By Ahmad Deedat Zakari

An Islamic Organization, Ummah for Da’awa & Humanitarian Services, has called on the government to do justice to the victims of the airstrike by the Nigerian Army.

The group demanded thorough investigation into the matter and requested that the victims and the families of the deceased be compensated.

The group made their stance known while expressing their pain and sadness over the matter in a statement on Thursday.

The statement reads in part: “We call on the relevant authorities to exercise a deep investigation into the matter to know
the factors that caused the unfortunate
event and to take good actions against the forces that played a role.

“We also advise the government, both at the state and federal levels to pay ransom to the affected families to alleviate the pains and plights that accompanied the incident. We all know that lost lives cannot be returned but their families can be consoled.”

The airstrike dubbed as mistake by the Nigerian Army killed scores of Muslims observing Maulud in Tudun Biri Village, Kaduna State.

Dear Vice-Chancellor,

We are writing to express our concern regarding the enrolment of recruited staff at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA), Katsina State, on the IPPIS. Despite completing all necessary documentation processes and waiting for almost three years, there has been significant uncertainty surrounding the actual enrolment of the affected employees.

This issue has caused pain and disappointment among the recruited staff. The delay not only impacts the morale and confidence of the affected employees but also raises questions about the efficiency of FUDMA’s bureaucratic administrative processes. Some have resigned from their previous employment, anticipating working at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma. The anticipation has been prolonged, and the affected workers need to know whether there are still possibilities for them to be captured on the IPPIS or not.

It is essential to acknowledge the efforts invested by the new recruits in completing their documentation promptly. Failing to enrol them in a timely manner not only hinders their ability to contribute effectively to the university but also reflects poorly on the university’s commitment to its employees.

I urge you to address this matter promptly, identify the reasons for the delay, and take necessary actions to expedite the enrolment process for the recruited staff. Open and transparent communication regarding the steps being taken to resolve this issue will help alleviate concerns and maintain FUDMA’s reputation for professionalism and efficiency.

Your immediate intervention in addressing all allegations of employment racketeering is highly appreciated, as it directly impacts the well-being of your tenure as the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsin-Ma and its staff.

Pending IPPIS FUDUMA Staff. They can be contacted via aishaumarabdullah2000@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Engausa, a prominent digital skills learning centre located in Unit E35/36 Technology Incubation Centre, Farm Centre, Kano, Nigeria, has announced the commencement of registrations for its upcoming ENGAUSA CATCH THEM YOUNG classes.

The classes, tailored for children, will be conducted during school holidays, providing a unique opportunity for young learners to enhance their digital skills in an engaging and educational environment. 

Parents and guardians are encouraged to enrol their children, especially those who participated in the previous vacation classes.

This allows them to continue building on the knowledge and skills they acquired during their previous sessions. 

The digital skills learning centre emphasises the urgency of registration, urging interested parents to act promptly to secure a spot for their children in the upcoming classes.

With a commitment to fostering early exposure to digital literacy, Engausa aims to equip young minds with essential skills for the rapidly evolving digital landscape. 

Engausa’s initiative aligns with the broader goal of promoting technology education and creating a foundation for future innovators.

As the classes are anticipated to fill up quickly, prospective participants are advised to register promptly to ensure their inclusion in this valuable educational opportunity. 

For further details and registration, interested parties can contact Engausa through the following phone numbers: 07038224643, 0701 513 0683, or 0708 886 1618.

Alternatively, interested persons can visit the official website at EngausaHub.com or EngausaAcademy.com for comprehensive information on the programmes offered.

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari 

The National Judicial Council, NJC, has recommended the appointment of 43 jurists to the Bench of the different courts across the country.

The apex court is expected to have 11 new justices upon confirmation by the President.  

The Director of Information of the NJC, Soji Oye, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.    

According to Mr Oye, the swearing-in of all recommended candidates to the Supreme Court bench will take place after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approves their recommendation and the Senate confirms their appointment.

He also stated that various heads of court recommended would also be sworn-in upon the approval of their appointment by their various state governors and subsequent confirmation of same by their respective state Houses of Assembly. 

The statement read, “The NJC, at its 104th meeting on Wednesday, December 6 considered the list of candidates presented by its Interview Committee and at the end of deliberations, recommended the under-listed names of successful candidates as heads of courts and other judicial officers for the Federal and State Courts in Nigeria.” 

They are as follows:

ELEVEN JUSTICES, SUPREME COURT OF NIGERIA 

Hon. Justice Jummai Hannatu Sankey, OFR

Hon. Justice Chidiebere Nwaoma Uwa

Hon. Justice Chioma Egondu Nwosu-Iheme

Hon. Justice Haruna Simon Tsammani

Hon. Justice Moore Aseimo A. Adumein

Hon. Justice Obande Festus Ogbuinya

Hon. Justice Stephen Jonah Adah

Hon. Justice Habeeb Adewale O. Abiru

Hon. Justice Jamilu Yammama TukurHon. Justice Abubakar Sadiq Umar

Hon. Justice Mohammed Baba Idris 

ONE JUSTICE, COURT OF APPEAL 

Hon. Justice Mohammed Ahmed Ramat 

CHIEF JUDGE TARABA STATE 

Hon. Justice Joel Filibus Agya 

CHIEF JUDGE, KEBBI STATE

Hon. Justice Umar Abubakar. 

GRAND KADI, SHARIA COURT OF APPEAL, KEBBI STATE 

Hon. Kadi Sadiq Usman Mukhtar 

PRESIDENT, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, OGUN STATE 

Hon. Justice A. O. Femi-Segun 

PRESIDENT, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, TARABA STATE 

Hon. Justice Alfred Yakubu 

PRESIDENT, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, OYO STATE 

Hon. Justice Tajudeen M. Abdulganiyu 

ONE HIGH COURT JUDGE, BAYELSA STATE 

Amaebi Ibomo Orukari 

ONE HIGH COURT JUDGE, OGUN STATE Akinyemi Martins Ayodele 

THREE HIGH COURT JUDGES, CROSS RIVER STATE 

Ama Edet Ekpo

Theresa Ansa Agom

Jalarth Ogar Agim 

THREE KADIS, SHARIA COURT OF APPEAL, ZAMFARA STATE 

Aminu Abdullahi Gusau

Usman Hassan Gummi

Hadi Sani 

TWO KADIS, SHARIA COURT OF APPEAL, NASARAWA STATE 

Abubakar Ahmad Tijjani

Aliyu Ibrahim Ebbema 

NINE HIGH COURT JUDGES, KANO STATE; 

Fatima Adamu

Hauwa Lawal Umar

Musa Ahmad

Musa Daihuru Mohammed

Farida Rabiu Danbappa

Halima Aliyu Nasir

Aisha Mahmoud

Adam Abdullahi

Hanif Sanusi Yusuf  

ONE JUDGE, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, BAYELSA STATE 

Opokuma David Lawrence 

FOUR HIGH COURT JUDGES, NASARAWA STATE 

Esther Mami Ejeh

Ibrahim Dauda Shekarau

Musa Muhammad Dallah

Makama Tanze Benjamin  

TWO JUDGES, CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, OGUN STATE 

Awoyomi Bolanle Adenike

Lawal Adeniyi Olusanya

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Gunmen attacked the secretary of the Kogi State governorship election tribunal on Monday, stealing sensitive petition documents related to the recent election. 

Police confirmed the incident, stating the attackers took petitions filed by five political parties. 

The stolen documents included petitions from the Action Alliance, Action People’s Party, Peoples Redemption Party, Social Democratic Party, and two record books. 

The attack occurred near the Central Bank of Nigeria office around 1:20 p.m.

The police have launched a thorough investigation and urged the public to refrain from speculative statements that could prejudice the probe. 

Both the Social Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress have traded accusations over the attack, raising concerns about the security of election-related materials and potential intimidation.

By Muhammad Abdurrahman

One hundred and twenty (120) villagers were reportedly struck dead at Tudun-Biri, Igabi Local Government of Kaduna State, by the Nigerian Army on Sunday night, 3rd December, 2023, as they celebrated the Maulud an-Nabiyy. The Nigerian Army has accepted responsibility for the attack.

Meanwhile, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has condemned the attack. In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola on Tuesday, 5th December 2023, the group described the incident as sad and unprofessional. MURIC also demanded proper investigation and compensation for the victims. 

The full statement reads:

“Army drones killed 120 innocent villagers at Tudun-Biri, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Sunday, 3rd December, 2023.  The victims were celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) when the ugly incident occurred. 

“Although the Nigerian Army has accepted responsibility for the attack. We strongly condemn the killing of unarmed and innocent villagers. The incident reflects carelessness and a lack of professionalism.

“MURIC demands full investigation into the circumstances surrounding this disaster. Those found responsible for the callous murder of these innocent Muslim villagers must be made to face the full wrath of the law. 

“We also demand full compensation for lives lost and properties destroyed in this thoughtless attack. Live is sacred and soldiers should not turn innocent civilians to lawful targets of their killing machines.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The UK government has unveiled a comprehensive five-point plan to curb immigration, drawing mixed reactions from various sectors.

The plan aims to address concerns over rising immigration levels and implement stricter measures for those seeking to enter the country. 

The plan for the policy 

1. Overseas care workers will no longer be able to bring their dependents to the UK. This measure aims to prevent the exploitation of care workers by employers and ensure that they are adequately compensated for their work. 

2. The minimum salary requirement for skilled worker visas will be raised from £26,000 to £38,700. This move aims to attract highly skilled workers and ensure they receive fair wages. 

3. The 20% minimum wage reduction previously offered to those applying for visas in shortage occupations will be eliminated. This decision aligns with the government’s efforts to ensure fair pay for all workers, regardless of their nationality. 

4. The minimum income requirement for family visas will be increased from £18,600 to £38,700. This measure aims to ensure that sponsors can financially support their dependents. 

5. The government has requested that the Migration Advisory Committee review the graduate route to prevent abuse. Changes to the student visa are expected to be announced soon. 

Expected outcome 

The government estimates that the five-point plan will reduce immigration by around 300,000 people annually.

However, critics argue that the plan could hinder the UK’s ability to attract and retain skilled workers, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare and technology. 

Response from the Home Secretary 

Home Secretary James Cleverly defended the plan, stating that it is necessary to ensure a “fair, legal, and sustainable” immigration system.

He emphasised the need to address concerns over immigration levels and protect the rights of British citizens.

Bello Hussein Adoto

Last week, the world marked Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness (AMR) Week. The goal was to raise awareness about  AMR—a phenomenon where antimicrobials no longer kill or prevent the growth of the microbes they used to kill.

Our bodies do an excellent job of containing viral, bacterial, or fungal infections before a doctor chips in with a drug or two to kill the germs and bring us back to good health. These drugs include antibiotics for bacterial infections, antifungals for fungal infections, and antivirals for viral infections.

Unfortunately, some of us don’t go to—or wait for—the doctor to treat actual or presumed infections. We dash to the nearest chemist to buy ampicillin over-the-counter for boils (skin abscesses) and amoxil for typhoid. Patients who can’t tell the difference between dysentery and diarrhoea would buy branded Ciprofloxacin or Amoxiclav to resolve prolonged toilet troubles and stomach pain. Those who are not that buoyant would manage metronidazole.

Our health practitioners also contribute to the problem. A survey of 12 countries shows that Nigeria has the third-highest percentage of antibiotic prescriptions. Three out of every five patients on admission at our hospitals are on antibiotics. This heavy use of antibiotics contributes to Nigeria’s AMR burden.

The consequence of our use, abuse, and misuse of antibiotics is that the viruses, the bacteria, and the fungi have grown tough—they no longer fear us and our drugs. Our pills and creams are no longer as effective. Regular bacterial infections that were once treatable with first-line antibiotics have become stubborn. You may need a second or third line to treat them. Diseases that needed only Ciprotab now call for Ceftriazone and Imepenem. Diseases that were once tolerable have become debilitating, if not deadly.

The WHO recently spotlighted the story of a woman who had reconstructive facial surgery following an accident. The wound got infected and they treated the infection only for it to rebound and eat away at her face. Gradually, her facial muscles turned to cheese. Further tests showed she had MRSA, the dreaded methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Luckily, the woman survived. “If I’d known earlier, maybe I wouldn’t have lost huge portions of my face,” she said years later.

Our ignorance about AMR doesn’t make it any less deadly. About five million people died from drug-resistant infections in 2019. More than one million of these deaths were linked directly to AMR.

Aside from being deadly, AMR is expensive. Infections with drug-resistant bacteria, for instance, mean that patients spend more on higher and more effective antibiotics. These antibiotics don’t come cheap. Augmentin, one of the go-to drugs for severe infections, is now 13,000 naira. That’s more than one-third of the minimum wage.

The task before us is to stem the tide this menace. The government is playing its part. It has drawn up a national action plan for AMR. The plan seeks to increase awareness about the problem

, promote surveillance and research, and improve access to genuine antibiotics. Doctors also have concepts like delayed prescription and antimicrobial stewardship to guide their prescriptions. You can join the fight too.

One, don’t use antibiotics without prescriptions. Trust your doctors when they say you don’t need antibiotics. Some viral infections like cold can resolve without drugs.

Secondly, complete your doses when using prescribed antibiotics. It could be tempting to abandon your drugs at the first sign of relief. It could be valid even: some research has shown that extended use of antibiotics after symptomatic relief doesn’t make any significant difference in recovery. Still, don’t discontinue your drugs at a whim. Speak with your doctor.

Thirdly, don’t share antibiotics or prescribe them to others. This should go without saying, but our desire to help friends and loved ones often pushes us to share drugs like antibiotics with them. You can do better by directing your friend or relative see a doctor. Antibiotics are not emergency drugs that can’t wait for a prescription.

Good hygienic practices can help, too. They limit the spread of infections, and the consequent antibiotics (ab)use. Wash your hands regularly. Adopt proper etiquette when you are in a hospital or laboratory environment. Doing otherwise increases your risk of contracting or transmitting new infections to your loved ones.

Five, get vaccinated. Vaccines protect you from contracting potentially resistant infections or spreading them to others. Moreover, viral infections that can be prevented with vaccines, like measles and influenza, are some of the reasons people abuse antibiotics. When you don’t contract influenza or measles, you won’t feel a need to abuse antibiotics.

The AMR Awareness Week has come and gone, but the problem and its consequences remain. They affect us all; everyone can and should contribute to the solution. You can be a part of the fight by not abusing antibiotics or demanding that your doctor prescribe antibiotics for you when you don’t need them. You can join in by not abandoning your treatment or sharing your drugs. You can get vaccinated too. Start now. Start today. Join the fight against AMR.

Hussein can be reached via bellohussein210@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

An incident that occurred on Sunday night in Tudun Biri, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has left people in mourning as the community became the unintended target of a military operation, resulting in the loss of at least 85 lives. 

The village was celebrating Maulud, an Islamic event, when the Nigerian Army dropped bombs, sparking widespread outrage. 

The state government, led by Deputy Governor Hadiza Balarabe, moved swiftly to address the escalating tension. Governor Uba Sani ordered a thorough investigation into the accidental bombing to prevent future occurrences. 

The government’s efforts included a meeting with Islamic clerics, traditional rulers, and heads of security agencies, where the Army explained that the incident occurred during a routine mission against terrorists. 

Despite ongoing search-and-rescue efforts, with injured victims evacuated to Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, condemnation poured in from various quarters. 

The Christian Association of Nigeria, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International expressed concern over recurrent erroneous bombings, highlighting that over 425 individuals, including children and women, had been killed in military accidental bombings from September 2017 to 2023. 

The Nigerian Air Force, however, denied involvement, affirming that it had not conducted any operations in Kaduna State in the last 24 hours. 

Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, urged media caution in disseminating unverified reports. 

The departed victims of the attack have been buried according to Islamic tradition.

By Mansur Hassan, PhD

In a shocking turn of events yesterday during a peaceful gathering for Maulud in Kaduna State, Nigeria, the unthinkable unfolded as the Nigerian army allegedly dropped bombs on the assembled crowd, resulting in a devastating loss of innocent lives.

What makes this tragedy even more horrifying is the apparent repetition of the attack, casting serious doubts on the claims of a mere mistake.The sequence of events, where the army reportedly first unleashed destruction and then returned within a short span to inflict more harm, raises profound questions about the true nature of this incident.

Can such a grave error be repeated in the same location, with devastating consequences, all within a span of 30 minutes? The assertion that this was a mistake demands thorough scrutiny and a comprehensive investigation.

It is imperative that the Nigerian government takes swift and decisive action to probe this incident thoroughly. The loss of lives and the trauma inflicted upon those who survived demand justice, accountability, and reassurance for the affected community. The international community should also pay close attention to ensure that the investigation is transparent, impartial, and free from any influence.

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for reforms and increased accountability within the military and security forces. The government must ensure that those responsible for this appalling act, if found guilty, face the full extent of the law. Only through a transparent and unbiased investigation can trust be restored in the institutions meant to safeguard the welfare and security of the people.

In these trying times, our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We stand united in condemning this senseless violence and urge the government to prioritize justice, transparency, and accountability in the pursuit of truth regarding the Kaduna State tragedy.

Dr. Mansur Hassan is a Senior Lecturer, Department of Mathematics, Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano and can be reached via mhassan@yumsuk.edu.ng