Politics

By Usman Abdullahi Koli, ANIPR

A renowned scholar, Thomas Paine, once said, “Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it.” This statement perfectly suits the relentless efforts of Honorable Musa Azare, the caretaker chairman of Katagum Local Government Area (LGA) in Bauchi State. Hon. Azare’s leadership is marked by extraordinary impacts, demonstrating his dedication to transforming lives and communities through selfless service. His name is etched in the hearts of many for his commitment to the welfare of his people, making him a standout leader in Bauchi State.

Hon. Musa Azare’s journey into public service is a testament to his dedication to positive development in Katagum LGA. Despite opposition and challenges, he remains undeterred in his mission to bring about meaningful change. Born and educated in Bauchi State, Hon. Musa attended several institutions, acquiring extensive knowledge, technical skills, and practical experience. His background laid a solid foundation for his leadership, allowing him to address the diverse needs of his community effectively.

As the caretaker chairman of Katagum LGA, Hon. Azare has initiated and completed numerous projects, significantly improving the lives of his people. His contributions to the local government are vast and varied, ranging from providing healthcare facilities to launching cervical cancer vaccination, where his daughter Halima was the first to be vaccinated in Katagum LGA. According to the Secretary of the hospital, a donation of N500,000 to Azare General Hospital in the Hospitals Revolving Fund (HRF) had reached N4m.

Renovation of classrooms distribution of free uniforms to hundreds of primary school pupils of Central Primary School, Azare. The construction of a feeder road at Azare Main Market was previously flooded with water every rainy season. The market was nearly dead due to the problem of inaccessibility, especially during the rainy period—construction of the 4.5 km Dagaro-Zindi road in the Chinade District of the local government.

Drilling new boreholes and water projects in Madangala, under the Azare District of Katagum. Renovation of several damaged hand pump boreholes in Madara District. These projects, executed with high standards, ensure lasting benefits for the communities, proving his judicious utilization of funds and commitment to sustainable development. Hon. Musa Azare is widely recognized for his exceptional leadership qualities.

He is a visionary leader known for his strategic planning and effective implementation of policies that address the core needs of his local government. The Police Divisional Officer (DPO) in Katagum LGA received torchlights, sticks, and whistles for distribution to various security and quasi-security organizations to boost night patrol in the Katagum local government area. His ability to mobilize resources was vital in the equitable and transparent distribution of the FG/State Government-assisted palliative to cushion the effect of removing petroleum subsidy.

The refurbishing of local government buses to ease transportation of people and the construction of the palace of the District Head of Chinade was done in collaboration with the Bauchi State Government. Honourable Musa garnered support from various stakeholders and has been instrumental in driving the development agenda of Katagum LGA. Beyond his administrative acumen, Musa is a humanitarian at heart. His philanthropic efforts extend to all corners of the LGA; he donated 4,000 varieties of trees to the JIBWIS campaign against environmental degradation. Providing financial assistance, food supplies, and essential services to the less privileged.

He focuses on empowering vulnerable groups, including women, youth, and the elderly, through skill acquisition programs and microfinance initiatives, enabling them to become self-reliant and contribute positively to the community. His love for his people is evident in his inclusive approach to governance. He embraces individuals from all walks of life, irrespective of their religious, tribal, or regional backgrounds.

The open-door policy of Honorable Musa Azare ensures that every voice is heard and every concern is addressed. This approach has fostered a sense of unity and belonging among the residents of Katagum LGA. A key aspect of his leadership is his prudent management of public funds. Unlike some leaders who divert resources for personal gain, Hon. Azare ensures that every Naira is spent transparently and efficiently. His focus on accountability and integrity has successfully completed several high-standard projects that stand the test of time.

This judicious use of funds has earned him the trust and respect of his constituents, solidifying his reputation as a leader who truly serves the people. Recognizing the vital role of education in societal transformation, he has prioritized educational development in Katagum and its environs. He has spearheaded initiatives to renovate dilapidated schools, provide learning materials, and offer scholarships to deserving students. Hon. Azare’s commitment to healthcare is evident through his efforts to enhance medical facilities and services within the local government. He has facilitated the construction and renovation of health centres, ensuring they are well-equipped to serve the community’s needs.

His social welfare programs also provide critical support to vulnerable populations, including women, children, and the elderly, promoting a healthier and more equitable society. Hon. Musa’s relentless dedication has not gone unnoticed. He is often described as a leader who selflessly prioritizes his people’s needs, sacrificing his comfort for their well-being. A constant smile and open-handed generosity have won over even his harshest critics, earning him respect and admiration. He stands as a beacon of hope and an exemplary leader in Bauchi State and across Nigeria.

Katagum Local government, under the leadership of Hon. Azare, was honoured with the award for Best Local Government in Documentation by New Incentives; All Babies Are Equal Initiative (NI-AVAE). This recognition was due to the LGA’s outstanding performance in data documentation, accurate registration of children under one year, reduction of zero-dose cases, effective data recording, and consistent cash payments to caregivers. The award included a financial incentive of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira, highlighting the exceptional dedication and commitment of the Director of Katagum LG Primary Healthcare Department, Malam Jibril Muhammad Inuwa, and his entire staff. Therefore, Hon. Azare’s strategic vision and support have been essential in achieving this milestone, reflecting his steadfast commitment to improving healthcare and routine immunization in various communities.

His dedication to youth empowerment is further exemplified by vocational training programs that equip young people with marketable skills, ensuring they have the tools to build prosperous futures. He embodies the true essence of transformative leadership. His dedication to advancing his community, his humanitarian efforts, and his prudent financial management have impacted Katagum LGA. His enduring legacy will continue to inspire future generations, guiding them towards a brighter and more prosperous future. He is well-bred and had sufficiently sipped from the fountain of life to give back to society with interest. What more would one ask for?

Usman Abdullahi Koli wrote via mernoukoli@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

A group of youths and women under the Concerned Southern Borno Citizens (CSBCs) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu, the All Progress Congress (APC), and the Senate to reverse the removal of Senator Mohammed Ndume as the Chief Whip of the Senate.

The group, comprising various clubs and associations in Borno State, gathered at the NUJ Press Centre in Maiduguri to show their support for Senator Ndume.

Comrade Bulama Sawa, National Chairman and spokesperson of CSBCs, called on the APC National Working Committee to reconsider its decision to remove Senator Ndume and to rescind the request for him to withdraw from APC membership.

The removal followed Senator Ndume’s comments on Arise TV on July 12, 2024, where he criticized the nation’s issues of hunger and insecurity under President Tinubu’s administration.

This led to his replacement by Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno (Borno North) as Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation.

The group praised President Tinubu for initially recognizing Senator Ndume’s contributions by appointing him as Majority Chief Whip.

They highlighted his positive impact on Southern Borno, including mentoring youths and sponsoring education.

They condemned the APC’s decision and passed a vote of confidence in Ndume, urging President Tinubu to avoid political vendetta and uphold voices speaking the truth.

By Anwar Usman

Kaduna State governor, Uba Sani, has expressed concern over the rising cases of out-of-school children, poverty and other socioeconomic problems in the North, stating that the region was on the verge of collapsing if the leaders do not come together to find solutions to the challenges.

Sani raised the alarm during a courtesy visit by the National Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Mamman Usman to Kaduna State.

He said, “This new executive committee has emerged at a time of great challenges. We are confronted with difficult developmental and security questions. Criminal elements have been laying siege to communities in the North and reversing our progress on multiple fronts. Our development deficits are scary and require urgent attention.

“In 2022, the Federal Government of Nigeria through the National Bureau of Statistics launched its most extensive measure of multidimensional poverty. The survey revealed that 63% of persons living within Nigeria (that is about 133 million people) are multi-dimensionally poor. 65% of the poor (that is 86 million people) live in the North, while 35% (nearly 47 million) live in the South.

He further states that, “The North is not succeeding in any in the area of Education. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) puts the number of out-of-school children in Nigeria at 18.3 million. Of this outrageous number of out-of-school children, about 70% are in the North of Nigeria. This is quite disturbing and must worry all of us who still care for the North and Nigeria in general.“

As I mentioned earlier, insecurity in the North has retarded developments in the critical sectors. a lot of farmers cannot access their farms. Food insecurity now confronts us directly. Child and maternal mortality are on the increase. Our infrastructure has decayed. The moves to address our infrastructural deficits are equally threatened by insecurity.

“For the North and move decisively to change these negative development indices. Unfortunately, what we see in the North is the promotion of toxic politics, opposition for opposition’s sake, and “pull him down syndrome.

“We indulge in endless blame games, devoid of attempts at soul searching or introspection. We have failed to ask ourselves some vital questions. Where did the rain start beating the North? Who are those complicit in the underdevelopment of the North?

“The Arewa Consultative Forum has a major role to play in building this required consensus for the best approach to tackle the multifaceted challenges facing Northern Nigeria. ACF must make efforts to refocus the attention of our people. Let us de-emphasise politics and focus on development. Let us gear our efforts towards overcoming the threats with all the energy we can muster”.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The House of Representatives has resolved to support the Federal Government by cutting down its salaries by 50% for six months to address the high cost of food and support food sufficiency across the country.

This decision was made on Thursday during the plenary session in Abuja, and the lawmakers also appealed to Nigerians to exercise patience with President Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as it addresses the challenges and hardships faced by citizens.

The House mandated its Committee on Appropriation, Humanitarian Affairs, Finance, and Budget to ensure compliance with the resolution. The motion was moved by Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka (APC-Ogun State) and adopted by the House.

Additionally, the House of Representatives has pledged to support the Federal Government with ₦648 million for six months to address food sufficiency and the high cost of food.

Details later….

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Bashir El-Rufai, the son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has sent a cryptic message to President Bola Tinubu, warning that even the backing of the IMF and World Bank will not save him from being voted out of office after his first term.

El-Rufai asserts that no institution can prevent the people from voting out an incumbent government and that Tinubu’s governance has been an “utter failure” disguised as a “useless, dangerous, ethnocentric political strategy.”

The message comes amid tensions between Tinubu and El-Rufai’s camp after the former governor’s name was excluded from the ministerial list. Uba Sani, El-Rufai’s successor in Kaduna, has also lamented the enormous debts inherited from the previous administration, saying the state has limited funds to pay salaries.

Despite the World Bank and IMF lauding Tinubu’s economic reforms and offering support, El-Rufai’s son believes these institutions will not be able to prevent the president from being voted out if the people are dissatisfied with his performance.

The cryptic message serves as a warning to Tinubu of what the camp of El-Rufai and other disgruntled APC members have in store for 2027, which has been discussed privately but is now being made public.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A civil society group, the Kaduna Citizens Watch for Good Governance (KCWGG), announced on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, that it has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to investigate former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, and his cabinet over alleged financial misappropriation of over N400bn during his administration from 2015 to 2023.

Speaking during a press conference held at Arewa House, Kaduna, on Wednesday, the chairman of KCWGG, Comrade Victor Duniya, stated, “Yesterday, the 2nd of July 2024, we officially lodged petitions at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the zonal office of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) Kaduna against the former governor of Kaduna State, Mal. Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai and many members of his administration.

“Our action was a result of the probe carried out by the Kaduna State House of Assembly Ad-hoc report on sourcing and usage of domestic loans from 29th May 2015 to 29th May 2023, which indicted the former governor and some of his key members.”

The ad-hoc committee report had indicted the former governor and some of his top government officials for the misappropriation of over N400bn.

Though the former governor has rushed to the Federal High Court seeking his fundamental rights, the civil society group (KCWGG) insisted that the anti-graft bodies should arrest the former governor and his appointees who were indicted in the probe.

Duniya maintained further, “Our petitions requested immediate investigations, arrests, and prosecutions of Mal. El-Rufai and his appointees involved in the mismanagement, siphoning, and many illegal financial and administrative activities contained in the report.

“Holding the former governor and those that looted the treasury and shortchanged the people’s interests accountable will deter other elected and appointed public officials from mindless looting of the public treasury with impunity.”

The petitioners told the two anti-graft agencies, “We have absolute confidence in the capacity and determination of the anti-graft agencies in combating corruption in Nigeria.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgain

The former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufa’i, has filed a defamation lawsuit against the Kaduna State Assembly. The lawsuit was presented today, Wednesday, at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.

El-Rufai is demanding a public apology from the lawmakers for a report they published, which he claims defamed him and his cabinet. The State Assembly’s report alleged that the former governor misappropriated over ₦423 billion during his tenure.

El-Rufai’s legal team argues that the report is both false and malicious, designed to tarnish his reputation and discredit his administration’s achievements. They assert that the allegations have caused significant harm to his personal and professional standing.

The former governor, noted for his developmental policies and efforts to improve infrastructure and education in Kaduna State, has consistently defended his administration’s transparency and commitment to public service. He maintains that the Assembly’s allegations are politically motivated and lack any substantive evidence.

The legal proceedings have drawn significant attention, with many awaiting the court’s decision on the matter. The outcome of this case could have substantial implications for El-Rufai’s political future and the current political landscape in Kaduna State.

By Abdullahi Algasgain

The attention of the Sokoto State Government has been drawn to a malicious publication credited to the Muslims Rights Concern (MURIC) alleging a plan by the sttate government to dethrone the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.

The state government wondered how a responsible body like MURIC, claiming to be protecting the rights of the Muslims would descend so low and cheaply as to join hands with deluded mischief makers and enemies of progress to fabricate such a false and unsubstantiated story just to create an unfriendly atmosphere and fear in the minds of the law-abiding and peaceful citizens of the state.

We believe that MURIC is not the type that will be dancing to the tunes of enemies and mischief makers who are trying to take away the attention of the good people of Sokoto state and Nigerians on the transformative initiatives taking place in Sokoto State over the last one year.

We also like to assure MURIC that the present administration just like the previous administrations in the state cherishes and respects the Sultanate Council long before MURIC was established.

The Sultanate Council, which has a long standing historical importance is so reverred to all the people of Sokoto State, therefore we still hold the institution in very high regards and esteem.

This is not the first time stories such as this were fabricated to show that all is not well between the state government and the Sultanate Council, as some few months back we had a similar obnoxious story which the state government categorically condemned and denied in whole.

From the look of things,those nefarious detractors and distracting enemies of progress have not relented in their failed efforts to smear the cordial relationship existing between the state government and the Sultanate Council.

MURIC should have cared to find out if there was ever any query, warning or any threatening documents served on the sultan by the state government.

We equally like to remind MURIC that promoting Islamic affairs is the second item on the Ahmed Aliyu’s nine-point Smart Agenda,therefore Islam means so much to the present administration, coupled with the fact that Sokoto being the Seat of the Caliphate, is a 100 per cent Muslim-dominated society.

It is on record that no administration in the history of Sokoto State has done to Islam what the present administration has done in just one year. This we say without any fear of contradictions.

Therefore, for any one to think that the present administration could engage in acts or actions that could jeopardize the development of Islam is not only unfair but unjustifiable.

To put the records straight, we would like to tell the world that the relationship between the Ahmed Aliyu-led administration and the Sultanate Council under the leadership of our most respected monarch, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar has been very cordial.

The present administration always consulted with His Eminence, the Sultan on issues affecting the state, and his invaluable contributions and inputs are always respected and included in policy implementation.

On the issue of sacking and transfer of some District Heads in Sokoto State, MURIC should know that the affected District Heads were accused of some unbecoming behaviours,such as land racketeering, aiding insecurity as well as insurbodination to the constituted authority.

In order to give them fair hearing the committee summoned all the affected District Heads, after which it came up with a whitepaper report, advising the government on what to do. And it was based on that and also in the public interest that the state government acted in conformity with the recommendations made by the whitepaper committee.

It is equally important for MURIC to note that nobody is above the law, therefore,the sacked District Heads are just reaping what they saw, and that the action taken by the Sokoto State Government was indisputably in the best public interest.

Abubakar Bawa
Press Secretary to
Sokoto state Governor
25/06/2024.

By Haroon Aremu

On a peaceful Sunday afternoon, I found myself immersed in the music of Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, a pioneer Fuji maestro known for his deep and meaningful lyrics that reflect Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. As I listened to a track titled “Adieu MKO,” which began with Nigeria’s newly adopted anthem, I was inspired to delve deeper into MKO Abiola’s legacy in relation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presidential journey and the adoption of the new anthem, as I began to wonder if all this could be a strategic message to Nigerians.

Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, a renowned Fuji musician, frequently added societal issues into his music, notably addressing the life and contributions of MKO Abiola. Barrister’s songs portrayed Abiola with admiration, acknowledging his philanthropy, political influence, and commitment to democracy. Barrister shared personal anecdotes, portraying Abiola as a humble figure despite his wealth and influence, creating a multifaceted portrayal of the Nigerian icon.

According to Historical research, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola began his journey from humble beginnings. Born into a low-income family in Abeokuta, Ogun State, he started earning money at a young age by performing odd jobs, including singing and drumming at events. His exceptional intelligence earned him a scholarship to attend the prestigious Baptist Boys’ High School in Abeokuta. Later, he received a government scholarship to study at the University of Glasgow in Scotland, where he earned a degree in accountancy.

Beyond his political aspirations, Abiola was a successful businessman who built a vast business empire with interests in telecommunications, oil, and banking. He founded the telecommunications giant ITT Nigeria and was also involved in the publishing industry, owning newspapers like Concord Press. His philanthropy earned him the title of “Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland,” a highly esteemed traditional title.

Abiola is most famous for his presidential bid 1993, which is widely believed to have been the most free and fair election in Nigeria’s history. Despite winning, the election results were annulled by the then-military government led by General Ibrahim Babangida, leading to a significant political crisis. After declaring himself the rightful president of Nigeria, Abiola was arrested in 1994 by the military regime of General Sani Abacha. He remained in detention for four years and died under suspicious circumstances on July 7, 1998, the day he was due to be released.

Despite the controversies surrounding his death, Abiola’s legacy as a champion of democracy in Nigeria is honoured. In 2018, President Muhammadu Buhari posthumously awarded him Nigeria’s highest honour, the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), and declared June 12 as Democracy Day in recognition of his contribution to Nigeria’s democratic struggle.

Abiola was also a cultural figure with deep connections to the Yoruba cultural renaissance and promoted Nigerian culture globally. His influence extended beyond politics and business, impacting social and cultural spheres in Nigeria. He maintained extensive international connections in business and politics, improving Nigeria’s relations with other countries.

MKO Abiola embodied the patriotic spirit that “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” represented. As a businessman, philanthropist, and political leader, Abiola’s efforts were always aimed at uplifting Nigeria and contributing to its progress and unity.

The newly adopted anthem’s lyrics, emphasising unity and patriotism, reflect Abiola’s vision for Nigeria. He consistently advocated for a united Nigeria, free from the divisions that plagued the country. His presidential campaign in 1993 was a significant demonstration of his commitment to national unity and democracy.

Abiola’s contributions to Nigerian culture and his promotion of the Yoruba cultural renaissance align with the pride and national identity celebrated in “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” He supported cultural initiatives to foster a sense of pride and belonging among Nigerians.

The anthem’s call to serve the nation resonates with Abiola’s extensive philanthropic activities. He invested in education, healthcare, and community development, reflecting the anthem’s spirit of dedication to the well-being of Nigeria and its people.

The period during which “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was the national anthem corresponds with a formative time in Nigeria’s political history, including the early years of independence. Abiola’s political career, especially his role in the 1993 presidential election, continues the struggles and aspirations encapsulated in the anthem.

With some sense of factual comparison, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s relationship with MKO Abiola reflects a shared commitment to democracy, justice, and the advancement of Nigeria. Both leaders believed in the country’s potential and actively worked towards its progress. Tinubu and Abiola were influential figures in Nigeria’s political landscape, with Abiola’s 1993 presidential bid resonating with Tinubu’s political aspirations and being associated with the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Abiola’s leadership qualities, philanthropy, and vision for Nigeria deeply inspired Tinubu, who likely admired Abiola’s ability to connect with the masses and his unwavering dedication to democratic ideals. 

Like many other pro-democracy activists, Tinubu supported Abiola’s mandate and condemned the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, forging a bond rooted in shared democratic principles. Tinubu continued to champion democratic values, electoral reform, good governance, and the rule of law, echoing Abiola’s vision for a democratic Nigeria. 

Furthermore, both leaders have been actively involved in philanthropic activities and community development initiatives, aligning with Abiola’s legacy of social responsibility. The Fuji icon King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal has sung about Tinubu following Abiola’s legacy, highlighting their enduring connection and further reinforcing the significance of Abiola’s impact on Nigeria’s political landscape. 

Considering the recent anthem change by the president, one could perceive it as a message of togetherness and an assurance of following Abiola’s legacy, given the similarities between Abiola and Tinubu, including their association with Muslim-Muslim tickets and other shared values.

To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I implore all citizens to wish and pray to God to grant him insight and foresight. Imight (strength) need to realise the democratic journey that Abiola envisioned.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a youth Corp Member with PRNigeria centre, Abuja and wrote in via exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Lawan Bukar Maigana

A United States congressman, Major Owens once said, ‘I have a great deal of respect and admiration for people who put themselves on the line.’

Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s political doppelganger, Awana Alhaji Gana, often describes him as an exemplary leader because, according to him, he was taught as a child in Islamic school that a leader is a servant of the people and a loyal servant sacrifices his life to protect his masters – the people.

Indeed, this was justified by Shettima when he was the governor of Borno State. He stood his ground to protect his people and never ran away from battle, putting his life on the line and confronting the monsters called Boko Haram.

He mobilised the police, rallied soldiers and established the Civilian JTF – a group of patriotic young people who are always ready to sacrifice their lives for their country – which helped to stem the tide of the insurgency.

The fear in Maiduguri in 2014 was so intense that some notable persons, politicians, and non-politicians had to relocate their families to Abuja. Shettima, who was abroad at that time, canceled the assignment, returned home, and mobilised residents to rise in defense of their ancestry. They succeeded in pushing the enemies back. That was the time when everybody thought the cursed elements had hoisted their flags in the city of Maiduguri.

Based on the sleepless nights he had endured in the latter part of his first tenure – moving from one shooting or bombing scene to the other and liaising with the federal government to protect Borno people – most observers actually thought he would just chicken out and not bother to seek a second term in office. But he contested, won, and sustained the fight against the enemies.

VP Shettima has always attracted the best brains to himself, being a first-rate intellectual as well. This was why it wasn’t difficult for him and this remarkable look-alike to find each other and connect.

Unlike other politicians who only read articles written by their admirers and watch activities done by others in their names without appreciation, Shettima keeps his eagle eyes around, following everything that involves his name and showing appreciation. He doesn’t look down on people, which is why his political network is full of diverse people of all classes.

This reminds me of the first time he called to appreciate me when I wrote an article titled “Kashim Shettima: Courage, Conviction Cannot Kill a Man,” in 2022 which was published in many national dailies across the country.

Interestingly, when VP Shettima met Alhaji Gana, who politically mimics him, he observed the striking similarities between himself and the latter.

Kashim Shettima is known for visiting his friends, honouring their special invitations, and standing with them during trying times. These quintessential traits have been maintained by his political doppelgänger whose friends work with him. Awana attends marriages, condoles with people who lost their loved ones, and organises a caricature of every political event the VP has attends.

VP Shettima once again showed the humane side of him recently when he posted on Facebook that: “On Tuesday, I paid a condolence visit to the family of my brother, friend, and colleague at Zenith Bank, Chief Kester Christopher Kenechuku Ogualili, who passed away on May 3, 2024. Kester and I have come a long way, and now that he is no more, we will step in to fill the vacuum created by his demise.”

Lawan Bukar Maigana writes from Borno and can be reached via email: lawanbukarmaigana@gmail.com