Politics

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has issued an executive order, effective October 24, 2024, prohibiting the unauthorized allocation of land under the guise of “corner shops” or “curve-outs” across the state.

The order restricts all state and local agencies, including the Kano Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA), the Housing Corporation, the Ministry of Environment, REMASAB, and the Ministry of Agriculture, from approving any structures or land use permits in this context.

Governor Yusuf, invoking his authority under the Nigerian Constitution and the Land Use Act, specified that only the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning is authorized to process and approve land occupancy permits.

This executive directive extends to market stalls, shops, and other business interests within designated urban areas, ensuring that any changes comply with the existing land use regulations in the state.

The order further restricts the conversion, sale, or transfer of any state-vested properties without explicit prior approval from the governor.

The ancient Kano City walls, grazing reserves, and cattle routes are also protected under this mandate, prohibiting any land allocations or occupancy permits on these historical and essential sites.

To ensure enforcement, the governor has tasked the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, led by Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rmingado, with monitoring compliance and curbing violations.

The governor emphasized that the order addresses growing public concerns over unauthorized land allocations within school and hospital premises, as well as other public utilities.

Governor Yusuf highlighted the state’s commitment to safeguarding public infrastructure from encroachment, particularly where public buildings are used for private business under questionable approvals.

Key officials, including the deputy governor, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Chief of Staff, and the Anti-Corruption Commission chairman, attended the signing of the executive order.

The new measures are aimed at preserving public land for its intended use and ensuring that public institutions uphold their responsibilities in managing state assets.

By Uzair Adam

A collaborative effort by security agencies on Monday led to the arrest of 34 individuals—comprising 15 beggars and 19 scavengers—in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of a recent crackdown following a directive for them to vacate the area.

The FCT Administration stated that those detained would either undergo vocational training at a government rehabilitation center or be returned to their states if they refuse to participate.

The operation saw contributions from the Police, Military, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other paramilitary bodies.

FCT Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu labeled the mission as “a national assignment,” emphasizing professionalism and determination in enforcing the ministerial orders.

“This operation is set for two weeks initially,” Disu noted. “We will review our progress and, if needed, extend the efforts.”

The Director of Security in the FCT, Adamu Gwary, further detailed the scope of the operation, which is designed to span both day and night across multiple city zones, including the airport road and areas like Asokoro, Nyanya, and Kubwa.

The Head of Enforcement at the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), Kaka Bello, clarified that the clampdown is part of a broader strategy to clear the city of unauthorized vendors and nuisances.

Dr. Sani Rabe, Director of Social Welfare for the FCTA, added that those who are “trainable” will have the chance to learn skills at a center in Kuchikon, Bwari Area Council, while others may be returned to their respective states if they do not wish to participate in training.

By Anwar Usman

A meeting between the Northern Governors Forum and Northern Traditional Rulers Council is currently ongoing in Kaduna hoping to tackle the region’s pressing security and developmental challenges.

In attendance at the meeting which took place at the state government House, were Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.

While welcoming his colleagues, the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, Muhammadu Yahaya, called for collective action to tackle challenges bedevilling the region.

The region is currently battling with insecurity, economic hardship, environmental degradation, and youth restiveness.

Yahaya emphasized the need for collective action, stating, “Our collective resolve is being tested by the ongoing challenges that we face. However, our unity and commitment to the prosperity of the people remain our greatest source of strength that will enable us to overcome those challenges.”

The governor also acknowledged these challenges, saying, “Terrorism, banditry, kidnap-for-ransom, farmer-herder clashes, drug abuse, the menace of Almajiri and out-of-school children, poverty, and unemployment. We must continue to work with the Federal Government and relevant agencies to provide the necessary support and relief to those affected.”

To tackle these challenges, the governors proposed various ways including “sustaining gains against criminals, studying and implementing the Coalition of Northern Group’s Security Committee report, and engaging with security agencies and civil society groups.

“Investing in education, skills development, and job creation; supporting small and medium enterprises; and attracting investment to northern states; as well providing support to farmers, ensuring rural security, and promoting agro-allied industries.

“Partnering with the Federal Government and stakeholders to build irrigation infrastructure and promote sustainable practices.”

In his remarks earlier, Kaduna Governor and chief host, Senator Uba Sani, while welcoming his colleagues and traditional rulers in the region as well as the Chief of Defence, General Christopher Musa, emphasised unity and collective action against regional challenges.

Sani, also acknowledged the northern Governors’ commitment to peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity, urging that “We must work together to realize our vision of a secure, peaceful, and prosperous North.”

The Governor commended President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to combat insecurity, citing the establishment of a Joint Military Command and Operation Fansan Yamma as clear demonstrations of the Federal Government’s commitment.

By Uzair Adam

While Nigerians grapple with economic hardship, Borno State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, is urging the Federal Government to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima’s official aircraft, citing safety concerns.

Lawan’s call follows recent technical issues with the Vice President’s plane, including a damaged windscreen during a stopover in New York en route to the Commonwealth Summit.

Despite widespread financial strain affecting millions of Nigerians, Lawan highlighted the risks of Shettima’s continued reliance on the malfunction-prone aircraft, insisting that securing a replacement should be a priority.

His appeal, however, arrives at a time when citizens are facing inflation, fuel costs, and job cuts, sparking questions on the government’s spending priorities amidst nationwide hardship.

By Uzair Adam

The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment has summoned leaders of the National Assembly chapter of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) along with aggrieved members following allegations of a N3 billion fund misappropriation.

In a letter signed by Amos Falonipe, Director/Registrar, Department of Trade Union Services and Industrial Relations, the ministry invited PASAN’s leadership and concerned members to address the grievances in a meeting scheduled for tomorrow.

The allegations surfaced earlier this month when PASAN member Yusuf Abiola accused the union’s leadership of misappropriating union funds and demanded audited financial statements from 2019 to date.

Abiola threatened to petition relevant authorities for accountability.

However, PASAN’s National Assembly chapter chairman, Sunday Sabiyyi, and Secretary, David Ann Ebizimoh, dismissed the allegations as defamatory, urging the public to disregard what they described as baseless accusations meant to divert the union from its objectives.

The labour ministry’s letter of invitation, dated October 25, 2024, was directed to the General Secretary of PASAN, signaling its commitment to address the dispute.

By Uzair Adam

A Federal High Court in Kano has mandated the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) to recognize the list of candidates for the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) submitted by the party’s state chairman, Dalhatu Shehu Usman, in line with the NNPP constitution.

The Daily Reality reports that the ruling invalidates any alternative lists submitted for the 2024 local government elections in Kano State.

The court, presided over by Justice Simon Amobeda, also directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to refrain from providing KANSIEC with the voters’ register for the local government election scheduled for October 26, 2024.

The suit was filed by the NNPP and Engr. Muhammad Babayo, with INEC, KANSIEC, the Inspector General of Police, and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) listed as defendants.

Earlier in the week, Justice Amobeda dismissed KANSIEC Chairman Prof. Sani Malunfasi and five other members and ruled against the election proceedings.

Additionally, the court instructed the IGP and DSS Director not to offer security or protection services at the election sites on October 26.

By Anwar Usman

The Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, has instructed the troops of 17 Brigade Katsina to end the persisting insecurity and banditry in Katsina State, saying President Bola Tinubu “is ready to provide everything” needed to combat insecurity.

The minister gave the instruction while addressing journalists at the Katsina – Zamfara States border town, Gurbin Baure in the Jibia Local Government area of Katsina State on Friday while addressing troops at the 17 brigade.

Reports has it that, the defence minister was in the state to access and receive briefings on the ongoing military attacks against banditry.

The minister, told the troops that President Bola Tinubu was pleased with the progress made by the troops in fighting against banditry over the past few months.

He further added that, President Bola Tinubu has recognised the improvement in the onslaught operation against banditry in the state so far.

“President Tinubu has asked me to thank you and to also encourage you to do more in ending insecurity in these operational areas.”

The Minister, while speaking to journalists said “For the last few months there has been progress every day and I believe that all the states are cooperating in ending banditry in the North-West. We need a lot of support from the general public.

“I came here by road to assess our deployment there. Zaria-Gusau Road has been very notorious for kidnappers. We have implemented new plans and improved our deployment there and I am impressed with what I see in ending consistent attacks of motorists in the area.

The minister was accompanied by the Commander, Joint Task Force North-West Operation Fansar Yamma, Maj Gen Oluyinka Soyele and was received by the Commander 17 Brigade Katsina State, Brig. Gen. B.O Omopariola.

By Uzair Adam

The Association of Online Media Guild (ASSOMEG) has extended its heartfelt condolences to Malam Sanusi Bature, the Director General of Media and Publicity to the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, following the passing of his son, Abubakar Sadiq, who died on Thursday at age 15.

In a statement jointly issued by ASSOMEG’s Chairman, Abdullateef Abubakar Jos, and Secretary, Abbas Yushau Yusuf, on Friday, the association shared that Sadiq passed away in an Indian hospital after a successful bone marrow surgery.

“This tragic loss resonates within the media community, and we join in the sorrow and grief that Mr. Bature and his family are facing,” the statement said.

The message emphasized that Malam Sanusi Bature is a respected ally within the media sector and has offered his support and partnership over the years.

ASSOMEG conveyed its solidarity, expressing thoughts and prayers for Bature and his loved ones during this trying time.

“We pray for the strength to bear this profound loss and trust that Almighty Allah (SWT) will provide solace and peace to his family,” the statement added.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri recently stated that his successor must be a grassroots politician. So, to all grassroots politicians, are you prepared?

Whether or not you agree with Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, it’s impossible to ignore that he delivered an impressive performance in just five years. His leadership style, marked by decisiveness and a strategic approach, has left a lasting impact on Adamawa State. 

Three key factors contributed to his success: first, he profoundly understands local politics at the grassroots level. This knowledge allowed him to manage diverse interests, bringing various stakeholders together while effectively navigating the political landscape. He knows how to utilise power not just to control but to drive progress and development as well as the political power itself.

Second, Fintiri is known for making bold decisions without hesitation, which sets him apart from many political leaders who are often bogged down by fear or indecision. Whether in policy formulation or tackling complex issues, he has consistently courageously taken risks where necessary. However, boldness doesn’t equate to rashness. Fintiri rarely rushes critical decisions, opting instead for careful deliberation. He balances this decisiveness with a thoughtful approach, ensuring resources are allocated judiciously across various sectors, leading to sustainable development and equitable growth.

Finally, while he can be measured and calculated in his decision-making, Fintiri is also forthright. He doesn’t shy away from expressing his views openly, making him a leader who is both pragmatic and honest. This combination of boldness, caution, and openness has earned him recognition on a national level, bringing Adamawa into greater prominence. Recently, Fintiri expressed his political views in Rivers State but remained balanced as a leader. That is how a true leader speaks.

For Fintiri’s successor, the road ahead will be marked by both challenge and opportunity—a situation that could be described as sweet-bitter. The primary challenge will be following in the footsteps of a highly successful leader. Succeeding a high performer often comes with the burden of high expectations. The new leader will be required to exceed Governor Fintiri’s accomplishments, as merely matching them or falling short would likely be a failure. This catch-22 is often the hardest part of leadership transitions—especially when the predecessor has set a high bar.

On the flip side, there is a significant advantage. Fintiri has laid a strong foundation, which includes efficient tools, systems, and a skilled human resource base. Gov. Fintiri’s successor will have the opportunity to build on these assets, improving where needed while inheriting a well-established structure. With the right approach, he or she can take Adamawa to even greater heights.

Fintiri’s understanding of politics in Adamawa has been straightforward—he sees it as the art of balancing interests driven by fairness and people’s rights. His ability to manage conflicting interests while making decisive moves has been crucial to his success. Bold yet measured, he has used resources to create visible impacts, from infrastructural developments to social programs, all of which have put Adamawa in the national spotlight. His performance will give his successor powerful momentum on which to capitalise. However, whoever succeeds Governor Fintiri must recognise the weight of expectation that comes with succeeding a well-regarded and high-performing predecessor. It will require vision and strategy to maintain the trajectory and deliver even greater results.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.

By Abbas Datti

As citizens of Kano State, we have witnessed the power of effective leadership in fostering youth empowerment and curbing youth restiveness. Under the fair representation of former House of Representatives Member, Rt Hon Aminu Sulaiman Goro of Fagge Federal Constituency, there was a clear commitment to improving the lives of young people. 

We call on the incumbent Fagge House of Representatives Member, Barr. Muhammad Bello Shehu to step up and continue the vital work that his predecessor began. There is an urgent need to reinvigorate efforts to fight youth restiveness through job creation, vocational training, and mentorship programs. 

Similarly, women must be given the tools and opportunities to succeed through economic empowerment initiatives, access to loans, and business development programs.

Ex-Rep Aminu Sulaiman Goro was a youth and women’s empowerment champion, leaving behind a legacy of initiatives that addressed the pressing needs of both groups. Through programs aimed at reducing unemployment, promoting skill acquisition, and empowering women economically, he provided pathways to prosperity for many, contributing to a more stable and thriving environment.

Since the end of Aminu Sulaiman Goro’s tenure, the challenges of youth restiveness and the marginalisation of women have resurfaced with greater intensity. Many of our young people are again feeling the weight of unemployment and lack of opportunities, leading to increased frustration and social unrest. Therefore, we call on Barr. M. B. Shehu to emulate the footsteps of his predecessor by implementing impactful youth empowerment initiatives and women empowerment programmes 

M. B. Shehu needs to focus on job creation, scholarship, and skill-building programs tailored specifically for young people. These efforts can reduce youth restiveness and position the younger generation as crucial contributors to economic progress, instilling a sense of hope and optimism in our community.

The well-being of our youth and women is central to the prosperity and peace of the Fagge Federal Constituency. As a community, we urge M.B. Shehu to prioritise these issues and make youth and women’s empowerment a central part of his legislative agenda. It’s our collective responsibility to ensure that the most vulnerable are given the support they need to thrive. 

Abbas Datti wrote from Kano via comradeabbasdatti@gmail.com.