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By Uzair Adam

The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has appointed Ado Inuwa as the new Controller of the Kano State Command.

Prior to his new role, Inuwa served as the Controller of Corrections in Jigawa State, according to a statement released on Wednesday by SC Musbahu Lawan Kofar Nasarawa.

During the handover ceremony, Inuwa urged officers and personnel of the command to extend their full cooperation in achieving the objectives of both the command and the service.

He succeeds CC Sulaiman Muhammad Inuwa, who retired after 35 years of dedicated service.

Inuwa expressed gratitude for the warm reception he received and encouraged staff to work collectively in supporting both inmates and those on non-custodial sentences.

He also called on other security agencies in the state to collaborate in strengthening Kano’s security.

By Uzair Adam

The federal government has finalized arrangements to destroy seized illicit arms and ammunition from various criminals by the end of September.

Additionally, outdated, decommissioned, and unserviceable weapons submitted by law enforcement agencies will be permanently removed from circulation.

During a workshop in Abuja on Tuesday, retired DIG Johnson Kokumo, Coordinator of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), revealed that on July 1, 2024, a substantial cache of illegal arms was recovered from the Nigeria Customs Service.

Investigations led to the arrest of 10 suspects involved in the illicit arms importation, and they are currently undergoing prosecution.

Kokumo also disclosed that NCCSALW has retrieved a total of 3,383 decommissioned and unserviceable small arms and 26,749 rounds of various ammunition.

An arms destruction exercise will be held later this quarter to ensure these weapons are permanently removed from circulation.

The workshop, focusing on gender mainstreaming in preventing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria and West Africa, was attended by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, represented by his Director of External Affairs, Ibrahim Babani.

Ribadu noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had signed a bill aimed at curbing the spread of small arms and light weapons across the country.

By Kasim Isa Muhammad

I commend the Yobe State Universal Basic Education Board (YSUBEB), led by Acting Chairman Mallam Isa Shettima, for organizing a comprehensive training program for public school teachers across the state.

This commendable initiative, in collaboration with UNICEF, has equipped educators with essential skills to teach at the appropriate levels, thereby enhancing the quality of education in Yobe State.

The training program covers all geopolitical zones, including Damaturu, Potiskum, and Nguru, showcasing YSUBEB’s commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind.

By investing in teacher development, the board is addressing important aspect of education, acknowledging that educators play a vital role in shaping young minds.

UNICEF’s contributions to Yobe State’s educational system, especially during the Boko Haram insurgency, have been invaluable. The organization’s dedication to promoting access to quality education, even in challenging circumstances, is truly commendable.

The partnership between YSUBEB and UNICEF serves as a model for effective collaboration, demonstrating the potential for meaningful change when stakeholders unite toward a common goal.

By pooling resources and expertise, they have created a comprehensive training program tailored to the specific needs of Yobe State’s educators. A significant benefit of this training program is its focus on teaching at the right level.

By imparting knowledge at an appropriate pace, educators enable students to grasp complex concepts, build solid foundations, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning.

Moreover, the program’s emphasis on engaging young pupils reflects YSUBEB and UNICEF’s recognition of the importance of early childhood education.

Research consistently shows that investments in early learning yield substantial returns, shaping future academic success and overall life outcomes.

As trained teachers return to their classrooms, it is crucial for them to implement their newfound knowledge. I encourage educators to seize this opportunity and integrate innovative teaching methods and strategies into their practice.

YSUBEB and UNICEF’s commitment to education extends beyond the training program; they work tirelessly to tackle systemic challenges, improve infrastructure, and foster inclusive learning environments.

The success of this initiative relies on sustained support and collaboration. I urge stakeholders—including policymakers, community leaders, and civil society organizations—to rally behind YSUBEB and UNICEF.

In conclusion, the YSUBEB-UNICEF teacher training program is a groundbreaking initiative poised to create a lasting impact on Yobe State’s education landscape.

Kasim Isa Muhammad wrote from Damaturu, Yobe State.

By Prof. Abdussamad Umar Jibia

On the 10^th of June 2020 at about 5 pm, armed bandits stormed Kadisau village of Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State. The bandits, who came on dozens of motorcycles, opened fire on the villagers, killing anyone unable to escape alive. Fifty-seven people, including men, women and children, were killed in the operation that lasted four hours with no intervention from Federal security forces, who were said to be on the highway 5 kilometres away. The criminals later moved to nearby villages, where they killed an additional 30 people.

Ado Aleru, a well-known bandit commander in Zamfara state, led the bandits. Katsina state police command later declared Ado Aleru wanted and put a price of five million Naira on his head.

Two years later, precisely on Saturday, 16^th July 2022, Nigerians were shocked to hear that the man responsible for the murder of innocent Nigerian women and children was turbaned with a traditional title in Zamfara state. 

The turbaning of Aleru was a gathering of some of the most deadly criminals responsible for acts of terror in the Northwestern and North central geopolitical zones of Nigeria. On the ground to witness the ceremony were officials of the Zamfara State Government, including the state Commissioner of internal security. In other words, the turbaning was done with the knowledge and approval of the State Government under Governor Bello Matawalle. Surprisingly, some senior police officers graced the occasion without arresting the person they declared wanted two years earlier.

Soon after the ceremony, the Katsina State Government under Aminu Bello Masari indicated its disapproval of the chieftaincy title conferred on the criminal. It maintained that it was still looking for Ado Aleru.

Years later, nothing changed. The centre remained weak, and life continued. However, the people of Zamfara did what was needed by voting Matawalle out of power in the 2023 election.

If the only atrocity the former Governor of Zamfara State committed was facilitating the conferment of a traditional title to such a deadly criminal, he deserves retirement from Nigerian politics and prosecution after office. Alas! He was rewarded with a ministerial position in the ministry that is supposed to rid Nigeria of terrorists like Ado Aleru. Only in Nigeria. Allah Ya sauwake.

Recently, additional allegations have been made about how the then-governor of Zamfara state hobnobbed with bandits and supported them with the lean resources of the Zamfara people. I am referring to a viral video of a Sokoto-based Islamic Scholar, Sheikh Murtala Bello Asada. Asada, who claimed that he had incontrovertible evidence on all his claims against the former Governor, challenged Matawalle to take him to court. 

Among the allegations Sheikh Asada made against Matawalle is his support of one Haruna Dole. According to Asada, Haruna, a famous bandit kingpin with more than 500 rifles under him, was arrested and taken to Police Headquarters Abuja. Sheikh Asada added that Bello Matawalle, as the Governor of Zamfara state, made a phone call and asked for Dole’s release. The criminal was released to one Bashar, who signed and received the bandit on behalf of Governor Matawalle. He said the document carrying Bashar’s signature and picture would still be available at the Force Headquarters.

According to Sheikh Asada, Matawalle is also a friend of the dreaded bandit Bello Turji. Asada mentioned a visit Turji paid to Zamfara State Government House when Matawalle was Governor. Turji had lunch with the governor, who served him personally. Later, the governor gave him an undisclosed amount of cash and allowed him to return to the bush to continue his criminal activities.

Another bandit kingpin who was friends with Matawalle was Chedi. According to Asada, Matawalle bought a house for Chedi in the Gidan Dutse quarters of Gusau. Uncomfortable with it, residents of Gusau protested and made a mob attack on Chedi and ended his life. Matawalle then ordered the arrest of several people. On the day of their arraignment, overwhelming crowds of Gusau people stormed the court, and Matawalle had no choice but to order the release of the people. It ended there.

In addition to all these, Sheikh Asada listed some criminals who allegedly received Hilux operational vehicles from Matawalle when he was Governor. They include Turji, Aleru and Halilu Sububu.

The allegations are weighty and sum up to one thing: the current Minister of State of Defence deployed to the North West by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fight banditry, an alleged friend of bandits who supports them financially.

The position of anybody interested in protecting the lives and property of Nigerians would be clear. Mr President should investigate these allegations and, if found true, prosecute the former Governor. Yes, allegations are allegations until they are investigated and found to be true. But if the Nigerian government refuses to conduct a transparent investigation, what would prevent Nigerians from believing them?

But even as investigations are carried out, Mr Matawalle has no business remaining in the Ministry of Defence. Maybe another ministry.

If the executive branch is not ready to take action, where is our National Assembly? Do they believe these allegations against a government official in charge of fighting security are not serious? Go figure!

Professor Abdussamad Umar Jibia wrote from Kano via aujibia@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved the Bill for the establishment of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW).

The announcement was made during a workshop on gender mainstreaming in efforts to prevent the proliferation of small arms and light weapons across Nigeria and the West African sub-region, held on Tuesday in Abuj.

Represented by Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, Director of External Affairs at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Ribadu emphasized that the president’s assent marks a key step in curbing the spread of illegal arms in the country.

The legislative backing, he explained, will empower the centre to take more coordinated and impactful actions.

Ribadu also highlighted the significance of incorporating gender perspectives in efforts to combat the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, stressing that women and children are disproportionately affected by armed conflicts.

He referenced international frameworks such as the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which advocates for protecting women from conflict-related harm while promoting their involvement in peacebuilding and security measures.

The National Coordinator of NCCSALW, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Johnson Kokumo, outlined recent achievements of the centre. Among them, the retrieval of a large cache of illegal arms from the Nigeria Customs Service on July 1, and the arrest of 10 individuals involved in illegal arms smuggling.

The suspects are currently being prosecuted under various national laws.Kokumo also reported that the centre has recovered over 3,000 decommissioned or obsolete small arms and nearly 27,000 rounds of ammunition from government agencies.

These will be permanently destroyed later this quarter as part of an arms destruction exercise. He underscored the importance of addressing illegal arms flow both nationally and internationally, noting that it contributes to violence and insecurity globally.

He further emphasized the necessity of adopting a gender-sensitive approach in controlling small arms and light weapons, calling it both a moral and strategic imperative given the severe impact of armed conflict on vulnerable populations.

The workshop marks a significant step in ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into arms control strategies at both national and regional levels.

By Uzair Adam

The 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, based in Jalingo, has called on residents of Taraba State, particularly in Jalingo and Yorro Local Government Areas, to remain calm during a military shooting exercise.

According to Captain Olubodunde Oni, spokesperson for the Brigade, the exercise is part of the Army’s Annual Range Classification Phase 2 and will take place at the Jimlari military range from September 17 to September 19, 2024.

The Daily Reality gathered that the aim is to improve the troops’ weapon handling and maintenance skills.

Residents have been cautioned to expect the movement of troops and equipment, including live ammunition firing at the range.

To ensure public safety, the Army has urged people to avoid the 114 Battalion Rear Jimlari Shooting Range during this period.

Similar military drills have been carried out in other states like Gombe and Oyo, aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of military personnel.

The Army recently established new battalions, including the 114 Battalion in Taraba, to bolster security in the region.

By Uzair Adam  

President Bola Tinubu announced on Monday that the Federal Government would set up a disaster relief fund to provide assistance to Nigerian citizens affected by floods and other natural disasters. 

The President made this declaration during his visit to Borno State, where he sympathised with the government and people affected by flooding in various areas due to the overflow of Alau Dam.  

He noted the urgency of the fund, citing the unpredictability of climate change and the increasing vulnerability of many regions across the country. 

President Tinubu noted that the Federal Government would collaborate with the private sector to establish the relief fund.  

He was accompanied by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who expressed the National Assembly’s willingness to work with the Executive in establishing the fund. 

During his visit, Tinubu also stopped by the palace of the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn El-Kanem, an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp at the Government Secondary School in Maiduguri, and toured the flood-affected areas. 

“After visiting the Shehu of Borno and the IDP camp, I’ve been reflecting on how to address disasters like this and the broader effects of climate change. 

“There must be a disaster relief fund. I plan to involve the private sector in helping to rebuild the affected areas. If we allocate a small percentage of FAAC to the disaster relief fund, it will strengthen our sense of unity and responsibility,” Tinubu said.  

Tinubu expressed his gratitude to the governors who provided support to Borno State, including Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu, and Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo. 

He also praised the efforts of various ministries, agencies, security forces, particularly the military, and international organizations working on evacuating victims and offering relief in the state.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The House of Representatives Committee on Navy has vowed to investigate the unlawful detention of Seaman Abbas Haruna for nearly six years, allegedly on the instruction of one Brigadier General MS Adamu, with a pledge to ensure that all those involved in the saga face the full consequences of their actions.

The ordeal of Seaman Abbas, as narrated by his wife, Mrs. Hussaina Iliyasu, on “Berekete,” a Human Rights Television program, began in 2018 when he was drafted for joint operations in Sarti Baruwa, Taraba State, where he was to serve under the command of Brigadier M.S. Adamu.

However, a misunderstanding ensued between the duo, leading to his detention under inhumane conditions for several years without a proper trial as enshrined in the Armed Forces Act 2004 Law of the Federation of Nigeria.

The inhuman treatment meted out to the naval personnel over a minor misunderstanding with his superior army officer had made many in the studio shed tears while his wife narrated her husband’s ordeal.

The degree of heartlessness exhibited by Brigadier General M. S. Adamu toward his subordinate over a minor incident has drawn wide condemnation from millions of conscientious Nigerians who heard the story.

The pathetic story of Seaman Abbas Haruna, highlighted on ‘Berekete’, has prompted the House of Representatives Committee on Navy to investigate the matter with the aim of uncovering the truth and upholding the integrity of our military and the rights of every individual under the prevailing laws of the land.

Additionally, there is a need to also fish out all officers involved and follow up with the military hierarchy to ensure that everyone who has a hand in the gross violation of Seaman Abbas’s rights is decisively brought to book.

By Nasidi Ibrahim Saal

The Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE) Kano chapter conducted its Annual General Meeting and elected new executives, as enshrined by its laws. 

The chairman is expected to have two years in office, while the other exco members have one year, with the exclusion of Office 1 as a permanent seat constitutionally reserved for the outgoing chairman.

The chairman of the Election, Engr Balarabe Inuwa Abdullahi, while addressing the media at the venue (Ministry of Works Kano state), stated that the election was conducted successfully.

The newly elected offices are chairman, vice chairman, secretary, assistant secretary, and financial secretary are:

Engr. Usman Hamza Ibrahim

Engr. Asma’u Ja’afar Baba

Engr. Mudashir Sunmonu

Engr. Auwal Rabiu

Engr. Ramadan Nura Abdullahi,

Engr Muhammad Mukhtar Sakurai and Engr Dr Umma Abdullahi occupied the treasurer and technical secretary positions, respectively.

The outgoing chairman, Engr Lawan Usman Isah, thanks the electoral committee and the outgoing exco for their diligent work discharging their duties.

The occasion was graced with the esteemed presence of dignitaries, including the Representative of the National Chairman of NIMechE, Engr George,Engr Prof.A A Adamu, and Engr Dr.Aminu Sabo.

By Sabiu Abdullahi  

The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has achieved a historic milestone, recording an all-time high revenue collection of N1.5 trillion from January to September 2024.  

Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, in charge of the command, made the announcement during a parade on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, attributing the success to “meticulous documentation and professional discipline” by officers and men.  

Olomu praised the officers for their “resilience, commitment, and professionalism” and charged them to strive for more. “We must surpass this achievement.

We cannot afford to relax.”  He assured that the service will continue to reward diligence, commitment, and dedication to duty by officers.  Comptroller Olomu attributed the command’s outstanding performance to the motivation and rewards system introduced for officers who performed creditably.

“The excellent revenue generation is a result of blockage of all revenue generating leakage and proper documentation of payments by officers who were adequately motivated.”  

He encouraged officers to strive for excellence in carrying out their statutory duties.  

Olomu expressed appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and his management team for leading by example.