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By Uzair Adam

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has called on security agencies to investigate the killing of its Kwara State Chairman, Idrissu Abubakar, who was shot dead by unidentified gunmen.

In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, MACBAN’s National President, Alhaji Baba Ngelzarma, through the association’s National Secretary, Malam Bello Gotomo, condemned the killing and urged authorities to ensure justice is served.

Confirming the incident, the Kwara State Police Command said Abubakar was attacked around 10 p.m. on Saturday in front of his house at Oke Ose, Ilorin East Local Government Area.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, stated that officers recovered five expended 7.62mm shells from the scene, and the victim’s remains were deposited at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) mortuary.

Describing Abubakar as the youngest state chairman in the association’s history, Ngelzarma lamented that his death marked the second killing of a MACBAN chairman within two months, following the murder of Katsina State’s newly elected chairman, Alhaji Sirajo Mairana.

The deceased, aged 33, left behind two wives, six children, and his elderly mother.

According to MACBAN, Abubakar was attacked shortly after returning from Taraweeh prayers. Ngelzarma expressed concerns over the repeated killings of the association’s leaders, revealing that in the past two years, MACBAN had lost over seven state and local government chairmen to unknown gunmen.

Additionally, the group’s National Vice President, Alhaji Manir Lamido, has been missing since 2023 while traveling between Katsina and Kaduna states.

The MACBAN president urged security agencies to intensify efforts to uncover those responsible for the attacks, assuring that the association would take necessary steps to seek justice for its slain members.

By Uzair Adam

MTN Nigeria has apologized for raising the price of its 15-gigabyte (GB) weekly data bundle by 200 percent but has further increased the cost despite the public outcry.

The telecom provider initially hiked the plan’s price from N2,000 to N6,000 as part of a broader tariff adjustment but later admitted the increase was a mistake.

“To our 15GB digital bundle lovers, you dey vex. We know,” MTN said in a statement. “We know how upsetting it must have been to suddenly wake up to a 200% increase on your favorite digital bundle.

“We could share several reasons and provide explanations, but omo, all that one na story. We don cast. We get it and admit it. Let’s just say na mistake.

“In this love season, don’t stay angry with us. Please forgive and forget. You matter die, and we will never stop showing you how much. Let’s continue our relationship. Thank you for your understanding.”

However, checks revealed that MTN not only raised the price further to N6,500 but also reclassified the 15GB bundle from a weekly to a monthly plan.

The tariff adjustments followed the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a request from telecom operators to increase prices, marking the first official review since 2013.

MTN’s price hike came despite the House of Representatives directing the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to suspend the 50 percent tariff hike approval.

By Yakubu Nasiru Khalid

Formally, Izala sect was formed in 1978, it was created to eradicate innovation (bid’ah) within the Islamic doctrines. It has a modern structure and leadership both at the state and national levels. Therefore, the leadership of the Izala has come with well-structured and hierarchical bureau, and a feeling that they are different from who they see as “Conservative Islamic Groups”.

The structure comprises three arms; the Council of Ulama, the Administrative Council and The First Aid Group, each of the councils has its own head and followers for achieved designed goals, even with this structure, the sect experienced crisis at all levels which polarised its leadership.

The reason attached to the polarisation of Izala at the national level which later descended to many states were, among many others; the large followership, it may arguably be the largest formidable Islamic group in West Africa. Also, other reasons are multifaceted from jurisprudence, political, financial, external meddling and sundry, etc.

Initially, there was a problem regarding the leadership of the organization especially the question of who was the supreme leader of the organization between the administrative Council and the chairman of the Ulama Council. At the time the head of the Administrative Council was Alhaji Musa Muhammad Maigandu, from Kaduna and the Sheikh Ismail Idris, the Chairman of Ulama Council. The Jos Izala faction recognized Sheikh Ismail Idris.

Jos faction rejected Maigandu for not being a scholar but a businessman, they argued that an Islamic organization should be led by a scholar not a businessman, this added more fire to the crisis.

Furthermore, the Kaduna faction was very critical to some views and Fatwas of Sheikh Ismail Idris especially those that dealt with the issue of bid’a. According to Ismail Idris, the followers of Izalah should not pray behind an Imam who’s not a member of Izala, they should not also marry from the family of a person who is inclined to Sufism and should not eat the meat of an animal slaughtered by a follower of the Sufi groups. The Kaduna faction was vehemently against these views, and they opposed it.

Another vital factor that played a role in the split of Izala group was the accusations and counter-accusation of financial (mis)management. Ismail Idris was accused for dubiously representing the organization in the Arab countries, he was further accused of personalising vehicles donated to the Izala sect.

In addition, Ben Amara argued that the eruption of Gulf War in 1990s between USA and Iraq was another important factor in the polarisation of the Izala. Jos faction supported American invasion of Iraq because of the Saudi Arabian interest while the Kaduna faction supported Iraq. The Jos faction called the Kadunas “Saddamawa” meaning (supporters of Saddam) while the Kaduna called the Jos faction “Bushawa” meaning (supporters of American interest).

The leadership of the Jos faction blamed Shi’a for the internal crisis of Izala and accused some Ulamas of being secret agents of Shiism who were working toward dismantling the group.

There are so many wild accusations against each other and today, one of the greatest sad events are also unfolding which will serve as a litmus test over the major pathways which the Izala sect claims to have been following. There are series of arguments and counter arguments amongst its top ranking officials, some of whom are seeing by many onlookers as those who have completely drailed from the actual teachings of the Sunnah of the holy prophet (PBUH). Izalah leaders need retrospection and internal assessment to protect themselves and their creed from an obvious roadblock which may decide whether they move ahead successfully or crumble, devastatingly.

Yakubu can be reached via: yakubunasirukhalid@gmail.com

By Ishaka Mohammed

An Abuja-based strategic communication and multimedia firm, Dinovate Solutions, has announced one month’s free training in cinematography and related fields.

The company announced the programme on Monday, January 6, 2025. Under its academy (Dinovate Creative Academy), the company listed five free courses, including cinematography, photography, generative content creation, AI-powered video editing, and cartoon creation and animation.

The physical training, scheduled to start on January 27, will feature only individuals with access to laptops.

Among other benefits, trainees will have the chance to participate in industry-level short film projects, and top performers could gain internship opportunities and potential job offers.

While the application deadline is January 10, acceptance will be based on first come, first served.

Interested persons are required to visit https://bit.ly/DCACohort1application to apply.

Dinovate Solutions drives developmental projects through creative storytelling and multimedia content, partnering with local and international organisations, such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Water Management Institute (IWMI).

By Uzair Adam

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has disassociated himself from an alleged empowerment scheme promising N65,000 to applicants, describing it as a scam designed to defraud unsuspecting citizens.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku disclosed that a group identified as “Travelling Abroad Opportunities” has been promoting the so-called “Atiku Grant by FG” on social media.

He called on security agencies to investigate the perpetrators and take appropriate action to protect the public.

“For the avoidance of doubt, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President of Nigeria (1999–2007) and Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (2023), is not currently running an empowerment scheme that purports to give N65,000 to successful applicants,” the statement read.

He clarified that neither he nor any organization associated with him is involved in such a scheme, emphasizing that the initiative is a ploy to deceive Nigerians into providing sensitive personal and financial information.

“The so-called ‘Atiku Grant by FG’ is a scam whose objective is to fleece unsuspecting Nigerians of their hard-earned money,” he added.

Atiku assured Nigerians that any legitimate empowerment initiative he might undertake would be directly communicated and not executed through unknown third parties.

The former vice president urged security agencies to act swiftly against the fraudsters and other similar schemes targeting innocent citizens.

By Habibu Ma’aruf Abdu

Renowned Kannywood actor, Sani Musa Danja, has been appointed Special Adviser on Youth and Sports by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

This was announced in a statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Mr. Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

The appointment is widely seen as a well-deserved recognition of the actor’s loyalty and dedication to Governor Yusuf’s Administration. As a long-time supporter of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Danja actively campaigned for the Governor during the 2023 elections.

Interestingly, he had previously contested for the chairmanship of Tarauni Local Government under the governor’s party, NNPP, but lost the primaries to Amb. Yusuf Imam Ogan Ɓoye.

However, with Ogan Ɓoye’s victory in the chairmanship election, Danja has now taken over his former position as Special Adviser on Youth and Sports.

This appointment marks another significant recognition of Kannywood personalities by the governor, following similar appointments of Abba Al Mustapha, Tijjani Gandu, Sunusi Oscar, and Aina’u Ade (Laila).

Lest you forget, the federal government has also appointed Kannywood stars Ali Nuhu and Rahama Sadau to serve in various capacities.

By Rabi Ummi Umar

Men are the foundation and cornerstone of every nation and each household. As ordained by Almighty God, man was created and endowed with strength and leadership qualities. According to divine design, man is destined to be the head of the household, with woman as his partner and helpmate, working together in harmony and mutual respect.

Just like women, men are human beings with emotions and vulnerabilities, despite being socialized to project strength and resilience. Society’s expectations often dictate their behavior, leaving them little choice but to conform to traditional masculine norms.

It is quite a relief to see men being recognized and appreciated, which is precisely why International Men’s Day is observed annually on November 19. This global celebration acknowledges men’s invaluable contributions to society while addressing their distinct challenges. The 2024 theme, Men’s Health Champions, aptly emphasizes enhancing men’s overall well-being and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Growing up, I would often watch my dad sit outside after dinner and Isha prayer— the last prayer of the day for Muslims — alone in contemplation. Whenever we asked him why, he would smile and say he was just receiving some “fresh air,” and we would respectfully leave him be.

At the time, I thought he truly was just savoring the evening breeze. But growing older brought the realization that it was his way of recollecting his thoughts and recharging after a long, hectic day of working tirelessly to provide for us. It was his way of coping with unrelenting stress and finding solace, yet we could never quite grasp the depth of his emotions.

Traditionally, men are expected to provide for their loved ones, including their partners, children, and themselves. With numerous responsibilities bestowed upon them by societal norms, they have largely embraced this role and its accompanying challenges without complaint.

Society has consistently placed high expectations on men, often disregarding their mental and emotional well-being. This has resulted in immense pressure on them, with little consideration for their inner struggles.

If they fail to pay children’s school fees on time, their homes become disastrous and uninhabitable due to constant nagging. If they miss rent payments, they are deemed irresponsible. And if they cannot provide for their wives’ glittering desires, they are labeled bad husbands. So, how can we reasonably expect them to maintain their sanity?

Even in relationships, if a man does not call on time, he is deemed out of love. If he does not send money, he is not “the one.” And if he fails to meet friends’ and family’s standards, the advice is to “find someone else.”

Since men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health symptoms, it is not surprising that suicide rates for men are four times higher than for women. This statistic underscores the fact that depression may be the most common mental illness in men.

While these expectations can be valid, they are often unfair. If the tables were turned, society and women would struggle to handle half of what is expected of men. However, this piece is not about shifting responsibilities; it is about shedding light on and raising awareness about men’s mental health.

Men are humans too, with feelings and emotions. The issues we often dismiss as normal can run deeper than they appear, potentially affecting their mental health and leading to depression. We rarely recognize this because men seldom fully express themselves, and we rarely create a safe space for them to open up.

Much like women, men are also victims of sexual assault, harassment, abuse, and other forms of exploitation. Yet how many of these cases come to light? When they do, how do we respond? How often do we show appreciation for the men in our lives—our fathers, sons, brothers, friends, and partners?

Men’s mental and overall health is crucial and must not be overlooked. We should strive to create a society where everyone, regardless of gender, feels comfortable and safe, fostering a better environment for all.

Let us imbibe the habit of celebrating men who break barriers and make a difference in the world—those who provide for their loved ones, bring joy, and positively impact our lives. To every man out there, you are loved, seen, strong, and most importantly, enough.

Let us celebrate the men who struggle in silence. To men out there, we see your struggles, and we are committed to making the world a better place for you and all of us.

Rabi Ummi Umar is a student of Al-Hikmah University and can be reached via: rabiumar058@gmail.com

By Uzair Adam

Following Wednesday’s Senate session, experts were invited to explain President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reforms. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin addressed concerns raised by lawmakers and the public about the initiative.

In an interview with the BBC, Barau explained that the President’s new tax policies aim to strengthen Nigeria’s economy but noted their complexity necessitated expert input.  

“This is why we invited those who developed the policies on behalf of Mr. President,” Barau said, emphasizing the importance of lawmakers fully understanding the reforms.

The Senate Finance Committee, chaired by Senator Sani Musa, recommended bringing in experts to clarify the proposals, as many legislators and citizens were unclear on their details.  

“Some of these experts had previously been invited by state governors and the House of Representatives for similar explanations. We saw it as a necessary step,” he added.  

Barau highlighted the significance of televising the session, saying, “Transparency was key, which is why we ensured the session was broadcast live.” 

However, he acknowledged that some senators claimed they were unaware of the meeting despite official notifications.  

He also clarified that the second reading of the tax reforms does not signify their final approval.  

“This is just the beginning of the process. The Finance Committee will now review the policies in detail, consult with tax experts, and present a comprehensive report. 

“We urge stakeholders, including youth and women, to continue documenting their concerns,” Barau said.  

He emphasized the importance of thorough review and consultation to avoid unintended consequences, adding, “No leader intends to harm their people, but we must fully understand the policies’ implications.”

Addressing recent political tensions, Barau referred to an incident in Kano where rice was seized, leading to hasty accusations.  

“Such actions undermine due process. Jumping to conclusions without proper investigation does not help our country,” he warned.  

Barau also called for unity and respectful discourse in the Senate, urging collaboration across party lines.  

“Resorting to insults and accusations contradicts our cultural and religious values. Even God does not condone such behavior,” he said.

As the Senate continues its review, Barau urged patience and constructive engagement from all stakeholders to ensure the reforms serve the best interests of Nigerians.

By Uzair Adam

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Thursday a proposed law that would bar children under 16 from accessing social media platforms.

Joined by Communications Minister Michelle Rowland, Albanese pledged to implement a 16-year minimum age restriction, citing the need to curb social media’s potential harm to young users.

The proposed legislation aims to place the burden of enforcement on social media companies, holding them accountable if they fail to restrict minors’ access.

However, it would not impose penalties on children or their parents if they manage to circumvent the rules.

“This is a significant concern, as we are well aware of the social harm that these platforms can cause. It’s time to step in and protect our kids,” Albanese said at a press briefing in Canberra.

The law, expected to take effect a year after parliamentary approval, would be enforced by the government’s Safety Commissioner.

Albanese added that while some exemptions might be considered, the intent is to ensure that the legislation achieves its protective goals.

The proposal will be discussed with state leaders at a meeting on Friday.

The federal budget for 2024-25 has also allocated funds for a trial of age-verification technology to determine the most effective means of enforcing the limit.

The opposition Coalition, which proposed a similar age restriction earlier in the year, has indicated its support for the measure, giving Albanese’s Labor Party the votes needed to pass it through parliament.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed concern over the blackout in the northern region of Nigeria in the last week.

He is now leading efforts to end the disruption that has paralysed social and economic activities, summoning the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

The President has directed the Minister of Power and relevant agencies to speed up the pace of work to restore electricity to all the affected states in the North.

President Tinubu is saddened by the reports of vandalism and wilful destruction of power infrastructure and other public assets that caused the unfortunate blackout.

In a meeting with the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, who briefed on efforts made by the Transmission Company of Nigeria to repair the damaged Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines, the President directed a long-term solution to the problem.

President Tinubu charged TCN engineers not to relent in bringing immediate relief to the people who need electricity to sustain their social and economic activities.

To ensure that restoration work continues unhindered, President Tinubu also directed the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to work with the Army and Air Force to deploy adequate security personnel, including aerial cover, to protect the engineers who are fixing the damaged transmission line.

President Tinubu implores traditional rulers, community leaders, and other leaders of thought to work with security agencies to protect public assets and infrastructure.

He said the government will no longer condone deliberate sabotage and destruction of public utilities.