hajiya Maryam.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya, in a statement, described the losses as heart-wrenching and profoundly saddening.

He noted that the tragedy of losing two loved ones in such a short period is an extraordinary test of faith, urging his Jigawa counterpart to find solace in the divine words: “What Allah takes belongs to Him, and what He gives is also His, for everything occurs at its appointed time according to His will”.

He prayed for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness upon the souls of Abdulwahab and the late Hajiya Maryam, asking Allah to grant them Aljannat Firdaus as well as give strength and patience for the bereaved family during this difficult period.

By Uzair Adam

Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has dismissed allegations by Niger’s military leader, General Abdulrahman Tchiani, that Nigeria is aiding France in efforts to destabilize Niger.

General Tchiani alleged that Nigeria was establishing a military camp, codenamed “Canada,” in the Munguno-Baga area of Borno State near the Niger border, where French troops were reportedly stationed.

In an interview with BBC Hausa, Ribadu described the allegations as unfounded, pointing out Nigeria’s history of resisting foreign military presence.

“Even England, which colonized Nigeria, never stationed soldiers here. When France sought to bring troops, we declined. Why would we agree now?” he asked.

He called on Niger’s leadership to resolve its issues with France directly rather than involving Nigeria, emphasizing that Nigeria remains committed to regional unity and cooperation, free from external interference.

Tchiani further accused Nigeria of hosting French forces near Lake Chad and claimed Nigerian officials were training fighters in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi states to undermine Niger’s stability.

Ribadu vehemently denied these allegations, urging independent verification by journalists and the public.

“Our shared enemy is terrorism, not each other. We must unite to secure our communities and resist external interference,” Ribadu stated.

Tensions between Nigeria and Niger have escalated since the military government in Niamey accused Nigeria of sheltering officials from the former Bazoum administration and collaborating with foreign powers.

Despite repeated denials, the strained relationship between the two nations persists.

By Uzair Adam 

A video depicting Nigerian and French troops unloading supplies in a coordinated manner has garnered significant attention on social media.

The Daily Reality reports that the footage has sparked controversies surrounding France’s alleged intentions in Nigeria.  

The controversy intensified after Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, dismissed claims that the country had ceded any part of its territory to France. 

Idris issued a statement on Thursday addressing allegations that Nigeria was conspiring with France to destabilize the Niger Republic through terrorism.  

Mahdi Shehu, a public affairs commentator, had previously alleged plans to establish a French military base in northeastern Nigeria. 

He claimed the plans gained traction after Femi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), reportedly hosted French soldiers.  

In a video accompanying Shehu’s since-deleted social media post, Nigerian troops were seen offloading supplies, including bags of rice, from trucks while French soldiers unloaded a cargo plane. 

The scene included vehicles, personnel in uniform, and a bus displaying a French flag. In the video, a Nigerian soldier stated that the troops had recently left a counterterrorism training centre.  

However, investigations by TheCable revealed that the video has been online since January 2013. 

According to a report by the Associated Press (AP), the footage shows ECOWAS troops, including 156 Nigerians, arriving at Senou International Airport in Bamako, Mali. 

The mission was part of a regional peacekeeping effort to stabilize Mali during a crisis.  

Reacting to Idris’ statement, Shehu urged the government to halt its denials. 

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s defence headquarters dismissed the allegations as “baseless.”  

The resurfaced video highlights the challenges of misinformation in public discourse, underscoring the need for careful verification before making conclusions or spreading claims.

By Uzair Adam

The Rumfa College Old Boys Association (RUMFOBA) Class of ’94 commemorated its 30th anniversary in Kano on Thursday, urging the state government to establish community-based database centres.

The centres, proposed to be managed by village heads, aim to provide vital household data for effective planning, decision-making, and project execution across Kano State.

Professor Ibrahim Sani Madugu, the Chairman of RUMFOBA Class ’94, underscored the significance of these centres in enhancing security, fostering community development, and supporting small-scale industries.

He noted the potential of these initiatives to address critical challenges and drive sustainable growth.

In support of their alma mater, the association has already undertaken key projects, including ensuring water availability in essential areas and installing a CCTV surveillance system.

Following discussions with the school principal, additional initiatives were identified.

These include the installation of solar-powered security lights in sensitive areas such as the NCC computer centre and laboratories, the provision of carpets for the school mosques, the replacement of non-functional solar batteries, and the settlement of outstanding allowances for security personnel.

Madugu also advocated for the state government to expand the use of renewable energy solutions, such as solar power, to mitigate electricity challenges.

He praised the government’s progress in establishing the Kano Hydro Electricity Development Company (KHEDCO) and the power projects at Tiga and Karaye dams.

As the leader of a research team on Solar Radiation Modification (SRM) at Kampala International University, Madugu highlighted the need for innovative solutions to combat climate change and enhance sustainability in Kano.

During the event, three individuals were honored for their contributions to education and their support for Rumfa College.

The awardees included former Governor Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar-mata, and another distinguished recipient. Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar-mata, Kano State Commissioner for Science, Technology, and Innovation, lauded RUMFOBA’s dedication to educational advancement.

He advised the association to focus on executing one significant project annually while bringing other issues to the government’s attention for resolution.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Stubborn women fail in their marriages, and even in their relationships with relatives. Women who lack emotional intelligence and flexibility in dealing with people around them, are the biggest failures in their marriages and their lives.

Why? She enters into an egoistic tug of war with her husband, and prefers the voice of her ego to try to overcome him, and in fact she fails before the ego of her husband and the ego of those who are around her, because men become more stubborn in front of a stubborn wife and stubborn sister, and they become more gentle in front of a submissive woman.

A headstrong woman thinks that she can win while insisting on her opinion, and she can stand in front of any opposition. She forgets that even if she wins by her obstinacy in her opinion and stand, she loses the heart that was loving her and caring for her.

Many narrations and wise proverbs in all the cultures have praised an easy-going, soft, friendly, patient and enduring woman.

Even the Messenger (peace and blessings be on him) and the Companions after him, recommended and praised a woman who respects her husband and speaks with softness and wisdom, and in turn he will love her and never leave her.

The woman who will obey her husband and stoop to let the storm pass; she is the wise, rational woman who thrives, and holds the family together.

The woman who stands like an unyielding dry stick is the one who breaks, suffering irreparable damage.The uncompromising woman clings to her opinion. She tries to constantly perpetuate the illusion of her victory: I win and you lose, I am right and you are wrong. Such a woman destroys herself before destroying others. And she lives a life of sorrowful despondency in this world and the hereafter.

By Ibraheem A. Waziri

Lately, I have been reflecting deeply on Islam and its legacies, particularly in light of the growing rhetoric against democracy by some Northern Nigerian Islamists. Among them are both young and experienced clerics, such as the recently banned Muhammad Muhammad of Niger State and Shaykh Dr Idris of Bauchi, who appeared to endorse the same ideals. 

My reflections have led me to conclude that there is little justification for condemning democracy and the freedoms it provides, nor for advocating or mobilising for physical jihad in today’s world.  

When we examine the origins of Islam, we find that during the early days of Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) mission in Mecca, his primary focus was the establishment of a peaceful society where his message could be conveyed freely. Allah states in the Qur’an:  

“So remind, [O Muhammad]; you are only a reminder. You are not over them a controller.” (Qur’an 88:21-22).  

This underscores that Islam flourishes in environments of peace and freedom, where individuals can practice their faith openly without coercion. Such conditions allow Allah’s promise to manifest naturally:

“Indeed, Allah will fulfil His purpose. Allah has set a measure for all things.” (Qur’an 65:3).  

The first instances of physical jihad in Islamic history were acts of self-defence prompted by aggression against the early Muslim community. Even the campaigns against the Persian and Roman Empires were primarily preemptive, aimed at securing the survival of the nascent Muslim polity against formidable adversaries.  

Closer to home, the renowned 19th-century jihad of Shaykh Uthman Bin Fodio in Hausaland was not launched until his students faced severe threats and persecution from the rulers, who sought to prevent them from freely practising their religion. This historical context highlights that jihad has historically been reactive, not offensive, and born out of necessity rather than choice.  

Similarly, the historical example of the Mongol Empire, which conquered large parts of the Muslim world, demonstrates Islam’s transformative power. Despite the initial devastation, peace was eventually restored. As the Mongols settled and engaged with Islamic teachings, they embraced Islam. This illustrates the enduring strength of Islam’s principles when conveyed in a peaceful and conducive environment.  

In contemporary times, a comparable trend is evident. While the colonial era brought conquest and turbulence, democracy and freedom of choice have facilitated a relatively peaceful global environment. This peace has enabled a surge in the appreciation of Islam’s teachings, as seen in the increasing number of reverts worldwide. Allah reminds us:

“When the victory of Allah has come, and the conquest and you see the people entering into the religion of Allah in multitudes, then exalt [Him] with praise of your Lord and ask forgiveness of Him. Indeed, He is ever Accepting of repentance.” (Qur’an 110:1-3).  

Today, Islam is the fastest-growing religion worldwide, a testament to its universal appeal and the truth of Allah’s promise. In light of these realities, is there any justification for militant jihadist movements in the modern era? Especially now, with social media and other platforms offering unparalleled opportunities to spread knowledge, values, and Islamic teachings globally?  

I firmly believe that the focus of our time should be on intellectual and spiritual jihad — investing in research, education, and content creation that addresses the challenges and opportunities of our era. Allah emphasises the power of wisdom and thoughtful persuasion in spreading His message:  

“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is [rightly] guided.” (Qur’an 16:125).  

This is the jihad of our age: to understand and teach Islam in ways that resonate with the modern world, using peaceful means to inspire hearts and minds toward the truth. 

May Allah guide us on the best paths and strengthen our resolve in this noble endeavour, amin.

By Habibu Maaruf Abdu

For the Kannywood film industry, 2024 has been a remarkable year filled with unprecedented achievements and historic milestones. These include Ali Nuhu’s appointment as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation and Rahama Sadau becoming part of the federal government’s Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprise Program (iDICE).

However, while the year was marred by the losses of veteran actress Saratu Gidado (Daso) and singer El-Muaz Birniwa, it also witnessed the emergence of fresh talent and a notable improvement in film quality. Big-budget productions like Nanjala and Mai Martaba achieved significant feats; Nanjala debuted in Turkey and the United States, and Mai Martabawas selected as Nigeria’s official entry for the 97th Academy Awards. Moreover, Sadau’s film Mamah was screened at the prestigious Red Sea Film Festival in Saudi Arabia.

Interestingly, despite the above-mentioned films’ successes, television and web series topped the charts in popularity throughout the year. Established series, such as Labarina and Manyan Mata, continue to reign supreme, with the latter’s instalment (Season 8, Episode 6) amassing over 1 million views on YouTube within 24 hours of its release in January. This success has paved the way for numerous new series. The following are the top 7 among them. Please note that the established series were not considered for this list.

1. Garwashi

Garwashi is arguably the most topical and stimulating series of the year. It confronts critical social issues such as widowhood, moral decay, reckless marriages and irresponsible parenting. The story mainly centres on Asmau/Ma’u (Fiddausi Yahaya), a widow who faces unrelenting adversity due to the cruelty of her in-laws. Her situation is further exacerbated by the greed and heartbreaking indifference of her father. The series is captivating and deserves praise for its engaging writing, intense drama, and realistic portrayal of everyday life. The actors deliver convincing performances, particularly Abubakar Waziri (alias Bado), who plays Asmau’s irresponsible father. His rendition of the Sokoto Hausa dialect is ultimately impressive. 

Additionally, the roles of Baba Lami (Balaraba Abdullahi), Gaddafi (Kabiru Sani), and Sameera (Aisha Humaira), among others, are outstanding. Co-produced by Umar UK and Fauziyya D. Sulaiman and directed by Yaseen Auwal, Garwashihas garnered widespread acclaim, generated buzz, and trended on social media. Other cast members include Yakubu Muhammad, Maryam Yahaya, Isa Adam, Hadiza Muhammad, Sabira Mukhtar, and Rukayya Sharada.

2. Gidan Sarauta

Premiered in 2023, Gidan Sarauta achieved greater popularity in 2024, becoming one of the year’s top series. This is because its episodes get no less than 600,000 views on YouTube weekly. The story follows a complicated love triangle involving two royal brothers, Prince Bello (Umar M. Shareef) and Prince Mu’azzam (Garzali Miko), and a poor daughter, Bintu (Mommy Gombe). Prince Bello initially hides his feelings for Bintu, treating her like a sister and even arranging her marriage to his brother Mu’azzam. Meanwhile, he marries Gimbiya Fa’iza (Aisha Najamu), his cousin whose father (also his uncle) holds the throne. The two couples live together in the royal household, where Bello and Bintu’s bond deepens despite being married to different partners. The drama escalates as Mu’azzam discovers their secret romantic exchanges, leading to intense confrontations and emotional fallout. The series features other compelling characters, such as Alhaji Mai Dala (Rabi’u Rikadawa), his wayward son Kaka (Daddy Hikima), and Tafida (Bashir Bala Ciroki), among others. It was produced by Abubakar Bashir Maishadda and directed by Ali Nuhu.

3. Allura Cikin Ruwa 

2 Effects Media’s Allura Cikin Ruwa revolves around Na’imatu (Ruky Alim), a charming young woman at the centre of attention with numerous men vying for her love. These include Maina (Yakubu Muhammad), Sadiq (Isah Feroz Khan), Dr Hashim (Adam A. Zango) and Alhaji Hadi Makama (Sani Danja). As the title suggests, Na’imatu is like a needle in a vast ocean, which Hausa wisdom says “only the fortunate can find”. Alhaji Hadi is that fortunate one, but he divorces her two days after marriage, adding complexity to the plot. Other characters in the series, such as Maina and his former wife (Fiddausi Yahaya), have interesting backstories that add depth to the narrative. The series features an ensemble cast, stunning visuals and evocative background music. It is also packed with twists and turns, which may hook the audience despite some minor flaws. Sani Danja produced the series, while Yakubu Muhammad directed it. Other casts include Aisha Najamu, Tijjani Faraga, Daddy Hikima, Amal Umar, Ramadan Booth, etc.

4. Darasi

Produced by Sadiq Shanawa and directed by Abubakar S. Shehu, Darasi stands out for its relatable themes, strong performances, and reasonable production quality. The series follows the lives of fresh graduates: Kabiru (Ibrahim Yamu Baba), Marwan (Shamsu Dan Iya), Sadiq (Sadik Shanawa), and Salma (Mommy Gombe), each navigating the challenges of life after graduation. However, Kabiru’s story turns dark after being heartbroken by his love interest, Rabi (Amal Umar), who leaves him for a wealthy son, Shehu Hutu (Abdul S. Tynkin). This betrayal drives him to join a secret cult, aligning himself with powerful influencers such as the corrupt politician Alhaji Audu Maye (Ali Nuhu) and the immoral tycoon Alhaji Maliya (Tanimu Akawu). As the story expands, events become intricately woven. The series is quite popular. It garnered widespread pre-release buzz thanks to promotional photos of Mommy Gombe and other cast members wearing NYSC attire.

5. Wata Rana a Kano 

Wata Rana A Kano is a 5-episode mini-series that addresses the pressing issues of thuggery and phone snatching, which have recently surged in certain areas of Kano State. It is exclusive to Arewa24 TV, unlike many other series that are also available on YouTube. The series exposes the heartlessness of corrupt politicians and their role in fuelling gang violence. It also explores the importance of community involvement in aiding security operatives in combating the problem. Besides its timely thematic relevance, Wata Rana A Kano stands out for its top-notch production quality. The cinematography is exceptional, with realistic portrayals of violence and bloodshed that leave a lasting emotional impact. Many viewers have confessed to crying during a particular scene where the character of Abba Jago (Daddy Hikima) kills Hassan (Adam A. Zango). Produced by Abubakar Bashir Mai Shadda and directed by Kamal S. Alkali, the series also features Mommy Gombe, Umar M. Shareef, Abdurrazak Sultan, Alhassan Kwalle, Abba El-Mustapha, Ali Nuhu, and others.

6. Zafin Nema

Sadik Sani Sadik and Tahir I. Tahir, known for their iconic roles in the Mati franchise as Mati and Lado, respectively, reunite in the topical comedy-drama titled Zafin Nema. The series explores themes of materialism and ambition through the story of two young men, Ilu (Sadik Sani Sadik) and Rabe (Tahir I. Tahir), from a poor background. The duo faces humiliation in their village, Tungan Barau, due to their poverty. Rabe’s father attempts to arrange his son’s marriage to Tala (Mommy Gombe), but her father rejects the proposal despite their familial ties. Similarly, Ilu loses his love, Saude (Maryam Yahaya), to the wealthy Alhaji Dangana (Shehu Hassan Kano). Driven by a desire for wealth, respect, and revenge, Ilu and Rabe embark on a journey to the city. Their misadventures unfold as they foolishly pursue get-rich-quick businesses. The series seamlessly weaves together humour and substance. The actors also deliver excellent performances. It was co-produced by Abdul Amart and Tahir I. Tahir and directed by Yaseen Auwal. Other casts include Al’amin Buhari, Jamila Nagudu, Minal Ahmad, Bello Mohammed Bello, Hajara Usman, Alhassan Kwalle, etc.

7. Umarni 

The series Umarni primarily deals with the issue of wife-mother-in-law relations in Hausaland. It explores the complex and often tense relationships, including jealousy and conflicts between them. In the series, Hajiya Binta (Saratu Daso) reveals her jealousy when her son Ahmad (Bilal Mustapha) prepares to marry his beloved Madina (Bilkisu Safana). She reduces the substantial trousseau he plans to take for the wedding and forbids him from living with his wife in their newly built home. Her intimidation continues while the couple lives with her in the family household. On the other hand, Salma (Sameera Sister) treats her mother-in-law (Asma’u Sani) poorly. Her husband, Sadik (Garzali Miko), initially sides with his mother but is eventually convinced to see her faults. The story evolves as new themes, characters, and conflicts are introduced. The series is generally enjoyable.

Umarni is likely the last film to feature the late veteran actress Saratu Daso. However, the rest of the cast comprises mostly rising stars who nonetheless deliver satisfactory performances. Seikh Isa Alolo directed it, while Naziru Dan Hajiya is the producer. Its second season, which runs during the writing of this review, was co-directed by Tijjani Mai jama’a.

By Sulaiman Abdullahi

Manmohan Singh, the renowned economist and former Prime Minister of India, has passed away at the age of 92, according to local media reports on Thursday.

Singh, who served two consecutive terms as prime minister, was instrumental in steering India’s economic liberalization during his tenure as finance minister.

A respected economist-turned-politician, he also held the position of governor of India’s central bank.

The former leader had been ailing and was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi, where he reportedly passed away late on Thursday.

Singh leaves behind a legacy of economic reforms and leadership that transformed India’s trajectory on the global stage.

By Tordue Simon Targema

Taraba State University (TSU), Jalingo is, yet again, under lock and key as a result of industrial actions embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on the 5th of December 2024, and all other labour unions in the University subsequently to press home germane issues that bother on effective running of the institution and welfare of its staff.

Ordinarily, this would not have been a hopeless situation completely, as industrial actions could be resolved as soon as they start if well handled. But with the rather harsh and brutal response of the Taraba State government, a solution to the present strike is not in sight.

What are the issues in contention, by-the-way? ASUU-TSU outlined six key demands upon commencement of the strike as follows: (1) absence of pension scheme for staff of the University, (2) non-payment of four months salary backlog, (3) failure of the state government to constitute a Governing Council for efficient running of the University, (4) non-payment of accumulated Earned Academic Allowances, (5) repeated exclusion of the University from minimum wage implementations, and, (6) inadequate funding as provided by the Law establishing the University.

Simple as these sound, all diplomatic approaches by ASUU to prevail on the state government to address them have failed, leaving the Union with no option but to embark on strike. Sadly, the response of the state government clearly indicates that the strike will linger longer than expected.

A quick rundown on the major responses as highlighted by the Chairperson of ASUU-TSU Branch, Dr Mbave Joshua Garba thus far confirms this hunch: first was a statement from the Office of the Special Assistant (to the State Governor) on Media and Digital Communications, Mr. Emmanuel Bello requesting the Union to call off the strike immediately and return to the negotiation table, to which the Union queried: which negotiation table? The same “table” that government officials abandoned since June 2024, and have consistently evaded the Union’s advances for engagements?

Besides, the struggle at this point has passed the stage of “negotiations” but instead, requires appropriate actions on the part of government: do we need negotiation to enact a Governing Council for the University, implement a pension scheme, pay salary arrears/EAA, or implement the national minimum wage for the University? One thus wonders what exactly the SA wanted to negotiate with the Union again.

The second response as reported by the Chairperson came through the Commissioner of the then Ministry of Education, Dr. Augustina Godwin, who told the Union that the Governor has two options for them: to call off the strike immediately and have his audience once he returned to the state, or remain on strike while government takes ALL the time it requires to compute and work on the demands of the Union. ASUU opted for the latter, for who is in a hurry to return to a classroom that holds no hopes for him, both now and in future anyway?

Then came the last move that clearly portrayed government’s confusion regarding TSU and her intractable issues: the (re)creation of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, which hitherto existed in the state but was scrapped by the current administration, and which was there during the past administration, yet could not resolve the stalemates that befall the University.

Clearly, the state government lacks the sincerity of purpose required to resolve the issues in dispute, and this is most unfortunate for an administration that has made access to education its mantra. For instance, one wonders if ASUU must embark on industrial strike before government is moved to constitute a Governing Council without which the University is handicapped in the discharge of its administrative mandates. Yet, ASUU has consistently engaged the government on this issue since the last Governing Council was dissolved in 2023 to no avail.

What about a pension scheme which has become a dirge that staff of the University chant every day, but which all other tertiary institutions in the state have? Today, many staff of the University have put in about fifteen years of service without a penny as pension. When a staff of the University retires, s/he walks home with nothing after years of enslaving but meritorious service to the state.

The most distressing moment is when a staff dies: his family is entitled to a paltry 50,000 naira as death benefit which is recently increased to N70,000. Yes, that is our worth in death without gratuity. Indeed, many staff of the University have switched from other institutions or agencies with functional pension schemes to TSU. Sadly, once they assume duty in TSU, they as well kiss the final “goodbye” to pension and gratuity.

While ASUU’s engagements with the state government towards amicable resolution of these issues hit a stalemate, the final straw came that completely broke the camel’s back, namely: the blatant and cruel exclusion of the University from the N70,000 new national minimum wage implementation in the state. Yes, as I write, TSU staff are being paid using the grossly outdated 2009 salary template for Nigerian Universities! Last year, the state government implemented the N30,000 minimum wage for workers without effecting the consequential adjustment for staff of the University, even as other tertiary institutions in the state were captured which showed the resentment of the government to staff of the University. Then came the FG/ASUU 25% and 35% salary award which was also ignored by the state government with impunity.

The peak of this cruelty has just manifested with the conspicuous exclusion of the University from the 2024 N70,000 national minimum wage implementation in the state in November. Afterwards, all concerned stakeholders put up evasive postures to ignore all efforts by ASUU to push for inclusion of the University.

ASUU Chairperson reported, shockingly, that at a meeting with government representatives, the Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Sarah Enoch maintained that the University is not entitled to the new national minimum wage, even as she admitted, funny enough, that there is need for consequential adjustment. This position betrayed, first, the level of confusion that pervades the corridors of power regarding issues in TSU, and secondly, the cruel disposition of critical state actors to the plights of the University’s staff.

Few questions beg for answers arising from the Commissioner’s disposition: if tertiary institutions in the state are not entitled to the new minimum wage, why implement it for the State Polytechnic, College of Education, College of Agriculture, School of Nursing and Midwifery and the School of Health Technology? Why jettison the submission for the University which was computed by the same minimum wage committee in the state? Again, why question the report of a committee that had all relevant stakeholders on board, including from the Ministry of Finance? Does this mean that the Commissioner’s personal judgement supersedes the position of the committee made up of experts from all relevant ministries?

Unfortunately, government has chosen the vindictive path, and has weaponised hunger to chastise the Union back to the classrooms, a strategy that is counterproductive and had repeatedly failed in the past. For instance, November salary was immediately withheld to cow the Union into submission, then came December salary. It is shocking that not even the commemoration of the birth of Christ could move the state government to bury its vindictiveness and release December salary to staff of the University to celebrate the Yuletide with their families and loved ones.

To TSU staff, this is but a familiar maltreatment, a repeat of what happened in 2020, 2022, and now 2024 when staff had to celebrate Christmas without salaries. The tale is same for the Muslim brethren, who can hardly recall when last they celebrated either Eid-el-fitir or Eid-el-Kabir with their salaries paid. This is a dehumanising act that we are already used to, the more reason why the brutal approach is doomed from inception.

Indeed, this is time for all stakeholders in the state to act. TSU is core to Taraba State’s socio-economic advancement, no wonder its motto: “Harnessing Nature’s Gift”. Within the short period of its existence, every sector in the state is a testimony to its profound impact on human capital development. It is, therefore, time for all those who mean well for the state and its progress to speak out and prevail on the government to stop playing the ostrich and do the needful.

Government must, at this point, put on the toga of sincerity towards frantically addressing the lingering issues that constantly ignite industrial disharmony in the University once and for all without further ado. There is no better time to act than now.

Tordue Simon Targema is a Visiting Postgraduate Student in the School of Social and Political Science, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom and teaches in the Department of Mass Communication, Taraba State University. He can be reached at: torduesimon@tsuniversity.edu.ng