National

By Dr. Ibrahim Hassan Aliyu

On July 10, 2023, I received my deployment letter for the mandatory one-year national youth service in Oyo State. The orientation exercise was scheduled to start on July 12, which coincided with my induction ceremony into the Veterinary Profession. Unfortunately, I couldn’t report to camp that day.

I began my journey from Sokoto (Seat of Caliphate) to Oyo State (Pacesetter State) on July 13 and arrived at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin Local Government on July 14. After completing my registration, I resumed camp activities the next day. My camp experience was unforgettable; despite the stress, I learned a lot, made many friends, and broadened my horizons in all aspects of life.

On August 1st, we had our passing-out parade, and I was posted to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) in Ibadan North Local Government. Later, I was reposted to Clucky Livestock Farms Limited, a reputable organization in Ido Local Government, Ibadan South zone.

While travelling from the University of Ibadan to the Oyo State Secretariat for the World Rabies Day procession, organized by the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA, Oyo State Chapter), I received a call from someone with an American accent requesting a meeting. He offered a deal, which I accepted, and we scheduled a visit to the site.

The following day, I visited Clucky Farms Limited, a world-class poultry farm and chicken processing plant with a marketing unit. The company provides conducive accommodation, a lovely environment, growth opportunities, freedom of religion, staff equality, and a dedicated team committed to transforming the livestock industry and achieving food security.

The Managing Director/Chairman, Mr. Olawale Adeyemo Adewale, is a humble, generous, and approachable leader who has taught me valuable skills, including leadership and decision-making. He impressed me with his punctuality, arriving 15 minutes before our meeting time.

On Saturday, October 7, he picked me up from my initial residence at Ikolaba and drove me to my new accommodation at Clucky in his SUV. This gesture of humility from the Managing Director/Chairman of the company exemplifies his generosity and approachability. He is an amiable leader with a strong sense of equality, sincerity, dedication, and a knack for solving complex problems. He is highly resourceful and eager to learn.

Working with him has given me life-changing opportunities and skills, including leadership and decision-making. I consider myself the luckiest NYSC member in Oyo State, a sentiment shared by my friends and colleagues who have visited me. I am deeply grateful to Mr. Olawale and the entire Clucky Family for making my stay an incredible experience.

In addition to my primary assignment, I participated in the Community Development Service (CDS) at the Local Government level in the Freedom of Information and Awareness (FOIA) syndicate. I served under Mrs Ajijola Taiwo Joan, a devout and iconic Local Government Inspector (LGI). Her departing words, “Don’t ever allow anybody to shed tears because of you,” continue to guide me.

I appreciate my State Coordinator, Comrade Odoba Abel Oche (Mr. Wisdom), whose speech inspired me to write and reflect. My sincere thanks also go to Mrs. Bola Obarinde, the Local Government Inspector (LGI) of Ibadan North 1, the Zonal Inspector of Ibadan North zone, and the entire NYSC community in Oyo State.

I extend my gratitude to my family, the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) Oyo State Chapter, MCAN Family, MARD Oyo State, and everyone who made my service year prosperous and memorable. Serving in Oyo State was a distinct and rewarding experience.

Ibrahim Hassan Aliyu writes from Sokoto.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

Freeman Charles Ogbonna, a Delhi, India-bound passenger, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for drug trafficking. 

Ogbonna was arrested on Sunday, March 31, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos after ingesting 80 wraps of cocaine. 

He was taken into custody by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the screening point of Terminal 2 of the airport.

Preliminary checks revealed that Ogbonna was using a Liberian international passport named Carr Bismark. 

However, further investigation revealed his real identity as Freeman Charles Ogbonna. He was subsequently placed under observation in NDLEA custody, where he exhibited discomfort.

Ogbonna eventually vomited and excreted the drugs over four days, passing out a total of 80 wraps of cocaine weighing 889 grams through his mouth and anus. 

He claimed that he was recruited into drug trafficking by one of his relatives and was promised N300,000 if he successfully delivered the consignment in India.

The NDLEA arraigned Ogbonna before Justice Dipeolu Deinde Isaac of the Federal High Court in Lagos on a charge of committing an offence contrary to section 20(1)(b) and punishable under section 20(2)(a) of the NDLEA Act Cap N30 LFN 2004.

In his judgement, Justice Dipeolu sentenced Ogbonna to 25 years in prison without an option of a fine. 

The Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), commended the MMIA Command and the prosecution team for their diligent case handling.

Marwa stated that the judiciary remains a strong pillar in the effort to curb substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria. 

He added that Ogbonna’s conviction would send a strong signal to drug barons and their mules that there would be no hiding place for them.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

The National Assembly on Tuesday, granted full financial and administrative autonomy to all 774 local council authorities across Nigeria by amending Section 124 of the nation’s constitution. 

The section provides a consequential provision for the making of the local councils a full third tier government without undue interference from the state governments. 

The amendment was one of 22 others approved by the House of Representatives last week and ratified by the Senate on Tuesday. 

Both chambers had, through a conference committee, harmonised versions of the amendments to the constitution carried out by each of them last month. 

By this development, the National Assembly had ratified all the 23 clauses and sections that had been amended by both chambers. 

The newly amended document, which would be sent to the State Houses of Assembly for approval, also approved the creation of the Office of Auditor General of the Local Government as well as the State Local Government Service Commission. 

The section equally deleted the State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIEC) from the constitution, thereby vesting the powers to conduct council elections on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). 

It, however, retained the immunity clause in the constitution for the President and Governors by adopting the Senate version of the amendments on the issue and rejecting the House of Representatives version, which removed the immunity clause. 

The National Assembly also made provisions for independent candidature in future elections in Nigeria by amending sections 65 and 106 of the 1999 constitution.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

Superintendent of Police, Ibrahim Sini, has been honoured for rejecting an N150m bribe from a Lagos-based businessman, Akintoye Akindele. 

Akindele was arraigned in August 2023 for allegedly diverting $5.6m and N73.5m belonging to Summit Oil International Ltd. Sini led the investigation team and was offered the bribe to permit Akindele’s escape abroad and write a favourable report.

Sini said, “I am very happy to be here and I want to appreciate the organisers of this programme. They have beat my imagination and added more grease to my elbow.”

He recalled the incident: “The person in question asked me, ‘Do you want to be rich?’ He said this is an opportunity for you to be rich. So, what I said was that it depends on the kind of riches. 

“I would like to have money so that I can lay my head down and sleep at night. I don’t want to have something that will make me think twice and be running from one hole to another. 

“So, I decided to do the right thing so that I can have peace of mind and also stand to do what is right for myself, for my organisation, that is, the Nigeria Police, and also for the country at large,” he added.

Sini advised youths not to trade their integrity for anything, stating that he would like to have money that would allow him to sleep at night and have peace of mind.

Presenting Sini with the document of the land, the Federal Capital Territory Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, said Sini’s conduct has brought pride to the Nigerian Police Force.

The charge sheet revealed that Akindele and his company, Duport Midstream Company Limited, were accused of conspiring to commit a felony, stealing, and dishonest conversion of the sum of $5,636,397.01 and N73,543,763.25 belonging to Summit Oil International Limited.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of eight new Federal Permanent Secretaries to fill in existing and impending vacancies in some states and geo-political zones in the top administrative cadre of the Civil Service of the Federation.

The new Federal Permanent Secretaries appointed after a diligent selection process by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation are:

Dr. Emanso Umobong Okop – Akwa-Ibom 

Obi Emeka Vitalis – Anambra 

Mahmood Fatima Sugra Tabi’a – Bauchi 

Danjuma Mohammed Sanusi – Jigawa  

Olusanya Olubunmi – Ondo 

Dr. Keshinro Maryam Ismaila – Zamfara 

Akujobi Chinyere Ijeoma (South-East)

Isokpunwu Christopher Osaruwanmwen (South-South)

The President anticipates that the new Federal Permanent Secretaries will exercise absolute dedication, diligence, and fidelity to the nation in discharging their functions and ensuring optimum service delivery to the Nigerian people.

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 Uzair Adam Imam

The Federal High Court in Kano will deliver a judgment today on the legality of the Kano Emirates Council Repeal Law 2024.

The law, enacted by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, led to the removal of Aminu Ado Bayero as the 15th Emir of Kano and the reversal of the creation of four emirates – Bichi, Rano, Karaye, and Gaya – by his predecessor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

The law also led to the re-appointment of Muhammadu Sanusi II, who was dethroned in 2020, as the 16th Emir of Kano.

Aminu Babba Danagundi, a kingmaker in the former Kano emirate, challenged the law in court, seeking a declaration of its nullity.

The judge, Justice Abdullahi Muhammad Liman, will also rule on a motion to stay the proceedings filed by the State Attorney General and Kano State Government.

The ruling will determine the fate of Sanusi and Bayero in the protracted emirate tussle.

By Haroon Aremu 

Upon graduating from university, I eagerly anticipated joining the mandatory one-year national service with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). I shared my excitement with friends, but not all were keen to join immediately. One friend said he needed to hustle and build his career first. However, I wanted to finish it quickly and move on to my next life phase. So, I registered and subsequently got mobilised for a three-week-long camping/orientation.

Embarking on the journey to join the NYSC is more than just a transition to adulthood; it is a rollercoaster ride filled with unexpected twists and turns. 

Call up letter came, and it stated that  I was to camp at Niger State, Paikoro local government, Paiko camp, but after that three weeks, I am to complete my service in Abuja. I was happy and prepared to travel, as I had never been to Niger State before. I learned that Niger State is one of the largest states in terms of landmass. I thought about how beneficial it would be for the federal government to collaborate with NYSC and invest in agriculture to empower graduates to develop their futures. This would surely boost the economy at both the federal and state levels.

Before setting off, a friend’s cautionary words lingered in my mind. He chose to prioritise his career over immediate service, urging me to hustle first. However, my eagerness to dive into the experience outweighed any apprehensions. NYSC is a mandatory scheme for all graduates, except those over thirty, who are usually issued an exemption letter.

The night before departure, a subtle warning on the NYSC documentation reminded us not to travel at night—a precaution that resonated deeply. Despite the allure of reaching our destination quickly, we chose safety over haste, breaking our journey when dusk fell. This lesson applies beyond NYSC, reminding us that vigilance is key even in seemingly safe spaces.

As we embarked on our journey, camaraderie filled the air. The sense of unity was palpable while travelling alongside fellow prospective corps members. From shared laughter to prayers for safe travels, each moment cemented the bonds of camaraderie that NYSC fosters. My journey was fascinating, especially with a friend assigned to the same state. “Corpers on board” was boldly written on our vehicle, and the people we passed hailed and prayed for our safe journey. We chatted and played music, making the trip memorable.

Yet, amidst the laughter and anticipation, a stark reality halted us. Amid lush landscapes, armed men appeared—a stark reminder of the world’s unpredictability. It was a wake-up call, underscoring the importance of vigilance even in seemingly serene surroundings. We stopped at a canteen to eat a sumptuous meal, enjoying the privileges of being a corps member. Continuing our journey, we enjoyed the natural beauty of Nigeria’s landscapes.

However, amidst the tension, there were glimmers of hope. Security checkpoints operated by dedicated officers reassured us of their commitment to our safety. Their professionalism and integrity stood as beacons of hope on an otherwise uncertain journey.

The most unexpected twist came when a seemingly menacing encounter turned into a moment of levity. Startled awake by a tap on the shoulder, I found myself face-to-face with an armed security officer, his stern demeanour giving way to a shared joke. In that moment, fear melted into laughter, reminding me that amidst life’s uncertainties, moments of joy abound.

The journey left an indelible mark as we finally arrived at our destination. From cautionary tales to unexpected camaraderie, each moment was a testament to the importance of preparation and vigilance. As I shared my story with my hustling friend, who had chosen a different path, I couldn’t help but wonder what adventures awaited him. For in the journey of NYSC, every twist and turn is a chapter waiting to be written, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the bonds that unite us all. This is the essence of NYSC, preaching national unity and peace.

Apart from the interesting aspects of NYSC, I believe numerous advantages will convince you to join the program. If you want to know the funny joke the officer cracked with me, I guess you should also prepare to go to your NYSC to experience how interesting and memorable the journey was. As long as we take the necessary security precautions and avoid rough driving, NYSC ensures our safety because we are all dear to the government.

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

By Lawan Bukar Maigana

The rise of Umar Bush, a popular Hausa skitmaker notorious for insulting people, to stardom is unbelievably incomprehensible, justifying Allah’s incredible ability to enrich whom He wishes regardless of their decency or otherwise.

It is Allah alone who knows how he got there. Many people thought his popularity was going to be short-lived, like that of Alhaji Rufai, but that is not the case. He’s now targeted by skitmakers in the Southern part of Nigeria. God is great! New deals are underway.

His unimaginable progress reminds me of the time when an elderly man looked at me in our area during Ramadan and said that I would become a governor. However, a few of my closest friends, whom I thought would be the first to say ‘Insha Allah’, were the ones who contested against me. Indeed, life is greater than our sentiments, and it shall happen if He wills.

When he first came to the limelight comedically, many people thought he was a madman who needed intervention from a psychiatric hospital because of the way he speaks and relates to people. Some netizens even donated thousands of Naira, amounting to over a million Naira, which was later transparently given to his relatives after he had a misunderstanding with his manager, who is also from Kano, labelling it as ‘his end.’

A day later, his manager posted on his personal Facebook page announcing their resettlement with Umar Bush, assuring their audience of their continued efforts to reach stardom.

Ahmed Musa, a renowned Nigerian footballer who plays both in and outside Nigeria, saw Umar Bush’s comical clips trending on Instagram and Facebook and decided to host him at his residence in Kano. Inviting him was a big drama, as he had many misunderstandings and disagreements with all of them, insulting his managers and tagging one of them as his ‘enemy of progress.’

When given lots of Maltina and asked to extend it to one of the team members whom he perceived as an antagonist, he started a fresh drama, insulting him unstoppably until Ahmed Musa intervened and gave him one million naira.

A few days ago, he allegedly signed a ₦100m deal with Ziptol, a company that produces powder detergent, among other detergents. He’s now a millionaire, and I foresee bigger deals coming his way.

Perhaps it is my turn to be insulted comically when he sees this article, especially if he is told that I demanded he pay me for writing about his uncommon sagacious rise to stardom amidst all odds. If you know him or know anyone close to him, tell him that he should pay for this article; else, I will join Sadiq to disturb his life.

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