News

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Turmoil engulfed the National Assembly Complex today as workers joined the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) in an indefinite nationwide strike, flouting a court order that attempted to restrain the unions. 

The spark for this collective action traces back to an incident on November 1, 2023, when Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, faced an assault in Imo State, prompting the unions to issue a nationwide strike notice last week. 

As of 12:23 p.m. on Tuesday, the National Assembly Complex resembled a fortress, with all its gates securely locked.

Workers who arrived at the scene found themselves stranded, a testament to the strength of the protest. 

Remarkably, despite the chaos at the entrance, plenary sessions in the House of Representatives persisted, creating a stark visual contrast between the determined protesters outside and the ongoing legislative business inside.  

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari

The United Nations (UN) has mourned staff of the organization killed by the Israel attacks in Gaza. 

The UN Secretary-General, Antònio Guterres, disclosed the development in a tweet on Monday. 

According to Guterres, more than 100 staff of the United Nations Relief and Work Agency met their death as a result of the raging war. 

“Today, the @UN family observed a moment of silence to mourn & honour our colleagues killed in Gaza. Since the start of this conflict, more than 100 @UNRWA staff have lost their lives – the highest number of UN aid workers killed in a conflict in such a short time. They will never be forgotten.” He tweeted.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Correctional Service in Kano State disclosed that 140 individuals on death row are awaiting execution. 

The spokesman for the Kano State Command, Musbahu Kofar-Nassarawa, conveyed this information to the News Agency of Nigeria on Saturday, emphasizing that the condemned individuals comprise both genders. 

Mr Kofar-Nassarawa clarified that the Kano Correctional Centre lacks a hangman as it operates as a Medium Security Custodial Centre.

The absence of a hangman further complicates the situation, raising questions about the state’s preparedness for implementing capital punishment. 

He pointed out that the governors in the state have not taken decisive action by either signing death warrants or commuting the sentences of those on death row to life imprisonment.

The complex nature of the legal process and the reluctance of the governors have contributed to a growing number of individuals in a state of limbo, awaiting a final decision on their fate. 

Mr Kofar-Nassarawa highlighted that some governors utilize constitutional provisions to release inmates, relying on recommendations from the Advisory Council on the prerogative of mercy to alleviate congestion in correctional centers.

The plight of these 140 inmates underscores the broader challenges within the criminal justice system and the need for swift and decisive action to address their uncertain future.

By Ishaka Mohammed

Meta’s instant messenger, WhatsApp, has allowed Android users to have two active accounts on one phone.

The Daily Reality confirmed the development after accessing a Facebook post by one Pal Kelly Media.

Recall that on October 19, 2023, the Chief Executive Officer of Meta Platforms, Mark Zuckerberg, revealed the company’s intention to enable multiple WhatsApp accounts on Android.

WhatsApp also reported the same in a blog post guiding users on how to add a new account. Part of the post reads as follows:

“Today, we’re introducing the ability to have two WhatsApp accounts on Android logged in at the same time. Helpful for switching between accounts – such as your work and personal – now you no longer need to log out each time, carry two phones or worry about messaging from the wrong place.

“To set up a second account, you will need a second phone number and SIM card or a phone that accepts multi-SIM or eSIM. Simply open your WhatsApp settings, click on the arrow next to your name, and click ‘Add account’. You can control your privacy and notification settings on each account.”

However, users are required to update their WhatsApp to enable them to access the new feature.

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari 

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has granted the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, bail. 

On Wednesday, Justice Olukayode Adeniyi of the Federal High Court, Abuja, ordered that the former apex bank manager be released to his lawyers immediately. 

According to the judge, Emefiele must also deposit his travel documents before the chief registrar of the court, pending his arraignment. 

The judge faulted his detention without trial and advised the government to end that practice.  

Justice Adeneyi added that the court must also not overlook the fact that he has been in detention for 151 days, and the Federal Government and the Attorney General of the Federation must abide by court order.

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.