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By Sabiu Abdullahi

A Yobe photographer, Saidu Abdulrahman, has set a new benchmark by capturing 897 pictures in just 60 minutes, aiming to surpass the existing Guinness World Record of 500.

The record-breaking attempt came on Wednesday in Potiskum Local Government Area, witnessed by government officials, students, and well-wishers. 

Mr. Abdulrahman, 28, revealed that this remarkable feat was the result of 12 months of preparation. He expressed optimism about receiving formal recognition from Guinness World Records.

“I snapped 897 pictures in one hour, surpassing our target of 600 in spite of numerous challenges,” he stated.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has called on the Edo State governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to prioritise the development of his state while assuring him of the full support of the Federal Government and the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF).

President Tinubu advised on Thursday in Abuja at a meeting with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress party, where the Edo governor-elect and the deputy governor-elect, Rep.

Dennis Idahosa, presented their certificates of return.President Tinubu emphasised the importance of good governance and delivering results to the people of Edo State.

‘’Governor-elect, you can now face the task of development. We are here to work with you. You have seen the progressive governors of APC. They are truly progressive. Work with them. Learn the ropes, and I believe you are up to the task,” he said.

Acknowledging the challenges of democracy, particularly in emerging economies like Nigeria, the President added, ”You have earned the victory. Democracy is difficult, particularly in emerging democracies and economies like ours.

”If you hear complaints from places like America, you know how difficult it is to navigate democracy. But it remains the best form of government.

”The President congratulated Senator Okpebholo and his deputy and described them as a ”good symbol of people ordained by God to work together.””

By Uzair Adam

Justice Haleemah Salman of the Kwara State High Court has convicted five individuals linked to the 2018 Offa robbery incident, sentencing them to death for armed robbery, illegal possession of firearms, and culpable homicide.

The judge, during a judgement session that lasted three and a half hours, stated that all the evidence presented by the prosecution proved the suspects’ guilt.

The robbery, which occurred in April 2018, involved the killing of over 30 people, including policemen, and the looting of several banks in the community.In addition to the death sentence, the suspects received a three-year prison term for illegal possession of firearms.

The convicted individuals include Ayoade Akinnibosun, Ibikunle Ogunleye, Adeola Abraham, Salahudeen Azeez, and Niyi Ogundiran.

A sixth suspect, Michael Adikwu, died while in custody.Speaking after the judgement, the prosecution counsel attributed the lengthy trial to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and other national assignments.

Meanwhile, the defence counsel announced plans to appeal the ruling.

The high-profile robbery case initially shocked the nation, prompting the then Kwara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed, to offer a N5 million bounty for information leading to the capture and prosecution of the suspects.

The trial, which spanned six years, saw Thursday’s judgement bringing some closure to one of Nigeria’s most infamous robbery cases.

By Hassan Abdulkadir

The Fulani are traditionally a nomadic, pastoralist trading people across the dry hinterlands of their domain. They are the largest nomadic ethnic group in the world, inhabiting several territories over an area larger than the continental United States.

The Fulani follow a code of behaviour known as “PULAAKU,” which encompasses patience, self-control, discipline, prudence, modesty, respect for others (including foes), wisdom, foresight, personal responsibility, hospitality, courage, and hard work.

It wouldn’t be fair to judge an entire faith, religion, or tribe by the actions of a few aberrant individuals. It is more just to evaluate them based on the scriptures and teachings of the faith or the traditions and conventions of the tribe. 

History has shown that some of the greatest massacres committed on this planet were by individuals like Adolf Hitler, a European Jewish Christian. However, his actions were never equated with his religion or tribe. 

Similarly, Benito Mussolini and Menachem Begin, who were responsible for numerous atrocities, were not judged by their faith or tribe. Yet, when a single Fulani or Muslim individual commits an act of terrorism, the entire religion (Islam) or tribe (Fulani) is unjustly blamed.

Moreover, the most infuriating aspect of this situation is that many of these individuals are brainwashed and used by heartless people who are not Fulani. For example, videos circulating online vividly demonstrate this is true. In one instance, an arrested Fulani man explains how much the masterminds paid him after abducting someone. 

The amount given to the Fulani men is not even a quarter of the ransom collected, yet they are still blamed. It’s important to note that some of them are forced into this due to intimidation and life threats by the gangsters. These masterminds exploit the Fulani and Bedouins because they know the bush well. 

For God’s sake, as educated, wise, and prudent individuals, how can anyone believe that the people they consider inept could successfully carry out such complex operations without being caught? They can’t even perfectly operate phones. This is unfair. Such acts require logic, strategies, and prudence. However, due to biased perspectives, Nigerians are generalising the entire tribe instead of targeting the deceived and manipulated individuals among them.

Candidly, the truth must be trumpeted. When our southern brothers say “Hausa-Fulani,” they’re not referring to the tribe but to a Muslim or Northerner, whom they consider terrorists, bandits, and so on. Meanwhile, in some parts of the southern region of this country, there are places where humans are slaughtered like animals. Generalising the Fulani as bandits and terrorists is truly unfair and unjust.

All the calamities this country, especially the North, has been facing—such as insecurity, insurgency, banditry, terrorism, and critical hardship—are not due to the Fulani people but are the result of politics, business, and the selfishness of our unpatriotic and tyrannical politicians.

I urge the youth to be patriotic, equip themselves with adequate and pure knowledge, and engage in politics. The rich also have a crucial role to play by sponsoring these energetic youths in politics for the betterment of our country and for the coming generations to flourish.

May Nigeria prosper and thrive, amin.

Hassan Abdulkadir wrote via hassanabdulqadeerabubakar@gmail.com.

By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

The Nation’s clarion call resounds, and the youth—our graduates—respond. The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is central to this national narrative. Some may argue that these graduates bask in the comfort of government stipends for a year, while others counter, “How substantial is this money anyway? It’s merely enough to keep body and soul together.”

For many, this stipend transcends mere sustenance; it symbolises stability. Upon completion of their service year, the promise of a regular income dissipates like a mirage. As I approach the conclusion of my service year, my thoughts drift back to a reflection penned in 1993 by Yushau Shuaib, the esteemed publisher of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential.

His words resonate profoundly: “After the National Youth Service, what next? From here, where next? How long have you fantasised about your next port of call after dedicating your life to academic pursuits? Will you further your studies, seek employment, or perhaps get married?” If marriage is part of your post-service plans, ensure you save for the honeymoon.

As my time in NYSC draws to a close, I can’t help but ponder the uncertain future that awaits me and my fellow corps members. For many, this may mark the last time they receive a government-issued salary. Some leave the country for greener pastures, convinced that this nation offers them no future.

Others, however, have jobs waiting for them, merely contingent on their release from service. Yet, many corps members will never earn as much as they did during their service year; some may find even better opportunities, while others remain lost amidst uncertainty. In today’s society, we question: Are we destined to join the legions of unemployed graduates? Is education no longer the key to societal recognition?

We witness individuals with multiple degrees grappling to find viable employment, seemingly rendering education futile. The rise of the “Yahoo boys,” who embody the new elite without formal education, fosters the narrative that “school is a scam.” Our education system requires rigorous restructuring and oversight, but we also need a comprehensive reorientation of our values and aspirations.

One acquaintance is willing to resort to unethical means to secure a job, even contemplating bribery for a lucrative position, craving societal approval. But what of those lacking the financial means or connections? Who stands by us?

The fear of poverty could well be the beginning of misguided pursuits. Might some be tempted to resort to fraud, political thuggery, or even prostitution—now sanitised as “hookups”? Will others turn to terrorism or kidnapping, driven by necessity, as opportunities evaporate in the job market?

Private organizations face significant hiring constraints stifled by economic instability. In fact, many are laying off staff simply to stay afloat—how, then, can they possibly accommodate fresh graduates? What becomes of those of us unwilling to engage in illicit activities? Are we consigned to a life of struggle?

For some, the service year impedes success; for others, it serves as a crucible for personal growth and dream realisation. Some may even decline job offers, viewing the pay beneath them, while others face a daunting lack of direction.

How can we elevate our nation when out of millions of corps members, only a fraction—perhaps five hundred—find meaningful employment? And of those, many receive insufficient compensation to support a family amidst this unforgiving economy. How can youth deprived of job opportunities or financial means to foster their ventures lift our nation?

Nigeria has devolved into a landscape where viable jobs are an elite commodity. In the 70s and 80s, even an O-level holder could readily secure employment; today, the opposite rings true. Are we not at an impasse? Is my generation not doomed to suffer for the decisions of the past? While I believe in humbly serving my nation, this conviction must be matched with tangible opportunities.

To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: One crucial step toward alleviating terrorism and insecurity is ensuring job security for our youth. An idle mind may indeed become the devil’s workshop. If corps members exit service devoid of decent employment, they may turn to unlawful means for survival, jeopardising our nation’s safety.

In this digital age, AI has transformed many operational processes, executing tasks with unprecedented speed and efficacy. Yet, rather than perceiving AI as a threat to job security for corps members, we should embrace the potential for collaboration, where human creativity meets AI’s efficiency. Mastering this synergy could unlock exceptional possibilities in the workforce.

Mr. President, we recognize the intricacies of governance, but we implore you to prioritise job creation for corps members and youth. We are eager to contribute to national development with commitment and integrity, aspiring to build our nation through unity and loyalty.

To our security agencies: Strengthening your efforts requires greater employment prospects for youth, particularly graduates. Doing so would alleviate the rates of insecurity plaguing our nation. Please take our concerns to the President and collaborate with experts in the field.

We advocate for a specific percentage of corps members to be employed by the government upon the conclusion of each NYSC batch yearly. This initiative would instil hope in the youth, steering them away from crimes and social vices.

We extend our gratitude to the NYSC for the training and life lessons garnered throughout this journey. The NYSC must collaborate with the government to catalyse job creation amid an industrial revolution. Such a partnership would solidify the NYSC’s reputation as a cornerstone for job creation and national growth.

To our legislators, senators, and esteemed members of the National Assembly: We urge you to convene and enact laws that foster job creation through the NYSC scheme, benefitting graduate corps members.

State governments must also step up, providing increased employment opportunities for departing corps members. This collective effort can rekindle hope among the youth and everyday citizens, paving the way for national progress. Nigeria is our home; Nigeria is who we serve.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a candidate for national development and a Mass Communication graduate serving with PRNigeria in Abuja.

By Uzair Adam

Authorities in the Benin Republic have foiled an attempted coup, leading to the arrest of a former sports minister and a senior military commander.

The plot was allegedly scheduled for Friday, according to a statement from Elonm Metonou, the special prosecutor at Benin’s financial crimes and terrorism court.

On Tuesday night, Oswald Homeky, the former sports minister, was apprehended while handing over six bags of cash, totaling 1.5 billion West African CFA francs (approximately $2.5 million), to Djimon Dieudonne Tevoedjre, the commander of the republican guard and head of security for President Patrice Talon.

The transaction occurred around 1:00 am, and the cash was reportedly transported in Homeky’s Toyota Prado, which bore fake license plates.Prosecutors revealed that the funds were part of a broader conspiracy involving Homeky and Olivier Boko, a businessman and longtime friend of President Talon.

Boko, who was separately arrested on Monday in Cotonou, had recently signaled his intentions to run for the presidency in 2026, when Talon’s second term concludes.

Investigations indicate that Homeky and Boko paid the military commander to ensure no resistance from the republican guard during the planned coup.

Authorities also uncovered that the suspects had opened a bank account under the commander’s name in Côte d’Ivoire on August 6, as part of their preparation.

The arrests come amidst increasing criticism of President Talon’s administration, with detractors accusing him of undermining democratic institutions.

Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to apprehend other individuals involved in the conspiracy.

Since 2020, West Africa has witnessed a wave of military coups and attempts, with Benin now joining the list of nations grappling with threats to its political stability.

Metonou emphasized that efforts are underway to ensure justice is served and to prevent future attempts at destabilizing the country.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has directed an unconditional and compressive investigation into the allegations of bribery and corruption within the Nigerian correctional service (NCoS).

Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo unequivocally condermed the alleged reprehensible behavior, emphasizing that any form of indiscipline, unprofessionalism, and corruption will be met with zero tolerance and severe consequences within the paramilitary services under the ministry’s purview.

“The ministry will not tolerate any compromise on its core values of integrity, transparency, and accountability. We will leave no stone unturned in rooting out corruption and ensuring that those found culpable face the full wrath of the law,” Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said.

The minister has set up a special investigative panel headed by the permanent secretary of the ministry of interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, to probe these allegations and submit a comprehensive report.

Other members of the committee include Dr. Uju Agomuoh of prisoners Rehabilitation and welfare action (PRAWA) who will serve as the secretary;Mrs Eva Omatese, Director of legal ministry of interior, Mr. Usman Nasiru, Director of joint services ministry of interior, and Dr. Ikechukwu Ezeugo ( consultant Iyke) of the Brekete family show.

The minister reassures the public that the investigation will be rigorous, transparent, and impartial, and that appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken against any personel found guilty.

By Uzair Adam

The Federal Government has filed a fresh 16-count charge against Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State.

The charges, submitted on Wednesday at a Federal High Court in Abuja, allege a criminal breach of trust amounting to N110,446,470,089, in violation of sections 96 and 311 of the Penal Code Law Cap. 89 Laws of Northern Nigeria, 1963.

The offense is punishable under Section 312 of the same law.Bello, who was previously facing a 19-count charge by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), is now charged alongside two other Kogi State government officials, Abdulsalami Hudu and Umar Oricha.

The charge sheet reveals that the trio allegedly misappropriated funds from the Kogi State treasury to acquire properties in Abuja and Dubai.

One of the charges accuses the defendants of conspiring to commit a criminal breach of trust in 2016 in Abuja involving N110.4 billion.

Other charges include allegations that they used N950 million in 2023 to acquire a property at 35 Danube Street, Maitama, Abuja, and N100 million in 2021 to purchase another property in Gwarimpa I District, Abuja.

Additional charges state that N920 million was used in 2020 for a property in Asokoro, Abuja, while another N170 million was used to acquire property in Wuse Zone 4 in 2022.

Properties in Guzape District and Lome Street, Abuja, were allegedly purchased for N100 million each in 2018 and 2020, respectively.

Other acquisitions in Wuse 2, Maitama District, and Dubai were reportedly worth hundreds of millions.

One count also claims that the defendants spent over N310 million in 2017 to renovate a property in Wuse Zone 4.

Furthermore, two charges allege they transferred over $1 million to a TD Bank account in the United States in 2021.The EFCC first declared Bello wanted on April 18, 2024, over allegations of money laundering and misappropriation amounting to N80.2 billion.

Despite several attempts to apprehend him, Bello has managed to avoid arrest.In August 2024, the Court of Appeal in Abuja ordered Bello to surrender for arraignment.

However, reports suggest that the former governor has been in “protective custody” of the Kogi State government.

Bello’s media office recently claimed he visited the EFCC headquarters in September, but the anti-graft agency denied this, reaffirming that the former governor remains a wanted man.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Nine Adara Elders, who were arbitrarily imprisoned and later released in 2019, have dragged the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasiru el-Rufai, to court over alleged violations of their Fundamental Human Rights.

The claimants, led by the former Chairman of the Adara Development Association, Mr. Dio Maisamari, are demanding N2.3 billion in damages for arbitrary arrest, general and exemplary damages, and special damages due to the violation of their rights.

The case, which was heard at the Federal High Court in Kaduna, was adjourned by Justice Hauwa’u to allow for proper service to the respondents, in line with Order 5, Rule 7 of the Fundamental Human Rights Act.

Speaking to newsmen after the adjournment, counsel to the plaintiffs, Barrister Gloria Ballason, explained that her clients were unjustly imprisoned by the immediate past administration of the state for more than three months in 2019, only to be released after nothing was found against them.

“We are here on behalf of the Adara Elders, who were unjustly imprisoned in 2019. They have come to court seeking the enforcement of their fundamental rights,” she stated.

She further explained that their Chief, Raphael Maiwada Galadima, was killed under suspicious circumstances around the same time as the arrest, during the administration of Mallam Nasiru el-Rufai.

“My client, Mr. Dio Maisamari, along with eight others, was arrested when he attended a meeting to inquire about the situation. After spending over three months in detention, the court found no evidence against them, and the case was dismissed,” Barrister Ballason explained.

According to Ballason, Mallam Nasiru el-Rufai had personally directed the arrest of Mr. Maisamari, without any investigation or reasonable suspicion of a crime.

“The Nasiru el-Rufai administration was notorious for a series of rights violations, ranging from unlawful killings to wrongful imprisonments and attacks,” she said.

The claimants are seeking damages, including N900 million for arbitrary arrest, N100 million for general and exemplary damages, N500 million for additional damages, and N800 million for special damages due to the extent of the rights violations,” Ballason added.

By Usman Abdullahi Koli, ANIPR

In the rainbows of history, some leaders leave an indelible mark that time can never erase. Alhaji (Dr.) Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya, the revered Emir of Ningi, was one such leader. His influence reached far beyond the borders of his emirate, touching lives with his wisdom, strength, and dedication to his people. His departure marks the end of an era, a monumental loss not just for Ningi but for the entire nation.

Born in 1936, Alhaji Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya was destined for greatness. His educational journey began at Ningi Elementary School and continued through Bauchi Middle School. He later attended the School of Hygiene in Kano and earned a diploma in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Before ascending the throne in 1978, he made significant contributions to the Ningi Emirate Council, the Medical and Health Department, and other critical roles within the region’s governance.

Ningi Emirate, a land steeped in history and resilience, has long held strategic importance in northern Nigeria. Founded by Islamic scholars who migrated from Tsakuwa in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area of Kano State, the emirate’s origins are rooted in a principled stand against unjust taxation. Throughout his reign, Emir Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya upheld these principles, ensuring that justice, fairness, and equity remained the foundation of his leadership.

As Emir, Alhaji Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya was a steadfast guardian of tradition and a visionary leader who steered Ningi through an era of transformation and progress. Under his leadership, the emirate witnessed significant development initiatives that significantly improved the quality of life for its people. His reign was a masterful balance of tradition and modernity, preserving Ningi’s rich cultural heritage while driving progress.

The people of Ningi hold their late Emir in the highest esteem, remembering him as a just and fair leader deeply committed to their welfare. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations. 

We are reminded of the Hausa saying, “Kwari garin jan kaya, kwarin da ba ruwa ya ci mutum, da akwai ruwa da ya ci duniya,” which translates to, “The wasp is known for its resilience, even without water, it can take a man down; with water, it could conquer the world.” This saying, deeply rooted in the spirit of the Ningi Emirate, speaks to the enduring strength and determination that defined Emir Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya’s life. 

Another saying resonates within the emirate: “Ko yaki ya ci Ningi, zai bar Dutse,” meaning “Even if war defeats Ningi, it will leave behind its mountains. ” This demonstrates the resilience that the Emir exemplified throughout his reign.

His journey into royalty began in 1959 when he was turbaned as the District Head and Chiroman Ningi. Over the decades, his leadership was marked by wisdom, courage, and commitment to his people. More than just a ruler, he was a mentor, a guardian of tradition, and a beacon of progress. His reign embodied the resilience and strength of the Ningi Emirate, much like the majestic elephant known for its unyielding spirit.

Alhaji (Dr.) Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya’s legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those he served. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life dedicated to service, leadership, and the upliftment of his people. His contributions to the Ningi Emirate and to Nigeria will never be forgotten. Though the giant has fallen, his impact will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Usman Abdullahi Koli wrote via mernoukoli@gmail.com.