News

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.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has disclosed plans by the Nigerian military to initiate legal action against Reuters over a report alleging the forced termination of 10,000 pregnancies during counter-insurgency operations in the North East.

The controversial report, published in late 2022, accused the Nigerian military of running a secret abortion program targeting women impregnated by insurgents.

However, a 2024 investigation by the National Human Rights Commission cleared the military of any wrongdoing.

Expressing his displeasure, General Musa criticized Reuters for failing to retract the report or issue an apology, noting that it had unfairly tarnished the reputation of Nigeria and its armed forces.

“After one and a half years of investigation, it was found that it was a complete lie. I was expecting Reuters to come in and apologize for it, but they did nothing. They did not even respond. After maligning the whole country, they have shown no accountability. I think it’s very important that Nigeria takes up this issue,” he said.

Musa revealed that discussions had been held with the Attorney General of the Federation regarding legal proceedings.

“I’ve discussed with the Attorney General, and I think it’s important that Nigeria addresses this. We will not allow anyone to demoralize our troops or malign the country,” he said.

He also suggested that such allegations often surface as part of a broader effort to undermine the military’s achievements in combating terrorism.

By Abdullahi Ibrahim

To enhance concentration and minimize disruptions in Brazilian classrooms, the use of mobile phones by elementary and secondary school students has been officially prohibited during school hours.

The new policy aims to enhance academic performance and encourage healthier social interactions among students.

Brazil joins a growing list of countries, including the Netherlands, France, and Italy, which have implemented similar measures to address concerns about the negative impact of mobile phone use on education.

Proponents of the ban argue that limiting phone use fosters a more engaging learning environment, while critics highlight potential challenges in enforcing the policy and addressing emergencies.

Education officials in Brazil have expressed optimism about the initiative, emphasizing its role in creating a more focused and collaborative atmosphere in classrooms.

The global trend reflects a broader debate on balancing technology’s benefits with its potential drawbacks in education.

By Uzair Adam

The national electricity grid in Nigeria remains vulnerable to frequent collapses due to the government’s inability to repair a critical transmission line in the northern region, hindered by persistent insecurity.

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, disclosed this during the 2025 budget defense session with the Senate Joint Committee on Power.

Adelabu emphasized the consequences of the damaged Shiroro-Kaduna-Mando transmission line, which has been out of service since it was vandalized in October 2024.

“The Kaduna-Shiroro-Mando line was one of two major lines transmitting power to the north. The other line, Ugwuaji-Makurdi, was also vandalized but has since been repaired.

“However, the Shiroro-Mando-Kaduna line remains down due to security challenges,” Adelabu stated.

He highlighted that the reliance on a single transmission line has left the grid fragile and prone to collapse under strain.

Adelabu further noted that while the government cannot entirely prevent grid collapses, efforts are focused on minimizing their frequency and ensuring rapid restoration.

He acknowledged the collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), led by Nuhu Ribadu, as crucial in combating vandalism, one of the sector’s most significant challenges.

The minister announced a proposed N2 trillion budget for the ministry and its agencies in 2025, with N229 billion allocated to the ministry itself.

He also unveiled a N700 billion allocation for the Power Metering Initiative (PMI), targeting the reduction of the metering gap by next month to enhance billing transparency and curb fraud.

“We are committed to reducing the restoration time after full or partial grid collapses and are working closely with security agencies to address the underlying issues,” Adelabu said.

In addition, the ministry plans to invest N36 billion in distributing transformers across the six geopolitical zones and has proposed the installation of solar lights and CCTV cameras on highways to monitor and deter vandals.

The security-focused proposal falls under a N200 billion sub-head in the 2025 budget.

The minister reaffirmed the government’s determination to secure critical infrastructure and improve power supply across the country.

By Anwar Usman

The Nigerian Immigration Service, Sokoto State Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening border security as part of its efforts to tackle the security problems posed by the emergence of the Lakurawa sect.

On Monday in Sokoto, the state Comptroller of the NIS, Mr Yusuf Bage, announced this during a courtesy visit from the leadership of the state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.

Bage said the security problem posed by the Lakurawa sect is a new and evolving threat, especially in the state.

According to him, the Lakurawa sect members often enter the country through illegal routes.

”However, I want to assure the public that security agencies are ahead of them, and their activities will soon be curbed.”

He explained that one of the significant constitutional mandates of the NIS was to ensure effective border management, including oversight at airports and seaports.

To achieve this mandate, the NIS ensures proper identification of foreigners entering the country and closely monitors their movements and activities within communities.

He explains that the NIS had expanded its offices across the 23 local government areas to maintain visibility in all the state’s nooks and crannies.

He also highlighted the collaboration between the NIS, the Army, and other state security agencies to ensure the safety of citizens.

The comptroller also emphasized the importance of the media in supporting security efforts and pledged a mutual relationship between the NIS and journalists in the state.

The NUJ state Chairman, Mr Usman Binji, said the visit was to formally introduce the new leadership of the state council.

Binji reiterated the role of journalists in fostering collaboration with security agencies, stressing that the visit would reinvigorate the collaboration between the NIS and the NUJ to make Sokoto State safer.

He further stated that, “Our members are fully committed to supporting the security agencies in ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s territory.”

By Abdullahi Mukhtar AlgasgainiThe chief of defencce staff general, Christopher Musa, stated that currently, the bandits, who no longer have any town under their control, have devised a new strategy for recruiting fighters.

He explained that in the past, they would raid villages to force men, whether willing or not, to take up arms and join them, threatening to kill them if they refused.

However, during an interview on Arise Television, he said they no longer have that option.

He further explained that the new tactic the bandits are using involves getting women pregnant repeatedly, using the children born as fighters.

According to him, once a woman gets pregnant and gives birth, within four months, the bandits would return to the woman to impregnate her again.

Some bandits, he added, who surrendered and handed over over 120,000 weapons, mostly small arms, had recruited children as fighters.