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By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

The immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has insisted that he did not embezzle public funds while in office, saying he is ready to swear with the Qur’an. 

The former governor said he joined politics solely to serve the people, not to seek money or steal public funds. El-Rufai made this statement during a Hausa program aired on Freedom Radio station in Kaduna on Tuesday morning. 

He stressed that he was content with what he had even before becoming governor. Recall that the Kaduna State Assembly indicted El-Rufai’s administration for allegedly misappropriating over N423 billion during his eight-year tenure. 

However, the ex-governor and his allies have denied the allegations, claiming they are being witch-hunted by the Assembly and the state government. 

El-Rufai added that he is prepared to swear on the Quran whenever former state governors and current leaders do the same to affirm they never misappropriated public funds. 

He said, “I was quiet to see how things would turn out, but for me, I always ask God to help me in whatever I do in life because, as a human being, I always try not to do anything wrong or betray the people’s trust. 

“I always say that whenever the former governors of Kaduna State and other leaders decide to take an oath swearing with the Quran that they never took people’s money, I’m also ready to swear.

“This is because I know that I didn’t go into public service to steal or take people’s money. I joined politics only to serve the people of Kaduna State; I didn’t come to look for money, because I give glory to God that I’m content with what I had even before becoming governor.

“Yet, we were accused of misappropriation of funds during our tenure without being given a specific area where the money went missing or who took it. 

“Yet they are going after my allies by inviting them to the ICPC and EFCC with the intention of tarnishing their names. As for me, I had already prayed two Raka’at on Friday night, leaving everything to God, seeking His judgment. This is why I’m not saying much about the issue.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Samsung is reportedly considering a major shake-up in its flagship Galaxy S line, potentially discontinuing the base model by 2026.

According to well-known leaker Ice Universe, the company may forgo the Galaxy S26 and instead launch only the Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26 Ultra in January 2026.

The alleged decision is driven by the base model’s decreasing competitiveness in the market, especially as Chinese brands prepare to release smaller devices with flagship-level specs.

While the Galaxy S25 is expected to hold its ground, its successor, the Galaxy S26, may struggle to remain viable.

This move would reflect Samsung’s strategy with its flagship tablet line, where the standard Galaxy Tab S10 was discontinued, which left only the Galaxy Tab S10+ and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra.

While Ice Universe has a solid track record, this rumor should be approached with caution, as the source is known for occasional exaggeration.

If true, this development would mark a notable shift in Samsung’s flagship smartphone strategy, and will focus on premium models and potentially redefining the Galaxy S.

By Anwar Usman

The governor of Kano state, Abba Kabir Yusuf says Nigeria is suffering from serious problems that require bold and innovative solutions to address.

He urged residents of the state to imbibe the spirit of patriotism to ensure that the sacrifices of Nigeria’s forefathers were not in vain.

Yusuf made the call at the celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary held at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Tuesday.

He said, “As we stand on the shoulders of giants, we must ask ourselves: What will be our contribution to the future of this great state? How will we ensure that the sacrifices made by our forefathers were not in vain? As we look ahead to the future, let us do so with optimism, unity, and a shared sense of purpose.

“Let us draw inspiration from our past achievements, learn from our challenges, and march forward with courage and conviction. Together, we can overcome any obstacle, achieve any goal, and realize the full potential of our great nation.

“Fellow Nigerians, it is clear that we face significant obstacles in our time. From economic pressures to social inequalities, from security concerns to the impacts of climate change, we are confronted with obstacles that require bold and innovative solutions. Yet, we cannot allow these challenges to deter us from our goal of building a better future for all citizens of Kano State and Nigeria at large.”

The governor while expressing optimism about a brighter future said it however lies in the ability of the citizens to work together, just as the country’s forefathers did.

He assured the public of his administration’s readiness to remain focused towards fulfilling the promises of delivering people oriented projects that will have positive impacts on the lives of the masses and the general development of the state.

By Uzair Adam

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration is taking steps to address the high cost of living, which is a growing concern both locally and globally.

During his Independence Day address on Tuesday, he acknowledged that food prices and overall living expenses are at the forefront of national worries.

“The central concern of our people today is the high cost of living, especially food costs,” Tinubu said.

He explained that his government is implementing several measures aimed at alleviating the situation.

Tinubu praised the governors of Kebbi, Niger, Jigawa, Kwara, Nasarawa, and the Southwest for their participation in his administration’s agricultural production program and encouraged other states to follow suit by investing in mechanized farming.

He also highlighted the recent approval by the Federal Executive Council to establish a local assembly plant for 2,000 John Deere tractors and other farm equipment, which is expected to be completed in six months.

In addition to addressing agricultural production, the President spoke on the ongoing energy transition program and plans to expand the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for mass transit, with government support available for states and the FCT to acquire CNG buses.

While working to stabilize the economy, Tinubu noted the importance of national unity and social harmony, reiterating his commitment to fostering peace and cohesion in the country.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has granted clemency to 23 convicts as part of the celebrations marking the state’s 28th anniversary and Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day.

This was made known in the Governor’s goodwill message to the people of Gombe State and the nation on the dual occasions.

The clemency announced by the Governor extends beyond the release of convicts, as he also commuted life sentences for two individuals to 15 years, reduced two death sentences to life imprisonment, adjusted one detainee’s sentence to 10 years, and commuted the death sentences of four death row inmates to 15 years in prison.

The Governor explained that these actions followed the recommendations of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy. He expressrd hope that the pardoned individuals will seize the opportunity for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

While reflecting on the progress made in Gombe State since its creation in 1996, as well as the challenges facing the state and the country, the Governor urged citizens to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that these are the cornerstones of the state’s development.

He noted the economic difficulties many citizens are currently facing, particularly in light of the removal of fuel subsidies and the resulting inflation.

While acknowledging the strain this has placed on families, Governor Inuwa reaffirmed the state’s commitment to easing the burden through palliative measures, citing food distribution programme reaching over 750,000 beneficiaries and transport allowances for state workers, with further discussions underway regarding the implementation of a new minimum wage.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also reflected on the state’s achievements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, pointing out that his administration had constructed over 900 kilometers of roads across all Local Government Areas, expanded healthcare facilities, and improved access to education through the construction of classrooms and recruitment of teachers.

As Gombe State looks to the future, the Governor pledged continued focus on empowering youth, supporting farmers, and improving the quality of life for families across the state.

He called on citizens to remain patient and united in the face of economic challenges, expressing confidence that current reforms would eventually lead to a more resilient and prosperous future.

Governor Inuwa, who is also the Chairman of Northern States Governors’ Forum, urged citizens to celebrate with gratitude for the progress made and renewed commitment to building a future defined by unity, prosperity, and opportunity for all.

He prayed for peace and stability in Gombe and across Nigeria, reiterating his administration’s commitment to ensuring the state’s long-term growth and success in line with its development agenda.

By Anwar Usman

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

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

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

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

By Anwar Usman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

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

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

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

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

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

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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