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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 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.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has approved construction of a modern psychiatric hospital in Obi Akpor Local Government Area.

Nyesom Wike, Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), his estranged godfather is from Rumuepirikom in Obio-Akpor.

Both Wike and Fubara have been at crossroads over the control of Rivers State, with the minister accusing the governor of turning his back against those who helped him to the top.

Speaking at a reception organized for him by a group, the Ijaw Peoples Assembly, in Port Harcourt, on Saturday, Wike boasted that when the time comes, he would teach Fubara and his supporters a big lesson in the state.

He said: “Imagine in Rivers they are contemplating of APP. It is not about money. Money does not move. You can have all the money but if there is no capacity there is no capacity.

“All the things you see are people envious of our growth. We have defeated them severally and if opportunity comes again, we will defeat them We have not started politics, when the time comes, we will play politics. Our job is politics. Tell them to keep their party ready. We will teach them what is called politics.”

But responding at the Inter-denominational Church Thanksgiving Service organised as part of activities marking the 64th Independence Day Celebration of Nigeria at St. Paul’s Cathedral of the Anglican Communion at Garrison Junction, Port Harcourt, on Sunday, Fubara said what he did in one year outweighed the performance of his opponents in 8 years.

He said, “They even say, they don’t know what we are doing. Let me remind them, it is Fubara that signed the paper to borrow from Zenith Bank the N200billion for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road. So, it is my project. It is Fubara that awarded the Trans-Kalabari Road that they couldn’t do. They did only a bridge from Krakrama, but I am the one doing it: the complete span, and it is N225billion. I didn’t borrow.

“It is this same Fubara that is building a General Hospital, which I also included a Psychiatric Hospital because they will need it very soon. So, tell them that what I did in one year is what they did in 8 years. It is only empty container that makes noise. If God has given you opportunity, eat your plantain and keep quiet. God will continue to give us the strength to do the best for our people, without fear.

“Very soon, you will see what we are doing. It is not about doing roads to your business interest. I don’t have any business interest. Whatever I am doing, I am doing it for the people of Rivers State. We will not take any decision that we cannot defend. We won’t be part of anything that will bring any form of disgrace to our dear State. This State is important to us. It is the only thing that we have.

“It is the beautiful pride. That is why they are struggling, coupled with the improvement in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) we have done. That is why they are struggling, we know. But, do it with modesty, you don’t need to destroy the house.”

Fubara said if his opponents continue to deride the grace of God on his life, they will continue to struggle for public recognition or approval.

He said his policy in office is not to embark on “mere jamboree” of groundbreaking for projects but assured that any project started will be inaugurated and actually put to public use.

“So, please, I will beg everyone of you, God has given us this opportunity, we must safeguard it. They are the ones looking for a way to destroy it.

“They didn’t believe we will get to this point, and I can tell you I had a reason for inviting all the candidates for the local government election for this service,” he added.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Gombe State Government under the L-PRES Project has distributed 800 kilograms of fodder seeds and shrubs materials to livestock farmers to encourage the production of pasture for livestock feed in the state.

The intervention targeted verified livestock farmers with 20 different varieties of fodder seeds and shrubs materials across the 11 local government areas of the state.

Distributing the materials on behalf of the L-PRES Project Coordinator Professor U.B. Abubakar, the Animal Health Officer to the Project Dr. Mohammed Umar Yuguda charged the beneficiaries to ensure optimal use of the materials provided to enhance the quality and nutritional content of livestock feed.

He said the fodder seeds when planted have the capacity to produce large quantities of feed with high nutritional value that can be used and preserved as supplementary feed during the dry season for improved production of beef and dairy products.

Speaking on the essence of the intervention, the Animal Husbandry Officer to the Project Mohammed Bukar Gadam said, plans are also underway to provide crop residue crushing and fodder chopper machines to livestock cooperative societies in the state.

He highlighted that the project is in the process of turning waste into wealth with the introduction of such facilities farmers will through their cooperatives process and package animal feed thereby reducing wastage of crop residue and further increase the rate of consumption in livestock which he said would increase both the quantity and quality of beef and dairy produced by their livestock.

In a vote of thanks on behalf of the beneficiaries theChairman Koutal Hore Socio Cultural Association Gombe State Branch Ardo Chindo Abubakar expressed appreciation to Gombe L-PRES Project for its numerous support programs to livestock farmers in the state.

He commended the State Governor Alhaji Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya for his laudable initiatives to transform the livestock sector into a modern industry and assured the project of their continuous support achieve its objectives.

By Uzair Adam 

“I have not been paid for over six months now. I have two wives and ten children. I had to feed them with sicklepod (Tafasa in Hausa) for breakfast before I left home this morning,” said Malam Muntari Yakub (not his real name), an employee of the Refuse Management and Sanitation Board (REMASAB), in a shaky and traumatised tone.

Malam Yakubu’s experience is similar to that of many REMASAB staff who have not received their salaries for over six months due to outstanding debts owed by the Kano State government. 

The situation has made life even more difficult for them amid the soaring economic crisis in the country.

The workers, whose duties include sweeping streets and evacuating refuse, told our reporter that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s current administration has paid them only four times since he took office more than a year ago.

They lamented that their situation had worsened due to the nine months of unpaid salaries they were still owed from the previous administration of Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who left office in 2023.

Yakubu recounted his distressing experience amidst the salary stoppage and the threat of hunger, “I am not a rabbit, and none of my family members are, but we eat sicklepod (Tafasa) to stave off hunger and avoid death. I had to gather some this morning for breakfast before leaving home.”

“Our salary is just ten thousand naira. You can imagine what we can buy with this meagre amount, especially with the rising cost of food. Despite struggling with this small amount, the government has left us stranded without pay for over six months,” Malam Yakubu said.

Another worker, who requested anonymity, revealed how his wife left him due to the enormous debt he had accumulated and his inability to provide for his family since his salary was stopped, exacerbated by the current economic situation in the country.

He said, “It is painful to say that my wife left me because of this situation I am in today. No matter how small the salary, it’s better to cover some of your family’s needs than none at all. After she left, the landlord also evicted me because I couldn’t pay the rent.”

The man added that despite the demanding nature of their job, most of them have to walk to their assigned streets to work, and no equipment is provided for them.

Buy your own equipment or quit the job

The workers who spoke to our reporter alleged that, despite several months of unpaid salaries, no equipment is provided for them. When they complained, their supervisors threatened them, saying they should either buy the equipment themselves or quit if they couldn’t afford it.

Another worker, who preferred to remain unnamed, said, “I had to borrow money to buy this broom you see in my hand. When I complained, my supervisor told me to buy it myself or stay home until REMASAB provides one.”

A woman with small children at home under her care said the situation at REMASAB is shocking, especially considering that one has to buy a broom. “This worsens our debt because we have to borrow money to eat and buy brooms,” she added.

Confusion over new workers receiving salaries

However, there is confusion among the workers following reports that new employees hired by Governor Yusuf after he assumed office in 2023 have been receiving their salaries.

The workers complained that despite the outstanding salary debt owed to them by the Kano State government, the new workers are paid every month, making them wonder if they are still considered employees.

“The new workers are also working with us. We call them ‘Askarawan Kwankwasiya,’ and you will see them wearing red caps or hijabs. We were shocked when we learned they are being paid monthly because we thought we might all have been sacked,” they said.

Workers remind Governor Yusuf of his promises

The workers passionately pleaded with Governor Yusuf to come to their aid, as they also had families who depended on them. 

They reminded the governor of his promises: “When he first came into power, there were rumours that we were all sacked. 

But the governor called us to a meeting at the Coronation Hall of the Government House. He told us that he had not sacked us. 

He promised to resolve our issues and said we would soon be paid. He told us that if the accountant had not travelled out of the country, we would have received our salaries that month.

“However, months later, we have yet to receive any payment. We don’t know if the accountant is still out of town. 

“We want to call on the governor to remember his promises, including doubling our salaries, and come to our rescue.”

When contacted about the situation, Ahmadu Haruna Danzago, the Managing Director of REMASAB, declined to comment, stating he was not the appropriate person to address the inquiries. 

“You should contact the Director of Operations, as he is responsible for answering these questions,” Danzago said.

Workers undergoing biometric 

Addressing the questions, Ibrahim Nasir, the Director of Operations at REMASAB, responded to some concerns.

He clarified that the organisation is currently working to resolve issues that have led to delays in worker payments. 

Nasir explained that a new biometric system had been introduced to centralise monthly salaries, but some workers had difficulties completing the biometric process. 

Regarding the alleged outstanding debt of seven months, Nasir disputed this claim, stating, “They owe us only three months, not seven. 

Some workers were previously disengaged but were later reinstated by the Kano State Government.”

Nasir indicated he was unaware of the allegations that workers were compelled to buy their own materials. 

He explained, “We typically purchase materials in bulk, and we have recently exhausted our stock. We are in the process of providing a new supply of materials.”