By Uzair Adam 

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has initiated an investigation into a viral video showing a woman tearing up a Nigerian Standard Passport at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos. 

According to NIS spokesperson Kenneth Udo, the individual involved has been identified and called in for further investigation. 

The video, widely shared on social media, shows a woman, identified as Mrs Igiebor, ripping her husband’s Nigerian passport shortly after their arrival at the Lagos Airport on Saturday, August 10, 2024. When confronted about her actions, Mrs. Igiebor responded, “Is it your passport?”

The NIS noted that the incident could be a violation of Section 10(b) of the Immigration Act 2015 (as amended), which prohibits the willful destruction of Nigerian travel documents. 

The act specifies penalties for such offences, and if the allegations are proven, the individual’s actions will breach these provisions. 

The corresponding penalties are detailed under Section 10(h) of the same Act, which includes a maximum of 10 years imprisonment and/or a fine.

Kenneth Udo emphasised the Service’s dedication to enforcing the Immigration Act to protect national security and uphold the dignity and integrity of the nation’s legal instruments.

By Uzair Adam 

The Kano State Commissioner of Police, Salman-Dogo Garba, stated that no deaths occurred during the #EndBadGovernance protest in Kano State, despite reports suggesting otherwise. 

At a press conference where suspects were paraded on Monday, Garba said, “Going by the records, so far, we are not aware of any casualties recorded.”

This claim contrasts with several media reports that assert at least five individuals were killed when hoodlums allegedly hijacked the protests.

Garba disclosed that the police arrested 873 suspects and successfully prosecuted 600 individuals for various offences, including “criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, riot, theft, mischief, and arson.” 

Additionally, 150 people were arrested for violating the curfew imposed by the Kano State Government, and six suspects are under investigation for the destruction and looting of the Kano Printing Press.

The Commissioner of Police also revealed that 76 suspects, including a foreigner, were arrested for flying Russian flags and are being investigated for sedition at Force Headquarters in Abuja. 

Other arrests include 41 suspects linked to major crimes like “armed robbery, kidnapping, and car theft,” and the police successfully recovered “two AK-47 Exhibit Rifles and other substantial properties looted by the hoodlums at Audu Baku Secretariat NCC Office, High Court Complexes, Kano Printing Press (KPP), Super Markets.”

The command also rescued 13 trafficking victims and recovered various items, including “two AK-47 Rifles and one Beretta Pistol, 47 live ammunition, eight motor vehicles, and four sacks containing Exol Tablets.” 

Additional items recovered include “two Bajaj Boxer Motorcycles, 22 cows, 15 sheep, and four donkeys.”

He added that despite the challenges posed by the protests, Garba reiterated that the Kano State Police Command remains “committed to maintaining law and order, preventing crime, and protecting the rights of citizens to peaceful protest.”

By Muhammed Bello Umar 

The ongoing protest saga in Nigeria has brought to light the issue of hunger, which is affecting many Nigerians. The protests, which began as a call to end bad governance, have snowballed into a wider outcry against government corruption, poor governance, and economic hardship.

Many Nigerians, especially those in lower-income brackets, have been struggling to make ends meet due to the economic impact of the pandemic (hunger virus) and decades of mismanagement by the government. With the protests shutting down major cities across the country, many businesses have been forced to close, leaving workers without income.

It is important to acknowledge that bigotry and discrimination can exist in any society, including Nigeria. The Nigerian government and its citizens have the responsibility to promote inclusivity, diversity, and equal rights for all individuals. 

The Nigerian Constitution provides for the protection of fundamental human rights, and it is essential that these rights are upheld and respected in all aspects of democratic practices.

A sharp rise in food prices has compounded the bigotry situation, as the cost of basic food items such as rice, beans, and cooking oil has skyrocketed. This has left many people unable to afford even the most basic necessities.

The government has responded by promising to address the concerns of the protesters and to implement reforms, but many Nigerians remain sceptical. In the meantime, this has made Nigerians keen on the government’s response to current happenings in society.

The hunger virus affecting Nigerians is a symptom of a much larger problem, and the country can only hope to overcome it through sustained efforts to address poverty and inequality.

There are roadblocks to a strong democracy in Nigeria at all levels of government. Conflict—triggered by political competition and communal, ethnic, religious or resource allocation rivalries—poses a major threat to democracy. Corruption pervades the daily lives of Nigerians.

Muhammed Bello Umar wrote via princemub28@gmail.com.

By Zailani Bappa

The Sahara Reporters reports that the Kano All Progressive Congress (APC) has called for the arrest of Bello Galadanchi, popularly known as Dan Bello, “for inciting violence.” This comes after his smash video, released two days ago on his X handle.

On the special skit, he alleged an unwholesome practice by a former Commissioner for Local Government Affiars under the Governorship of Abdullahi Ganduje. He backed his claims with evidence, though.

Now, instead of going to court, the APC in the state has gone completely off balance (as the former Commissioner was its Deputy Governor-Candidate), forgot about the Nigerian Judicial System, and done the unthinkable. 

If I may ask, how can Dan Bello be arrested for this allegation, please? He does not live in Nigeria, where the APC rules; he lives and teaches English in China. Moreover, he is a United States Citizen, and the US is known to fiercely protect its citizens’ rights, lives, and property anywhere in the World.

If it is true that the APC is poised for a battle with this young man, someone should advise the Party to take it easy because this guy is equipped with everything it takes to do damage to its members and its Government, not only in Kano but beyond.

I say he is equipped because he has the required knowledge, intelligence, and journalistic acumen to dig; he has excellent film and skit facilities to make his messages appealing to anyone; and he has the protection he deserves to stay safe (especially if all his messages are true).

What is remarkable about Dan Bello so far is that, unlike most of our so-called investigative journalists in Nigeria, whose findings are often hijacked and promoted by equally corrupt politicians, he appears to be highly balanced in his presentations.

For those politicians who gloat over his recent searchlight on the Kano APC politician, they should be advised to keep off Dan Bello as their turn will surely come. 

May God protect the efforts of this young man and all his likes on social media.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

A commercial motor vehicle driver has returned a lost bag containing a substantial amount of money to the Kano State Police Command. 

The driver, Safiyanu Mohammed, ‘m’, 36 Years old resides at Rangaza Quarters, Ungogo LGA, Kano State, a driver indigene of Katsina State, found the bag on Friday, 9th August 2024, at Hadejia Road by Dakata Junction, and handed it over to the Police Command.

The bag was found to contain a large sum of money, but no unique identification or contact information of the owner. 

The Kano State Police Command is now calling on the rightful owner of the bag to come forward and claim their property.

To facilitate the return of the bag, the owner is required to provide proof of ownership and identification. 

The Commissioner of Police, CP Salman Dogo Garba, commended the commercial driver for his exemplary honesty and urge anyone with information about the owner’s identity to come forward.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has strongly condemned the burning of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Kontagora town by suspected hoodlums, describing the act as “mindless and cowardly.” 

In a statement, Governor Bago stated that the attack was not only a violation of the Christian community but also a threat to the state’s harmony and unity. 

The governor assured citizens that the government prioritizes their safety, security, and freedom of religion, saying, “We will not condone this act of violence.” 

Governor Bago has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. 

He urged the people of Kontagora to remain calm and avoid reprisal attacks, noting the importance of preserving peace and unity in the state.

By Uzair Adam 

Three teenage girls tragically drowned in a pond in the Buji Local Government Area of Jigawa State on Saturday. 

The Spokesperson for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the state, ASC Badaruddeen Tijjani, confirmed the incident in a statement released in Dutse on Sunday.

The girls, identified as Fatima Sule (12), Nasiya Sale (12), and Huwaila Sa’adu (13), all from Tulla village, were reportedly cutting grass to feed their livestock near the pond when the accident occurred around 11 a.m.

According to the NSCDC, they received a distress call from the Tulla community shortly after 11 a.m. They quickly responded by sending officers, including divisional disaster management officers, to the scene for a rescue mission. 

Community members and NSCDC personnel worked together and were able to recover the bodies after approximately 30 minutes of searching.

The girls were taken to the nearest health centre, where they were pronounced dead. 

The investigation indicated that the spot where they were gathering grass was the same place where they drowned.

The NSCDC Commandant in the state, Mr. Muhammad Danjuma, expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and urged parents to monitor their children closely, especially during times when ponds and rivers are swollen, to prevent such tragedies.

By Uzair Adam 

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kano State Council inaugurated its newly elected executives on August 10, 2024. 

Abdulrazak Bello Kaura, Secretary of NUJ Zone A, disclosed this information in a statement on Sunday, which The Daily Reality obtained.

Kaura emphasised that the event showcased unity and commitment, with notable dignitaries from various sectors in attendance. 

This turnout underscored the Union’s crucial role in promoting professional journalism in Nigeria.

The statement read, “The ceremony featured the Vice President of NUJ Zone A, Muhammad Tukur Umar, who represented the National President, Chief (Dr.) Chris Isiguzo. 

“In his keynote address, Tukur Umar emphasised the need for the new leaders to prioritise the welfare and unity of NUJ members. 

“He called for transparency, accountability, and inclusivity during their tenure to ensure effective and impactful leadership.”

Representing the Executive Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, was the Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Baba Dantiye. 

Dantiye congratulated the newly inaugurated executives in his remarks and pledged the government’s support. 

“He urged the leaders to seize this opportunity to make a significant impact on the growth and development of journalism in Kano State,” the statement continued.

Comrade Abdulrazak Bello Kaura, Zonal Secretary of NUJ Zone A administered the oath of office. 

The event was attended by a distinguished array of guests, including the Deputy National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the National President of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, the Commissioner of Justice, and the National President of NAWOJ. 

“Their presence added to the significance and colour of the occasion,” the statement added.

Kaura concluded, “The inauguration of the NUJ Kano State Council Executives is seen as a pivotal moment for the Union, with expectations high for the new leadership to uphold the values of dedication and integrity while working towards the Union’s growth and the betterment of its members.”

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD

With my viva voce a few days ago, the sojourn that began five years ago has ended. Although the coursework started late, around May 2019, it was successfully navigated through that year.

Postgraduate students often think coursework should be eliminated. They wonder how a PhD student could be sitting in a four-corner wall in the name of lectures, arguing that PhD candidates should dive straight into research. However, after completing the coursework, none of us agreed with that sentiment.

One notable sacrifice that potential postgraduate students should be prepared to make is financial freedom. Study not only limits one income but also eats deep into the fabric of the little one on the hand—it is an attack from a double front. So, it only takes individual ambition to succumb to that.

One common question from those considering enrolment but still undecided is, “How long will it take to finish a postgraduate program?” My quick response to them is to enrol as soon as possible because time will pass regardless. 

In Nigeria, pursuing a PhD is a journey where you likely only know the starting point, facing a path fraught with unforeseeable circumstances; the end sight can’t be rightly assured. While I read posts that some lucky individuals graduate in about three years, others aren’t as fortunate and may take seven years or more. So, I believe graduating in five years is an average.

The first major hurdle of my five-year PhD journey emerged at the beginning of 2020. Immediately after the year clocked, the COVID-19 pandemic struck the globe. The world came to a standstill as countries implemented stringent measures to combat the virus. In Nigeria, after the first confirmed case was announced in late February, we swiftly followed suit; wearing facemasks, using hand sanitisers, and maintaining strict social distancing became the order of the day. 

Despite the initial disruptions, as the pandemic began to wane, my supervisor and I would forge on, adapting precautionary measures. The lockdowns would be a blessing in disguise as they provided valuable time for my supervisory team and me to finalise our research topic and draft a comprehensive literature review manuscript.

Another significant hurdle arose with the ASUU strike. As early as February 2022, the agitation for the government to implement the 2009 agreement mounted. It began as warnings but escalated into an indefinite strike lasting eight months. Like the COVID-19 pandemic, the strike ultimately became a diamond in the rough. It afforded me more interactions with my advisors and crucially facilitated a collaboration with the Centre for Resources Recovery in Sweden, known for its extensive work in my research area. Leveraging the online meeting platforms adopted during the pandemic, such as Zoom, expedited our collaboration.

Another serious hurdle I encountered was frequent power outages. Just as I was about to enter the lab after completing all preparations, ABU experienced a series of power disruptions; their light would be cut due to failure to pay the bills—an issue I had never expected. This cultural shock paled in comparison when I later heard that even Aso Rock faced threats of power cuts. The inconsistency of electricity, compounded by national grid collapses and ABU light cuts made the initial stages of setting the research in motion unforgettable.

A five-year journey demanding a high level of commitment, teamwork, tight schedules, and stringent deadlines, in addition to the inherent conflicting perspectives in group work, inevitably led to clashes—sometimes titanic ones. However, what mattered most was understanding each other’s viewpoints and even finding humour in the aftermath. You have an added advantage for those who are naturally diplomatic, persuasive, and humorous: you will come to handle such pressures far more easily.

One of the major successes of my PhD journey was the significant contribution to knowledge pioneering an innovative method: the development of mesoporous support for heterogeneous fermentation for the first time. This achievement has culminated in forthcoming publications in high-impact (or not-so) journals, the filing of a patent, and facilitated international collaborations.

No matter how daunting the task may seem, it can’t be insurmountable, provided there is consistent effort (even a bit), patience, and perseverance.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD, is a public affairs commentator and science writer. He can be reached via bilal4riid13@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

The University of Benin (UNIBEN) has set up a panel to investigate allegations of sexual harassment against a professor from the Faculty of Arts.

The university announced the formation of the panel through a circular issued by Mr. B. D. Jonathan, the panel’s secretary.

The Daily Reality gathered that the identity of the accused professor has not been disclosed in the circular, which was made available to journalists in Benin.

The university has called on staff and students with relevant information or who are potential victims to come forward.

The circular assures confidentiality and protection for those who provide information.

The decision to form the panel follows social media allegations made by a former student who claimed to have experienced severe harassment from the professor during her undergraduate studies.