Opinion

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgain

The former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufa’i, has filed a defamation lawsuit against the Kaduna State Assembly. The lawsuit was presented today, Wednesday, at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.

El-Rufai is demanding a public apology from the lawmakers for a report they published, which he claims defamed him and his cabinet. The State Assembly’s report alleged that the former governor misappropriated over ₦423 billion during his tenure.

El-Rufai’s legal team argues that the report is both false and malicious, designed to tarnish his reputation and discredit his administration’s achievements. They assert that the allegations have caused significant harm to his personal and professional standing.

The former governor, noted for his developmental policies and efforts to improve infrastructure and education in Kaduna State, has consistently defended his administration’s transparency and commitment to public service. He maintains that the Assembly’s allegations are politically motivated and lack any substantive evidence.

The legal proceedings have drawn significant attention, with many awaiting the court’s decision on the matter. The outcome of this case could have substantial implications for El-Rufai’s political future and the current political landscape in Kaduna State.

By Jamilu Uba Adamu

It’s impossible to start this column without some reflection, especially with my interest in Kano football history.

After holding its AGM meeting last week, the Kano State Football Association (KSFA) organised an award night to honour the achievement of some truly deserving individuals. 

For some reason, I have not been able to attend the event, but from the videos and the pictures I saw, the award night was a resounding success and full of important guests. 

The venue was beautifully decorated, and a giant screen was mounted on the stage with a background picture of each recipient of the award playing, just like we usually see at international events. 

It was top-notch, from the meeting to the plaque award presentation to the awardees. The awards themselves were a fitting tribute to the outstanding contributions of the honorees. 

It was a night to remember, and the Kano State Football Association, under the Chairmanship of Dr. Sharu Rabiu Inuwa Ahlan, has set a high standard. It deserves a standing ovation for organising an outstanding event. The efforts have made a significant impact.

Aside from all that, after going through the list of the award categories that include NLO Kano State Football Association Best Player, NPFL Best Player and SWAN Kano Chapter Award, a reflection that comes to my mind, especially considering my interest in the history aspect of sports, I observed that there is no inclusion of posthumous award category among the list. 

This means that as laudable as the award event is, there is no recognition for a posthumous award to those who deserved to be honoured for planting the seeds of the game of football in Kano long ago. It continues growing as we have it today. 

Those individuals are worth mentioning for special recognition for their contributions to nurturing the game and setting the pace we are following today. 

On such award occasions, the KSFA ought to create a posthumous award category for people like the Late Muhammadu Ɗanwawu Fagge, the man who led the legendary Kano XI to win the 1953 Challenge Cup and the sponsor of the defunct Ɗanwawu cup.

Pioneer Kano Pillars FC Chairman late Alh Isiyaku Muhammad (whom his blossom friend, Alh. Isiyaku Umar Tofa, on so many occasions, used to say it was him that convinced him to be sponsoring the Tofa Cup back then). 

Also, former Kano Pillars FC Chairman’s Late Alhaji Hassan Na-Abba, late ACP Sabo Abdullahi, Late Hon. Ɗanlami Hamza, Late Sani Muhammed Usman, and late Alh Kabiru Waya or even the famous legendary Kano XI squad, that consists of the Late Sidi Coach, Maxwell, and Okoh brothers, that won the first Kano state football trophy in far away Lagos in 1953, the list goes on.

Each of those mentioned above-listed individuals deserves to be posthumously awarded. I am sure honouring them this way can be an opportunity to celebrate a legacy, inspire others, and preserve history because omitting posthumous recognition can lead to forgotten legacies and leave a legacy uncelebrated.

With this, I urge the Kano State Football Association to, in the future event, seriously consider bestowing posthumous awards to these deserving historical individuals who put not only   Kano State but the whole of Northern Nigeria on a football map. 

Let me close by extending my wholehearted congratulations to Kano State Football Association and the awardees.

Jamilu Uba Adamu is a freelance sports writer and can be reached via jameelubaadamu@yahoo.com.

By Haroon Aremu

On a peaceful Sunday afternoon, I found myself immersed in the music of Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, a pioneer Fuji maestro known for his deep and meaningful lyrics that reflect Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. As I listened to a track titled “Adieu MKO,” which began with Nigeria’s newly adopted anthem, I was inspired to delve deeper into MKO Abiola’s legacy in relation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presidential journey and the adoption of the new anthem, as I began to wonder if all this could be a strategic message to Nigerians.

Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, a renowned Fuji musician, frequently added societal issues into his music, notably addressing the life and contributions of MKO Abiola. Barrister’s songs portrayed Abiola with admiration, acknowledging his philanthropy, political influence, and commitment to democracy. Barrister shared personal anecdotes, portraying Abiola as a humble figure despite his wealth and influence, creating a multifaceted portrayal of the Nigerian icon.

According to Historical research, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola began his journey from humble beginnings. Born into a low-income family in Abeokuta, Ogun State, he started earning money at a young age by performing odd jobs, including singing and drumming at events. His exceptional intelligence earned him a scholarship to attend the prestigious Baptist Boys’ High School in Abeokuta. Later, he received a government scholarship to study at the University of Glasgow in Scotland, where he earned a degree in accountancy.

Beyond his political aspirations, Abiola was a successful businessman who built a vast business empire with interests in telecommunications, oil, and banking. He founded the telecommunications giant ITT Nigeria and was also involved in the publishing industry, owning newspapers like Concord Press. His philanthropy earned him the title of “Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland,” a highly esteemed traditional title.

Abiola is most famous for his presidential bid 1993, which is widely believed to have been the most free and fair election in Nigeria’s history. Despite winning, the election results were annulled by the then-military government led by General Ibrahim Babangida, leading to a significant political crisis. After declaring himself the rightful president of Nigeria, Abiola was arrested in 1994 by the military regime of General Sani Abacha. He remained in detention for four years and died under suspicious circumstances on July 7, 1998, the day he was due to be released.

Despite the controversies surrounding his death, Abiola’s legacy as a champion of democracy in Nigeria is honoured. In 2018, President Muhammadu Buhari posthumously awarded him Nigeria’s highest honour, the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), and declared June 12 as Democracy Day in recognition of his contribution to Nigeria’s democratic struggle.

Abiola was also a cultural figure with deep connections to the Yoruba cultural renaissance and promoted Nigerian culture globally. His influence extended beyond politics and business, impacting social and cultural spheres in Nigeria. He maintained extensive international connections in business and politics, improving Nigeria’s relations with other countries.

MKO Abiola embodied the patriotic spirit that “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” represented. As a businessman, philanthropist, and political leader, Abiola’s efforts were always aimed at uplifting Nigeria and contributing to its progress and unity.

The newly adopted anthem’s lyrics, emphasising unity and patriotism, reflect Abiola’s vision for Nigeria. He consistently advocated for a united Nigeria, free from the divisions that plagued the country. His presidential campaign in 1993 was a significant demonstration of his commitment to national unity and democracy.

Abiola’s contributions to Nigerian culture and his promotion of the Yoruba cultural renaissance align with the pride and national identity celebrated in “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” He supported cultural initiatives to foster a sense of pride and belonging among Nigerians.

The anthem’s call to serve the nation resonates with Abiola’s extensive philanthropic activities. He invested in education, healthcare, and community development, reflecting the anthem’s spirit of dedication to the well-being of Nigeria and its people.

The period during which “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was the national anthem corresponds with a formative time in Nigeria’s political history, including the early years of independence. Abiola’s political career, especially his role in the 1993 presidential election, continues the struggles and aspirations encapsulated in the anthem.

With some sense of factual comparison, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s relationship with MKO Abiola reflects a shared commitment to democracy, justice, and the advancement of Nigeria. Both leaders believed in the country’s potential and actively worked towards its progress. Tinubu and Abiola were influential figures in Nigeria’s political landscape, with Abiola’s 1993 presidential bid resonating with Tinubu’s political aspirations and being associated with the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Abiola’s leadership qualities, philanthropy, and vision for Nigeria deeply inspired Tinubu, who likely admired Abiola’s ability to connect with the masses and his unwavering dedication to democratic ideals. 

Like many other pro-democracy activists, Tinubu supported Abiola’s mandate and condemned the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, forging a bond rooted in shared democratic principles. Tinubu continued to champion democratic values, electoral reform, good governance, and the rule of law, echoing Abiola’s vision for a democratic Nigeria. 

Furthermore, both leaders have been actively involved in philanthropic activities and community development initiatives, aligning with Abiola’s legacy of social responsibility. The Fuji icon King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal has sung about Tinubu following Abiola’s legacy, highlighting their enduring connection and further reinforcing the significance of Abiola’s impact on Nigeria’s political landscape. 

Considering the recent anthem change by the president, one could perceive it as a message of togetherness and an assurance of following Abiola’s legacy, given the similarities between Abiola and Tinubu, including their association with Muslim-Muslim tickets and other shared values.

To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I implore all citizens to wish and pray to God to grant him insight and foresight. Imight (strength) need to realise the democratic journey that Abiola envisioned.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a youth Corp Member with PRNigeria centre, Abuja and wrote in via exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Lawan Bukar Maigana

A United States congressman, Major Owens once said, ‘I have a great deal of respect and admiration for people who put themselves on the line.’

Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s political doppelganger, Awana Alhaji Gana, often describes him as an exemplary leader because, according to him, he was taught as a child in Islamic school that a leader is a servant of the people and a loyal servant sacrifices his life to protect his masters – the people.

Indeed, this was justified by Shettima when he was the governor of Borno State. He stood his ground to protect his people and never ran away from battle, putting his life on the line and confronting the monsters called Boko Haram.

He mobilised the police, rallied soldiers and established the Civilian JTF – a group of patriotic young people who are always ready to sacrifice their lives for their country – which helped to stem the tide of the insurgency.

The fear in Maiduguri in 2014 was so intense that some notable persons, politicians, and non-politicians had to relocate their families to Abuja. Shettima, who was abroad at that time, canceled the assignment, returned home, and mobilised residents to rise in defense of their ancestry. They succeeded in pushing the enemies back. That was the time when everybody thought the cursed elements had hoisted their flags in the city of Maiduguri.

Based on the sleepless nights he had endured in the latter part of his first tenure – moving from one shooting or bombing scene to the other and liaising with the federal government to protect Borno people – most observers actually thought he would just chicken out and not bother to seek a second term in office. But he contested, won, and sustained the fight against the enemies.

VP Shettima has always attracted the best brains to himself, being a first-rate intellectual as well. This was why it wasn’t difficult for him and this remarkable look-alike to find each other and connect.

Unlike other politicians who only read articles written by their admirers and watch activities done by others in their names without appreciation, Shettima keeps his eagle eyes around, following everything that involves his name and showing appreciation. He doesn’t look down on people, which is why his political network is full of diverse people of all classes.

This reminds me of the first time he called to appreciate me when I wrote an article titled “Kashim Shettima: Courage, Conviction Cannot Kill a Man,” in 2022 which was published in many national dailies across the country.

Interestingly, when VP Shettima met Alhaji Gana, who politically mimics him, he observed the striking similarities between himself and the latter.

Kashim Shettima is known for visiting his friends, honouring their special invitations, and standing with them during trying times. These quintessential traits have been maintained by his political doppelgänger whose friends work with him. Awana attends marriages, condoles with people who lost their loved ones, and organises a caricature of every political event the VP has attends.

VP Shettima once again showed the humane side of him recently when he posted on Facebook that: “On Tuesday, I paid a condolence visit to the family of my brother, friend, and colleague at Zenith Bank, Chief Kester Christopher Kenechuku Ogualili, who passed away on May 3, 2024. Kester and I have come a long way, and now that he is no more, we will step in to fill the vacuum created by his demise.”

Lawan Bukar Maigana writes from Borno and can be reached via email: lawanbukarmaigana@gmail.com

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin

A couple of days ago, the Lagos State government officially entered into an agreement with the Netherlands government to establish a waste-to-energy firm. 

The initiative was said to get rid of heaps of waste across the Lagos metropolitan area (about 2250 tons daily) and generate between 60 and 75 megawatts of electricity annually, providing some 40,000 homes. 

In addition, the Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu said the project will help cut down the country’s carbon footprint, as about 550,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses emitted daily from the dumpsite will be addressed. 

Singapore is one of the countries that is an embodiment of waste to energy. Singapore is said to have zero waste, thanks to its waste-to-wealth program. They completely convert their waste, partly into energy and other parts into recycling.  

Trust developed nations; they always think ahead. In Denmark, an innovative twist was added to this technology. Due to the extensive space occupied by the conversion centre, the top area of this facility would be transformed into a game reserve and tourist attraction. Who said you can’t kill two birds with one stone?

As Sanwo-Olu highlighted, the world is currently grappling with climate change, so several countries have been resorting to generating energy from biomass. This includes food crops (maize, sugarcane, cassava, etc.), lignocellulosic materials (e.g., woods), and waste (a mixture of biomass, petroleum products, and metals), the latest being the most expensive for conversion. By using waste to generate energy, countries would not only clean the environment but also cut down their carbon budget, hence mitigating the effect of the looming climate change. 

The most widely used technology for waste-to-electricity conversion is the combustion integration into steam turbines. In this process, the waste is burned in the boiler unit to generate steam, which generates steam channels to power the turbine and the movement of turbine generic electricity. But that is not all; the exhaust steam is channelled into a condenser unit, where the steam is converted back to the water, then finally the water is pumped to the boiler to complete the cycle.  

Applications of the laws of thermodynamics in each unit allow the energy usage analyses to make each step more efficient, that is, reduce energy waste in each section (boiler, turbine condenser, and pump). This technology is known as a steam turbine, one of the heat engines based on the principle of the Rankine cycle. A closely related heat engine is a locomotive rail or refrigeration and Air conditioning system based on Rankine cycles. 

 The second way to convert waste to energy is pyrolysis. In pyrolysis, waste is converted to oil instead of directly burning them. As mentioned above, these oils can then be burned in a boiler to generate steam and the cycle proceeds. Catalysts like zeolite can be used to upgrade the oil for use, such as petroleum.  The difference between pyrolysis and combustion is that in the former, oxygen is not allowed; in fact, pyrolysis means a lack of oxygen. In the former, oxygen is necessary; without oxygen, combustion will not occur, or there will be incomplete combustion if it is inadequate. 

The last category of technology for waste conversion is gasification; in this process, waste is converted to carbon monoxide and hydrogen (syngas); these gasses can be burned in a boiler to generate steam, and the process proceeds just as mentioned. Similarly, the syngas can be upgraded to synthetic fuels using metal catalysts like iron through popular technology known as Fischer-Tropsch. Depending on the quality, synthetic fuels produced may be used as petroleum, too. Gasification differs in combustion in the oxygen usage; in the former, oxygen is meticulously controlled.

Wise students will check out abundant videos on YouTube demonstrating these three categories of biomass conversion: combustion, pyrolysis, and gasification, the principles of Steam Turbines, Heat Engines, the Rankine cycle, and the Carnot Cycle, the applications of the laws of thermodynamics, and the catalysis involved in the bio-oil upgrade and the Fischer-Tropsch process.

If you are in the secondary or early years of a degree program and already aware of this information, then you are a step ahead, and you are not only fortunate than your peers but most of us at your level.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin wrote via bilal4riid13@gmail.com.

It is challenging, if not impossible, to raise a child, have him educated and employed, and then simply let him go without expecting anything in return. You may also want to guide him in his work. Determining the appropriate time to grant the child complete independence is a complex matter.

The relationship between Sen. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso and Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf exemplifies the above dynamic. Despite Senator Kwankwaso’s claims or desires to refrain from interfering in Engineer Yusuf’s work, it is inherently difficult to do so.

On Abba’s part, he feels a deep sense of gratitude and indebtedness towards Kwankwaso. This gratitude naturally leads him to want to please his benefactor. Therefore, even if Kwankwaso were to distance himself, Abba would (and should) strive to do his utmost to fulfill the expectations and preferences of his mentor.

Godfatherism exists globally, particularly in democratic systems. I dislike it. I cherish my freedom and independence of thought, especially on matters related to Nigeria. Therefore, this post is not an endorsement of it.

Still, if I were Kwankwaso, I would try harder to stay away from the affairs of governance in Kano. I believe Abba is a competent protégé and old enough to lead the state. In fact, I would stop him from trying to please me, such as when he wanted to appoint my son as a commissioner. I would remind him to stop the vendetta and focus his energy elsewhere.

Anyway, I am not a politician. I am an academic. I wish my state and country all the best.

Peace.

Dr. Muhsin Ibrahim writes from Cologne, Germany.

By Muhammad Attahiru

Jigawa State has always been tagged the luckiest state in Northern Nigeria in terms of getting leaders who have the state in their hearts. This statement was not further from the truth. Since the inception of this Administration led by the astute driver, Jigawa state has been once again over the radar, and the spirit of its citizens has been bashed again. 

This week, the APC administration, led by His Excellency Mallam Umar Namadi, clocks one year in office. Indeed, it was more than a proud moment not only for the APC electorate but for the entire state’s citizens, having someone who serves as the consolidator of projects abandoned two decades to date, also a unifier and visionary leader who despite the slander of all the doom prophets, they were put to shame. As a   Governor, Mal.  Namadi became the tangible symbol of the united Jigawa. 

Those conversant with state politics would realise my statement: Against all odds, the Unifier has maintained his stance on his promises before the election. His viable and economically sustained state projects were disbursed across all parts of the state with every sense of justice and fairness. 

The massive appointment of his political aides, including commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Special Advisors, board members, and heads of various Agencies, was all evidence of his commitment to fairness without compromising his known attribute of prioritising merit over political connection.

Over the last twelve months, the administration of Mal.  Umar Namadi has recorded an uncountable number of visible and impacting projects across every sector that directly or indirectly positively affect the common man of Jigawa state.

Food security and social welfare were one area the administration of Malam Namadi took with a serious note. The constant alarm was raised by the United Nations bodies like the World Bank and the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) about the impending danger of food insecurity facing our countries, especially those bordering the Sahara, due to multifaceted factors of Insecurity and climate change.

Jigawa State Government initiated the food distribution Palliative, especially during the Ramadan fasting. The success story of the Ramadan feeding program was indeed commendable, considering the hardships the poor populace would have passed through during the Holy month. The subsidy was also injected into Fertilizer to boost the agricultural output of the state’s majority farmers.

The most ambitious project of all was the coveted Danmodi Super Store Palliative Project. Around N1.5 billion was injected into it to procure all forms of food and household items that would be sold by special stores across all wards and local government headquarters in the state. The items would be sold at very cheap and subsidised prices.

 The project is a public-private partnership with the reputable FinTech Company Bizi Mobile. Specially designed ATM cards would be distributed to people, and transactions for items would be made through the ATM card number. This would ensure direct remittances of payment proceeds to the state treasury and ensure no diversion or overbuying above a certain limit, allowing each individual to buy his foodstuffs without fear of hijacking by people with access or those with more money.

The Superstore project would soon be commissioned, and the CEO of the Company, Mal. Aminu Bizi, has already made the necessary preparations for the technology, tools, logistics, and personnel for the smooth implementation of the project. This would greatly help the poor citizens of the state access cheaper food items in the markets. On the other hand, the project would allow the Government to have more Data on its citizens to aid in implementing other economic, security and social programs.

If implemented, this project would again prove this Administration’s sincerity and socialist-style approach to Hayakawa emancipation. Jigawa state would be the only state in Nigeria with this very welcome system. This form of superstore has already been practised in many countries, such as Venezuela, Brazil, and China. It is a simple and effective way of ensuring citizens have access to cheaper and affordable food. It’s also a method that directly links the Government to the masses. 

This project would reduce the burden and hardship caused by the removal of the petrol subsidy. Indeed, it’s money well spent.

We wish the Jigawa state Government under Malam Namadi a successful tenure and more ideas that would help impact the Jigawa state’s common man.

Long live Mal. Umar Namadi.

Long live Jigawa state.

Long live Nigeria.

Muhammad Attahiru wrote from Dutse via habibmultilinks@gmail.com.

Company: Jammaje Productions

Director: Ali Nuhu

Producer: Abubakar Bashir Maishadda

Language: English

Cast: Nancy Isime, Sani Muazu, Sola Sabowale, Ali Nuhu, Enyinna Nwigwe, Rabi’u Rikadawa, Segun Arinze, Abba el-Mustapha, Asabe Madaki, Abba Zaki, etc.

Release date (Nigeria): 16-6-2024

After successful screenings in Turkey and the United States, the reportedly most expensive Kannywood movie, Nanjala, has finally hit our domestic screens. The movie is a groundbreaking attempt to bridge the gap between Northern Nigeria’s Kannywood and “mainstream” Nollywood by bringing actors from both industries together in a neutral setting and on an equal footing.

The film narrates the story of Nanjala (Nancy Isime), whose father, Captain Sembene (Sani Muazu), harbors a deep-seated disdain for female children. He, therefore, neglects his three daughters, focusing his care only on his son, Dititi (Abba Zaki). Nanjala has been a voracious reader with dreams of becoming a journalist since her childhood. However, her father’s constant discouragement makes his friend, Captain Jammoh Jummoh (Rabi’u Rikadawa), adopt her to help her realize her dreams.

Years later, Captain Sembene’s family falls apart. His favorite son, Dititi, becomes a drug addict, and his daughter, Jarry, leaves home, fed up with his mistreatment. Meanwhile, Nanjala achieves her dream of becoming a journalist but encounters problems with people in authority who want her to stop exposing their corrupt government.

How does the story unfold from there? Find out for yourself at Platinum Cinema.

The film addresses themes of women’s empowerment, the endurance of the human spirit, corruption, and moral decadence. It debunks the chauvinistic belief that female children are mere burdens to their parents and incapable of achieving greatness. We see how Nanjala suffers, initially at the hands of her chauvinistic father and later as a journalist hunted by a corrupt government. Despite these challenges, she overcomes her fears and insecurities to eventually emerge triumphant.

Nanjala is indeed a compelling film that has enough to hold viewers’ attention throughout its runtime. However, while it may lack attention-grabbing twists and turns, the wonderfully constructed screenplay and perfect use of flashbacks make it an enjoyable experience that you wish would never end. The cinematography is also spectacular, fully doing justice to the film’s scale. I haven’t enjoyed any Kannywood movie as much as this one recently. One must applaud the makers for their courage and financial strength in bringing such a big project to life.

The eponymous character seems to be inspired by Kenyan political analyst and activist Nanjala Nyabola. She also shares similarities with a character played by actress Miriam Osimbo in the Kenyan comedy series Hullaballoo Estate. Therefore, the film is likely to resonate with a broad African audience for that reason, and for its setting (a fictitious East African country), casting, character names, and universally relevant thematic preoccupations.

The film also deserves distinction marks for its English dialogue. The diction and flow of words are exceptional. What is even more interesting is how the Kannywood actors deliver their lines as flawlessly as their Nollywood counterparts in the cast. Thanks to Mallam Kabiru Musa Jammaje, the executive producer who pioneered the trend of “Kannywood films in English.”

In terms of performances, Nancy Isime fully immerses herself in the character of Nanjala and plays it exceptionally well. Sani Mu’azu is excellent as her chauvinistic father, delivering his dialogue with expressions that prove his acting skills. Rabi’u Rikadawa will win your heart as Nanjala’s foster father, who stands by her through thick and thin.

Asabe Madaki (Majuma), the character of Jarry, and Abba Zaki (Dititi) are first-rate as Nanjala’s siblings, but their mother, played by Sola Sobowale, does not live up to expectations. However, Enyinna Nwigwe is admirable as an accomplished author who later becomes Nanjala’s love interest. Segun Arinze, Ali Nuhu, and Abba el-Mustapha all shine in their brief roles. But it’s Hajara Haidar (Falmata) who will impress you with her adorable looks and fluent English, giving her small role a huge impact.

In conclusion, Nanjala has opened a new page in Nigerian cinema. It is a “Pan-Nigerian” film that will resonate across the country and beyond. I strongly recommend this insightful and inspiring film to every parent, young ladies, and, of course, anyone who enjoys seeing Africans speaking English on screen.

Habibu Maaruf

Kano, Nigeria abduhabibumaaruf11@gmail.com.

By Ishaka Mohammed

Carlcare Nigeria is the official customer care support for Infinix, TECNO, itel, and Oraimo users in Nigeria, offering after-sales service (repair, technical support, etc.).

I have known the company for a long time but only had a reason to seek its service on Saturday, June 8, 2024, when I realised that my Infinix SMART 5 phone lacks a particular feature: OTG. 

The USB On-The-Go (OTG) makes it easy to connect your smartphone with devices like flash drives, game pads, digital cameras, microphones, etc. Since my phone doesn’t support OTG, I couldn’t connect it with a wireless microphone.

Consequently, I made a reservation to visit a Carlcare service centre in Kaduna. While filling the online form, I wrote this: “My phone doesn’t support OTG, so I want to find out how I can still use it with a wireless microphone.” I screenshotted the reservation page, proceeded to the service centre and explained everything to a receptionist, who consulted an inner room and made me pay N4,700. 

After making the payment, I waited for over an hour before retrieving my phone. I tried to connect the microphone again, but nothing changed.

When I complained to the receptionist, she told me that the phone doesn’t support OTG. Then I asked her to explain why I had to pay to be told what I already knew, but she instead claimed I paid for “sub-board”.

As far as I was concerned, I didn’t know any sub-board. All I needed to know was the possibility of using my phone with a wireless microphone.

We kept exchanging words until it became clear that I wouldn’t get a refund, so I snapped the payment details and left.

I thereafter expressed my grievance to the company via Facebook, phone calls, email and X (formerly Twitter), but the responses were unfavourable. In fact, despite my explanation and supporting documents, I was told via X that I paid for the sub-board.

I thought of leaving the matter, but I couldn’t do that because the company could cheat me or another person in a similar manner in future.

I mentioned the issue to a patriotic Nigerian on X. He gave me his phone number, listened to me on the phone and warned Carlcare Nigeria in an X post to do the needful or be ready for action.

Within 20 hours after the post, I received calls from four different agents (of Carlcare). They all apologised, and the last one sent me my money.

You see, I made fruitless efforts for about six days (June 8 to 13), but Barrister Uthman Isa Tochukwu used a single X post to solve the problem within a day.

Although he clearly mentioned that legal consultation is not free, he helped me recover my money pro bono (without asking for payment).

I’m glad to have recovered my money but even thrilled that this encounter could deter the company from attempting to cheat other prospective customers.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad 

Emir Muhammadu Sanusi’s two ascensions to the throne of the ancient Kano Emirate have been deeply intertwined with local and national politics. On June 9, 2014, Sanusi was installed as the 14th Emir of Kano by then-Governor Rabiyu Musa Kwankwaso, seemingly to spite former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. Earlier that year, on February 2, Sanusi had been dismissed from his position as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria for alleging that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) had failed to remit a $20 billion statutory fund to the federal government—a claim denied by Jonathan’s administration.

On March 9, 2020, Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje removed Sanusi from the throne, citing his alleged disregard for lawful directives. However, the primary motive behind Sanusi’s dethronement was political, as he had been openly critical of several policies and projects of the Ganduje administration. Ganduje was angered by Sanusi’s penchant to play a dual role as a revered Emir and a social critic, an untenable combination in the Nigerian context.

On May 23, 2024, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reinstated Sanusi as the Emir of Kano after signing a state assembly bill that dissolved the five emirates created by the Ganduje administration and dethroned the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero. Governor Yusuf’s decision to reinstate Sanusi Lamido Sanusi was also politically motivated, aimed at reversing Governor Ganduje’s actions and continuing the supremacy battle between former Governors Abdullahi Ganduje and Rabiyu Musa Kwankwaso.

Sanusi’s journey from being the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to his dismissal, his installation as the Emir of Kano, his subsequent dethronement, and finally, his reinstatement is marked by political intrigue. It begins with confusion and ends in confusion. His return as Emir of Kano on May 23, 2024, might seem straightforward, but it is anything but simple. It’s akin to a complex mathematical equation that appears simple on the surface but requires the application of numerous mathematical laws to solve. Sanusi’s reinstatement is a product of intricate local and national political manoeuvring, with an eye towards the 2027 elections from all the actors.

Senator Rabiyu Musa Kwankwaso is determined to erase any traces of Ganduje’s influence in Kano politics. Initially, this strategy worked for Kwankwaso without significant interference from the centre. However, it has now dawned on Tinubu and his handlers that allowing the Kwankwasiyya group to operate unhindered could lead to the loss of Ganduje’s group support without gaining substantial assurance from the Kwankwasiyya group. In the 2023 presidential and governorship elections, Kwankwaso garnered 997,279 votes, while Tinubu received 517,341 votes.

In the gubernatorial race, Abba Yusuf Kabir of the Kwankwasiyya group obtained 1,019,602 votes, whereas Nasir Yusuf Gawuna of the Ganduje group secured 890,705 votes, a difference of 188,897 votes. Maintaining this voting pattern is crucial for Tinubu and his team heading into 2027. Some members of the Ganduje group are discontent with the centre after narrowly losing the gubernatorial seat at the Supreme Court. If they continue to feel unprotected despite their connections at the centre, Tinubu’s prospects in Kano for 2027 could be jeopardized. Thus, the centre’s support for Aminu Ado Bayero is not surprising.

The calculations in Abuja, though not overtly confirmed, seem poised to influence Kano’s political landscape at a critical juncture. Giving the Kwankwasiyya group free hands to operate as they wish would be politically risky for the centre. Abuja needs to have some strong feet on the ground in Kano. Kano votes are crucial in the north.

The ongoing power struggle in Kano is straightforward: it’s an attempt to balance interests, strike a political equilibrium, and prepare the ground for future battles. For the common man, the advice is clear: do not take sides, as these are political manoeuvres made with future gains in mind. However, the implementation of these decisions will inevitably have collateral damage. In politics, there is no provision for a collateral damage estimate (CDE)—becoming collateral damage means being in the wrong place at the wrong time. No harm is intended personally.

What’s happening in Kano? It’s a fascinating and high-stakes game—a zero-sum game, to be precise. The same thing happened. On October 22, 1983, Governor Abubakar Rimi established four new emirates in Kano State to diminish Emir Ado Bayero’s power and influence. After his inauguration, his successor, Governor Sabo Bakinzuwo, revoked the law and restored the emirs to their previous positions as district heads.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.