News

By Uzair Adam Imam

An indegine of Kano, Abdulmalik Abubakar has emerged winner of the 2023 Historian Competition.

Abdulmalik Abubakar parted with a sum of N500,000 prize and a week-long trip to Kenya for tourism.

The competition was sponsored by the Restored Heart Foundation based in Abuja to inspire young undergradute students in Nigeria and Africa about the value of African history.

Isa is law student from Bayero University, Kano (BUK) and his victory surprised many people including the participants who were mostly history students.

Upon his success, Isa engraved his name in the history of Nigeria and Africa and was crowned 2023 “Keeper of the African History.”

I struggle with taugh history questions

Isa recounted how he had struggled with toughest history questions before he could defeat other history students and emerged victorious.

He added that most of the questions he answered at the inter-regional stage were not about Nigeria.

He stated that he was initially afriaid, adding that, “My fears were that I am not a student of History and all the questions were questions that digged deep into history.

“Like at the inter-regional stage moving to the top 6, I was never asked a single question about Nigeria, my first question was “What was the first country to get independence from East Africa ?” Likewise all the other questions were outside Nigeria totally.

How I knock down a history student at the final stage

“My emergence is an amazing one, because my opponent is a final year student of History at UNILORIN, but despite being a Law student I dedicated my time to read wide and trained well to see I emerge winner, which God makes it happened.

“When we reached quoter-final to be the top six moving to Calabar, I was the only Muslim hausa-fulani from North, and they required each to wear his native attire, I felt like I would be redicule there because some of our leaders were not friendly with the southerners.

“And, also I was given a topic completely different from my field of study which was “Nigeria’s oil boom and resources curse”.

“However, God granted me the wisdom and strength to deliver a marvelous presentation which received huge rounds of applause from all over the auditorium.

I grab this opportunity when surfing on social media

Isa stated that he was surfing online media platforms as usual, then he came across the link of the competition.

He added that the competition was both online and physical and he was among the 3,000 applicants who were invited for a screening.

He said, “It started with about 3k applicants where we were screened down to 800 then to further stages that included the top 100, then we got to be the top 30 (5 participants representing the 6 zones of the federation).

“We then got to compete at the intra-regional stage, where only 2 participants qualified from each of the 6 geo-political zone to be among the top 12.

“After I emerged among the top 12. We then had our inter-regional stage, I competed aginst one lady from South-east, I knocked her out to be among the top 6.

“As top 6, we moved to quoter-final stage at the University of Calabar for Presentation stage, were I passed the stage and became among the top 4.

“As top 4, we then moved to semi-final in enugu, but IPOB’s sit at home order made them to reschedule it to Bayero University for the semi-final stage, which was a debate stage, where l defeated my opponent from Southwest at the debate stage in BUK and qualified to be the finalist, who were the top 2 for the final stage.

“We yesterday had the Grand-finale at the Nile University Abuja where I defeated my opponent from North-Central (UNILORIN) to be the Winner as well as the “Crowned Keeper of African History 2023”

Reward for excellence

Hardworking pays as Isa emerged winner with the following prizes:

1. Cash prize of 500,000.
2. I week trip to Kenya for tourism
3. Crown Keeper of the African History 2023.
4. One year free data subscription package.
5. Ambassadorship.
6. Special guest to be invited to the grand final next year.

Words of wisdom, encouragement

“I want to encourage my fellow students to read wide and also outside their field of study, every knowledge is valuable. I never thought history could be my eye opener and way to be outside Nigeria.

“But my passion to read History and commitment to other areas of knowledge has given me all these advantages.

I made it despite tight schedules

“I want to tell my fellow students that as at now, I’m the President of Law Students’ Association of Nigeria (LAWSAN) BUK Chapter and a final year Law student with project and all that, and also the President Kaura Goje Students’ Association (KAGSA) and so many other several students’ engagements, but that does not forestall me from excelling in other fields of endeavors.

“So just be determined and confident, God will assist you to achieve your dreams,” he stated.

By Uzair Adam Imam

There have been moves for collective efforts between the Kano State Bureau of Statistics, Kano Cancer Center and AMG Foundation to establish a comprehensive cancer registry and directory in Kano State.

A statement by the Technical Assistant to the Statistician, General Kano State Bureau of Statistics, Muhammad Tasiu Abbas, disclosed this on Monday.

Abbas said that Dr. Aliyu Isa Aliyu, the Statistician General of Kano State Bureau of Statistics, met with Dr. Amin Magashi about the development.

He added that their meeting revolved around discussing the possibilities of collaboration in establishing a comprehensive cancer registry and directory in the state.

The statement read in part, “The meeting aimed to enhance efforts in collecting and analyzing cancer-related data, ensuring improved planning, prevention, and treatment strategies in the fight against cancer.

“The proposed partnership between the Bureau of Statistics, Cancer Center and AMG Foundation is expected to strengthen the state’s capacity to combat this disease and address the various challenges it poses to public health,” the statement added.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

Northern leaders and stakeholders in the north have warned the Federal Government and Zamfara state government to stop playing politics with the lives of the people of the region concerning the alleged Federal Government’s secret negotiation with bandits. 

They expressed outrage that the Federal Government could be negotiating with bandits, which never worked in the past, and cautioned the government against such a move. 

They argued that by engaging in talks with bandits, the government was indirectly legitimising their criminal activities and creating a dangerous cycle of appeasement. 

They added that the move was sending a troubling message that crime and violence can be rewarded rather than punished. 

Recall that Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara has blamed the Federal Government for allegedly negotiating with bandits secretly without involving the state government. 

He also accused the Federal Government of sabotaging the ongoing fight against banditry in the state by negotiating with bandits behind the state government. 

His spokesman, Sulaiman Idris, in a statement he issued to journalists, said the governor said a delegation allegedly sent by some agencies of the Federal Government had been holding talks with bandit groups in Zamfara without the consent of the State Government. 

The governor said, “We have facts and evidence on what had transpired between these agents of the Federal Government and the bandits during the negotiations in several places across Zamfara.” 

Responding, the Minister of Information, in a statement by his spokesperson, Suleiman Haruna, on Tuesday night, however, denied negotiating with bandits. Also in the statement, the minister accused Governor Dauda Lawan of politicising security matters. 

In his reaction, one of the stakeholders and the spokesman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba argued that these negotiations are weakening the rule of law and establishing a dangerous precedent for other criminal elements in the country. 

Muhammad-Baba expressed fear that this approach might inspire other groups to take up arms and engage in similar acts.

Describing the move as ‘weak,’ he urged the Federal Government to reconsider its stance on negotiating with bandits. 

He said, “How will you begin a negotiation in Zamfara state without involving the Zamfara state government? You and I know this is a serious aberration and should not be taken lightly.

There is no way you can come into my house without my knowledge, even if we are of the same father, and start doing this kind of thing is not good. 

Expressing his disappointment, the Executive Director, Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, called on the current administration, led by President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to restructure the military and ensure it regains its lost glory. 

According to him, “That singular act is a complete failure of the governance system in Nigeria because what it presents is that our security is no longer having the capability to deal with the insurgency and they are no longer trusted to do their work.  

“And it’s almost like Nigeria is going into the abyss.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Federal High Court in Gyadi-Gyadi, Kano, has fined the Kano State Government 30 billion Naira for the unauthorised demolition of shops within the historic Idi Mosque premises at Kofar Mata. 

The ruling, delivered by Justice Simon Ameboda, strongly condemned the government’s actions, labelling the demolition as an “illegal activity full of brutality and malice.” 

The court’s decision also mandated the state government to compensate the affected businessmen whose shops were razed to the ground.

Justice Ameboda emphasised the severity of the government’s offence against the less privileged members of the community, leading to the imposition of a significant fine. 

This substantial penalty serves as a stern warning against any future attempts by government entities to infringe upon the property rights of individuals and small businesses within the state. 

The ruling also included a restraining order, preventing the Kano Government from interfering with the lands and affairs of the shops, including reallocating them to other entities. 

The legal community and activists have applauded the court’s decision, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring accountability and justice, particularly for those who are economically vulnerable. 

The affected businessmen, their legal representatives, and the community have expressed relief and satisfaction with the court’s verdict, hoping that this landmark judgement will serve as a precedent, deterring any similar actions by government authorities in the future. 

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

A task force inaugurated by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike recently made headlines as they seized and destroyed 470 motorcycles in a crackdown on illegal motorbike operations in various parts of Abuja.

The operation, which started at the popular car wash bus stop in Lugbe, extended through Gosa, Bill Clinton Drive, Trademore Estate, Lugbe Junction, and reached Kubwa and its surrounding areas. 

According to eyewitnesses, chaos ensued when motorcyclists attempted to prevent their vehicles from being impounded.

The confrontation escalated into a violent clash between the operators and security operatives.

In a bid to evade arrest, the okada operators scattered in different directions, leading to a high-speed chase through the streets of Abuja. 

The task force, determined to curb the menace of illegal motorcycle operations in the city, pursued the operators relentlessly.

As a result, 470 motorcycles were impounded during the operation. The seized vehicles were subsequently destroyed, marking a crackdown on unauthorised motorbike activities in the capital city. 

Authorities have yet to comment on the incident, but it is clear that the task force’s actions are part of a broader effort to enforce regulations and enhance security in the FCT.

The clash serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in maintaining order while dealing with those engaged in illegal activities on the city’s streets. 

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

President Bola Tinubu has approved the procurement of 12 MD 530F Cayuse attack helicopters to enhance the service of the Nigerian Army. 

The announcement was made by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, during the inaugural Nigerian Army Aviation Seminar held on Tuesday in Abuja. 

The acquisition of these advanced attack helicopters marks a pivotal moment for the Nigerian military, as it heralds the operationalization of the Nigerian Army Aviation Unit. 

This specialised unit has been established with the primary goal of improving ground troops’ agility, responsiveness, and overall efficacy during various military operations. Lt.-Gen.

Lagbaja emphasised that the addition of these attack helicopters to the Nigerian Army’s arsenal would not only enhance its internal capabilities but also contribute significantly to the success of joint and coalition military operations.

He underlined the importance of this initiative in the broader context of military strategy. Explaining the role of the army aviation unit, Lt.-Gen.

Lagbaja noted that it is distinct from a nation’s dedicated air force but focuses primarily on helicopters and light-support fixed-wing aircraft.

This specialisation enables the unit to provide vital support to ground troops during tactical and operational engagements. 

Expressing his gratitude, Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja thanked President Tinubu for his unwavering support in realising the Nigerian Army’s aspiration to have a well-equipped aviation unit.

He drew attention to the experiences of other nations such as the United States, Pakistan, Colombia, Egypt, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Uganda, all of which have successfully employed similar aviation units to enhance their military capabilities. 

This strategic move signifies a significant step forward for the Nigerian military and underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening national defense.

The procurement of these attack helicopters will undoubtedly play a crucial role in ensuring the security and stability of the nation while also aligning with international best practices in military operations.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A suspect, identified as Abiduna Amin, lost his life while in police custody at the Dutsen Tanshi police division.

The tragedy on Tuesday has ignited a firestorm of concern regarding human rights abuses within the police force. It has sparked a social media movement rallying under the hashtag #JusticeForAbidin.

Abiduna Amin, a resident of Karofi Bauchi and an animal dealer by occupation, became the focal point of a police interrogation.

According to sources, he was being questioned on suspicion of having purchased a stolen goat or ram. However, what began as a routine inquiry escalated dramatically when it was alleged that police officers subjected Abiduna Amin to severe physical violence, resulting in his untimely death while in police custody.

The news of Amin’s tragic demise spread like wildfire across social media platforms, with the hashtag #JusticeForAbidin quickly gaining immense traction on Facebook.

A groundswell of concerned citizens, activists, and human rights advocates have voiced outrage over the incident, pledging not to let this case fade into obscurity. The campaigners demand accountability and justice for the deceased, urging a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Recognising the gravity of the situation, the Bauchi State Commissioner of Police took decisive action by summoning the Dutsen Tanshi Police Divisional Officer for a comprehensive inquiry into the incident.

However, at this juncture, police authorities have yet to release an official statement addressing the matter or providing specifics regarding the steps taken to address the officers involved.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Federal Government has officially refuted claims of negotiations with the Zamfara terrorists to secure the release of the abducted students from the Federal University, Gusau. 

This development was contained in a statement that was released by Mr. Hope Attari, the Acting Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence. 

Badaru categorically dismissed the allegations of negotiations with the terrorists as misleading and emphasised that President Bola Tinubu had issued clear directives to the military and other security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted students. 

“The Federal Government is working diligently around the clock to ensure that the girls and other abducted individuals return home safely,” stated Badaru. 

Reassuring the residents of Zamfara and all Nigerians, the Minister of Defence conveyed the significant progress being made towards the swift release of the female students and others from Federal University, Gusau.

He expressed confidence in the joint security task forces working discreetly to rescue the students. In addition to addressing the ongoing efforts, Badaru extended his regret to the families of the abducted individuals, condemning the incident as reprehensible.

He highlighted the initial success of President Tinubu’s directives, with 13 of the abducted students and three others regaining their freedom on Monday, attributing this achievement to the professional efforts of the military. 

The Federal Government remains committed to securing the release of all the remaining abducted students and individuals while continuing to uphold the safety and security of its citizens.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Governor Dauda Lawal has called on the Federal Government to conduct an urgent and comprehensive investigation into undisclosed negotiations with bandits in Zamfara. 

Reports have surfaced indicating that federal government agencies were engaging in talks with bandit groups in the state without the state government’s knowledge. 

In a statement delivered by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, on Monday Governor Lawal expressed deep concern over these negotiations, which conflict with the state’s strategy against banditry. 

The governor reasserted Zamfara’s unwavering stance against negotiating with criminals. 

The Zamfara State Government is resolute and “will not negotiate with these criminals,” Governor Lawal declared. 

He further urged the Federal Government to terminate these secret negotiations promptly, citing their potential to undermine progress in the fight against banditry.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has officially disclosed that Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, lacks the necessary certification as a member of the institute, raising concerns about the legality of his role. 

The NIPR, established by law, mandates individuals to obtain certification and licencing to practice public relations within Nigeria. 

According to the newly elected governing council members, led by Dr. Ike Neliaku, Mr. Ngelale’s absence from the institute’s membership register indicates that he is not a certified public relations practitioner. 

A governing council member who spoke to an online Nigerian newspaper and requested anonymity emphasised the importance of adhering to the established parameters of knowledge and qualifications for effective public relations practice. 

The council member stated, “We have checked our records and membership register, and we could not find Ajuri Ngelale on the list.

“One can be a good writer, broadcaster, or journalist, but there are set parameters of knowledge a communicator needs to acquire, including qualifications, before he/she can practice Public Relations in Nigeria.” 

The NIPR’s governing council pointed out that the law governing the institute includes specific regulations for appointing spokespersons, and it deems it a criminal offence for anyone to engage in public relations without proper certification from the institute. 

“In fact, the NIPR Act stipulates punishments for illegal practice, including imprisonment, fines, or both,” the council member added. 

This revelation has sparked discussions about the importance of adhering to professional standards in the field of public relations and the potential legal consequences of not meeting these requirements.

The situation also raises questions about the vetting process for appointing public relations officials in the government and private sectors. 

As the controversy surrounding Ajuri Ngelale’s certification status unfolds, stakeholders in the field of public relations are closely watching to see how this matter develops and whether it will lead to legal actions or policy changes.