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By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has declared an indefinite extension of the legal tender status for the old design N200, N4500, and N1,000 denominations.

These banknotes will continue to be accepted as valid currency in Nigeria without a specified deadline. 

The decision, communicated in a statement released on Tuesday, is explained as being in accordance with international best practices and aimed at preventing a recurrence of past challenges.

The CBN emphasized the importance of aligning with global standards in this decision. 

Furthermore, the statement revealed that the CBN is actively collaborating with relevant authorities to overturn an existing court ruling on the same matter.

This indicates the central bank’s commitment to streamlining currency policies and ensuring a smooth transition in the acceptance of various denominations. 

As a result of this extension, Nigerians can expect the continued circulation and acceptance of the mentioned banknotes in day-to-day transactions, providing stability and flexibility in the country’s monetary landscape.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

There was a tragedy in Sharada, Kano, as 35-year-old Saleh Abdullahi was discovered lifeless in a room, having taken his own life by hanging yesterday.

The distressing scene unfolded when Saleh’s brother, Idris Hamisu, returned home from morning prayers. 

Hamisu recounted the tragic discovery to the Daily Trust: “I came back from morning prayers, my wife wanted to prepare food for our children and she was looking for matches to set fire but there was none. She remembered that Salisu was usually using it for local perfume. When she sent our child to collect the matches, the boy saw him hanging and he ran back shouting that Yaya Saleh was hung by someone. I then rushed to the room and saw it was true.” 

The victim left behind a note, the initial words of which read, “I am sorry,” yet the remaining contents remained indecipherable, leaving a veil of mystery over the motive behind this heartbreaking act. 

Idris Hamisu, grappling with the tragedy, shared insights into Saleh’s recent struggles: “We didn’t have any problem. All I know is that these recent days he had been worried, and as businessmen, we usually feel like that when the market is bad. 

‘’We are business people and we trade in furniture, but Saleh sometimes engaged in buying and selling old materials.  

“He showed signs of worry these days because he collected money from someone and bought materials worth N400,000 in Rijiyar Zaki from some people and they took him to the house where they kept the materials and told him to come back another day to take them. When he asked for their phone number, they said since he saw the house he could just come back anytime, and when he went back later he could not find the house. That was what caused the worry for him because the money was not his and the owner put pressure on him to pay back.” 

The frustration of being unable to locate the sellers intensified Saleh’s mounting stress, with lenders demanding repayment.

The Daily Reality has not been able to come across any statement from authorities in respect of the incident.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

In a show of solidarity, nineteen influential unions have thrown their weight behind the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), declaring an indefinite nationwide strike.

This unanimous decision, forged during the National Executive Council meeting on November 13, 2023, in Abuja, echoes a resolute call for the protection of workers’ rights.

The impetus behind this joint action lies in the perceived indifference of the Federal Government toward critical issues affecting workers—ranging from disputes over the minimum wage to escalating concerns about insecurity, corruption, and governance challenges.

The recent turmoil in Imo, marked by the alleged mistreatment of NLC President Mr. Joe Ajaero and fellow union members, served as a poignant catalyst for change.

Among the unions lending their collective voice to the cause are:

Academic Staff Union of Universities.

Senior Staff Associations of Nigerian Universities.

College of Education Academic Staff Union.

Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics.

National Union of Food Beverage and Tobacco Employees.

Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics.

Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria.

National Association of Academic Technologists.

National Union of Postal and Telecommunication Employees.

Nigeria Union Of Local Government Employees.

Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria.

Nigeria Union of Public Service Reportorial, Secretarial, Data Processors and Allied Workers.

National Union of Textile Garments and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria.

National Associations of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives.

National Union of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions Employees.

Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria.National Union of Electricity Employees.

Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria.

Nigeria Union of Railway Workers.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Turmoil engulfed the National Assembly Complex today as workers joined the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) in an indefinite nationwide strike, flouting a court order that attempted to restrain the unions. 

The spark for this collective action traces back to an incident on November 1, 2023, when Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, faced an assault in Imo State, prompting the unions to issue a nationwide strike notice last week. 

As of 12:23 p.m. on Tuesday, the National Assembly Complex resembled a fortress, with all its gates securely locked.

Workers who arrived at the scene found themselves stranded, a testament to the strength of the protest. 

Remarkably, despite the chaos at the entrance, plenary sessions in the House of Representatives persisted, creating a stark visual contrast between the determined protesters outside and the ongoing legislative business inside.  

By Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar

For the grammar ‘lords’, the title of this piece is itself ‘audacious’ and might be erroneously perceived as undiplomatic, aggressive, and forceful.

 However, those well-schooled in journalism and those gifted with wisdom would look at it with a  different lens. This essence provokes readership and ignites curiosity about a crucial matter that demands attention.

Within the context of governance and leadership, audacious attributes often translate to courage and boldness when confronting challenges and addressing key issues head-on in ways that could better the lots of ordinary citizens.

This is in the DNA of all serious-governance-ready leaders who are always seen addressing the unaddressed and championing the cause of their people with unwavering determination.

Governor Bago’s recent statement aligns with these when he said that Niger State also deserves a 13% derivation formula that oil-producing states are being given monthly.

The governor stated this when the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, Tijjani Aliyu Ahmed, led other principal officials of the commission on a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House, Minna, made headlines on various media platforms. This is an indication that such is a rare call, yet assertive.

A straightforward demand that those who governed the Power State(Niger State) before Bago couldn’t make, probably due to the ‘overwhelming’  vastness of the responsibilities of governance or because of the perceived unimportance attached to such kind of demand.

Yet, in this writer’s good knowledge, the plank of leadership embodies enormous responsibilities, a firm resolve to serve the people and a better platform for a powerful voice for the voiceless everyday citizens.

How, then, could a genuine demand that would better the lots of the electorates who stood to vote for their leaders skip the memories of successive governments in the state? 

This demand is indicative of the understanding of Niger State’s potentials and its vast contributions to Nigeria’s economy.

Of truth, during the last general governorship elections, my candidate was Khadijah Abdullahi-Iya (Audu Kwangila Bida) of the opposition All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), a symbol of motherhood. Khadijah Abdullahi Iya, a daughter of the first indigenous contractor in Northern Nigeria (Late Audu Kwangila Bida), also came prepared; toured all the nooks and crannies of the 25 local government areas of Niger State to campaign responsibly within the ambit of the electoral law.

Nonetheless, options of multiple choices are the cornerstone upon which democracy is hewn. The same democracy spoke, and Governor Bago now holds the reins. And it’s crucial to understand that he is the governor for all, and sincere support, prayers, and cooperation from all Nigerlites are essential for the success of the New Niger Agenda.

This is why no person of good conscience could agree less with Governor Bago, given the numerous contributions of the hydroelectric dams. From Power Supply, which power houses, businesses and institutions.

This call, when heeded and implemented, can enhance the infrastructural development of the host communities around dams and spur economic empowerment through the support of local businesses in the communities that would also translate to the economic well-being of the nation.

Governor Umar Bago’s demand echoes the need to ensure that host communities benefit substantially from the abovementioned benefits and that the people directly affected by the power production are active players in the nation’s progress.

As a matter of importance, in championing this cause, our national assembly members from Niger State and across Northern Nigeria should work assiduously with their fellow lawmakers and prove their mettle of strategic lobbying and networks to make this practicable. Sadly, the majority of the citizens do not know the enormous economic contributions of the hydroelectric dams to the country, which should warrant fair compensation through the 13% derivation.

In closing, Governor Bago’s demand is not only a call for more resources. Instead, it is a call for fairness and to recognise the significant roles that Hydroelectric power-producing states, notably Niger State, play in our nation’s economic growth and development.

 Therefore, in good conscience, whether a Nigerlite or not, we need to rally around Governor Bago’s cause because the demand for equity is lawful and a stride towards a more balanced and prosperous nation.

Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar writes from Minna, the Niger State capital and can be reached via muhammadcares4u@gmail.com.

By Ladi Ibrahim

Floods have become a recurring natural disaster in Nigeria, causing immense damage to infrastructure, the economy, and most importantly, the lives and well-being of its citizens.

Nigeria’s vulnerability to flooding has grown in recent decades due to many factors, including urbanisation, inadequate drainage systems, deforestation, and climate change. Rising global temperatures are causing extreme weather patterns, leading to more intense rainfall events and subsequent flooding.

Flooding often triggers a humanitarian crisis, displacing thousands of people and leaving them homeless, without access to clean water, food, and sanitation facilities. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are forced to rely on aid assistance, leading to severe strain on already limited resources.

Flooding wreaks havoc upon critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and power lines. This compromises public safety, disrupts essential services, and hinders economic growth and development. The cost of rebuilding and repairing damaged infrastructure poses significant challenges to the Nigerian government.

Flooding has far-reaching economic consequences, affecting agriculture, businesses, and livelihoods. Agricultural lands are submerged, leading to crop failures and livestock losses, negatively impacting food security and increasing reliance on imported goods. Small businesses and industries suffer significant financial losses, often leading to closures.

Floodwaters become breeding grounds for disease-causing organisms, heightening the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid fever, and hepatitis. The lack of clean water, sanitation, and proper hygiene practices amid displacement adds to the vulnerability of Nigerian citizens, particularly children and the elderly. Inadequate healthcare infrastructure exacerbates the challenges in providing timely and effective treatment.

Flooding poses physical dangers and leaves long-lasting psychological scars on affected individuals. Displacement, loss of property, and the trauma associated with witnessing loved ones or community members suffer can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The mental well-being of affected citizens requires attention and support during and after the flood crisis.

To mitigate the effects of flooding, Nigeria must invest in long-term solutions such as improved urban planning, the construction of drainage systems, reforestation efforts, and the establishment of early warning systems. Comprehensive disaster preparedness and response strategies should also be developed, involving government agencies, international organisations, and local communities.

Building resilience is crucial to enhance Nigeria’s ability to adapt and respond to the potential impacts of climate-related flooding. This includes raising public awareness, developing sustainable land use practices, promoting flood-resistant housing construction, and investing in flood insurance schemes.

The effects of flood disasters on Nigerian citizens are profound and wide-ranging. The ongoing challenges necessitate implementing comprehensive strategies to enhance resilience, minimise vulnerability, and protect the well-being of citizens. Addressing the complex issues associated with flooding requires concerted efforts from individuals, communities, governments, and international partners to ensure a safer and more secure future for all Nigerians.

Ladi Ibrahim wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri.

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari

The United Nations (UN) has mourned staff of the organization killed by the Israel attacks in Gaza. 

The UN Secretary-General, Antònio Guterres, disclosed the development in a tweet on Monday. 

According to Guterres, more than 100 staff of the United Nations Relief and Work Agency met their death as a result of the raging war. 

“Today, the @UN family observed a moment of silence to mourn & honour our colleagues killed in Gaza. Since the start of this conflict, more than 100 @UNRWA staff have lost their lives – the highest number of UN aid workers killed in a conflict in such a short time. They will never be forgotten.” He tweeted.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Usman Ododo, the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has clinched the coveted Kogi State governorship seat following the conclusion of the election held on November 11, 2023. 

Ododo secured an impressive 446,237 votes, outshining his nearest contender, Murtala Ajaka of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), who amassed 259,052 votes.

Dino Melaye, representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), garnered 46,362 votes, trailing behind in the race. 

This declaration comes amidst the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to conduct fresh polls in select polling units within the Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area on November 18, 2023.

Professor Johnson Urama, the returning officer for the Kogi State governorship election, officially announced Ododo’s triumph on a Sunday evening, stating, “Ahmed Ododo of APC, having been certified by the law, is hereby declared the winner and is returned elected.” 

As the governor-elect, Ododo is now positioned to assume the mantle of leadership in Kogi State, with citizens eagerly anticipating the realization of his outlined plans and vision for the state’s future.

By Yusuf Idris

The Israel-Palestine conflict is one of the most complex and long-standing disputes in modern history. Rooted in deep historical, religious, and political tensions, the conflict has resulted in a series of wars, uprisings, and ongoing violence between Israelis and Palestinians.

The origins of the conflict can be traced back to the late 19th century when Jewish and Arab nationalist movements emerged in the region, claiming their right to self-determination. After World War I, the League of Nations granted Britain a mandate to govern Palestine, facilitating Jewish immigration and settlement. However, this sparked resistance from the Arab population, who feared displacement and loss of their homeland.

Following the horrors of the Holocaust during World War II, international sympathy for the establishment of a Jewish homeland grew. In 1947, the United Nations proposed a partition plan to divide Palestine into separate Israeli and Palestinian states, but the Arab countries and Palestinian leadership rejected this plan.

The protection of persons, including both combatants and civilians, is a crucial aspect to consider in any conflict. From the perspective of the Israeli-Palestinian crisis, this issue carries significant weight as the conflict has led to the loss of countless lives and resulted in widespread suffering on both sides.

One of the key aspects to examine regarding the protection of persons in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is the nature of the conflict itself. The conflict has been marked by a series of military confrontations, uprisings, and acts of terrorism, which have had severe humanitarian consequences. Both Israelis and Palestinians have been subjected to violence, displacement, and the violation of their fundamental human rights.

From the Israeli perspective, the protection of persons, particularly Israeli citizens, is a paramount concern. Israel, as a sovereign state, has the responsibility to safeguard the lives and security of its population, which various Palestinian militant groups have consistently targeted. 

The causes and origins of the Israel-Palestine crisis are complex and deeply rooted in historical, political, and religious factors. 

The Israel-Palestine conflict dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Zionist Jews sought to establish a Jewish homeland in historic Palestine, which was under Ottoman rule at the time. This intensified with the Balfour Declaration in 1917, in which Britain supported establishing a Jewish homeland in Palestine.

Partition and Creation of Israel: Following World War I and the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Britain was granted the mandate to administer Palestine. Rising tensions between Jewish immigrants and the Arab local population led to conflicts. In 1947, the United Nations proposed a partition plan, recommending the creation of separate Jewish and Arab states in Palestine. 

 The term “protection of civilians” refers to the measures taken to ensure the safety and security of civilians during armed conflicts. This can include various actions such as providing humanitarian assistance, establishing safe zones or protected areas, and enforcing international human rights and humanitarian laws.

“Hors de combat” is a French term that translates to “combat horse” in English. It refers to horses used in military operations, particularly in combat roles.

 The phrase “protection of civilians horse de combat” does not inherently have a specific meaning as it combines two distinct concepts. However, one possible interpretation could be using combat horses in military operations, specifically focusing on protecting civilians.

Combat horses may be employed in a conflict situation for various purposes like transportation, reconnaissance, or combat roles. If the emphasis is on protecting civilians, combat horses could be trained to rescue civilians in dangerous situations, evacuate them from conflict zones, or provide a deterrent against attacks on civilians.

There is no specific international instrument called “Words de combat” to protect civilians. However, several international legal frameworks and instruments address the protection of civilians during armed conflicts.

1. Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols: The Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols provide the foundation for protecting civilians during armed conflicts. They outline rules for the humane treatment of civilians, prohibit attacks against them, and provide for the establishment of protections such as safe zones and medical facilities.

2. United Nations Security Council Resolutions: The UN Security Council has issued several resolutions to protect civilians in armed conflicts. For example, Resolution 1894 (2009) reaffirms the responsibility of all parties to an armed conflict to protect civilians and calls for accountability for those who violate these obligations.

3. International Humanitarian Law: This body of law includes principles and rules that regulate the conduct of armed conflicts and aim to minimise civilian harm. 

Several international humanitarian principles, protocols, and provisions of the Geneva Conventions govern the protection of civilians in armed conflict situations. These frameworks aim to ensure that civilians are protected from the effects of armed conflict and that their human rights and dignity are preserved. 

 Key principles, protocols, and provisions related to the protection of civilians:

1. Principle of Distinction: This principle, enshrined in the Geneva Conventions, requires parties to distinguish between civilians and combatants and between civilian objects and military objectives. It prohibits direct attacks on civilians and civilian objects.

2. Principle of Proportionality: Under this principle, parties to the conflict must ensure that the anticipated military advantage from an attack is not outweighed by the expected harm to civilians or civilian objects. The excessive use of force that could cause disproportionate civilian casualties is prohibited.

3. Principle of Precautions in Attack: This principle obliges parties to take all feasible precautions to avoid or minimise harm to civilians and civilians.

The Israel-Palestine conflict falls within the scope of international humanitarian law, and the principle of protecting civilians applies to both parties. International humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions, stipulates that parties must take all necessary measures to protect civilians from the effects of hostilities in armed conflict situations.

This means that parties to the conflict, including Israel and Palestine, are obligated to:

1. Respect the distinction between civilians and combatants and between civilian objects and military targets. Deliberate attacks on civilians or civilian objects are prohibited.

2. Uphold the principle of proportionality by ensuring that the anticipated military advantage does not outweigh the expected harm to civilians or civilian infrastructure.

3. Take precautions in attacks to minimise harm to civilians. Parties should give effective warning of attacks that may affect the civilian population and take all feasible measures to avoid or minimise civilian casualties.

4. Provide medical care and humanitarian assistance to civilians affected by the conflict without discrimination.

Conclusively, the Israel-Palestine crisis is a complex and ongoing conflict with deep-rooted historical, political, and religious dimensions. A few general suggestions that various international actors have highlighted:

1. Dialogue and Negotiations: A peaceful and lasting resolution to the conflict can only be achieved through a comprehensive, inclusive, and sustained dialogue between the parties involved. This should be based on mutual recognition, understanding, and respect to reach a mutually acceptable solution.

2. Two-State Solution: The international community, including the United Nations, has long supported the idea of a two-state solution where Israel and Palestine exist side by side in peace and security. This solution typically involves the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel, with agreed-upon borders and mutually acceptable arrangements for Jerusalem, refugees, and security.

3. Respect for International Law: All parties should uphold and abide by international humanitarian law

Resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires the commitment and cooperation of all parties involved. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, several proposals have been put forward. Here are some potential solutions that have been discussed:

4. Two-State Solution: This solution involves the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel, based on the pre-1967 borders, with mutually agreed upon land swaps and a negotiated resolution to the status of Jerusalem. This solution has been endorsed by the international community, including the United Nations, as a means to address the aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians for self-determination and security.

Yusuf Idris writes from  Lagos and can be reached via yusufibnadamu@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Hope Uzodimma of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been declared the winner of the Imo State governorship election, dominating with 540,308 votes.

The announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) came from the state Returning Officer, Prof. Abayomi Fasina. Uzodimma’s triumph extended across all 27 Local Government Areas, setting the stage for his second term, set to commence with the swearing-in ceremony on January 14, 2024. 

Controversy marred the declaration as the State Agent of the Labour Party, Callistus Ihejiagwa, was forcefully removed after alleging result manipulation in favor of the APC.

The PDP, along with the LP, has called for the poll’s outright cancellation, citing rigged results.

Tensions remain high as calls for investigations into alleged irregularities persist.