By Uzair Adam Imam

A Federal High Court in Kano has given Justice Farouk Lawan Adamu and Justice Zuwaira Yusuf 48 hours to resign from their appointments as chairmen of inquiry commissions set up by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

The court also ordered the National Judicial Council to stop paying their salaries and benefits if they fail to comply.

The judges were appointed to investigate alleged misappropriation of public properties and political violence, but the court ruled that their acceptance of the appointments was an encroachment on the judicial arm of government and a breach of the separation of powers doctrine.

The court’s decision came in a case filed by former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who sought to stop the probes. The court had earlier ruled that Ganduje could only be investigated by the EFCC or ICPC.

The judges were ordered to cease performing executive functions assigned to them by the Governor and to resign from their appointments as chairmen of the inquiry commissions. Failure to comply will result in the stoppage of their salaries and benefits.

According to the court, the Governor of Kano State has no power to appoint judges as chairmen of inquiry commissions without recourse to the National Judicial Council.

The court also stated that the judges’ acceptance of the appointments was a violation of the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers.

The court’s ruling is a victory for Ganduje, who had challenged the probes as an abuse of office and undermining the sanctity of the judiciary.

The respondents in the suit include the National Judicial Council, the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission, the Attorney-General of Kano State, and the two judges.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad 

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has been in the news for both good and bad reasons since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration was inaugurated a little more than a year ago.

From Godwin Emefiele’s dismissal and subsequent arrest to the unprecedented devaluation of the Naira, the controversial transfer of staff from Abuja to Lagos, the firing of 26 out of 29 directors, the revelation of the theft of $6.3 million from the CBN vault during Emefiele’s tenure, and the intense pressure on the Olayemi Cardoso-led management to restore normalcy, the CBN has never faced such a tense and tumultuous period in recent memory.

Who is to blame? The CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, and his four deputy governors? President Tinubu’s sudden decision to float the Naira? Emefiele’s evident recklessness and partisan politics? Or the entire political and economic system

Cardoso and his four deputies have résumés and experience comparable to professionals worldwide. However, critics argue that, despite his experience as a commercial banker, Cardoso lacks the expertise of a central banker. They also contend that his previous role as Tinubu’s commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget could influence his performance, suggesting he might view the CBN Governor’s position as merely a form of patronage.

The CBN reached its lowest point during the Emefiele era when its regulatory and stabilizing functions became intertwined with politics and business interests. Court documents revealed that on February 8, 2023, four individuals stole $6,230,000 in cash from the CBN. Additionally, the Federal High Court in Lagos recently ordered the final forfeiture of properties valued at N12.18 billion linked to Godwin Emefiele.

The developments (above) indicate that Emefiele’s successor will encounter significant challenges. Nevertheless, the primary role of a central banker is to ensure stability during crises, focusing not only on critiquing past actions but also on delivering effective results that positively impact the economy and its citizens.

Cardoso and his team are currently grappling with several challenges: the instability of the Naira, public perception of the CBN, and widespread belief that Bureaux De Change operators wield undue influence, while the CBN has struggled to establish a mutually beneficial operating framework with them. The reality is that Cardoso’s ‘by-the-book’ approaches have not yielded [the] desired results. Although the CBN has managed to achieve some consistency in forex supply and clear the backlog of dollars owed to airlines and other foreign investors, the transfer of staff to the Lagos office and the dismissal of 25 out of 29 directors and additional staff must be considered in the context of policies initiated as far back as the reign of Lamido Sanusi.

Regarding dismissing directors and senior staff, how can Cardoso be expected to work effectively with individuals deeply influenced by Emefiele’s actions? Even in the military, police, and paramilitary forces, such restructuring is not uncommon, where hundreds of generals can be retired simultaneously, and the world moves on.

It’s also important to commend Cardoso and his team’s collaboration with the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) and other stakeholders to enhance the business environment. Such efforts are crucial for the CBN to build trust, ensure price stability, and implement effective monetary policies that prevent economic instability and improve foreign exchange rates and inflation.

On the other hand, why hasn’t the CBN been able to restore the Naira to its actual value against the dollar? The biggest mistake we make in Nigeria is sometimes applying global theories and laws to our unique system, which operates differently from other countries. These theories and laws succeed elsewhere because they strictly adhere to the principles and standards that support their effectiveness. However, CBN’s attempts to elevate the Naira to its expected value have consistently defied conventional economic laws and theories.

Cardoso and his team should consider adopting a strategy that combines established economic laws and theories with innovative approaches. One of their critical assets could be neighbouring countries such as Cameroon, Chad, Republic of Benin, Equatorial Guinea, and Niger Republic, along with other West and Central African nations, as well as Nigeria’s agriculture and manufacturing sectors. These countries import significant quantities of agricultural and manufactured goods from Nigeria, making them prime targets for the CBN’s efforts to strengthen the Naira.

A proactive step would involve the CBN collaborating extensively and effectively with governments of border states to establish well-structured international free-zone markets at border points. These markets would exclusively transact in Naira for all Nigerian products sold there. This approach could incentivize businesses from neighbouring countries to prefer purchasing goods in Naira due to its low-cost advantage, thereby increasing demand for the Naira.

Furthermore, the CBN must address one of its weakest points: inadequate public relations (PR). There is a pressing need to enhance its PR strategy because most of the public perceives the current CBN management as solely on a vendetta mission to discredit anything associated with Emefiele and engage in political maneuvering rather than recognizing its efforts to rectify systemic issues.

The Cardoso team must acknowledge that despite being a strategic institution, the CBN is susceptible to being viewed like any other Nigerian government entity. Therefore, the CBN must establish and maintain a robust PR program that informs the public about its activities and portrays the institution as independent from political influences despite being overseen by politicians.

Part of the CBN’s PR strategy should involve revitalizing and restructuring its commendable agricultural programs, which were previously undermined under Emefiele’s tenure. Cardoso should seize this opportunity to lead the relaunch of these programs and engage with the public to demonstrate his commitment as a genuine central banker, focused on economic stewardship rather than engaging in political vendettas.

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

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 Dr. Ibrahim Hassan Aliyu

On July 10, 2023, I received my deployment letter for the mandatory one-year national youth service in Oyo State. The orientation exercise was scheduled to start on July 12, which coincided with my induction ceremony into the Veterinary Profession. Unfortunately, I couldn’t report to camp that day.

I began my journey from Sokoto (Seat of Caliphate) to Oyo State (Pacesetter State) on July 13 and arrived at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin Local Government on July 14. After completing my registration, I resumed camp activities the next day. My camp experience was unforgettable; despite the stress, I learned a lot, made many friends, and broadened my horizons in all aspects of life.

On August 1st, we had our passing-out parade, and I was posted to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) in Ibadan North Local Government. Later, I was reposted to Clucky Livestock Farms Limited, a reputable organization in Ido Local Government, Ibadan South zone.

While travelling from the University of Ibadan to the Oyo State Secretariat for the World Rabies Day procession, organized by the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA, Oyo State Chapter), I received a call from someone with an American accent requesting a meeting. He offered a deal, which I accepted, and we scheduled a visit to the site.

The following day, I visited Clucky Farms Limited, a world-class poultry farm and chicken processing plant with a marketing unit. The company provides conducive accommodation, a lovely environment, growth opportunities, freedom of religion, staff equality, and a dedicated team committed to transforming the livestock industry and achieving food security.

The Managing Director/Chairman, Mr. Olawale Adeyemo Adewale, is a humble, generous, and approachable leader who has taught me valuable skills, including leadership and decision-making. He impressed me with his punctuality, arriving 15 minutes before our meeting time.

On Saturday, October 7, he picked me up from my initial residence at Ikolaba and drove me to my new accommodation at Clucky in his SUV. This gesture of humility from the Managing Director/Chairman of the company exemplifies his generosity and approachability. He is an amiable leader with a strong sense of equality, sincerity, dedication, and a knack for solving complex problems. He is highly resourceful and eager to learn.

Working with him has given me life-changing opportunities and skills, including leadership and decision-making. I consider myself the luckiest NYSC member in Oyo State, a sentiment shared by my friends and colleagues who have visited me. I am deeply grateful to Mr. Olawale and the entire Clucky Family for making my stay an incredible experience.

In addition to my primary assignment, I participated in the Community Development Service (CDS) at the Local Government level in the Freedom of Information and Awareness (FOIA) syndicate. I served under Mrs Ajijola Taiwo Joan, a devout and iconic Local Government Inspector (LGI). Her departing words, “Don’t ever allow anybody to shed tears because of you,” continue to guide me.

I appreciate my State Coordinator, Comrade Odoba Abel Oche (Mr. Wisdom), whose speech inspired me to write and reflect. My sincere thanks also go to Mrs. Bola Obarinde, the Local Government Inspector (LGI) of Ibadan North 1, the Zonal Inspector of Ibadan North zone, and the entire NYSC community in Oyo State.

I extend my gratitude to my family, the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) Oyo State Chapter, MCAN Family, MARD Oyo State, and everyone who made my service year prosperous and memorable. Serving in Oyo State was a distinct and rewarding experience.

Ibrahim Hassan Aliyu writes from Sokoto.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited declared a state of emergency on oil production.

This was a move towards increasing Nigeria’s crude oil production and growing its reserves.

Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Mele Kyari, disclosed this in a keynote address at the opening of the 23rd edition of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition Week in Abuja, on Tuesday.

“We have decided to stop the debate. We have declared war on the challenges affecting our crude oil production. War means war. We have the right tools. We know what to fight. We know what we have to do at the level of assets. We have engaged our partners. And we will work together to improve the situation,” Kyari stated.

Nigeria’s absurd crude supply crisis and loses N636bn revenue as oil production dips NNPC withdraws suit against ExxonMobil, Seplat $1.28bn deal.

According to him, a detailed analysis of assets revealed that Nigeria could conveniently produce two million barrels of crude oil per day without deploying new rigs.

Still, the major impediment to achieving this is the inability of players to act in a timely manner.

He added that the “war” will help NNPCL and its partners to speedily clear all identified obstacles to effective and efficient production, such as delays in procurement processes, which have become a challenge in the industry.

By Anas Abbas

In a dramatic turnaround, operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have killed two kidnappers and freed four captives, including a Nigerian and three Indian nationals, in a daring operation.

The rescue mission occurred on Sunday night along the Sagamu-Ijebu-Ode expressway, near Delabo Junction, after a driver was shot and travellers kidnapped by gunmen.

Police Commissioner Abiodun Alamutu briefed reporters at the state headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta, saying the anti-kidnapping squad traced the hoodlums to a bush hideout, where a fierce gun battle ensued.

“The suspects engaged our men, but our superior firepower led to the elimination of two kidnappers while others fled with injuries,” Alamutu said.

The police recovered 109 rounds of ammunition, five AK-47 rifles, eight AK-47 magazines, and two cell phones from the suspects.

The rescued hostages were reunited with their families, unharmed. The police commissioner reiterated the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, saying, “We will not tolerate criminality in Ogun State.”

This operation marks a significant victory in the fight against kidnapping and crime in the state.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George will return to the NPFL with Rivers United.

Reports say Finidi met with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Tuesday to discuss his impending appointment, and he will shortly be presented as the head coach of the Port Harcourt outfit.

Long-serving coach Stanley Eguma was fired during the past season, and Evans Ogenyi led the team for the remainder of the campaign.

Former Ajax winger Finidi led Enyimba to win the NPFL championship the previous season before he was appointed Super Eagles coach in May.

He quit his Super Eagles post after the NFF appointed a foreign coach to be his boss following a 1-1 home draw with South Africa and a shock loss to Benin in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

By Mujahid Nasir Hussain

Diabetes Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes and encouraging prevention and management strategies to support those living with the condition globally. As the world comes together for Diabetes Week 2024, observed from June 10th to 16th, communities, healthcare professionals, and organizations united in a series of events and campaigns to foster a deeper awareness and a proactive approach towards combating the condition.

According to the 2024 International Diabetes Federation (IDF) report, diabetes is a significant and growing global health issue affecting diverse regions and populations. Approximately 537 million adults (20-79 years) worldwide are living with diabetes, with this number expected to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. One of the major concerns regarding this increase is that Nigeria is among the countries facing such a significant rise, with current estimates showing millions affected and a substantial proportion of cases undiagnosed. Thus, there is a need for improved diabetes education, prevention programs, and accessible treatment options to combat this growing health crisis.

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood glucose levels. This occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Persistent high blood glucose can damage various organs and systems, leading to significant health complications. Although there are many forms of diabetes, according to numerous literature reports, there are generally three. Viz: Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes and Gestational diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This destruction leads to little or no insulin production, crucial for regulating blood sugar levels. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy, either through injections or an insulin pump, to manage their blood glucose levels. This type of diabetes often manifests in childhood or adolescence but can occur at any age. Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, and blurred vision.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90-95% of all diabetes cases. It occurs when the body becomes insulin resistant, or the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. This condition is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet. Risk factors also include age, family history, and certain ethnic backgrounds. Symptoms are similar to Type 1 diabetes but may develop more slowly, making early detection and management crucial. Lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin therapy are used to manage Type 2 diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the extra needs of pregnancy. This condition typically resolves after childbirth but increases the mother’s risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Gestational diabetes can lead to complications such as high birth weight, preterm birth, and increased risk of cesarean delivery. Managing gestational diabetes involves a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and monitoring blood sugar levels. In some cases, insulin therapy may be needed.

Diabetes Complications

Unmanaged diabetes can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications, emphasizing the importance of effective management. These complications include:

Cardiovascular Disease: People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing heart disease and stroke due to damaged blood vessels and nerves.

Neuropathy: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves, especially in the legs and feet, leading to pain, tingling, and even loss of sensation. Severe cases can result in foot ulcers and amputations.

Nephropathy: Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney disease, which can progress to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Retinopathy: High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems and even blindness.

Skin Conditions: Diabetes can make individuals more prone to bacterial and fungal infections and other skin disorders.

Treatment Strategies for Diabetes

Effective diabetes management requires a multi-faceted approach that includes lifestyle changes, medication, regular monitoring, and education & support.

Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing intake of processed foods and sugary beverages. Regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, is essential to help maintain a healthy weight and improve insulin sensitivity.

Medication: Treatment depends on the type of diabetes. For Type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is essential. For Type 2 diabetes, oral medications like metformin or other hypoglycemics may be prescribed, and in some cases, insulin may be required.

Monitoring: Regular blood glucose monitoring ensures levels remain within the target range. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) provide real-time data, allowing for better management and adjustment of treatment plans.

Education and Support: Diabetes education programs help individuals understand their condition, make informed decisions about their care, and provide emotional support. Support groups offer a platform to share experiences and coping strategies.

Mujahid Nasir Hussain is an undergraduate prize awardee for Physiology 2023, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria. He wrote via mujahidhnasir@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

An Osun State High Court sitting in Ede has convicted and sentenced five men to death by hanging for the kidnap and murder of Alhaji Ibrahim Adamu, a Fulani man.

The convicts, Ibrahim Issa, Lateef Bello, Abdul Ramon Soliu, Bello Ibrahim, and Abudu Mumini Jolaanobi Saheed – were arraigned on four charges, including conspiracy to kidnap and murder.

In her judgement, Justice Kudirat Akano found the convicts guilty on all four counts and sentenced them to death by hanging.

The prosecuting counsel, Faremi Moses, presented evidence that the five men kidnapped Alhaji Ibrahim Adamu on April 17, 2018, around 7:45 pm from his home in Owode-Ede, Ede North Local Government Area, Osun State.

Adamu was abducted in his Toyota Corolla and subsequently killed after his family paid a ransom of N3 million.

Faremi called three witnesses, including the investigating police officer, Mr Ganiyu Taofeek, who submitted several exhibits, such as extrajudicial statements and a mask recovered at the scene.

Counsel to the convicts, Bola Ige, argued that the prosecution failed to prove the accusation beyond a reasonable doubt.

Justice Akano ruled, “The prosecution has proved beyond a reasonable doubt that the convicts committed the offences. They are hereby sentenced to death by hanging.

“The convicts were led out of the courtroom in handcuffs, sobbing and begging for mercy.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Ibrahim Lawan, the suspended Director of Primary Health Care (PHC) in Yobe’s Nangere Local Government, has confessed to diverting Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) supplements intended to treat severe malnutrition in children.

The PHC board had suspended Lawan indefinitely and established a five-member committee to investigate the matter.

Lawan admitted to tampering with the supplements along with some staff members, acknowledging that his actions were wrong.”I tampered with some of the therapeutic food supplements, but the quantity is not as much as they alleged,” Lawan admitted in an interview.

He added, “However, I take responsibility for all that happened since I was the leader at the time.”

Lawan claimed that the quantity of supplements diverted was not as much as alleged (120 cartons), but took responsibility for the actions.

He appealed for leniency, citing cooperation with the investigation.”I am appealing to the state government to temper justice with mercy since I have cooperated and made the investigation easier for them,” he said.

The RUTF supplements are highly nutritious food packages used to treat severe and acute malnutrition in children.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), malnutrition is a significant public health problem in Nigeria, with approximately 2 million children under the age of five suffering from severe acute malnutrition.

The investigation committee will also recommend strategies to ensure accountability in the distribution of medical consumables.

The Yobe state government has named Ibrahim Disa as the acting director of the PHC in Nangere pending the outcome of the investigation.