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By Ahmad Deedat Zakari 

The Sultan of Sokoto, Dr. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has insisted that the victims of the airstrike by the Nigerian Army must be properly compensated. 

The Sultan demanded justice at the Silver Anniversary of the 11th Emir of Jama’a, Alhaji Muhammad Isa Muhammad, on the throne at the Emir’s Palace in Kafanchan, Kaduna, on Friday. 

Recall that the Daily Reality earlier reported the bombardment of Muslim faithful celebrating Maulud in Tudun Biri Village in Kaduna State by the Nigerian Army. 

Commenting on their commitment to seeking justice for the Kaduna airstrike victims, the Sultan said, “We are here not only to celebrate the emir but to also pray for the emirate and the lives of those killed in Kaduna State. We are going to push for it until justice is served to the  people.” 

The Nigerian Army took responsibility for the massacre and described the situation as a ‘mistake’. 

However, replying to the Sultan, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, described the incident in Kaduna as highly regrettable. 

“Our duty is to protect the citizens, we are going to take a serious action to make sure something like this is not going to happen again anywhere in the country. The president has ordered a thorough investigation on it,” he said.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a strong caution to the public regarding the surge in illegal Naira banknotes circulating in the country.

CBN’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali, noted the gravity of the issue in a statement released on Friday, particularly highlighting the prevalence of counterfeit higher denominations. 

“The CBN has observed the circulation of counterfeit banknotes, especially higher denominations by some individuals,” warned Mr. Sidi Ali. 

These fake Naira notes are reportedly being used for transactions in food markets and commercial centres across major cities in Nigeria.

The CBN expressed its commitment to collaborating with relevant security and financial agencies to combat the circulation of counterfeit currency. 

“The law provides severe sanctions, including a term of imprisonment of not less than five years, for any person found culpable of counterfeiting Naira notes or any other legal tender in Nigeria,” stated Sidi Ali. 

The public is urged to report suspected cases of counterfeit Naira notes to the nearest police station, CBN branch, or via email at contactcbn@cbn.gov.ng.

In response to the rising concerns, financial institutions and the general public are advised to exercise increased vigilance and adopt precautionary measures to prevent the acceptance and distribution of counterfeit notes.

By Dr. Ismail Muhammad Bello

Abuse of Antibiotics: Abuse of antibiotics entails both overuse and misuse. Medical professionals, veterinary practitioners, drug vendors, animal farmers and individuals in the community are all culpable in this detrimental practice. 

Antibiotics Abuse in Veterinary Practice and Animal Husbandry: In humans, antibiotics are primarily utilized for therapeutic purposes, but in veterinary practice, they are extensively employed for non-therapeutic reasons, such as promoting growth to meet the rising global demand for animal protein. Even for therapeutic purposes, a common practice involves administering antibiotics, sometimes even below the therapeutic dose, to entire herds for “disease prevention” when only some animals are ill.

The environment plays a crucial role in the evolution and dissemination of antibiotic resistance. Major sources of antibiotic resistance genes and antibiotic pollution in the environment include waste from large-scale animal and aquaculture farms, wastewater from antibiotic manufacturing, as well as from hospitals and municipalities. A portion of the antibiotics administered to humans and animals is excreted unaltered in faeces and urine.  Such animal waste is rich in nutrients and commonly used as fertilizer on crop fields, resulting in direct environmental contamination with both antibiotic residues and resistant bacteria.

Antibiotics Abuse in Human Medicine: In human medical practice, the lack of adherence to standard treatment guidelines has led to unwarranted prescriptions of antibiotics by medical professionals. A common occurrence is the prescription of antibiotics for non-bacterial conditions like the common cold (viral rhinitis).

Antibiotics Abuse in Hospitals: Moreover, medical professionals are also guilty of prescribing these drugs below the standard treatment dosage or for a shorter duration, particularly at the primary level of healthcare. This is particularly important because correct dosing is pivotal in drug therapeutics and serves as a significant distinction between orthodox and traditional practitioners. Paracelsus succinctly captures this in his renowned toxicology maxim: “All drugs are poisons; the benefit depends on the dosage.”

A common scenario in pediatric practice involves practitioners prescribing drugs based on volume rather than the calculated amount per child’s body weight. For instance, it’s not uncommon for a child to receive a prescription for 5mls of Amoxiclav Suspension to be taken twice daily. This practice poses a challenge for pharmacists during dispensing, as Amoxiclav Suspension is available in various strengths, ranging from 125mg to as high as 600mg of Amoxicillin in a 5ml dose.

A related situation arises when patients are instructed to take 1, 2, or 3 tablets of medications with varying dosage forms and strengths. For instance, Amoxiclav is available in tablets with 250mg, 500mg, 875mg, and 1000mg of Amoxicillin. This leaves the patient reliant on the drug vendor to select and dispense from his catalog, potentially leading to under-dosage or over-dosage, unless fortunate enough to be attended by a skilled pharmacist.

Another related practice involves the management of children with fever and multiple convulsions. In our setting, top among the list of differentials are severe malaria and acute bacterial meningitis. These conditions can be effectively distinguished through thorough good history-taking, physical examinations and investigations such as malaria parasite test (MP), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis and full blood count. Despite evidence favouring one treatment over the other, some practitioners often combine parenteral antibiotics and anti-malarials. While simultaneous severe infections are not impossible, they are typically uncommon, emphasizing the merciful nature of God.

The repercussions of this lack of precision extend beyond medical concerns to economic ones, particularly in our context. An unnecessary 7-10 day antibiotic course can result in an additional estimated bill of approximately N40,000 ($50.66). A good brand of Ceftriaxone nowadays costs about N2500-N6000 ($3.2-$7.6) per vial, varying by location. This is a significant expenditure for a country with the highest level of poverty globally compounded by a poor health insurance scheme and a paltry minimum wage of N33,000 ($41.8).

Such harmful practices may result in under-dosing, subjecting organisms to sub-therapeutic drug levels which are nonlethal, promoting drug resistance. It’s comparable to confronting a machine gun-wielding terrorist with a tiny stick, eliciting a reaction that can only be better imagined.

In this regard, health professionals should undergo continuous training on the proper use of antibiotics and adhere to standard treatment guidelines in disease management. Health institutions should also implement antibiotic stewardship programs to systematically educate and guide practitioners in the effective utilization of these drugs.

Job aids should be provided to assist in the accurate prescription of medicines. In this context, both healthcare workers and patients should recognize that medical practice is guided by the principle of “Primum Non-nocere” – First, do no harm – underscoring the importance of patient safety. Both patients and practitioners must understand that cross-checking when uncertain is not a sign of incompetence but a commitment to due diligence. Patient safety surpasses individual egos, as it’s wiser to be safe than sorry. Physicians’ reactions to patients’ treatment expectations contribute significantly to inappropriate antibiotic use. This often occurs when a patient arrives with preconceived notions about their condition and preferred medications. Emphasis should be placed on educating the patient rather than yielding to their requests and pressure. Patients need to be adequately counselled on their condition and the reasons why prescribed medication may not be necessary. Additionally, physicians should be mindful that non-drug therapies can be as effective, or even superior, in certain conditions.

Dr. Ismail Muhammad Bello is a proud graduate of ABU Zaria. He is a Malnutrition Inpatient Care trainer and currently serves as a Medical Officer at both Khalifa Sheikh Isyaka Rabiu Paediatric Hospital in Kano and Yobe State Specialists Hospital in Damaturu. He can be reached at ismobello@gmail.com

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Chief Superintendent of Customs, Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer (NPRO) of the Nigeria Customs Service, has clinched the esteemed ‘Spokesperson of the Year’ Award bestowed by Spokesperson’s Digest, a division of Image Merchant Public Relations. 

The award ceremony, graced by notable personalities, in Abuja served as a commendation of Maiwada’s exceptional contributions to public relations and steadfast dedication to the Nigeria Customs Service. 

In an exclusive post-award interview with NCBN correspondents, Maiwada credited his success to both personal commitment and the collaborative efforts of his team.

He said, “This accolade not only acknowledges my dedication but also inspires me to elevate my contributions further. My motivation comes from a deep passion for my work and the unwavering support of my dedicated team.”

Maiwada, recognised for his dynamic leadership, underscored the collective endeavours of his team as the driving force behind the prestigious acknowledgment.

His words read, “Today’s recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of my team, serving as a motivating force to strive for excellence.”

Expressing gratitude for the guidance and backing from the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR and his management team, Maiwada emphasised the importance of extracting the utmost value from his work.

In addition to recognising Maiwada’s professional prowess, praise was accorded to the National PRO’s commitment to mentorship.

He urged organisers to consistently acknowledge the dedication and enthusiasm of media practitioners and agencies, stressing the need to uphold a culture of recognising significant contributions in their respective domains. 

Concluding his remarks, Maiwada extended heartfelt appreciation to Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Headquarters Adeogun Alajogun, the representative of the CGC at the event.

He acknowledged Alajogun’s pivotal role as his direct supervisor in the Nigeria Customs Service Public Relations Unit.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Nobel Prize in Literature winner Jon Fosse has opened up about his early struggles as a writer and the role of writing in his life in his laureate speech delivered on Thursday. 

Fosse, whose works include the Septology series of novels Aliss at the Fire, Melancholy, and A Shining, was awarded the Nobel Prize in October “for his innovative plays and prose, which give voice to the unsayable”. 

Overcoming Fear and Finding Voice 

In his speech, Fosse spoke about the challenges he faced early in his career, including negative criticism.

He revealed that if he had listened to his critics, he would have stopped writing 40 years ago. 

He also touched on the recurring theme of suicide in his work, expressing concern that it might have contributed to its normalization.

However, he was also moved by readers who shared how his writing had saved their lives. “In a sense, I have always known that writing can save lives. Perhaps it has even saved my own life,” he said.

“And if my writing also can help to save the lives of others, nothing would make me happier.” 

Music and Writing 

Fosse drew parallels between music and writing, explaining how his teenage passion for music, particularly rock guitar, eventually led him to write.

He shared how he tried to capture the feeling of playing music in his writing. 

The Flow of Writing 

Fosse also discussed his writing process, describing how he sometimes feels like the text already exists and he simply needs to transcribe it before it disappears.

He added that the lack of full stops in his novel Septology was not a deliberate choice, but rather a natural outcome of his writing flow. 

Septology: A Reflection on Aging 

Fosse concluded his speech by talking about his novel Septology, which tells the story of an ageing painter named Asle reflecting on his life. 

A Message of Hope and Resilience 

Fosse’s speech was a deeply personal and insightful reflection on the power of writing and its impact on both his own life and the lives of others.

His message of overcoming fear, finding voice, and the potential of writing to save lives is a powerful one that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pull of the written word.

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari

An Islamic Organization, Ummah for Da’awa & Humanitarian Services, has called on the government to do justice to the victims of the airstrike by the Nigerian Army.

The group demanded thorough investigation into the matter and requested that the victims and the families of the deceased be compensated.

The group made their stance known while expressing their pain and sadness over the matter in a statement on Thursday.

The statement reads in part: “We call on the relevant authorities to exercise a deep investigation into the matter to know
the factors that caused the unfortunate
event and to take good actions against the forces that played a role.

“We also advise the government, both at the state and federal levels to pay ransom to the affected families to alleviate the pains and plights that accompanied the incident. We all know that lost lives cannot be returned but their families can be consoled.”

The airstrike dubbed as mistake by the Nigerian Army killed scores of Muslims observing Maulud in Tudun Biri Village, Kaduna State.

Dear Vice-Chancellor,

We are writing to express our concern regarding the enrolment of recruited staff at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA), Katsina State, on the IPPIS. Despite completing all necessary documentation processes and waiting for almost three years, there has been significant uncertainty surrounding the actual enrolment of the affected employees.

This issue has caused pain and disappointment among the recruited staff. The delay not only impacts the morale and confidence of the affected employees but also raises questions about the efficiency of FUDMA’s bureaucratic administrative processes. Some have resigned from their previous employment, anticipating working at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma. The anticipation has been prolonged, and the affected workers need to know whether there are still possibilities for them to be captured on the IPPIS or not.

It is essential to acknowledge the efforts invested by the new recruits in completing their documentation promptly. Failing to enrol them in a timely manner not only hinders their ability to contribute effectively to the university but also reflects poorly on the university’s commitment to its employees.

I urge you to address this matter promptly, identify the reasons for the delay, and take necessary actions to expedite the enrolment process for the recruited staff. Open and transparent communication regarding the steps being taken to resolve this issue will help alleviate concerns and maintain FUDMA’s reputation for professionalism and efficiency.

Your immediate intervention in addressing all allegations of employment racketeering is highly appreciated, as it directly impacts the well-being of your tenure as the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsin-Ma and its staff.

Pending IPPIS FUDUMA Staff. They can be contacted via aishaumarabdullah2000@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Engausa, a prominent digital skills learning centre located in Unit E35/36 Technology Incubation Centre, Farm Centre, Kano, Nigeria, has announced the commencement of registrations for its upcoming ENGAUSA CATCH THEM YOUNG classes.

The classes, tailored for children, will be conducted during school holidays, providing a unique opportunity for young learners to enhance their digital skills in an engaging and educational environment. 

Parents and guardians are encouraged to enrol their children, especially those who participated in the previous vacation classes.

This allows them to continue building on the knowledge and skills they acquired during their previous sessions. 

The digital skills learning centre emphasises the urgency of registration, urging interested parents to act promptly to secure a spot for their children in the upcoming classes.

With a commitment to fostering early exposure to digital literacy, Engausa aims to equip young minds with essential skills for the rapidly evolving digital landscape. 

Engausa’s initiative aligns with the broader goal of promoting technology education and creating a foundation for future innovators.

As the classes are anticipated to fill up quickly, prospective participants are advised to register promptly to ensure their inclusion in this valuable educational opportunity. 

For further details and registration, interested parties can contact Engausa through the following phone numbers: 07038224643, 0701 513 0683, or 0708 886 1618.

Alternatively, interested persons can visit the official website at EngausaHub.com or EngausaAcademy.com for comprehensive information on the programmes offered.

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari 

The National Judicial Council, NJC, has recommended the appointment of 43 jurists to the Bench of the different courts across the country.

The apex court is expected to have 11 new justices upon confirmation by the President.  

The Director of Information of the NJC, Soji Oye, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.    

According to Mr Oye, the swearing-in of all recommended candidates to the Supreme Court bench will take place after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approves their recommendation and the Senate confirms their appointment.

He also stated that various heads of court recommended would also be sworn-in upon the approval of their appointment by their various state governors and subsequent confirmation of same by their respective state Houses of Assembly. 

The statement read, “The NJC, at its 104th meeting on Wednesday, December 6 considered the list of candidates presented by its Interview Committee and at the end of deliberations, recommended the under-listed names of successful candidates as heads of courts and other judicial officers for the Federal and State Courts in Nigeria.” 

They are as follows:

ELEVEN JUSTICES, SUPREME COURT OF NIGERIA 

Hon. Justice Jummai Hannatu Sankey, OFR

Hon. Justice Chidiebere Nwaoma Uwa

Hon. Justice Chioma Egondu Nwosu-Iheme

Hon. Justice Haruna Simon Tsammani

Hon. Justice Moore Aseimo A. Adumein

Hon. Justice Obande Festus Ogbuinya

Hon. Justice Stephen Jonah Adah

Hon. Justice Habeeb Adewale O. Abiru

Hon. Justice Jamilu Yammama TukurHon. Justice Abubakar Sadiq Umar

Hon. Justice Mohammed Baba Idris 

ONE JUSTICE, COURT OF APPEAL 

Hon. Justice Mohammed Ahmed Ramat 

CHIEF JUDGE TARABA STATE 

Hon. Justice Joel Filibus Agya 

CHIEF JUDGE, KEBBI STATE

Hon. Justice Umar Abubakar. 

GRAND KADI, SHARIA COURT OF APPEAL, KEBBI STATE 

Hon. Kadi Sadiq Usman Mukhtar 

PRESIDENT, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, OGUN STATE 

Hon. Justice A. O. Femi-Segun 

PRESIDENT, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, TARABA STATE 

Hon. Justice Alfred Yakubu 

PRESIDENT, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, OYO STATE 

Hon. Justice Tajudeen M. Abdulganiyu 

ONE HIGH COURT JUDGE, BAYELSA STATE 

Amaebi Ibomo Orukari 

ONE HIGH COURT JUDGE, OGUN STATE Akinyemi Martins Ayodele 

THREE HIGH COURT JUDGES, CROSS RIVER STATE 

Ama Edet Ekpo

Theresa Ansa Agom

Jalarth Ogar Agim 

THREE KADIS, SHARIA COURT OF APPEAL, ZAMFARA STATE 

Aminu Abdullahi Gusau

Usman Hassan Gummi

Hadi Sani 

TWO KADIS, SHARIA COURT OF APPEAL, NASARAWA STATE 

Abubakar Ahmad Tijjani

Aliyu Ibrahim Ebbema 

NINE HIGH COURT JUDGES, KANO STATE; 

Fatima Adamu

Hauwa Lawal Umar

Musa Ahmad

Musa Daihuru Mohammed

Farida Rabiu Danbappa

Halima Aliyu Nasir

Aisha Mahmoud

Adam Abdullahi

Hanif Sanusi Yusuf  

ONE JUDGE, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, BAYELSA STATE 

Opokuma David Lawrence 

FOUR HIGH COURT JUDGES, NASARAWA STATE 

Esther Mami Ejeh

Ibrahim Dauda Shekarau

Musa Muhammad Dallah

Makama Tanze Benjamin  

TWO JUDGES, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, OGUN STATE 

Awoyomi Bolanle Adenike

Lawal Adeniyi Olusanya

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Gunmen attacked the secretary of the Kogi State governorship election tribunal on Monday, stealing sensitive petition documents related to the recent election. 

Police confirmed the incident, stating the attackers took petitions filed by five political parties. 

The stolen documents included petitions from the Action Alliance, Action People’s Party, Peoples Redemption Party, Social Democratic Party, and two record books. 

The attack occurred near the Central Bank of Nigeria office around 1:20 p.m.

The police have launched a thorough investigation and urged the public to refrain from speculative statements that could prejudice the probe. 

Both the Social Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress have traded accusations over the attack, raising concerns about the security of election-related materials and potential intimidation.