Opinion

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin

In the dramatic Gabon coup d’etat late last year, after all the hope seemed to be lost for Ali Bongo, he resorted to the last glimmer, he appeared in a recorded video that went viral appealing for the public to make some noise, apparently to deter the Junta from succeeding.  To paraphrase the former Gabon president, in the spirit of the success of the Mambila hydropower project, let us make some noise!

When the news of the contract between Nigeria and the government of China to undertake the project broke, it threw the country into much celebration. The project was said to have been conceived about 40 years ago, but each government came and went without moving the project an inch. A presumable turning point came when the then president, Buhari, met with the Chinese president and both governments were said to have agreed on the formation of a joint venture by the three companies, CGCC, SINOHYDRO, and CGCOC under the guidance of the Chinese authorities for the project building. The total cost of the project was estimated at 5.8 billion dollars, With the Chinese government providing a loan of 4 billion dollars from Exim Bank, and the Nigerian government providing the rest. The news of the strategic bilateral agreement went all over the internet with several stories surrounding it. Given its potential for improving the socio-economic status of not only the community around the Taraba State but Nigeria at large. The Nigerian President even likened the project to China’s Three Gorges Dam.

Currently, Nigeria (after generation, and transmission finally) distributes a meager 4 to 5
MW of electricity for more than 200 million Nigerians, but the Mambila alone is proposed
to add about 3.5 MW to the national grid, one now can fathom not only the extent of
Nigeria’s energy poverty but why the euphoria about the project.

From 2017 when the news of the contract was broken down to 2023, the project
development news kept flying around, fueling the hope and happiness of the public as
such painting the government of the day white. Some government zealot supporters
even circulated colorful pictures of other projects at the completing level purporting it to
be the Mambila hydro-power project.

The back and forth, mystery, and uncertainty surrounding the project triggered BBC
Hausa to embark on a fact-check mission, making a few-minute documentary about the
project. This fact-check mission steered up the honest net making the news become the
major public discussion. The public felt utterly betrayed by the government and thus
questioned its transparency resulting in straining the government’s image like never
before. It emerged that the project purported to be at the completion stage with finishing
pictures circulating has yet to be torched an inch.

This development forces the government through Garba Shehu to come out for damage
control. Unknown to the public, while all the euphoria was going on about project
completion, the government was battling court litigation. According former special
adviser, a businessman named Leno Adesanya,  through their company Sunrise Power

Transmission Company of Nigeria Ltd (SPTCL) has filed about 2.3 billion dollar lawsuit
at the ICC International Court of Arbitration, Paris, against the Federal Government of
Nigeria (FGN) for breach of contract” which they have secure the right in the 2003
agreement to construct the 3,050MW plant in Mambila, Taraba state, on a “build,
operate and transfer” basis.

On March 26, 2020, the then attorney general and minister of justice Malami secured an
out-of-court resolution with this company, to pay the sum of $200 million as a “full and
final settlement” to discontinue the arbitration and set the government free from all
liabilities in the dispute. The only soft landing that could warrant the project to proceed. 
However, Buhari, in his reply, a month later, rejected the settlement: “FG does not have
200 million dollars to pay SPTCL. Shehu echoed this response while responding to BBC
Hausa’s report: The Nigerian government could only call on him to show nationalism to
withdraw unconditionally, to allow the project to continue.

Now that those who are holding to ransom, the Mambila power project is clear: the
government and SPTCL company, let’s make more than just noise – let’s make a
resounding call for transparency, justice, and the release of a project poised to be a
game-changer for Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape. The Mambila hydropower
project deserves more than a viral plea; it deserves a roar of collective voices
demanding accountability and progress.

By Kamal Alkasim

Last year, I hung out with my good friend Umar, a hotshot writer and all-around awesome guy. He proudly introduced me to his younger siblings, calling me a writer and poet. My heart did a flip-flop – being called that in front of his sisters made me a little nervous! But I took a deep breath and chatted with them, especially the super smart Maryam. 

Maryam showed me a cool book she had. I wanted to read it badly, but I didn’t want to seem rude by ignoring everyone else. You see, I’m all about cheering on women and helping them reach for the stars.

Not everyone likes the idea of strong women, which stinks. Girls should write their own stories, not have others write them for them. So, we decided to write a fun story together in our language. Maryam, her eyes shining, told me how writing was her passion and how she wished she could be like me. 

I shared my writing journey, the good and the bad, and told her, “The only way you fail is if you avoid making mistakes. Sometimes messing up is what gets you ahead.” Maryam seemed impressed, which was fantastic!

Here’s the thing: sometimes it’s better just to listen than to try and give advice. Words are powerful. They can build you up or tear you down. Think of yourself as a special gift to everyone you meet. And you never know where you might find success.

Maryam shared how her teacher had slammed her dreams. “They said I’m wasting my time on something nobody cares about. They even said girls shouldn’t be writers, especially if their boyfriend doesn’t like it!” she sighed. I told her to keep reading, even more than she wrote, like planting seeds of hope to water her dreams.

It’s crazy how often we forget to talk about dreams with our sisters like their voices don’t matter. Too many girls deal with this kind of drama at home. Our chat got a little sad when Maryam talked about her late sister, but it just made me even more determined to keep lifting women, no matter what.

So there you have it: a story about sharing ideas, encouraging dreams, and the power of friendship. Remember, everyone has a story to tell; sometimes, they need a little push to start writing it.

Kamal Alkasim is a Freelance Writer based in Kano, Nigeria. He wrote via kamalalkasim17@gmail.com.

By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

The issue of Police arresting gun runners is not new, but the nabbing of some gun runners by men of the Plateau State Police Command last week stands out. However, Nigerians are clamouring for more. They are equally making a case for swift prosecutions or thorough investigations of suspected criminals after their arrest.

In recent times, and under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force’s tireless efforts have been notably effective in apprehending criminals engaged in various nefarious activities across the length and breadth of the country. 

The Police Intelligence Department and Tactical Response Team last week arrested about 67 suspects, including those involved in kidnapping, gun-running, one-chance robbery, and banditry. They recovered 5,454 rounds of live ammunition, 300 live cartridges, 50 empty shells of ammunition, 68 rifles, and 33 different ATM cards. 

The feat undoubtedly is a testament to law enforcement’s dedication and strategic approach, showcasing the police force’s unwavering commitment to curbing crimes and maintaining community safety. While applauding these crime-busting accomplishments, it is crucial to consider the next steps to ensure justice serves as a deterrent to potential offenders and criminal-minded persons. 

Beyond arrests, there is a need for thorough Police investigations into the root causes and motivations for criminal activities, by Nigerian youths mostly. This will go a long way to curb the perpetration of crimes.

The delay in the immediate prosecution of arrested suspects is a matter of concern, which is not to undermine the complexities of the legal process but to emphasise the urgency in delivering justice, as prompt adjudication of cases related to criminal activities is crucial for maintaining public trust in the legal system. 

Investigating officers should adopt a meticulous approach to prevent innocent victims from being wrongfully accused. It is imperative to utilize advanced forensic techniques, gather credible intelligence, and collaborate with relevant agencies. 

A careful examination of identified evidence, coupled with the application of modern technology, will contribute to a more accurate and unbiased investigation process. Regardless of the influence and power a criminal may wield, justice should be made to prevail. 

It should be glaringly emphasised that no individual, no matter how influential, should be above the law. Law enforcement agencies should remain committed to upholding justice, irrespective of external pressures.

The fight against crime is not, and will never be a stroll in the park. But it is winnable, especially by the time crime offenders are diligently prosecuted, to send a strong message to their ilks.

Haroon Aremu, a NYSC member with PRNigeria center Abuja.

By Salihi Adamu Takai 

Religion is the most important thing to live with on earth – and for embracing the ultimate life as the avenue to a – successful life and the last day. As a Muslim, you have been ordained in the religion you have faith in to accommodate everything said therein. Various verses in the Glorious Qur’an have an emphasis on being submissive to the religion completely.

In chapter 2 of the Qur’an, Verse 208, Almighty Allah asks the believers to enter Islam to the fullest extent of its laws, adhere to the Book – and refrain from transgressing to everything disliked therefrom. This has encompassed the extent of being surrendered in anything of the Almighty Allah.

Contemporaneously, we interact in a secular world where religious belief is becoming disliked by some people who deem themselves “humanists”. But, there had been a generation that had manifested the idea of religion and propagated the natural school of thought. They believed that the world should be controlled by the Lord against manmade laws.

Nowadays, secularism allows for democracy, reduces the power of religion, and empowers manmade laws. To them, religious law undoubtedly must be in conformity with manmade laws. This is, of course, stated in every Constitution of every secular state.

Section 10 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria mentions that ” The Government of Federation or of a State shall not adopt any religion as State Religion. This is the same as in the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, Article 7, in which the Constitution says: “Uganda shall not adopt a State religion”.

Moreover, the same Constitutions give the right to practise a religion in both countries, Nigeria and Uganda. Section 38 of the 1995 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria gives the right to a religion in both countries, Nigeria and Uganda.

Section 38 of the 1995 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria gives the right to a religion. Also, in Article 29 of the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, the right to religion has been protected. But the Constitution of Uganda, in the aforementioned Article, continuously says that the practice of the religion shall be in a manner consistent with the Constitution as it’s said in Article 2 ( Supremacy of the Constitution).

Nigeria, as a Federal State that encompasses diversity in tribe, culture and religion, indirectly gives room for the adoption of a religion but not to the extent of its laws. The establishment of the Shari’a Courts by the Constitution is, of course, a move to the adoption in the Eighteen States of the Northern parts of Nigeria. The Courts are not yet as powerful as the conventional courts of the Country.

The Sharia Courts are limited to hearing only Islamic Personal matters – not other crimes. Section 277 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria says: “The Sharia Court of Appeal of a State shall, in addition to such other jurisdiction as may be conferred upon it by the law of the State, exercise such appellant and supervisory jurisdiction in civil proceedings involving questions of Islamic personal law which the Court is competent to decide in accordance with the provisions of subsection (2) of this section.”.

By Kasim Isa Muhammad

I write to bring to your attention the pressing concerns regarding the lack of adequate youth empowerment initiatives in Yobe South. Across various sectors of our constituency, there is a growing sense of disillusionment with your leadership, particularly in the realm of youth empowerment. It is saddening to witness the increasing frustration among constituents who feel abandoned by your office. 

Mr. Bomai has to bear in mind that the good people of Yobe South are aware of the Zonal Intervention Project (ZIP), where each senator has the opportunity to allocate funds for various initiatives such as motorcycles, skill acquisition programmes, or other projects totaling nearly N600 million and beyond. During the Tinubu-led administration, this allocation was increased to 50%. However, the pressing issue is whether Senator Bomai deliberately neglected to implement such empowerment programmes in Yobe South or simply overlooked the opportunity. 

Senator Bomai, it is essential to reflect on the expectations that accompanied your election to office in both 2019 and 2023. The people of Yobe South placed their trust in you with hopes of positive change and progress, particularly in addressing the needs of our youth. However, it seems that these expectations have yet to be met, leaving many to wonder if their concerns are being heard or acknowledged. 

In contrast to the apparent stagnation in Yobe South, neighbouring zones, such as Yobe North, have seen tangible efforts towards empowering their constituents through various skill acquisition programmes and financial support for entrepreneurial ventures. It is imperative that Yobe South receives similar attention and resources to uplift our youth and alleviate the alarming levels of unemployment and economic hardship prevalent in our communities. 

Senator, it is fundamental to recognise the untapped potential of our teeming populace, many of whom are graduates unable to secure employment opportunities within both state and federal government agencies. The need for meaningful intervention in this regard cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts the socio-economic well-being of our constituency. 

Furthermore, the failure to distribute Tinubu’s 200 million palliatives to the constituents during times of economic hardship stressed poorly on your commitment to serving the needs of the people. These missed opportunities only exacerbate the prevailing sense of neglect and frustration felt by many in Yobe South. 

I, therefore, urge you to awaken to the urgency of the situation and take decisive action to fulfil your responsibilities as a representative of the people. Time is of the essence, and there is no room for further delay or complacency. Yobe South is counting on your leadership to enact positive change and create opportunities for our youth to thrive. 

Kasim Isa Muhammad wrote from Potiskum, Yobe State.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad 

The legal battle for the Adamawa governorship seat has come to an end with the Supreme Court’s judgement of January 10th and 31st, 2024, with Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri triumphant over both the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, Dr Umar Ardo, and the All Progressive Congress (APC) candidate, Aishatu Dahiru Binani.

The fabric of Adamawa peace was never shaken, like when the suspended Adamawa INEC Residents Electoral Commissioner (REC), Barrister Ari Hudu, unilaterally, based on a mutilated ordinary paper with jotted results, announced Aishatu Binani as the winner of the April 15th, 2023, gubernatorial rerun election. However, two factors prevented a social disorder in Adamawa state:  the incumbent governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, maintained composure and calmness and acted responsibly, and the public refrained from being provoked. Additionally, well-meaning stakeholders advocated for peace and urged for the correct procedures and processes to be followed.

Moreover, the Supreme Court has now condemned Hudu’s actions, labelling them as irresponsible and criminal. In response, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has expressed his government’s intention to prosecute Hudu’s associates.

Now that Governor Fintiri has solidified his legal authority over his mandate, the focus will automatically shift towards governance rather than politics. This entails continuing to implement policies, deliver on campaign promises, address the people’s needs, and ensure the efficient administration of the state.

The political landscape in Adamawa has shifted significantly from its previous trajectory. Since 2003, the state has been characterised by a divide between “Abuja politicians” and “home politicians.” Governors have often found themselves distracted by the so-called “Abuja politicians,” whose political survival and pocket interests rely on fostering fabricated or genuine disagreements between the sitting governor and individuals holding positions at the centre.

Now that Governor Fintiri is having no fights or disagreements with anyone. He is enjoying a harmonious relationship with key figures in Abuja, such as the NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, and Minister of Education Tahir Mamman, as well as several APC stakeholders. The time has come to put an end to any efforts to sow discord and unnecessary distractions.

Additionally, all PDP stakeholders stood steadfastly with Governor Fintiri throughout the election period and the prolonged legal battles. Notable figures include PDP state chairman Barr A. T. Shehu, State Organising Secretary Hamza Madagali, Deputy National Treasurer Adamu Kamale, and stakeholders like Alh Musa Garba, Stephen Maduwa, Buba Shafani, and many more. On the government side, the Deputy Governor, SSG, and Chief of Staff demonstrated exemplary leadership in supporting the administration’s success in new frontiers.

With the Supreme Court’s verdict, it’s now time for development in Adamawa. Over the next three years and four months, Governor Fintiri will focus on governance to sustain progress in infrastructure and human capital and maintain a peaceful environment. Meanwhile, for Senator Aisha Binani, it’s an opportunity for reflection on her hirthetor’s good public image that brought her to where she is and to ‘clean’ her politics from the stains of Hudu’s irresponsible and criminal actions as labelled by the Supreme Court.

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

By Aisha Musa Auyo 

Sequel to the recent loss of lives during the heated match between Nigeria and South Africa in the recently concluded 2023 AFCON, it is pertinent to begin sensitizing the public on the effects of anxiety, cardiac, and related attacks.

To avoid anxiety or a heart attack during sports or anything that excites you, try this visualization a few hours before the game or event.

…Expect the worst in this case, even if you don’t want to. Imagine the worst-case scenario a few times in your mind, and no matter how anxious your body becomes, let it be. Don’t resist it, and it will go away…

Anxiety is nothing but the manifestation of your deepest fears, and since you keep avoiding the worst-case scenarios, anxiety keeps building up. But if you have imagined and experienced it, the reality will not come as a shock. It will be something you have already envisioned. Whether the game ends in your favor or not, you will have control over how your body reacts to the outcome.

This is the explanation behind the fight-or-flight response, which is an automatic physiological reaction to an event that is perceived as stressful or frightening. The perception of a threat activates the sympathetic nervous system and triggers an acute stress response that prepares the body to fight or flee.

Sports-related anxiety and heart attacks can be influenced by various factors, and addressing them requires a multifaceted approach. Since this issue will continue to arise even after the AFCON, it would be beneficial to highlight the long-term approaches.

1. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity not only improves cardiovascular health but also aids in stress management. Incorporating both aerobic and strength training exercises can contribute to overall well-being.

2. Healthy Lifestyle: Adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol and tobacco use are crucial components of preventing heart-related problems.

3. Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or meditation. Managing stress levels is vital for overall mental and physical health.

Regular Health Checkups: Periodic health checkups help monitor blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall heart health. Early detection of potential issues allows for timely intervention.

5. Know Your Limits: Recognize your personal physical limitations and avoid pushing yourself too hard during sports activities. Gradual progression in intensity is essential to prevent sudden stress on the cardiovascular system.

6. Medical Consultation: If individuals have preexisting health conditions or concerns, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional before engaging in strenuous physical activities, including sports events.

7. Fan Engagement Awareness: For spectators, emotional involvement during sports events can lead to heightened stress levels. Being aware of one’s emotional reactions and finding healthy ways to manage them are essential.

8. Emergency Preparedness: Knowledge of basic first aid and access to medical facilities during sports events are critical in case of emergencies.

9. Community Awareness: Raising awareness within communities about the risks associated with sports-related stress and the importance of preventive measures can contribute to a healthier sports culture.

10. Education: Providing education on the signs of heart attacks and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention can empower individuals to respond effectively in emergencies.

By addressing these aspects, individuals can reduce the risk of sports-related anxiety and heart attacks, thus promoting a safer and more enjoyable sports experience.

To reduce sports-related anxiety and potential health risks, individuals should prioritize regular exercise, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and be aware of their physical limitations. Seeking medical advice and monitoring stress levels can also contribute to overall well-being.

Aisha Musa Auyo is a Doctoral researcher in Educational Psychology, a mother of three, a homemaker, caterer, and parenting/relationship coach. She can be contacted via aishamuauyo@gmail.com.

By Hussain Muhammad

In the tapestry of Kannywood’s illustrious legacy, one name shines with the brilliance of a thousand stars—Ali Nuhu.

His journey from a seasoned film actor to the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation is not only a testament to his hard work but also a narrative of how one individual can shape an entire industry.

Ali Nuhu’s career as an actor is marked by his ability to breathe life into characters, painting narratives that resonate with audiences across cultures and languages. Beyond his on-screen charisma, he remains untainted by the scandals that often beset the entertainment world, standing as a paragon of decency and grace.

His recent appointment as Managing Director further underscores his pivotal role in shaping Kannywood’s future. Through his leadership, he embodies the principles of excellence, integrity, and inclusivity, guiding the industry toward new horizons of success.

Ali Nuhu’s journey imparts invaluable lessons in perseverance and dedication. His unwavering commitment to his craft, coupled with his ability to navigate the pitfalls of fame gracefully, serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and industry veterans alike.

As we celebrate Ali Nuhu’s accomplishments, we are reminded of the power of hard work, integrity, and humility in shaping not only individual careers but entire industries. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers, actors, and enthusiasts, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for Kannywood and beyond.

By Idris Ishaq Danwanka

The series Gidan Sarauta (“Royal House”), directed by Ali Nuhu, does not fully align with its title. The events portrayed in the series differ from what one would expect from a real Gidan Sarauta.

Let’s start with the characters: Ali Nuhu introduced Adam Abdullahi Adam (Abale), who played the role of a disrespectful son to a wealthy man named Rabiu Rikadawa, also known as Baba Dan Audu in Labarina. The character lacks a proper upbringing from his father and harbours a disdain for the less fortunate. While such behaviour may exist in certain places, it raises the question of why thuggery is associated with Gidan Sarauta. What message is Ali Nuhu trying to convey? 

Furthermore, would it be plausible for a devout Muslim on their deathbed to instruct their son not to show compassion towards the poor? Such teachings contradict the principles of Islam, where one is expected to seek forgiveness from Allah and reflect on their wrongdoings before passing away.

Additionally, I am not particularly pleased with the casting choices in the series. Umar M Sharif, who sometimes speaks femininely, is selected to portray a prince. While this may not bother me as much, it is concerning to see Garzali Miko, who lacks the necessary qualities for such a character, also playing the role of a prince.

Moreover, the series seems repetitive, with certain events unnecessarily repeated within the same scene. Additionally, Mommy Gombe, who is assigned a significant role, appears to be somewhat inadequate for the part.

In summary, I have several reservations regarding the direction, character choices, and portrayal of events in the Gidan Sarauta series directed by Ali Nuhu.

Idris Ishaq Danwanka studies English Language and Literature at Federal University Dutse.

By Yuhya Gambo, PhD

Obviously, we truly need to be reminded of the true purpose of the Quran. The Quran is not just a book to be recited and memorized but rather a source of guidance and wisdom that we should strive to understand and implement in our lives.

Decades ago, the late Sheikh Abubakar Mahmud Gumi (may Allah have mercy on him) authored his famous book of Tafsir titled “Returning the Minds to the Meaning of the Quran” (رد الاذهان الى معاني القرآن). The book was written at a time when many Muslims in our community had drifted far away from the core teachings of the Quran. Back then, the Quran was mostly read to seek blessings in ceremonies and other gatherings, and nothing more.

Just like many others, I benefited immensely from the radio broadcast of tafsir sessions of the late Sheikh. Ever since I listened to his Tafsir of Suratul Nur, I learned how Allah wants me to relate with different categories of women in my life, the etiquette of entering people’s houses, and the requirement to lower my gaze and not stare at women lustfully. Alhamdulillah.

Also, I learned about the high status of Aishah (an epitome of chastity), the Mother of the Believers (may Allah be pleased with her). The enormous lessons inspired me to memorize the Surah entirely. May Allah reward Sheikh Gumi with Jannah, ameen.

As Muslims, we badly need the Quran in our lives. Not only does it nourish our inner selves, but it also contains every guide for us to prosper in this Dunya and the hereafter. We must make deliberate efforts to benefit from the pure knowledge and guidance contained in the Quran.

The Quran is practical; it is meant to guide our complete life, be it our spiritual, social, or economic dealings. It is equally meant to guide our creed (belief), speech, and actions to that which Allah is pleased with.

In Majmu’ al-Fatawa 23/55, Sheikhul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (may Allah have mercy on him) said:

‏”المطلوب من القرآن هو: فهم معانيه والعمل به، فإن لم تكن هذه همةُ حافظه لم يكن من أهل العلم والدين”.

“What is required with regards to the Quran is: To understand its meanings and act upon it, for if this is not the goal of its memorizer, the person cannot be considered among the people of knowledge and [complete] religion”.

Let us make the Quran our companion and guide in this life and the hereafter. In fact, we need the Quran today more than ever!