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By Abdullahi Khairalla

Growing up in Maiduguri, a city highly prone to desertification, raises many concerns about my environment and the impending mishap.

Scientists have already concluded that tree planting and vegetation are the two most effective and quick measures to ending and halting the looming catastrophe (desert encroachment).

Tackling this ecosystemic malaise lies with the governments (state actors), private sector, individuals and communal efforts to arrest the menace.

On the part of the government, I think urgent action is required for state legislation compelling any person who fells a tree to plant two in its place and coming up with stringent disciplinary measures to punish a defaulter.

The “Tree Planting Approach” is of great significance to Nigeria, whose northern borders are directly on the path of their ecological holocaust.

The country has been losing more than a kilometre a year to this scourge for several decades, per Jibunoh’s finding.

Green vegetation seen ten, twenty or thirty years back has vanished. Rivers, Lakes and other water courses are being lost. The most tragic is the shrinking of lake Chad which now hosts less than half of its volume of water a few decades ago.

Of the $42 billion lost to desertification yearly, Africa accounts for two-thirds of the losses incurred annually, as per the statistics released by the UN.

Northern Nigeria should develop a regional approach towards preventing the region from the shackles of climatic disasters. The effects of this problem (desert encroachment) are not philosophical, but we literally feel its adverse impacts on our lives.

Most importantly, at the level of individuals like me, awareness creation is the cornerstone of our responsibility, while the private sector and Non-Governmental Organizations can help in no small measure, particularly in the areas of partnership and bridging gaps between the community and the state actors in the ongoing fight against the dreaded threat to mankind.

On a macro scale, the Africa Union should also strive to devise an African response to the time bomb. If Israel could do wonders and reduce the threat to its bare minimum, we can follow suit because wherever there is the will, there is always a way. Of course, all we need is the will across the board.

By Abubakar Muhammad Tukur

In Nigeria, true federalism means different things to different people. The newfound phrase could be better understood using a geo-political lens. Let us begin with the southwest, which the Yoruba dominates.

The agitation for true federalism started in the southwest immediately after the annulment of the 1993 presidential election, believed to have been won by a Yoruba man. The Yoruba elite argued that the election was annulled simply because their northern counterparts were unwilling to concede political power to the south. Hence, their vigorous campaign for a ‘power shift’ to the south. By power shift, they meant an end to the northern elites’ stranglehold on political power and, by extension, economic control.

However, with a Yoruba man, Olusegun Obasanjo, emerging as the president in 1999, the clamour for a power shift became moribund and was replaced with that of ‘true federalism’. By true federalism, the Yoruba elite means a federal system with a weak centre, a system in which the constituent units are independent of the centre, especially in the fiscal sphere.

The cry of marginalisation has been loud in the southeast, home to the Igbo ethnic group. The Igbo’s position regarding Nigeria’s federal system is that the system is characterised by lopsidedness, particularly in allocating national resources.

Another ground of Igbo agitation for true federalism is their perception of non-integration into mainstream politics since the end of the civil war in 1970, citing a lack of federal presence in the region. This sense of lack of belonging informs the views of some pro-self-determination groups like the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) that the Igbo people are no longer interested in being part of Nigeria and should be allowed to secede and form an independent state of Biafra.

It is, however, doubtful if the campaign for the resurgence of Biafra is popular among the elite of the southeast whose political and business interests cut across the country. By true federalism, therefore, the Igbos of the southeast mean a federal practice that accommodates every ethnic group in the multinational federation.

Similarly, a sense of political and economic marginalisation forms the basis upon which the minorities in the Niger Delta (or the south-south geo-political zone), where the bulk of Nigeria’s oil is located, persistently demand their own exclusive political space using the euphemism of ‘resource control’ and true federalism.

In the Nigerian context, the term resource control means the right of a federating unit to have absolute control over the mineral resources found within its jurisdiction and contribute to the central government to fund federal responsibilities.

The perceived injustice in resource distribution is the main driving force for the struggle for resource control. The oil-producing states have repeatedly argued that Nigeria’s fiscal federalism, which encourages lopsided distributive politics, has been unfair to them. For the people of the Niger Delta, therefore, resource control is a solution to marginalisation. Thus, for the people of this region, true federalism means a federal practice whereby the federating units are allowed to own and manage their resources as they desire.

Seemingly, the northern elite wants the status quo to remain based on the belief that the present system favours its interest in some quarters. These include the federal character principle, majority representation at the federal level and quota system.

We have been able to demonstrate in this article that central to the agitations for true federalism in Nigeria is the struggle for access to national resources. Oil rents and their distribution have shaped the operation of Nigeria’s federal system and have also contributed largely to the failure of federalism in Nigeria. Nigeria’s history of revenue distribution is about each ethnic group or geo-political region seeking to maximise its share of national resources. One reason for the acrimonious revenue allocation system is that Nigeria’s component units lack viable sources of revenue of their own.

Also, the economic disparity that has given rise to unequal development among them is another source of contention. Therefore, any future political reform must ensure the accommodation of the country’s ethnic diversity because this is one of the many ways national unity could be achieved.

As a way out of the over-centralisation of the system, the country’s fiscal federalism should emphasise revenue generation rather than revenue distribution, as this would ensure the fiscal viability of the states. Any future reform should be tailored towards the states generating their own revenue, and those not endowed with resources should devise strategies to generate revenue from other sources. Internally-generated revenue should only complement a state’s share of federally collected revenue. Moreover, with the decentralisation of economic resources, the states would be in relative control of their resources and be less dependent on the centre.

A weakening of the federal centre may not be a bad idea, but Nigeria needs a federal system that would ensure the relative supremacy of the central government vis-à-vis the state governments. The size of the federation, as well as its ethnic diversity and economic disparity, requires a relatively strong federal government that would be able to regulate the competition for national resources.

It may be concluded at this juncture that Nigerian federalism is defective, and reforms are inescapable. The unending quest for true federalism, political restructuring, and self-determination within the context of the ethnically heterogeneous Nigerian federation will disappear until the political leaders reform the institutions and structures of the federal system to give a semblance of genuine federalism.

Abubakar Muhammad Tukur, LLB (in view), can be contacted via abubakartukur00396@gmail.com.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

Yakubu Dogara, a former House of Representatives speaker and representative for the Dass/Tafawa Balewa/Bogoro Federal Constituency, has declared that he is not presently a member of any political party.

In addition, he stated that he would only support individuals running for elective offices in the general elections of 2023, regardless of their political affiliation.

Dogara stated this on Wednesday while participating in the Politics Today programme on Channels Television.

Recall that Dogara left the APC for the PDP after vehemently criticising the latter’s Muslim-Muslim ticket and announcing his support for Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s presidential candidate.

He was quoted as saying, “I am supporting candidates; I am not doing any political party for now, I am supporting candidates.

“Everybody knows that I backed Atiku Abubakar for Presidency for reasons I told the whole world but in Bauchi State before primaries were concluded, I had supported the aspiration of Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar who is the current APC governorship candidate and I have my candidates for House of Assembly in my constituency.

“I have Senatorial and House of Representatives candidates that I helped midwife into those positions, and I can’t abandon them for political stability.”

By Mubarak Umar

With the Supreme Court judgment affirming Senator Rufai Sani Hanga of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) as the Senator-Elect, Kano Central Senatorial District, the people of Kano Central have reason to rejoice.

Kano Central is genuinely abuzz with excitement following the judgment. Senator Hanga challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) declaration of Malam Ibrahim Shekarau as the winner of the February 25, 2023, senatorial election in Kano Central.

This victory of Senator Hanga is a significant boost for the NNPP. It also demonstrates the importance of pursuing justice through the appropriate legal channels rather than resorting to violence or other unlawful means. This is a win for democracy and the rule of law, a testament to his resilience and determination to fight for his right.

I am delighted that Senator Hanga has been elected to represent Kano Central at the National Assembly. With his experience and dedication to public service, I believe he will be an effective advocate for his constituents and a valuable asset to the Nigerian government.

A graduate of Accountancy, one-time member of the House of Representatives (1992-1993), and senator who represented Kano Central from 2003 to 2007, Hanga chaired several committees. They include Chairman Senate Committee on Drugs, Narcotics and Financial Crimes; Chairman Senate Sub-Committee on Housing and Urban Development; Chairman Sub-Committee on Finance; Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Tourism and Culture; and Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Special Duties.

These positions contributed to Senator Hanga’s deep understanding of Nigeria’s political and economic landscape. In addition, he has shown himself to be a skilled negotiator and collaborator, able to work effectively with others to achieve common goals. These qualities will serve him well as he navigates the complex issues facing the Kano people, particularly his constituents.

Senator Hanga has demonstrated a solid commitment to developing his community and the nation. His focus on education, healthcare, and infrastructure has been commendable. I am confident that he will continue to work tirelessly to address these and other critical challenges facing his constituents.

He is a politician with an impressive track record of public service, making him a valuable asset to any government. With years of experience working at various levels of government, Senator Hanga has developed a deep understanding of the political process, the needs of his constituents, and the challenges facing the country. His wealth of experience and expertise will undoubtedly prove invaluable in driving positive change and development initiatives in Kano Central.

Kano Central Senatorial District, located in northern Nigeria with fifteen local government areas, is known for its political and economic importance. It is the metropolitan commercial city of Kano, one of the largest cities in Nigeria.

One of the major reasons Kano Central needs good representation at Nigeria’s National Assembly is to ensure that the interests and needs of its people are adequately represented and addressed at the national level. This is important because the National Assembly is responsible for making laws that affect the entire country. It is also crucial that the laws made are fair and just for all Nigerians, including those in Kano Central. Now, the voices of Kano Central people will be heard, and their needs will be addressed in the national discourse.

Senator Hanga’s representation at the National Assembly should ensure that Kano Central gets its fair share of the national resources. This includes funds for infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and other social amenities. Moreover, with his effective representation, the district will not be left behind in terms of economic development, as policies that promote economic growth and development are made at the national level.

Furthermore, Kano Central is facing several challenges that require urgent attention from the National Assembly. These challenges include insecurity, unemployment, poverty, and a lack of access to clean water and electricity. Effective representation at the National Assembly can help to address these challenges and improve the standard of living of the people of Kano Central.

The importance of good representation at Nigeria’s National Assembly cannot be overemphasized. The National Assembly is the highest legislative body in Nigeria, responsible for making laws that govern the country. Therefore, good representation is crucial for developing any district or constituency.

Kano Central is in dire need of infrastructure development. The district is home to several markets, industries, and transportation hubs, making it a hub of economic activity in the state. However, the lack of good roads, electricity and other basic amenities hinders economic growth. A good representation of Senator Hanga at the National Assembly should ensure that the district receives adequate funding for infrastructure development.

Kano Central has several tertiary institutions, including Bayero University, Kano State Polytechnic, and Yusuf Maitama Sule University. However, the education sector in the district needs significant improvement. His representation at the National Assembly should ensure that these institutions receive adequate funding to improve the quality of education and provide better facilities for students.

Kano Central is also in dire need of better healthcare facilities. The district has several hospitals and health centres, but most are understaffed and lack adequate medical equipment. Senator Hanga should ensure that the district receives proper funding for healthcare facilities and training and medical personnel recruitment.

Kano Central has a high rate of unemployment, especially among the youth. Senator Hanga now has the opportunity to use all means of legislation that can attract foreign investors to the state and promote entrepreneurship, leading to job creation and economic growth.

Kano Central has experienced several security challenges recently, especially phone snatching, political thuggery, and burglary. Senator Hanga should ensure the district receives adequate security funding to combat these challenges and maintain peace.

I am excited to see what Senator Hanga will accomplish during his time in office. With his dedication to public service, commitment to his constituents, and extensive knowledge of the Nigerian political landscape, I am confident that he will be a valuable and effective representative for Kano Central. I wish him all the best in his new role, and I look forward to seeing his positive impact on the people of Kano and Nigeria.

Mubarak Umar can be contacted via mubarakumar96@yahoo.com.

By Abubakar Shettima

Maiduguri Monday Market is the main market situated in the heart of Maiduguri, Borno State. It was established in 1979 by the then administration of Mohammed Goni of blessed memory.

Since then, it has accommodated thousands of traders and several patronisers from Niger, Chad and Cameroon, among other countries. 

Within its existence, the market had recorded a series of major and minor fire outbreaks, resulting in the loss of millions of naira.

Notably, the state is steadily recuperating from its economic hardship orchestrated by insurgents–for a decade-plus-long. Then comes the recent fire outbreak that engulfed the entire market. 

While sympathising with all the affected businessmen, the Borno State government and the management of the market, it’s pertinent to devise some stringent measures, if carefully considered, will prevent future occurrences.

THEY ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. It is exhilarating to learn that the market has an existing plan. That alone simplifies the equation we ought to deploy in tackling future disasters. As a matter of urgency, the management should adhere strictly to the original market plan. Ensure no one trades outside the purview of the plan.

2. Construction of a Firefighters Station within the market. This helps significantly and ensures timely response in order to control and curtail the widespread destruction whenever an inferno occurs. Although we are not praying for that to happen.

3. Redesign and modernise the market. Many of the traders are habitually attached to the market in question. On this basis, the government should construct—if need be— a two-storey building. Allocate the ground and first floors for business, while the second floor serves as a store. This will accommodate a large number of tradesmen.

4. Provision of Fire Hydrate in strategic locations within the market. This has been the practice in marketplaces, residential areas, and corporate organisations.

5. All petty traders occupying pathways and tarred roads within the market—hitherto designed to ease vehicular movement—should be allocated shops in the newly built market along Bama road, or they should be convinced to relocate to Bolori market, Abba Ganaram market, Muna or Kano park. Thus, It depopulates the market and brings about easy access. 

6. To achieve all these, a competent supervisory team must be set up to supervise and punish accordingly if one is found trading at a restricted point. The team will also determine the effectiveness and efficiency of policy and laws governing the operation within the market and its environs.

Abubakar Shettima can be contacted via abubakarshettima57@gmail.com.

By Babatunde Qodir

Dear President-elect, 

I want to first and foremost congratulate you on your victory as the 16th President-elect of our beloved country. Indeed Nigerians voted for you because your message to renew the hope of the country speaks volumes, even beyond your political calculation or influence. It is crystal clear that every Nigerian wants hope. The hope for better life and prosperity. 

Again, just a few days ago, I saw you on live TV when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) issued you the certificate of return as the President-elect. I saw that you are delighted to begin the renewal journey in the next few weeks, as promised during your campaign period. As you had assured Nigerians of a better country, we would be happier if your wishes came true. And I pray to Almighty Allah to grant you the capacity to deliver. I congratulate you once again.

However, I want you to remember that Nigeria is a heterogeneous country battling crises of insecurity, kidnapping, and extreme poverty, among others. 

Mr President-elect, I want to plead that you do anything within your capacity to end the insecurity that is ravaging our country. The hydra-headed menace has undermined the propensity of our beloved country for progress. No country, in other words, develops in chaos. That is why you should, as the first step to renewing the hope of a country long trapped in hopelessness, pay attention to its security situation.

Mr President-elect, it is visible that the 2023 presidential election will go down in Nigeria’s history as the most heated contest. The election, unarguably, reflected the yearnings of people for good governance despite the fact that people were very tired of the situation of the country and President Muhammadu Buhari hasn’t lived up to the expectations of many Nigerians as their massive support for your party, All Progressives Congress (APC), showed in 2015. But it is strongly hoped that you will be better than him.

Furthermore, I am very sure you are aware of the loopholes of this incumbent government which I believe should be your target. Addressing loopholes is not tantamount to fighting the past; rather, it means you should learn from the past administration, which, of course, you’re part of, to address the crises now for a better Nigeria. It is not too much to say that you have a lot to do to convince a huge percentage of the youth who have shown dissatisfaction with the performance of your party in the past eight years.

As I type this letter, some candidates from the opposition parties are challenging your victory, making several allegations against INEC, whose performance in the election has generated mixed reactions from Nigerians. Opposition parties have alleged that you and INEC connived to rig the exercise in your favour. I think this allegation should be taken as a challenge to redeem Nigeria if your victory is further authenticated at the tribunal.

I don’t want to dwell on countless promises contained in your manifesto. It is unfortunate that Nigerians are tired of being deceived by politicians’ beautiful promises on paper. But, candidly, this is not the time to play politics as usual. I will strongly advise you to serve Nigerians in ways they can feel the presence of good governance. Most importantly, you should be particular about how to rejig the country’s education system on which the future of the country depends. This goes down to how prudently you manage the country’s resources at your disposal in the interest of development.

On a final note, dear Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this victory has hopefully come to stay with you for another 4 years. The onus is on you to serve, not rule, Nigerians. You should show compassion for the vulnerable. You should be different from those rulers who see the plight of the masses as nothing. Under your watch, we want Nigeria to be a country governed by the rule of law. Much as I am aware that a better Nigeria can only be possible through collective efforts, I charge you to be the servant of the people. May your tenure be a blessing for Nigeria.

By Yusuf Murtala

Many people have been brainwashed to believe some myths or lies againts their fellow humans without throughly investigating by themselves about what they have been told about someone for them to either believe or discard it.

Majority of people have been victims of such unfounded stories and accusations — one of which is a prominent politician in Nigeria’s political space, Atiku Abubakar. This man has suffered a lot from many allegations against his personality.

Two days ago, I was in Keke Napep (popularly known as Adaidaita Sahu) when this kind of discussion broke between two passengers and the driver. The three of them were bitterly complaining and narrating how Atiku Abubakar is funding terror acts in some places which according to them is what has backfired to cost him his presidential election.

Most of the things they were discussing and alleging were products of hatred, dogmatism, sectionalism and tribalism.

I’m neither an Atiku supporter nor his loyalist but, I never for once believe that Atiku has a hand in disrupting the peace and security of my country: Nigeria. I regard him as an established politician who is ready to take the mantle of leadership in Nigeria in order to change the narratives and lead us to the promise land.

Lastly, I urge my fellow Nigerians to personally investigate and think critically before believing or debunking stories on people, especially prominent personalities: politicians, business people, technocrats and renowned clerics so as not to fall into the trap of rumour mongers, disinformation and misinformation. Furthermore, we should also develop the habit of investing our time and energy in reporting and sharing positive stories about our fellow Nigerians, not hatred, propaganda and false stories.

Yusuf Murtala can be reached via his Facebook handle at Youngstar II.

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari

Sheikh Abdulrahman Sudais, the renowned Islamic cleric and revered Imam of the grand mosque in Makkah, has completed forty years as Imam of the mosque. 

According to reports by the Haramain Sharifain on Tuesday, Sheikh Sudais was appointed as Imam of Masjid Al Haram, Makkah, by Royal Decree issued by the Late Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Fahad bin Abdulaziz in 1984/1404 at the young age of 22.

Sheikh Sudais led his first Salah on 22 Sha’ban 1404, corresponding to May 1984. His First Salah in the Haram was the Asr Prayer.

Below is the brief biography of Sheikh Sudais:

Sheikh Sudais was born in the Islamic year 1381 in the City of Qassim, Saudi Arabia. He got his early education in Riyadh, and by the age of 12, he had memorized the whole Quran under the supervision of Sheikh Abdul Rehman Al Firyan.

Sheikh Sudais graduated from the Faculty of Sharia in the year 1402, Completed his final years of Studies at Umm Al Qura University in Makkah and earned a PhD Degree in Sharia in 1416.

He was appointed Imam of Masjid Al Haram in 1404 at the very young age of 22. Since then, Sheikh Sudais has been leading Taraweeh every year, and in 1441, he completed his 40th time of completing the Quran and reading the Khatam ul Quran Dua.

In 1433, he was appointed as the President of General Presidency for the Affairs of the Haramain in a decree ordered by the Late King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia just before the Grand Expansion started in Masjid Al Haram

Sheikh Abdul Rahman As Sudais was appointed by King Salman to deliver the Hajj Khutbah in the year 2016/1437. Later, by Royal Decree issued by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Sheikh Sudais was reappointed as President of the General Presidency for a period of 4 years in 1441.

In 1444, Sheikh Sudais completed 40 years of his appointment as Imam and Khateeb of Masjid Al Haram, Makkah.

By Sumayyah Auwal Ishaq

The Governing Council of Kaduna State University has approved the appointment of Barrister Samira Balarabe as the new Registrar of the institution.

In a statement by the university’s management on Tuesday afternoon, the new Registrar will be the 4th of the institution. She succeeds Mr Samuel Manshop, whose tenure expires this month.

Barr. Samira joined the services of Kaduna State University in 2006 as an Administrative Officer I in the Registry Department (Legal Unit). She rose through the ranks to the position of Deputy Registrar. 

She holds Multidisciplinary Academic Qualifications, which include: LL B. Hons (2002) and LL M (2022) with a specialization in property law, both from ABU, Zaria. She also has a Master’s degree in Conflict Peace and Strategic Studies (MCPSS) (2016), specialising in Conflict Resolution from KASU, Kaduna. 

Barr. Samira also obtained her B.L. from the Nigerian Law School, Bwari, Abuja (2004).

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

Yakubu Shehu, a Member of the House of Representatives from Bauchi, has been labelled wanted by the Nigeria Police Force.

Anyone with information that could result in his arrest is eligible for a ₦1 million bounty, according to the police.

The 45-year-old politician is allegedly wanted by the police for committing criminal conspiracy, causing great bodily harm, disturbing the peace, and culpable homicide.

This is contained in a bulletin, which has the picture and address of the lawmaker on it and is from the State Criminal Investigation Department of the Bauchi State Police Command.

The bulletin reads, “Hon. Yakubu Abdullahi Shehu (Wakilin Birni), ‘m’ 45 years old. Last known address: Off Danjuma Goje street, Makama new extension, Jahun ward, Bauchi Local Government, Bauchi State.

“The above person is hereby declared wanted by the Nigeria Police on CRO Form 5, issued by the Inspector General of Police.

“He is wanted in connection with a case of Criminal Conspiracy, Causing grievous hurt, Inciting Disturbance of Public Peace and Culpable Homicide.

“State Criminal Investigation Department S.C.I.D No.1 refers to this Bulletin and gives details of rewards of one million (1,000,000) naira for the arrest of this person. Issued by the Authority of the Inspector General of Police.

“Anyone with information that could assist in his arrest should please contact; 08151849417 or report at any nearest Police Station.”