News

By Uzair Adam

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has disclosed that the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), and 13 other agencies failed to meet the standards set by its 2024 Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS).

This revelation underscores the inability of several prominent institutions to adhere to the ethical benchmarks established by the ICPC.

The announcement was made on Thursday in Abuja during the unveiling of the agency’s EICS report by Dr. Musa Aliyu, Chairman of the ICPC, who was represented by Demola Bakare, the Director of Public Enlightenment and Education.

According to Aliyu, a total of 330 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) were evaluated in the outgoing year, with none achieving full compliance.

Among the 15 non-compliant MDAs were the University of Ibadan (UI), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Legal Aid Council, Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, the Federal Civil Service Commission, and several others.

These agencies reportedly failed to conduct system studies or submit required financial and audit reports.

Aliyu cautioned that the ICPC would take necessary enforcement measures to ensure compliance.

Despite the shortcomings of some MDAs, he commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for leading the compliance rankings with a score of 89.75 percent, followed by the Nigeria Railway Corporation (89.33 percent) and Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (88.73 percent).

The assessment focused on indicators such as Management Culture and Structure, Governance and Executive Management, Financial Management Systems, and Administrative Systems. It also examined policies on ethics education, whistle-blowing mechanisms, and stock verification.

Aliyu stated that the EICS serves as a tool for identifying gaps, advising on policy, and fostering self-evaluation among MDAs. Between December 2023 and December 2024, the ICPC tracked 1,500 projects across 22 states, valued at N610 billion, recovering N346 million in cash, N400 million in assets, and saving N30 billion for the government.

The report highlighted that 29.55 percent of MDAs achieved substantial compliance, 51.62 percent partial compliance, and 2.92 percent were categorized as non-compliant.

Jimoh Sulaiman, Head of the Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative, noted that tracking projects had increased completion rates and public accountability.

“Nigerians now realize that project funding originates from the Federal Government, not politicians’ pockets, leading to greater demand for accountability,” he said.

By Uzair Adam

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has refuted claims of owning a piece of land recently revoked by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) in Abuja.

The controversy stems from Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike’s announcement of the revocation of 762 plots of land in the Maitama 1 District due to non-payment of statutory fees.

Among the high-profile names reportedly affected are former President Buhari and ex-Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen.

Additionally, the FCTA has issued a two-week ultimatum to 614 individuals and organizations to settle outstanding Rights of Occupancy (R-of-O) fees or risk losing their plots.

However, in a statement released by his media aide, Garba Shehu, Buhari denied ownership of the land in question, which had been allocated in the name of a “Muhammadu Buhari Foundation.”

He clarified that the foundation was independently established by well-meaning individuals and not directly linked to him.

“Shehu explained, “When the former President and his cabinet members were invited to apply for land during his tenure, he declined the offer, stating he already owned a plot in the FCT. He suggested the land be allocated to those without one.”

The statement further noted that the Muhammadu Buhari Foundation encountered challenges in obtaining the certificate of occupancy due to an exorbitant bill from the land department of the FCDA, which eventually led to the revocation.

“Those speculating about Buhari’s alleged land ownership should verify their facts and avoid spreading misinformation,” Shehu added.

The media aide emphasized that Buhari has no personal connection to the revoked land, as he owns only one plot of land in the Federal Capital Territory.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Army has handed over housing units to 20 soldiers who sustained injuries in action, as part of efforts to enhance the welfare of its personnel.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, inaugurated the Nigerian Army Housing Units under the Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers Scheme in Abuja on Wednesday.

The keys to the newly constructed houses were presented to the beneficiaries during the ceremony.

In his remarks, Musa urged other military services to adopt similar schemes to provide housing for all personnel.

He commended the project as a testament to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who prioritized the welfare of soldiers during his tenure.

He also applauded the current Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for sustaining the initiative and ensuring more housing units would be built for interested personnel.

“The importance of owning a decent shelter in a soldier’s life cannot be overstated, as it promises stability, security, and peace of mind, enabling them to focus fully on their duties,” Musa stated.

The CDS noted that the project aligns with the federal government’s vision of affordable housing under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estate Scheme.

He called on the Nigerian Army to replicate such projects across the Federal Capital Territory and other regions, noting their potential to boost development, improve security, and foster socio-economic benefits for residents.

Musa also appealed to state governors to allocate land for similar projects, as the land available in Abuja may not suffice to meet the housing needs of all personnel.

The COAS, Lieutenant General Oluyede, revealed that the project was part of the administrative philosophy of the late Lieutenant General Lagbaja, who believed in placing soldiers at the core of the army’s welfare agenda.

The Idu Abuja Phase 1 of the scheme, which took 15 months to complete, represents a milestone in addressing the housing needs of soldiers and their families.

“This phase will house 400 subscribers and their families. The ultimate goal is to support every soldier’s dream of owning a suitable and befitting post-service living accommodation,” Oluyede said.

He pledged to oversee the immediate completion of subsequent phases in Benin City, Ibadan, and Uyo to fulfill the army’s promise of affordable housing for its personnel.

The initiative is expected to alleviate housing challenges and strengthen the bond between the military and the civilian population, which will further solidify the Nigerian Army’s role in national development.

By Uzair Adam

A Kano State High Court has ordered the Kano State Government to pay N8.511 billion to Lamash Properties Limited as compensation for the demolition of buildings carried out on the directive of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in June 2023.

The court also mandated the state government, Governor Yusuf, and the attorney general to pay an additional N10 million to cover the cost of filing the lawsuit.

Lamash Properties Limited, through its counsel Nureini Jimoh, SAN, argued that the property was legally acquired through a valid agreement with the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.

Justice Sunusi Ma’aji, who presided over the case, ruled that the agreement was enforceable and criticized the demolition as unwarranted.

The court ordered monetary compensation equivalent to the buildings’ value since restoration was not possible.

Defendants’ counsel, Ibrahim Wangida, alleged procedural lapses, including a lack of proper notification for court proceedings.

He disclosed that the defense team had filed a motion to nullify the judgment, which was dismissed by the court.

The Kano State Government has faced significant financial consequences due to the governor’s demolition of structures deemed illegal.

Earlier in September 2023, a Federal High Court awarded N30 billion in damages against the government for demolitions at Kofar Mata Eid Ground.

Governor Yusuf’s actions have drawn both support and criticism, with some applauding his efforts to reclaim public property and others condemning his approach as arbitrary.

By Uzair Adam

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has revealed that over 25 million phones were stolen in Nigeria between March 2023 and April 2024.

This is according to findings from the bureau’s Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey 2024.

The report highlighted that approximately 17,965,741 individuals experienced phone theft during the reference period, making it the most prevalent crime at the individual level.

It noted that 13.8% of Nigerians reported phone theft, which accounts for a significant proportion of the 21.4% of citizens who reported being victims of crime overall.

The survey further disclosed that seven out of every 10 stolen phones were taken either at home or in public spaces.

Despite this, less than 10% of victims reported these incidents to the police, citing various reasons for their reluctance.

Among those who reported, only 11.7% expressed satisfaction with the police response.

This report underscores the pervasive nature of phone theft in the country, emphasizing the need for improved security measures and better law enforcement responses.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has implemented a series of measures to strengthen its anti-corruption framework and improve governance.

Speaking during the commemoration of the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day and Human Rights Day on Tuesday, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf unveiled the Kano Integrated Governance Accountability System.

The system, to be implemented across all 44 local government areas, will utilize an e-portal to enhance transparency in contract awards and public administration.

Governor Yusuf highlighted the state’s progress in developing a Central Criminal Register Software designed to streamline the criminal justice process, ensure fairness, and combat corruption effectively.

“To bolster our anti-corruption efforts, we have proposed amendments to the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Law and are working on a Proceeds of Crime Bill to ensure transparent management of recovered assets,” Yusuf stated.

He described the significance of eradicating corruption as a “cancer that erodes trust and undermines institutions.”

He also linked anti-corruption efforts to protecting human rights, stressing the administration’s commitment to justice, equity, and accountability.

The event featured a symposium and an evening musical concert to engage stakeholders, particularly youth, in the fight against corruption, human rights abuses, and gender-based violence.

The Governor commended the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, which is led by Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, for its dedication to promoting transparency and accountability.

He also extended appreciation to federal anti-corruption agencies, including the EFCC, ICPC, and the National Human Rights Commission, as well as development partners like the MacArthur Foundation and ROLAC, for their collaborative efforts.

In his address, Barrister Rimingado reiterated the Commission’s commitment to tackling corruption and urged young Nigerians to participate in the fight actively.

The state’s Attorney General, Haruna Isa-Dederi, also praised the Governor for providing an enabling environment and revealed that the Ministry of Justice now has an Anti-Corruption Unit empowered to investigate and prosecute cases.

Representing the ICPC Chairman, Ibrahim Garba-Kagara highlighted the challenges of combating corruption, citing insufficient political will and public awareness as key obstacles.

However, he commended Kano State’s proactive approach and encouraged youth participation.

The symposium drew participants from various sectors, including representatives from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions and officials from the EFCC, DSS, Code of Conduct Bureau, civil society organizations, and the Kano State Police Command.

The initiatives unveiled underscore the state’s commitment to fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.

By Anas Abbas

As the Harmattan season arrives in northern Nigeria, its dry, dusty winds from the Sahara present both beauty and challenges. Lasting from late November to mid-March, this weather phenomenon often worsens respiratory and skin health issues. Medical experts offer essential advice to help individuals protect their well-being during this period of challenges.

In an exclusive interview, Dr Naser Yakubu Ismail, a seasoned medical doctor, shed light on key health risks associated with Harmattan and how to address them effectively.

Respiratory Health: A Key Concern

“The dry air and dust particles characteristic of Harmattan frequently trigger asthma attacks, bronchitis, and allergies,” warned Dr. Naser in a report by The Daily Reality. He stressed the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent respiratory complications during this period.

Skin Issues on the Rise

Beyond respiratory concerns, Harmattan’s low humidity often worsens skin conditions, such as dryness and eczema. “The dry air strips the skin of its natural moisture, leading to irritation and discomfort,” Dr. Naser explained. Those with pre-existing skin conditions may experience heightened symptoms, making proper skincare essential.

Additionally, cold temperatures can pose heightened risks for individuals with sickle cell disease, as they are more susceptible to painful crises triggered by sudden drops in temperature.

Expert-Recommended Preventive Measures

To reduce health risks during Harmattan, Dr. Naser provided several practical tips:

1. Stay Hydrated

“Drinking plenty of water is crucial to keeping both the skin and respiratory system moist,” he advised. Adequate hydration supports skin elasticity and overall respiratory function, lowering the risk of complications.

2. Dress Appropriately

For individuals with sickle cell disease, staying warm is non-negotiable. “Wear layers, including sweaters, hoodies, and socks, to retain body heat,” Dr. Naser recommended. Minimising exposure to extreme cold by staying indoors during frigid weather is also advised.

3. Manage Asthma and Allergies

Asthma patients are particularly vulnerable during Harmattan. Dr. Naser emphasised the importance of identifying and avoiding triggers such as cold air, dust, and pollen. He also encouraged consistent use of prescribed medications and maintaining a dust-free home environment.

4. Combat Dry Skin

Using moisturisers regularly can alleviate skin dryness. “Apply a thick layer of cream or ointment after bathing to lock in moisture and protect the skin,” Dr Naser suggested.

5. Monitor Symptoms

“Be vigilant about health symptoms during this season,” Dr. Naser cautioned. Persistent coughing, shortness of breath, severe headaches, or unusual fatigue should not be ignored. Individuals experiencing these symptoms, especially those with underlying health conditions, should seek prompt medical attention.

A Call for Vigilance and Proactivity

Dr Naser urged the community to prioritise their health during Harmattan. “Stay informed about weather conditions, take preventive measures seriously, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if needed,” he said.

Adhering to these recommendations—staying hydrated, protecting the skin, and prioritising respiratory health—individuals can mitigate the adverse effects of Harmattan. Awareness and proactive measures are essential for ensuring a healthy and safe season for all.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Senate has taken the first step towards banning the use of foreign currencies in the country.

A bill seeking to prohibit the use of foreign currency in Nigeria has scaled first reading in the House of Senate.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko, aims to ensure that all payments, including salaries and transactions, are made using the local currency, the naira.

According to Senator Nwoko, the widespread use of foreign currencies in Nigeria’s financial system undermines the value of the naira.

He described the use of foreign currencies like the dollar and pound sterling as a “colonial relic” that hinders Nigeria’s economic independence.

The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, No. 7, to Prohibit the Use of Foreign Currencies for Remuneration and Other Related Matters,” seeks to amend the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.

This development has sparked mixed reactions, with some Nigerians expressing support for the move, while others have raised concerns about its potential impact on the economy.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government, under the One Kano Initiative, has unveiled a Unity Games competition aimed at strengthening bonds among its citizens. It was gathered that the event features football and a variety of other sports, with participants drawn from communities across the state.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Kano Pillars Stadium on Sunday, the Director-General of the One Kano Initiative, Edidiong Etefia, said the games aim to foster long-term unity in the state.

“The primary focus of the Unity Games is to bring people together. Kano’s history is rooted in unity, and this initiative is a reflection of that foundation,” he said.

He stated that the sporting activities include a marathon, women’s table tennis, snooker, and football, adding that the games are set to commence on the 19th of this month, starting with the marathon.

Etefia lauded Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s vision of an inclusive Kano, emphasizing the governor’s dedication to unity and development. “His Excellency has made it clear that division has no place in Kano State. Division halts progress and disrupts prosperity. This initiative is a testament to the governor’s passion for uniting Kano’s people,” he stated.

He added that the theme of the event, “Unity for Prosperity,” encapsulates the idea that unity is essential for the state’s advancement.

“We are fully prepared for the games, and the winners will receive well-deserved prizes,” he added.

Etefia also highlighted Kano’s historical legacy of unity, referencing the construction of the Kano City Wall as a symbol of collective effort.

“The City Wall is an architectural masterpiece created by a united people. This same spirit made Kano a center of commerce in West Africa and beyond,” he said.

He addressed the significance of football in the initiative, noting its universal appeal.

“Football is a unique sport that transcends differences and unites people.

“It creates joy and fosters participation without bias, making it an ideal platform for promoting harmony,” Etefia explained.

The Unity Games are sponsored by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, with additional support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, KANIVEST, One Geria Services, Mamuda Group, and other partners.

By Anwar Usman

The National Emergency Management Agency on Monday said a total of 49 persons have been rescued and three dead bodies were found from the boat accident that occurred along River Benue in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.

A statement by NEMA indicated that the accident involved 76 passengers in the boat, as the driver, unaware of a submerged tree in the river accidentally navigated into it, causing the boat to tip off and capsize.

“The unfortunate incident took place on Saturday, December 15th, around 7:00 PM. The passengers were said to be returning home from the Ocholonya Market, a major economic hub that draws traders from several communities in Agatu and neighbouring states, including Nasarawa State.

“Aoart from the rescued passengers, one of the victims managed to swim to safety while 23 persons are still missing. Most of the boat passengers were from Odenyi Magaji and other communities of Nasarawa State,” it stated.

The agency emphasised that it is working with the Benue State Emergency Management Agency and other stakeholders including the local authorities and divers to expedite the ongoing search and rescue operations to trace the remaining missing passengers.

“NEMA has also established contacts with the Nigerian Navy to provide more support for the search and rescue,” it added.