By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini  

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has called on the Muslim Ummah to draw inspiration and lessons from the virtues of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as they celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Maulud today.  

The Governor, who is also the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, encouraged Muslims to imbibe the Prophet’s qualities of tolerance, humility, modesty, and honesty in their daily lives. 

He stated the importance of reflecting on the teachings of the Prophet and integrating his legacy of unity, integrity, peaceful coexistence, and love for one’s neighbor into the fabric of society.  

He stated, “As we commemorate this great and epochal day, I enjoin us to continue to demonstrate in our lives what the noble messenger of Allah bequeathed to humanity in ethos, manners, and relationships for the good of the society.” 

He highlighted the need for Nigerians to uphold these teachings as a foundation for national unity and development, saying “the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) are indispensable in the quest for meaningful development and the good management of Nigeria’s diversity.” 

The NSGF Chairman urged that the celebration of the Prophet’s birth should serve as a moment for spiritual rejuvenation and as a reminder for Nigerians to come together in prayer for unity, stability, and progress, particularly during these challenging times.  

He noted that collective faith in God and sustained prayers for peace across the nation would help achieve the aspirations of Nigeria’s founding fathers. 

The Governor also called on citizens to continue being law-abiding and to protect the peace and tranquility that Gombe State currently enjoys, urging them to shun any actions that could threaten the state’s harmonious environment.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar

Department of State Services (DSS) operatives have arrested Omoyele Sowore, convener of the #RevolutionNow protest.

According to SaharaReporters, Sowore was arrested on Sunday at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos upon his arrival in Nigeria.

Sowore’s arrest may be connected to the 10-day #EndBadGovernance protest held across the country in August.

The Take-It-Back Movement and several other civil society organisations spearheaded the protest.

Sowore is also the convener of the movement.

Another protest is being planned by organisers of the #EndBadGovernance protest — scheduled for October 1.

In a post via his X page, Sowore said he was detained by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and his passport was seized.

“I had just arrived in Nigeria from the USA to the MMIA in Lagos; upon reaching Nigerian Immigration, my passport was seized, and they told me they had orders to detain me,” he wrote.

“This is not unexpected because I have always known that It is part of the broader clampdown by the fascist Bola Ahmed Tinubu regime on dissent and their fear of the upcoming #FearlessINOctober revolt.

“In case this becomes another prolonged and protracted detention, I urge our citizens to ensure they ALL stop tyranny by all means acceptable and necessary by engaging in the planned series of direct actions slated for October 1st and beyond.”

By Uzair Adam 

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd. has deployed over 100 trucks to the Dangote Refinery in preparation for petrol loading, scheduled to begin on Sunday, September 15, 2024. 

According to a post by NNPC on its official X handle, the trucks were dispatched to the refinery’s fuel loading gantry in Ibeju-Lekki on Saturday, with more expected to arrive. 

“As of Saturday afternoon, more than 100 trucks had been mobilised, and by the end of the day, up to 300 trucks are expected to be stationed at the gantry,” the company said.

The deployment marks a significant step toward ensuring timely petrol distribution from the Dangote Refinery, which is expected to enhance fuel availability nationwide.

By Dr. Aliyu Dahiru Muhammad

The late Malam Ahmad Garba Amin (1962-2024) was a remarkable individual I first met in the 1990s as my secondary school Islamic Studies teacher. Subsequently, he rose to the post of Vice Principal before being transferred to the Kano State Welfare Pilgrims Board as a Director of Operations, a position he held for almost a decade. He later moved to the Kano State Sharia Commission, where he finally retired. 

I became close to Malam Ahmad during school and after graduation. He used to ask about my progress in Quranic education even years after my bachelor’s degree. I introduced him to my parents, and we became a family. Gratefully, he made a significant impact on my life to the extent that he was behind some of my achievements – Alhamdulillah. 

When the news of his death broke out to me on Thursday, 5^th September 2024 (2^nd Rabiul Awal, 1446), I reacted by saying, “Innalillahi wa inna Ilaihi Rajiun” as it is the only action that can relieve me of that material time. After confirmation, I shared it on my platforms, where I received many condolence messages and prayers. What also consoled me was the kind of lovely comments I have received from many who knew him and those who did not know him. Alhamdulillah. 

Imams Al-Bukhari and Muslim reported, on the authority of Anas ibn Malik, that a group of the Prophet (SAW)’s companions were sitting with him when some people came and passed by them carrying a corpse. Some of the people sitting around the Prophet (SAW) made nice comments about the dead person, and the Prophet (SAW) promptly reacted, saying, “Confirmed” (wajib). A similar scenario happened, but on the contrary, the comments were nasty, and the Prophet (SAW) reacted by saying, “Confirmed” (wajib). Wondering why the Prophet said so, the companions asked him for an explanation. 

In the case of the first corpse, the Prophet said what it meant was that their comments about him thus confirmed his entry to Paradise (al-Jannah). The same thing applied to the second person for whom Hellfire was confirmed similarly. The Prophet further explained to them the significance/implications of the comments that people usually make about the dead by either extolling their virtues or otherwise saying bad things about them. He said, “You are the witnesses of Allah on earth (against His servants).”

Allahu Akbar! Whoever knew Mal. Ahmad could testify that he was deeply involved in promoting social welfare and peace in the community. This earned him respect among the youths, women, and elderly, as I noticed every time I visited him, especially during his daily teaching of Islamic books (taalim) outside their family house. 

He was the former Chairman of Safinatul Khair Foundation, which, to my knowledge, is one of the few community-based organisations that have contributed to the socio-economic development of his community. The foundation has a special scheme for education for children through scholarships, extramural classes for candidates who intend to sit for WAEC and NECO examinations, and job opportunities for youths, among others. In the aspects of social development, especially for widows and orphans, the Foundation, at a time, conducted a census of all widows in the area it covered and supported them. During my PhD studies, I interviewed him about their achievement, and I was so excited about it. 

On the aspect of health, the Foundation and Late Mal. Ahmad, in particular, was instrumental in setting up a clinic serving the people, especially the needy patients of Kofar Naisa and beyond. The clinic named after the foundation is the Safinatul Khair Foundation (Kofar Naisa PHC). Thanks to Dr Hassan Sulaiman Kofar Naisa, a resident of the area who worked under the office of the then Senior Special Assistant to former President Muhammad Buhari on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), brought this project. 

According to my close associate Mal. Usman Muhammad (Dr. Shehu), the clinic is grade-A in primary health care. It is well equipped with an ambulance, solar system, and water system that serves patients 24/7 uninterruptedly. They invite medical personnel from neighbouring general and specialised hospitals like Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital for weekly medical outreach and to settle the bills for the less privileged patients. 

As we mourn the loss of Mal. Ahmad, we pray that Allah accepts his legacies, forgives his shortcomings, and grants him entry into paradise. “Indeed, we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return. Indeed, only Allah is the place of return. O Allah, record (the deceased) among the righteous, and place the record in the highest place. Replace the goodness for the family left behind. Do not make the reward forbidden, and do not test us after their departure.”

Dr. Aliyu Dahiru Muhammad is an associate professor in the Department of Economics at Bayero University Kano and a Visiting Scholar at the National University of Malaysia (UKM). He can be reached via alitahir797@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam President Bola Tinubu has praised the military for their successful operations against security threats in the North-West, reaffirming the nation’s confidence in the security forces’ ability to maintain peace.

According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the President’s commendation followed the recent neutralization of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu by troops of Operation Hadarin Daji.

Sububu had long terrorized communities in Zamfara, Sokoto, and other regions in the North-West.

In addition, security forces eliminated another high-profile terrorist, Sani Wala Burki, in a joint operation in Katsina, while dismantling a terrorist enclave in Kaduna, where 13 kidnapped students were rescued.

President Tinubu credited the military high command, intelligence agencies, and troops for their coordination, courage, and perseverance, leading to these significant breakthroughs.

He urged them to remain committed until all threats, both immediate and potential, are eradicated.“The President reassures security agencies of his continued support in achieving the goal of safeguarding the nation,” Onanuga stated.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has announced a cash reward of N1 million for the troops involved in a recent operation in Zamfara State that resulted in the elimination of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu Buzu. 

The operation, carried out by troops from the Joint Task Force Northwest Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD), was a significant success, with the troops displaying bravery and precision in neutralizing Buzu and several of his fighters.

The operation also resulted in the recovery of weapons and motorcycles. General Musa praised the troops for their dedication and excellence, stating that the reward was a way to honor their service.

The operation is seen as a major blow to the bandit group’s operational capabilities and underscores the Nigerian military’s efforts to combat terrorism in the region. 

This success comes on the heels of a recent attack by the same group, which blocked the Gusau-Funtua highway in Zamfara State and abducted several travelers. The police are still working to determine the exact number of those kidnapped.

By Uzair Adam

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has extended its deepest gratitude to the Federal Government of Nigeria as it celebrates its 64th anniversary.

Speaking on the occasion, the OPEC Secretary-General Haitham Al Ghais acknowledged the significant role Nigeria has played in the organization since its membership began in 1971.

He commended Nigeria for its unwavering support in maintaining a stable and balanced global oil market.

Reflecting on the historic meeting in Baghdad 64 years ago, Al Ghais emphasized the foundational agreement signed by the five original members: Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela.

He stated that, “This event marked the inception of OPEC and a new era of international energy collaboration.”

Al Ghais recognized the leadership of Nigerian officials, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Heineken Lokpobiri, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, and National Representative Mele Kyari.

He also highlighted the contributions of all OPEC member countries, past and present, including heads of state, ministers, governors, and the dedicated staff at the Secretariat.

As September 14, designated as OPEC Day, is observed, Al Ghais called for reflection on OPEC’s journey and anticipation of its future prospects.

He expressed confidence that the organization’s most significant achievements are yet to come and encouraged continued participation in shaping its future.

The message concluded with a heartfelt wish for a happy OPEC Day to all members and partners.

By Aisha Musa Auyo

Dear Dad, I can’t believe you’ve left this world

Earlier today, I found myself

Praying for your health

Instead of praying for your Rahma and Ghuffar

In my subconsciousness

You’re still alive

I’m still in the denial stage of my grief

It’s unbelievable, the man that brought me into this world

The man who loves me from day one

The man who nurtured me day and night

Even after my marriage

He never let go of me

Is no more to see me grow

His dreams for me were larger than life

His belief in me was stronger than rock

His patience with me was deeper than the ocean

His respect for me was limitless like air

Dear Dad, I tried to move on from your death, as you would have loved me to

But I couldn’t escape the reality that my hero was gone

During the day I’m mostly fine

During the night it’s a different story

Only God knows the silent tears I’ve shed

The numerous plates I’ve broken

The countless foods I’ve burnt

The tiny cuts on my fingers

As I tried to move on from your death

Dear Dad, I was told your grave was full of water

That I should be happy, it’s a sign of Rahma

But this news tore my heart

As I imagine you inside the mud

Alone in your grave

But I learned that,

Your Ruuh is with our Lord

It’s just your body under the mud

Dear Dad, I was reminded that you lived a fulfilled life

Reached the pinnacle of your profession

Touched thousands of souls

Mentored countless lives

Fathered numerous of us

Built dreams and hope for others

Cemented relationships and communities

That your life is a dream of many

The smiling scholar as they named you

Yet, I still hoped you were here

To witness my PhD viva

To witness that big appointment you’ve always envisioned for me

To witness the marriage of all your kids

The successes of all your kids

But Allah’s timing is never to be questioned

And in His will, we were together

Few hours before your death

And your parting words: ‘Allah Yai muku albarka’

Will forever echo in my ears

For you’ve repeated it too many times at that moment

The prayers are too much I thought to myself

Not knowing that was the last thing I’d hear from you

Dear Dad, till we meet in Jannah I would say

For I hope writing this poem

Will give me closure

Will make me accept the reality

That you’re no more with us

That you’re in a better place

That you’re in light and peace Bi iznillah

By Uzair Adam

Details have emerged on the death of Halilu Sububu, a notorious bandit leader who had been terrorizing Zamfara State and neighboring areas.

Sububu, also known as Buzu, was killed in an ambush set by Operation Hadarin Daji troops on Thursday.

Sources indicate that the ambush occurred at Kwaren-Kirya village on the Mayanchi-Anka road in Zamfara.

The Daily Reality gathered that Sububu and his fighters were engaged by the troops while attempting to cross a stream.

Only three of their motorbikes managed to escape the scene.

Local residents in Mayanchi and surrounding villages are celebrating the operation and expressing gratitude to the military, calling for continued efforts to address banditry in the region.

Originally from Niger Republic, Sububu had established control over illegal gold mining sites in the Anka Local Government Area and was a significant figure in the region’s criminal activities.

Several media reports have indicated that he had been wanted by the Defence Headquarters since May.

The military has reported recovering weapons and motorbikes from the bandits, marking a notable success in the ongoing anti-banditry campaign in Nigeria’s northwest.

By Uzair Adam

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has announced that the federal government is implementing measures to ensure the return of residents displaced by insecurity and floods in Niger State.

Speaking during a visit to an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Gwada, Shiroro Local Government Area, Shettima expressed the administration’s commitment to alleviating the suffering of affected individuals.

He stated that his visit was a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to assess the conditions of the displaced residents and assure them of government support.

The Vice President also launched the distribution of relief materials at the camp, highlighting that each state had received N3 billion to address the impacts of floods and security challenges.

Shettima emphasized that states like Niger, Borno, Sokoto, Bayelsa, and Jigawa, which have been significantly affected by these crises, would receive additional support from the federal government.

He called on citizens and organizations to assist the government in providing relief to those affected by disasters across the country.

The Vice President was joined by other key officials, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and the Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Aliyu Sabi.

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, disclosed that 14 out of the 25 local government areas in the state had experienced flooding this year, resulting in loss of lives and property.