News

By Uzair Adam Imam

Niger State Commissioner of Police, Shawulu Ebenezer Danmamman, presented cheques worth N44 million to families of officers who died serving the state.

The funds, distributed under the force’s Group Life Assurance Scheme, aim to support 38 families who lost loved ones in the line of duty between 2022 and 2023.

In addition, the Commissioner commended 17 police personnel who served in the NYSC orientation camp security team.

They received NYSC commendation letters for their dedication, discipline, and ability to manage sensitive challenges during the 2024 Batch A, Stream One orientation exercise. 

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has embarked on a strategic partnership with the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) aimed at enlightening Nigerians about the core mandates of the service and its pivotal role in driving economic development. 

During a meeting held on Tuesday, 26 March 2024, at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, expressed the Service’s readiness to collaborate closely with FRCN.

Leading the delegation from FRCN, Director-General Muhammad Bulama engaged in discussions with CGC Adeniyi, underscoring the importance of media collaboration in amplifying the efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service. 

“Partnership with the media is very effective in enhancing public understanding of our activities,” stated CGC Adeniyi.

“We are committed to leveraging this collaboration to showcase the various initiatives we have in place to enhance trade efficiency.” 

Stating the need to reshape the narrative surrounding trade in Nigeria, CGC Adeniyi emphasized the importance of reaching out to Nigerians to inform them about the extensive work undertaken by the Customs Service.

“We are doing a lot more than people know us for,” he said, acknowledging the offer of strategic partnership extended by FRCN. 

In response, Director-General Bulama commended CGC Adeniyi for his leadership and the progress made under his tenure. He expressed confidence in the Comptroller-General’s ability to steer the Nigeria Customs Service towards greater efficiency and effectiveness. 

“We are convinced that the appointment of CGC Adeniyi by Mr. President is already yielding positive results,” remarked DG Bulama.

“It is our duty to support, publicize, and advocate for the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service, and we believe that together, we can contribute to the realization of our country’s potential and greatness.” 

The partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria marks a significant step towards enhancing public awareness and understanding of the Customs Service’s mandates and contributions to national development.

By Uzair Adam Imam  

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre has distributed food items to over 2,000 households in eight local government areas of Kano State, mostly for people with disabilities (PWDs). 

Abdulrahman ibn Abdul Aziz Al-Zaben, the team leader of the foundation, said the program aims to support families and those in need during the holy month of Ramadan every year to alleviate hardship and suffering. 

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) implemented the program in Nigeria.  

Food items distributed included 25kg bags of beans, 25kg bags of rice, and 4kg of Masavita, among others. At the event, Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo expressed gratitude to the centre for remembering the people of Kano during Ramadan. 

The Director of Special Duties at NEMA, Fatima Kashim, who represented NEMA Director General Zubaida Umar, also thanked the centre for reaching out to those in need. 

The deputy governor, DG NEMA, and the representative of the King Salman Humanitarian Relief Center called on the beneficiaries to make good use of the items to improve the lives of their families.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Dogo Gide, the notorious bandit leader responsible for spreading terror across the North, has met his end.

The demise of Dogo Gide marks the conclusion of his reign of terror that had plagued the region for an extended period. 

Dogo Gide succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained during a fierce confrontation with Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) forces.

The encounter occurred amidst the rugged terrain of Madada Forest, located within the Maru local government area, on March 12, 2024. 

Despite sustaining severe injuries during the clash, Dogo Gide was reportedly transported clandestinely to a hospital in Mabera, Sokoto, Sokoto State.

However, his injuries proved fatal, leading to his demise. The demise of Dogo Gide, a fugitive wanted for a string of atrocious crimes in the region, was followed by his burial in Dandalla Village on March 24. 

Nevertheless, concerns have arisen regarding the circumstances surrounding Dogo Gide’s hospital admission.

It has come to light that a security official, now under detention, allegedly facilitated his access to medical care, raising apprehensions about potential collusion within the security apparatus. 

The successful elimination of Dogo Gide stands as a significant accomplishment for the Nigerian security forces.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Following a trial at the Kano State High Court, Frank Geng-Quangrong, a Chinese citizen, has been condemned to death by hanging for the murder of his girlfriend, Ummukalthuum Buhari. 

The verdict came after Quangrong was found guilty of culpable homicide, stemming from an incident amidst alleged discord between the couple that garnered significant public interest. 

Throughout the trial, Quangrong vehemently denied intentionally causing Buhari’s death. 

The sentencing has ignited discussions surrounding the complexities of interpersonal relationships and the boundaries of self-defence.

While Quangrong’s plea for mercy echoes the inherent desire for compassion in the face of tragedy, the court’s decision shows the gravity of the offence and the pursuit of justice for the victim. 

The repercussions of this ruling resonate not only within the confines of the courtroom but also within broader societal discussions on justice and accountability.

As the case concludes, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing domestic disputes peacefully and the imperative of upholding the principles of justice in all circumstances.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

The Chairman of Faskari Local Government Area in Katsina State, Musa Faskari, has confirmed a tragic incident where two worshippers were killed during Ramadan prayers in the Mairua community of the council. 

Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa Service, as reported by Vanguard, Faskari disclosed that the attack occurred during Tarawih prayers on Saturday night.  

He recounted how the assailants barged into the home of Alhaji Lado Mairua during prayers, demanding his compliance.  

When Mairua refused, they fatally shot him. Additionally, a neighbor who arrived at the scene on a motorcycle was also killed after witnessing the incident and raising an alarm. 

Faskari sadly confirmed that the attack resulted in the abduction of Alhaji Lado Mairua’s wife and their 15-year-old daughter.  

This marks the second time Mairua’s wife has been kidnapped by bandits, highlighting the dire security situation in Faskari. 

Expressing deep concern over the escalating boldness of the bandits, Faskari recounted another incident earlier on Saturday where they attacked Malalai village, killing two individuals and abducting two women.  

Tragically, a soldier was also killed in Ruwan Godiya on the same day. Faskari urged the Federal Government to intervene urgently, stating that the state alone cannot effectively address the escalating security challenges.  

He stressed the necessity for security forces to launch decisive actions against the bandits, including invading their hideouts to neutralise their operations and ensure the safety of residents. 

The recurring attacks by bandits have plunged Faskari and its residents into a state of fear and insecurity, demanding immediate and robust measures to restore peace and stability to the area.

By Uzair Adam Imam

In an effort to address the pressing needs of the less privileged during these difficult times, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the Chairman of the Dangote Group, has initiated a nationwide distribution of one million bags of rice.

The distribution began in Kano State, with 120,000 beneficiaries, and will continue throughout the country.

The rice will be disbursed in all local governments in Kano State, and the initiative will then be replicated in other states. Dangote hopes that this effort will alleviate some of the hardships faced by the poor.

The Dangote Group’s nationwide rice distribution program was officially launched at the Kano State Government House, with Alhaji Aliko Dangote himself in attendance.

The ceremony was also attended by Kano State Governor, Alh. Abba Kabir Yusuf, who expressed his gratitude for the initiative.

According to Dangote, the rice distribution aims not only to alleviate hunger in the short term, but also to invest in long-term solutions for communities across Nigeria.

The program represents a significant step towards ensuring food security and reducing poverty in the country.

“We should stand as one community, one nation, extending our hand of friendship and brotherhood,” remarked Dangote.

He also emphasized on the importance of unity and compassion during these challenging times.

“During this month of Ramadan, we are reminded of the spirit of compassion and generosity. This initiative is not just about addressing hunger; it’s about fostering a sense of communal support,” he added.

Alh. Aliko Dangote said the gesture is for 774 local governments nationwide, covering one million bags of rice, with Kano State receiving the lion’s share of 120 thousand beneficiaries

“I am confidently informing you today’s distribution is special. Despite the fact that for the past 30 years, we have been extending support to the teaming populace. We decided to come and add this project to relieve our fellow Nigerians in need.

In addition to the current rice distribution program, Alhaji Dangote informed the audience that the Dangote Group has also been providing meals for 10,000 beneficiaries daily in Kano State.

He also mentioned that the nationwide rice distribution initiative cost a total of 15 billion Naira.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf thanked Alhaji Dangote for his generosity and noted that the assistance comes at a critical time when many people are struggling.

He urged the distribution committees, including the HISBAH Board, to ensure that the rice reaches the most vulnerable members of society, and thanked Alhaji Dangote for his commitment to helping those in need.

Governor Yusuf stated that the gesture by Alhaji Dangote will greatly alleviate the hardship faced by the people of Kano, and noted that selecting 120,000 beneficiaries from Kano for the inauguration ceremony was significant.

Zouera Yousoufou, the Managing Director of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, also spoke at the event, highlighting Alhaji Dangote’s consistent philanthropic efforts and the critical role that the foundation plays in promoting and facilitating such initiatives.

She stated, “It is we at the Dangote Foundation who encouraged him to publicize the gesture, so others can immulate but he has been doing it for years without the left hand knowing what the right hand was given, ensuring that assistance is provided to those in need without drawing undue attention.”

The distribution of palliatives organized by Alhaji Aliko Dangote demonstrates a commitment to alleviating the suffering of those less fortunate, embodying a spirit of compassion and solidarity. It is a meaningful gesture of support for those in need.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Good news emerged on Sunday when the Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced the successful rescue of 137 kidnapped students from Kuriga.

A coordinated effort involving the military, local authorities, and government agencies led to the students’ liberation, according to a statement by Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defense Media Operations.

The primary and secondary school students, abducted on March 7, were freed early Sunday morning. The rescued group comprised 76 girls and 61 boys.

According to Buba, this operation signifies a broader commitment to combating terrorism. On March 21st, troops also secured the release of 16 hostages, including schoolchildren, in Sokoto State.

He added that the military remains steadfast in its pursuit of all hostages and will ensure those responsible face justice through the Nigerian legal system.

Security forces are also actively searching for the perpetrators behind the recent killing of 18 soldiers in Delta State. Justice, according to the DHQ, will be served.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

The Bauchi State Police thwarted a potential kidnapping after arresting three suspects for alleged conspiracy, threats, and attempted abduction.

The Daily Reality gathered that the investigation commenced on March 7 when Yahaya Adamu reported a threat to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit.

An anonymous caller demanded 5 million Naira, threatening violence against him or his family if he refused. 

According to the Bauchi State Police Command, the suspects upped the ante by sending their POS details and mentioning names of Adamu’s family members, further pressuring him to comply.

Acting swiftly, Bauchi Police Commissioner Auwal Musa directed the CID to discreetly investigate.

Using modern technology, they apprehended Haro Adamu (35), Aliyu Saidu (40), and Musa Umaru (35) in Jigawa and Plateau States. 

Police say the suspects confessed during questioning and will face prosecution in court. 

By Uzair Adam Imam

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is alerting the public, particularly those with loved ones abroad, to a new scam that targets innocent families.

Fraudsters are impersonating NDLEA officers and contacting unsuspecting citizens with a fabricated story.

As described by NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, “Under this new scam scheme, the fraudsters will call unsuspecting citizens to inform them of the arrest of their relatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Ikeja Lagos or any other international airport in Nigeria with illicit drugs upon arrival in the country.”

Babafemi continued, explaining the scammers’ tactics, “After throwing the family members into panic, the scammers then make a demand of millions of naira to facilitate the release of such persons from NDLEA custody.”

The NDLEA has successfully thwarted similar attempts in the past. Babafemi highlighted, “At the moment, there is one of such scenario the Agency has just investigated.

“In this case, the picture of a Nigerian man based in the US is being circulated with an audio of a purported NDLEA officer negotiating the payment of N5 million with a female relative for the release of the US-based Nigerian man purportedly arrested at the Lagos airport on Friday 22nd March upon his arrival with a ‘contraband.”

The NDLEA emphasizes that these claims are entirely fabricated. “Just like in previous instances, our investigation has also shown that the current incident is the work of scammers,” affirmed Babafemi.

He reiterated, “No NDLEA officer is involved in the audio conversation and the person whose photo is attached to the audio recording being circulated is not in our custody at MMIA or any of our Commands either as at yesterday or any other day.”

The NDLEA urges the public to exercise caution and avoid falling victim to these scams. “The family members involved in this case are advised not to part with their hard-earned money to scammers,” advised Babafemi.

“Nigerians with loved ones abroad are also urged to keep discussions on travel plans of their relatives to themselves to avoid the hijack of such by criminal elements for devious schemes.”

If you encounter a similar situation, the NDLEA provides contact lines for assistance: “+2347064670026 and +2348033326327.”