News

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has accepted Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s invitation to visit Nigeria this year.

The Nigerian leader invited him Wednesday night during their bilateral talks on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025 President Tinubu arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday as a guest of the UAE President to participate in the Sustainability Week, a forum for exchanging ideas to support sustainable development worldwide and encourage collective action to address global challenges, such as climate change, water and energy crises.

He delivered Nigeria’s position on climate and other challenges earlier on Wednesday and congratulated the UAE leader for the successful event.

During the discussions, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan thanked the Nigerian leader for accepting his invitation and expressed the UAE’s determination to strengthen economic cooperation between Nigeria and his country.

The two leaders also explored attracting investment into Nigeria.

President Tinubu said his government’s economic reforms are yielding fruits and called on the UAE to partner with Nigeria to develop the economy.

He said the reforms had stabilised and grown the economy, encouraging foreign investors, including international oil companies, to announce billion-dollar investments, signalling renewed confidence in doing business with Africa’s most populous nation.

President Tinubu thanked Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the warm reception he and his aides received since their arrival over the weekend.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and the National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu accompanied President Tinubu to the meeting at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs; Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; and H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan accompanied the UAE President.

Other UAE officials at the meeting were Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Salem Saeed Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to Nigeria.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has stated that Kano State must have only one king, following the Court of Appeal’s affirmation of this stance.

He noted that despite opposition from some quarters, the 16th Emir of Kano remains firmly in his position.

Falana made the statement during the 21st memorial of Chief Gani Fawehinmi, held in Lagos.

He was quoted as saying, “However, as lawyers, when we gather, we must speak the truth. Your Majesty, we congratulate you on your victory in the Court of Appeal.

“Opponents of your rule have claimed they will take the matter to the Supreme Court, but as a lawyer, I am confident that the law has already clarified that traditional matters are not within the realm of human rights. Therefore, one cannot claim human rights as the reason for challenging a traditional title.

“Additionally, the court has clarified that the federal courts do not have jurisdiction over traditional matters. Thus, if some of our colleagues are deceiving their clients and causing confusion in the country, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has the right to intervene and caution them.

“Your Majesty, wherever they may go – to the Supreme Court or elsewhere – remain steadfast in your position. We must have only one king in Kano. We cannot have two Emirs in Kano, nor two monarchs in Rivers State. This confusion must end.”

By Anwar Usman

The Emir of Kano, Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II, has made it clear that he will not use his expertise to address Nigeria’s economic challenges simply because he is unwilling to assist the Tinubu administration.

As a certified economist and former CBN governor, Sanusi made this assertion while speaking at the 21st anniversary of Fawehinmiism with the 2025 Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture held today at the Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos state.

He stated that “explaining the economic crisis would simply provide solutions to the lingering economic problems and pave the way for the proliferation of Nigeria’s economy.” 

While speaking, the Emir emphasised that despite being a good friend to the government, he would not offer any solutions that could help the administration achieve its goals. 

He criticised the Tinubu administration, stating they lacked credible and competent people who could explain the persistence of economic constraints on Nigerians.

He reiterated, “I’m not going to discuss any of the problems, let alone provide an insight to navigate this challenging period”.

Instead of offering solutions, Sanusi shifted the responsibility to the administration, saying, “It’s up to them to explain to Nigerians why their policies keep failing. He attributed the current economic woes to decades of unnecessary economic reforms.”

By Sulaiman Abdullahi

A ceasefire agreement was reached late Tuesday between Israel and Palestinian factions in Gaza after months of bloodshed that left thousands of civilians dead and injured. The truce, brokered by Qatar and the United States, aims to halt hostilities and restore a calm region.

The recent conflict, which erupted following the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas militants last year, rapidly escalated into the deadliest episodes in the Middle East. Rocket barrages from Gaza were met with retaliatory airstrikes by Israel, displacing thousands and prompting widespread international condemnation.

“We have agreed to this ceasefire to prevent further bloodshed and suffering for our people,” said a spokesperson for Hamas, the group governing Gaza. Israeli officials confirmed the ceasefire but stressed that the agreement hinged on “absolute quiet” from Gaza.

The United Nations welcomed the truce, with Secretary-General António Guterres urging both sides to engage in meaningful dialogue to address underlying issues. “This cycle of violence will only end when both parties commit to a sustainable political solution,” Guterres remarked.

Residents expressed cautious optimism. “We are tired of war; we just want to live in peace,” said Mariam Al-Khatib, a mother of three in Gaza City. However, the region remains tense, with many fearing the fragile agreement could unravel.

As the international community continues to call for restraint, the focus shifts to ensuring that the ceasefire holds, offering a glimmer of hope for a long-term resolution to the decades-old conflict.

By Uzair Adam

The Joint Task Force of Operation Hadin Kai has announced a ban on the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states, citing heightened security risks.

The directive, issued by Air Commodore U.U. Idris, the Air Component Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, highlights concerns over the proliferation of drones for both domestic and commercial purposes.

Idris warned that unauthorized drone operations could be exploited by non-state actors and criminal groups for subversive activities.

“The widespread use of drones without proper authorization has raised serious security concerns,” Idris said in a signal obtained by Daily Trust.

He added that drones have been increasingly deployed by adversaries to target military installations and critical infrastructure.

The statement also pointed out the frequent violation of regulations by private individuals and government agencies operating drones in the region without prior clearance from the Air Component.

A recent incident on January 7, 2025, involving the interception of a drone aboard an NGO flight from Maiduguri to Monguno, has intensified concerns.

The drone is currently under investigation, further emphasizing the risks posed by unauthorized UAV activities in the area.

In response to these threats, Operation Hadin Kai has reinforced its commitment to monitoring and regulating aerial operations within the region to ensure the safety of the airspace and security of the populace.

“The ban on drone operations in the North-East Theatre remains in effect as directed by the Superior Authority,” Idris stated. “Any violation of this restriction, regardless of its scale, will be dealt with severely.”

The Air Component Commander urged stakeholders to strictly comply with the directive to mitigate security threats and safeguard the region.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Scavengers, beggars, petty traders and other vulnerable people have filed a suit against the Minister, Nyesom Wike, demanding N500 million in damages over alleged breach of their fundamental rights over their alleged arbitrary arrests by authorities.

Aside Wike, the others sued are: Inspector-General (I-G) of Police; Director-General, Department of State Services (DSS) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) as 1st to 4th respondents.

The suit was filed by legal practitioner, Abba Hikima, before Justice James Omotosho of a Federal High Court in Abuja on behalf of the vulnerable residents.

Hikima, listed as the applicant in the originating motion dated Nov. 19, 2024, but filed Nov. 20, 2024, said he is suing in public interest for the protection of vulnerable citizens in Nigeria.

The lawyer also joined the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Federal Government of Nigeria as 5th to 6th respondents respectively.

He is praying for an order awarding the sum of N500 million as general and exemplary damages for the violation of the fundamental rights of the affected citizens.

He prayed the court to declare that “the arbitrary arrest, detention without charges, harassment and extortion of homeless persons, scavengers, petty traders, beggars and other vulnerable Nigerians resident in the FCT, constitute a violation of their fundamental rights.The rights, he said, are guaranteed under Sections 34, 35, 41 and 42 of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as altered).

“A declaration that the treatment of vulnerable citizens, including verbal harassment, physical threats, extortion, and detention without charge, constitutes inhumane and degrading treatment contrary to Section 34 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“A declaration that Nigerians regardless of their economic status, place, birth or appearance, have the liberty to move freely in the FCT, Abuja including the liberty to sleep on public roads without let, permission or hindrance whatsoever in accordance with the spirit and purpose of Sections 35, 41 and 42 of the Constitution.”

He is, therefore, seeking “an order directing the respondents to issue a public apology to the affected individuals and Nigerian citizens at large for the inhumane, arbitrary and unconstitutional treatment meted on them pursuant to the directive of the 1st respondent (Wike) dated the 22nd October, 2024.

“An order mandating the respondents to set in motion and implement immediate policies and reforms, including public education for the realisation of the fundamental human rights of vulnerable Nigerians residing in Nigeria.”

Hikima, in the affidavit he deposed to, averred that on Nov. 12, 2024, at about 11pm, while passing through Ahmadu Bello Way in Abuja, he personally sighted a convoy of a joint task force security operatives and enforcement officers, including personnel of the military and police arresting numerous individuals perceived as homeless persons, scavengers and beggars.

He alleged that those arrested include hawkers of goods such as ice cream, sweets and biscuits; petty traders conducting lawful businesses along the roadside and persons dressed in ways reflecting their economic hardship or appearing homeless.

According to him, in my presence, these individuals were forcefully apprehended, verbally harassed and subjected to physical threats in full view of all passersby, thereby creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.

He said he felt devastated as a human rights lawyer, and decided to trail the task force’s motorcade from a reasonable distance to Eagle Square along Shehu Shagari Way where they dropped off the victims.

He said he went back to the place where these persons were arrested and was able to get contacts of some of the victims.

He said on Nov. 15, 2024, he organised a meeting with three of the victims namely, Abdullatif Shehu, Hajiya Talatu Danladi and Judith Samuel, whose testimonies were recorded and verily believed to be correct and true.

The lawyer said the minister gave a directive for the arrest on Oct. 22, 2024, and that it was in the guise of enforcing the directive that the joint task force was constituted to carry out the directive.

According to him, it is not a crime to be homeless, beg or embark on a petty trade in Nigeria.He said the homelessness, begging and petty trading for which the trio of Abdullatif, Talatu and Judith were arrested, detained and humiliated was occasioned by the harsh and unbearable government policies being experienced all over the country.

Hikima also attributes their plights to government’s failure and ineptitude in providing vulnerable Nigerians with security and decent lives.

When the matter was called, Usman Chamo, who appeared for the applicant, told the court that the matter was fixed for hearing.

Chamo said all the respondents had been duly served.A.P. Korobo-Tamono, who appeared for DSS, equally informed the court that a counter affidavit was filed and served on the applicant counsel.

However, no lawyer appeared for the minister, I-G, NSCDC, AGF and the FGN.Justice Omotosho, who ordered that hearing notice be issued and served on the respondents who were not represented in court, adjourned the matter until Feb. 4 for hearing.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Northern lawmakers in the National Assembly have concluded plans for a showdown if the tax reform bills currently before the assembly are not withdrawn as the legislative arm resumes today.

They reiterated their calls for the withdrawal of the bills citing concerns about the timing, lack of proper consultations with stakeholders, and the structure and content of the bills.

Although the bills passed second reading in the Senate before the red chamber went on the yuletide break, further legislative work was paused for additional consultations following widespread controversy.

To address these concerns, the Senate formed a committee led by Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) to meet with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to resolve the issues surrounding the bills.

Despite the ongoing controversy, President Tinubu has insisted that the tax reform is here to stay.However, northern lawmakers remain firm in their stance that the bills should be withdrawn.

They plan to make their position clear as the National Assembly resumes its sessions today, with the 2025 budget defence and the tax reform bills set to dominate the agenda.Speaking with journalists, Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) expressed his opposition, identifying four key issues with the bills: wrong timing, constitutional concerns regarding derivation, opposition to the proposed VAT increase, and lack of proper consultation.

He stated that, “It’s not against the Northern interest, but against Nigeria’s federal system.”

Ndume criticized the government’s actions, saying, “There is an illegal commitment with the World Bank. Agencies have exceeded revenue targets; what did they do with that money? Why borrow when targets are met?”

Similarly, Bashir Zubairu, representing Birnin Gwari/Giwa Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, warned against the bill, calling it an “imposition” designed to put the North at a disadvantage.

“We will fight the forces behind the plan to impose an unpopular legislation that will be detrimental to millions of Nigerians. It will be a big battle against people who think what they want must be implemented at the expense of others.

“The proponents are trying to do everything to see the bills through including blackmail and other means. They will try to do to us what they did to Senator Abdul Ningi. So, we are calling on our people to support us. We must not be left alone,” he added.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has declined to give assent to the bill establishing the Federal University of Education located in Numan, Adamawa State.

The President gave reasons for his decision in a letter addressed to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio on Tuesday in Abuja.

Correspondent Kunle Ojo reports that in the letter which was read during plenary, President Tinubu said his decision stems from unresolved land discrepancies and constitutional issues regarding disposal rights.

Akpabio however assured that other minor concerns raised would be addressed in due course.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has disbursed loans worth over N20.07 billion to 192,906 students across public tertiary institutions in Nigeria, according to an announcement on the organization’s X (formerly Twitter) account.

The latest disbursement, which reflects approvals made as of January 1, 2025, places Bayero University, Kano (BUK) at the top of the list, with 11,683 students set to receive a total of N1.3 billion.

The University of Maiduguri follows closely, where 12,198 students will share N1.27 billion. Other major beneficiaries include the University of Jos, with 6,988 students receiving N941 million, and the Federal University Dutsin-Ma, where 8,978 students are allocated N909 million.

At the University of Ibadan, 4,907 students will benefit from N746 million, while 5,451 students at the Federal University Dutse will receive N593 million.

Additionally, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, has 6,480 students who will share N578 million, and the University of Lagos will disburse N557 million to 3,685 students.

Smaller institutions also benefited, though to a lesser extent. For example, four students at Gombe State Polytechnic, Bajoga, are set to receive N122,000, and two students at Abia State Polytechnic will share N106,300.

Similarly, Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe, has approved N214,116 for three students, while Kenule Benson Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic, Bori, will disburse N315,500 to seven students.

Other beneficiaries include Federal College of Education, Gidan Madi, where three students will receive N330,000, and Federal Polytechnic Ukana, Akwa Ibom, with 11 students sharing N518,500.

Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Imo State, has nine students allocated N368,400, while Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, will distribute N528,500 among 12 students.

This disbursement is part of a broader initiative by NELFUND, which had earlier announced the allocation of N110 billion in student loans nationwide.

According to NELFUND’s Managing Director, Akintunde Sawyerr, these efforts are aimed at improving access to education for students in public institutions across the country.

By Uzair Adam

A Kano State High Court has dismissed allegations leveled by one Surajo Isa Yarima, who accused the court of illegally auctioning his property and rendering his family homeless.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the court’s Head of Public Relations, Baba Jibo Ibrahim, described the claims as baseless and an attempt to tarnish the court’s reputation.

The Daily Reality gathered that the controversy began after a Small Claims Magistrate Court, in December 2023, ruled against Yarima, ordering him to pay N355,000 to a plaintiff.

Following his failure to comply, the judgment creditor sought to recover the debt by attaching Yarima’s movable properties, which proved insufficient.

Subsequently, the creditor applied for the attachment and auction of Yarima’s immovable property, a process the High Court approved after adhering to due process.

“All actions taken by the court in this matter were in accordance with the law and principles of justice,” Baba Jibo said.

He added that Yarima was served hearing notices and given ample opportunity to challenge the application but failed to do so.

Claims that the auction left Yarima’s family homeless were also refuted.

“Investigations revealed that the property was rented to a tenant at the time of the sale, and his family was never evicted. The only item found in the house after the auction was a single mattress,” the statement clarified.

The court also addressed a petition by Yarima’s wife, who claimed ownership of the property. Her case was dismissed after it was determined that the sale agreements she presented did not pertain to the auctioned property.

The Chief Judge of Kano State launched an internal investigation, extending it to the property’s location and its neighborhood.

“Our findings unequivocally disproved the allegations. Yarima and his family resided in a neighboring house, and after the auction, he sold that house and renovated the auctioned property to mislead the public,” Baba Jibo stated.

The court warned that making false claims against public institutions is punishable under Section 140 of the Penal Code.

“It is disheartening that the judiciary, in the lawful execution of its duties, is subjected to such baseless attacks. Legal action will be taken where necessary,” Baba Jibo added.

He also urged media outlets to verify information before publication to prevent misinformation and protect the reputation of public institutions.

The High Court reiterated its commitment to justice and transparency in its proceedings.