News

By Muhammad Abdurrahman

An Islamic human rights organisation, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has warned those calling for the arrest of Dr Zakir Naik to mind their business. The organisation insists that the Islamic preacher is exercising his Allah-given fundamental human right of freedom of movement under international law. MURIC further warned that anybody found embarrassing to the Sultan’s guest would face the wrath of Nigerian Muslims. 

The warning was handed down on Sunday, 5th November 2023, by the Executive Director of MURIC, Professor Ishaq Akintola. 

The full statement reads:

“A campaign of calumny and religious hatred has been unleashed on an international Islamic figure, Dr Zakir Naik, who is currently in Nigeria. Dr Zakir Naik is in the country on the invitation of the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.

“The campaign is being sponsored by Christians who are jittery. They are aware of the visitor’s oratory, intellectual prowess and amazing ability to convince his audience with indubitable facts. We remind these overzealous interlopers that Dr Zakir Naik is exercising his Allah-given fundamental human right of freedom of movement. 

“Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of the United Nations guarantees the right to freedom of movement around the globe without interference. It says, ‘Everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each state. Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country.

“Those behind this shameful exercise are meddlesome interlopers and Muslim haters disguising themselves as public commentators. They are motivated by hate, ignorance and gymnastic religiosity. 

“For the avoidance of doubt, we warn that anybody found embarrassing an official guest of His Eminence the Sultan and head of more than 150 million Nigerian Muslims will face the wrath of Muslims in this country.

“Why are our Christian neighbours so intolerant? How many times have Muslims raised objections when Christians invite foreign preachers? Several Christian preachers have toured this country without any Muslim protesting. 

“We recall the way Louis Farrakhan, the black American Muslim leader, was disallowed from giving a lecture in Nigeria in 1986. That ugly and disgraceful incident was engineered by the same set of people. It must not happen again.

“To those who are pursuing this ignoble goal, we say, ‘Take notice that Dr Zakir Naik is not Louis Farrakhan and Nigeria of 1986 is different from Nigeria in 2023. Nigerian Muslims of today, under a dynamic and visionary leadership, can give measure for measure.’ 

“The whole world knows the Indian government for what it is when it comes to religious tolerance. The crimes of the Indian state against its Muslim population of 204 million Muslims are legendary. Muslim haters in Nigeria should allow the Indian government to convince Interpol to do its dirty work for it. 

“India has failed to involve Interpol because its allegations against Dr Zakir Naik are religiously motivated. How did the Islamic scholar travel across several countries without Interpol arresting him if, indeed, he is a wanted person? Let the Indian government convince Interpol first.

“As far as we are concerned, Dr Zakir Naik has not broken any known law of Nigeria. He is, therefore, innocent and free to move around and deliver lectures. We remind the law enforcement agencies of their duty to ensure the safety and security of this Islamic scholar. Nothing must happen to him. It is needless to assert that any guest of the Sultan is a guest of all Nigerian Muslims.”

#LeaveDrZaikNaikAlone

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Organised labour, represented by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), has declared a total nationwide strike, effective Tuesday, November 14, 2023, following an extraordinary National Executive Council meeting held in Abuja.

The decision stems from a review of the planned strike modalities in light of the recent brutalization of the NLC’s National President, Joe Ajaero, and the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Federal Government and labour centres on October 2, 2023, following the removal of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which the unions claim has inflicted “untold hardship” on Nigerians. 

The labour unions had issued a five-day ultimatum earlier, demanding the redeployment of the commissioner of police in Imo State, where Ajaero was arrested, and the arrest and prosecution of the government aide allegedly involved in the attack.

The unions threatened nationwide industrial action if their demands were not met within the stipulated timeframe. 

Joe Ajaero was arrested by the police in Owerri, Imo State, ahead of a state-wide protest.

The police, asserting that Ajaero was taken into protective custody, denied allegations of an arrest, citing concerns about a potential mob attack.

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, accused the labour leader of interfering in the state’s political affairs, further fueling tensions. 

Prominent figures, including the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, and human rights lawyer Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), have condemned the assault on Ajaero, calling for justice and an end to violence against labour leaders. 

An official from the labour centres, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed that a press release detailing the strike’s specifics will be issued shortly.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Armed bandits on Sunday attacked a religious gathering in Kusa Town, Musawa Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The attackers, armed with AK-47 rifles, stormed the Maulud procession, firing indiscriminately at attendees. 

The Katsina State Police Command confirmed that seven people lost their lives and 16 others sustained gunshot injuries during the attack.

A swift response from law enforcement agents led to the repelling of the attackers.

In the wake of the assault, injured victims were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. 

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, visited the affected community to express his condolences and assure residents of the government’s commitment to restoring peace.

The governor’s visit was met with gratitude by the villagers, who appreciated his support during this difficult time. 

As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of their loved ones, noting the need for increased security measures to prevent future tragedies.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Femi Fani-Kayode, the former aviation minister, has added his voice to the chorus of international condemnation against Israel’s recent military strikes on Gaza, describing them as unjustifiable acts of violence that have sparked a global outcry.

In a strongly-worded statement shared on his social media platform, Fani-Kayode expressed deep concern over the loss of innocent lives, particularly among women and children, and vehemently criticised the ongoing attacks as indefensible and inhumane. 

Fani-Kayode, known for his previous support of Israel, acknowledged the historical sufferings of the Jewish people and his past condemnation of Hamas atrocities.

However, he noted the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and criticised the indiscriminate violence that has claimed the lives of numerous Palestinians.

He stated, “The killing of innocent Palestinian civilians, including women and children, is not a solution. It only perpetuates the cycle of violence, fuels resentment, and deepens the suffering of ordinary people caught in the crossfire.” 

His outspoken criticism comes amidst a surge of global concern, with humanitarian organisations and world leaders calling for an immediate ceasefire and a return to dialogue.

Fani-Kayode urged for international intervention to halt the bloodshed and facilitate diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis, emphasising the importance of protecting the lives and dignity of all individuals involved. 

Fani-Kayode’s stance reflects the growing sentiment worldwide, highlighting the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict as well as the collective responsibility to protect civilian lives and uphold human rights in the face of ongoing hostilities in the region.

His voice adds to the increasing pressure on the international community to take decisive action and work towards lasting peace in the troubled region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Cross River State Police Command rescued a former staff member of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from her abductors at her residence in Calabar on Saturday.

The daring rescue operation was confirmed by Irene Ugbo, the spokesperson for the command, who praised the gallantry of the officers involved. 

Ugbo disclosed that the rescue operation led to the arrest of three suspects, who were apprehended by the command’s Anti Cultism and Kidnapping Squad (ACKS), led by SP Chukwuma Ogini.

The team sprang into action following a distress call reporting the abduction at Mathias Oje Avenue in Calabar Municipality.

The operation was further assisted by the courageous efforts of the Njangachang youths in the locality, who played a pivotal role in apprehending the suspects. 

During the operation, the police recovered two vehicles believed to have been used in the abduction. The suspects were found in possession of arms, ammunition, and charms, indicating their criminal intent. 

Irene Ugbo commended the bravery of the officers and the local youths, emphasizing the commitment of Commissioner Gyogon Grimah to eradicate crimes and criminal activities in the state.

She reiterated the commissioner’s resolve to make Cross River State an inhospitable environment for kidnappers and criminals. “We want to make it clear that no kidnapper or criminal will find the state a safe haven for their nefarious activities. This is the directive of the Commissioner, as mandated by the Inspector General of Police,” stated Ugbo, as quoted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). 

The successful rescue operation stands as a testament to the dedication and efficiency of the Cross River State Police Command in ensuring the safety and security of its residents.

By Muhamamad Suleiman Yobe

The Jigawa state chapter of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has elected new officers to run its affairs for another three years.

Those elected are Aisha Iliyasu Surko of Radio Jigawa as chairperson,  Bishira Muhammad from Horizon FM Dutse as deputy chairperson, Salamatu Nuhu from FM Sawaba Hadejia as secretary, Maryam Ibrahim from NTA Dutse as deputy secretary and Aisha Muhammad Sani from Radion Jigawa  as Treasurer.

The election was conducted at Press Centre Dutse by the National Secretary of NAWOJ, Rabi Gwadabe.

In her acceptance speech, the newly elected chairperson, Aisha Iliyasu Surko, commended members for giving her the mandate and called on other contestants to come and contribute to the development of the Union.

Managing Directors of Radio Jigawa, Yusif Adamu Babura and JTV Abba Muhammad Tukur Gantsa, an elder of the Union Hajia Zainab Rabo Ringim and security agencies witnessed the election.

 By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Troops from the Nigerian Army, operating under ‘Operation Whirl Punch,’ have successfully neutralized seven terrorists in Kampanin Doka Village, Birnin-Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The operation, conducted in response to ongoing attacks on the local community, resulted in the elimination of four bandits on November 1, 2023. 

According to Lt. Col. Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations Officer, Nigerian Army, Kaduna, the troops, in collaboration with 1 Division Nigerian Army, swiftly responded to reports of bandit attacks in Kampanin Doka village.

The operation led to the recovery of weapons, including one AK 47 rifle, one AK 47 magazine, one machete, a mobile phone, and fourteen motorcycles previously used by the criminals. 

In a related incident on November 2, 2023, farmers in the western part of Sabon Sara village faced a bandit attack while harvesting their crops.

The quick response from the Nigerian Army troops, supported by the courageous actions of four farmers, resulted in the neutralization of one bandit.

The attackers, with gunshot wounds, fled the scene, leaving behind two AK 47 rifles. During the encounter, one of the farmers, Mallam Abdulrahman Aliyu, sustained minor injuries and was promptly evacuated to a nearby military hospital for medical attention.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police, successfully rescued two National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) members who were kidnapped by bandits in Yargoje community, Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The Director of Army Public Relations, Brig.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, confirmed this heroic rescue mission in a statement released on Friday in Abuja. 

The abduction took place while the NYSC members were traveling from Edo to Katsina State.

The swift and courageous efforts of the security forces, particularly the 17 Brigade Nigerian Army and the police, led to the safe return of the hostages on Thursday. 

Brig.-Gen. Nwachukwu emphasized that the rescued corps members have received essential medical care and support to ensure their physical and emotional well-being.

Currently, they are under the protective custody of the Nigerian Police in Kankara, where they are being provided with necessary assistance. 

He further stated, “The Nigerian Army continues to solicit the cooperation and support of the public in providing timely and relevant information to enhance troops’ proactive operational engagement of criminal elements.”

This call reaffirms the importance of community collaboration in the ongoing efforts to maintain security and safety in the region. 

The successful rescue of the kidnapped NYSC members stands as a testament to the dedication and effectiveness of Nigeria’s security forces, highlighting their unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of citizens, including those serving the nation through initiatives like the NYSC program.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have announced a nationwide strike scheduled for Wednesday, November 8, 2023.

The joint union’s decision stems from the alleged beating and abduction of their President, Joe Ajaero, during a protest in Imo State’s capital. 

Leaders of the NLC and TUC have issued a six-point demand to the Federal Government, calling for the immediate removal of the Commissioner of Police, Imo State, and the Area Commander, among other officials, accused of complicity in the brutalization and abduction of Ajaero and other workers.

Reports indicate that Ajaero was taken away by the police during a protest against the non-payment of workers by the Imo State Government. 

The NLC, in a strongly worded statement, accused Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, of conspiring with the state’s Commissioner of Police, Muhammed Barde, to abduct Ajaero.

The unions condemned what they described as the state government’s use of violence and intimidation against trade unions and their leadership, emphasizing that their only demand was the payment of overdue salaries to state workers. 

In response, the state’s Police Command and Governor Uzodimma vehemently denied the allegations, with the police claiming that Ajaero was in Warri, organizing labourers for a planned protest demonstration in the state.

The governor’s spokesperson, Declan Emelumba, dismissed the accusations, labeling the accusers as “mischief makers.” The NLC and TUC, however, remain steadfast in their demand for Ajaero’s release and have called for the intervention of President Bola Tinubu.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, is set to be flown abroad for medical treatment after sustaining injuries during a violent incident in Imo State.

Ajaero was in Owerri on Wednesday, November 1, to mobilise Imo workers for a peaceful protest rally against alleged violations of workers’ rights and privileges by the state government. 

The planned peaceful protest took a chaotic turn when allegations surfaced that thugs had attacked the protesters and labour leaders.

During the scuffle, Ajaero sustained injuries that necessitated specialised medical attention, making it impossible for him to be treated at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri. 

Benson Upah, the NLC Publicity Secretary, confirmed the decision to seek medical treatment abroad due to the nature of Ajaero’s injuries.

The incident has raised concerns about the safety of activists and the need for peaceful demonstrations in the country. 

The NLC, along with various human rights organisations, has condemned the violent attack and called for a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Meanwhile, arrangements are being made to transport Ajaero abroad, where he will receive the necessary medical care to recover from his injuries.