By Dr Musab Isah Mafara 

I think Muslims need to be careful with this ‘alphaness’ ideology that some of our brothers are advocating among Northern Nigeria’s netizens. They seem to encourage men not to sympathize with women, especially their wives, and to show no empathy when dealing with these women entrusted with them as wives. Most of these views come from what is termed ‘taken the red pill,’ essentially, men who have been awakened from feminist delusion to the supposed reality that society is fundamentally misandrist and dominated by feminist values.

This is contrary to the teachings of Islam. And while ‘taken the red pill’ advocates go this extreme as a counter to the other extreme of feminist ideologies that openly promote rebellion and hate against the menfolk, both perspectives tend to be against the teachings of Islam, which expect Muslims to take the middle course, often. And although we see writings from some Muslim women in the North suggesting that they have imbibed these feminist ideologies, there is no justification for going the other extreme.

The Prophet (SAW) said women were created from the most crooked rib, and if you insist on straightening her, you will break her, which means to divorce her. He (SAW) taught Muslim men not to expect perfection from women. Even his wives, the mothers of the believers, were cautioned in the Qur’an on some of their behaviours towards the Prophet (SAW). How, then, could one expect perfection from other Muslim women?

Yes, Islam expects total obedience to husbands from women in what is not Haram, and a woman who fails to obey her husband is living in sin. She is to serve him and should not even go out of her home without his permission, among other duties. The Prophet (SAW), after an Eid prayer, went to the women’s side and informed them that one of the reasons that some of them may be taken to hellfire on the last day is their disobedience towards their husbands.

But as humans, some women will fail in fulfilling the rights of their husbands just as some men will fail in their responsibilities too. Some women are evil in their actions and treatment of their husbands, just as some men are next to Satan in the way they treat their wives. These are by no means reasons to hate on the womenfolk, in general, nor the men in toto.

Husbands, as leaders, are expected to be full of forgiveness and understanding and should show appreciation for the good side of their wives. Qur’an Chapter 30:21 says, “And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquillity in them, and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed, in that are signs for a people who give thought.” This is the way a couple should be seeing themselves.

Again, being kind, helpful, and emphatic to your wife is Sunnah. It is even commanded in the Qur’an, Chapter 4:19 says, “… And live with them in kindness …” The Prophet was helpful to his family in every way possible. He wasn’t washing plates nor sweeping the apartment every day as some Muslim women want to emphasize, but it is on record that he did help – maybe a few times. A Muslim man will earn rewards if he helps with the intention of following the Sunnah. He will earn rewards when he is helpful, kind, and generous to his wife(s). He (SAW) said the bests among you are those who are best to their wives.

A wise man once said to me that one of the ways to have a healthy marriage is to be as patient as possible with your wife when she fails to fulfil your rights (not adorning herself to your taste, for instance), but you should not ignore her actions when the rights of Allah are not fulfilled (for instance, when she is committing sins, you have to stop her because she is under your care and you will be asked by Allah). 

As Muslims, we do not ‘throw women on the street’, and our women do not ‘belong to the street’ regardless of how much we feel they wronged us. We call our wives even if they do not call us; we just assume they are busy with the children or work. We do not live in a tit-for-tat kind of setting with our spouses in which we take revenge for every wrong one does. We do our bit as Islam commands us, even if the other party is not reciprocating as they should. We believe this temporary world is a test, and we do our best to pass this test with the hope that Allah will reward us with the best of His Jannah in the hereafter.

Both men and women should learn from the Prophet’s teachings in their marital lives and not copy the tone of the ‘red-pilled.’ They are reacting to the misandry that they believe is prevalent in the Western world.

Musab Mafara, PhD, can be contacted via nmusabu@gmail.com.

By Mukhtar Jarmajo

It is startling to learn that for most politicians and their supporters, elections are simply the means to grab power by hook or crook. Perhaps, for many politicians, politics, especially in Africa, is a power struggle for the sake of bad governance. Or better still, politics, as it is played here, is not about the promotion of the citizens’ quality of life. Rather, it is about ruling them for gaining access to excessive personal wealth and pleasure.

For this reason, politics here is hardly issue-based. It is mostly about religious, regional, ethnic or regressive political and socio-economic sentiments predicated on the desire of grappling power to rule based on personal gains, thereby subjecting the people to untold hardship.

Here in Bauchi state, the story is no different, as evidenced by the miasma of hopelessness with dead public schools, ineffective healthcare service, vulnerable women and children, moribund industries, poor housing schemes, ineffective food production system and dead civil service. Yet, all that some politicians care about is retaining power.

Sadly, this crop of politicians wants to remain in power, not because they have ever shown any propensity for making the lives of the people any better as they hold sway, but because being there, for them, is a means of survival even if that is at the expense of the masses. Surprising as this is, more surprising are the supporters of these regressive politicians who are at the receiving end of the actions and (or) inactions of their political leaders.

It beats every imagination that there is anyone out there who consciously endorses ideas that aim to reverse progress, suppress change as well as ensure social, economic and political retrogression. Maybe, this is a pointer to the fact that our people need more enlightenment on the concepts of government, governance, democracy and politics.

Jarmajo wrote from Kukadi/Gundari ward, Misau Local Government.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 
 
The 2023 Population and Housing Census, which was initially planned to take place from May 3–7, 2023, has been postponed, and a new date will be slated by the incoming government.
 
This is contained in a statement released by the Ministry of Information and Culture via its verified Twitter handle.
 
The statement reads, “President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the postponement of the 2023 Population and Housing Census, earlier scheduled for 3-7 May 2023, to a date to be determined by the incoming Administration.
 
“The President gave the approval after meeting with some members of the Federal Executive Council and the Chairman of @natpopcom and his team at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday (28 April 2023).”

By Aliyu Abubakar

Kannywood actors Ali Jita and Ali Nuhu recently took to the stage at Success Hall in London on Saturday, April 22, 2023, showcasing the talent and artistry of Northern Nigerian culture for the first time as part of the 2023 Eid celebration party. Their performance not only highlighted the cultural richness and diversity of the Hausa and Arewa people but also demonstrated Kannywood’s growing reach and influence beyond Nigeria’s borders.

As Ali Jita and Ali Nuhu performed in London, their fans watched in awe as they seamlessly blended music and dance to showcase the beauty of Hausa and Arewa culture. The audience was treated to a stunning performance that celebrated the talent and creativity of the actors and showcased the unique heritage of Northern Nigeria.

For those who may not be familiar with Kannywood, the film industry produces movies in the Hausa language in Northern Nigeria. It has been gaining popularity recently, with a growing following among Nigerians and beyond. The success of Ali Jita and Ali Nuhu’s performance in London is a testament to Kannywood’s increasingly global reach and influence.

This achievement is a proud moment for the actors, their fans, and the entire Kannywood industry. Moreover, it marks a significant milestone in the growth and development of Northern Nigerian culture, highlighting the resilience and creativity of its people.

Ali Jita and Ali Nuhu’s performance in London was significant for the Kannywood industry and the Hausa and Arewa communities in the diaspora. For many Northern Nigerians living outside their homeland, the performance reminded them of their culture and heritage, bringing a sense of pride and joy to their hearts. In addition, the event provided an opportunity for the diaspora community to come together, celebrate their traditions, and connect with their roots.

The success of Ali Jita and Ali Nuhu’s performance in London also reflects the power of culture in fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting unity. The event brought together people from different backgrounds and cultures, providing a platform to showcase the beauty and diversity of Northern Nigerian culture. It also helped to break down stereotypes and promote a deeper appreciation of the vibrant cultures that exist in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. As Kannywood continues to grow and gain global recognition, it has the potential to serve as a bridge between different cultures, promoting understanding and fostering unity.

In conclusion, Ali Jita and Ali Nuhu’s triumphant performance at Success Hall in London as part of the 2023 Eid celebration party is a significant milestone for the Kannywood industry and a proud moment for the Hausa and Arewa people. It celebrates the beauty and richness of Northern Nigerian culture and showcases the talent and creativity of the region’s actors and filmmakers. Furthermore, the event has helped promote cross-cultural understanding and foster unity, highlighting Kannywood’s potential to serve as a bridge between different cultures. As the industry grows, we can look forward to more exceptional performances from Northern Nigeria’s talented actors and filmmakers.

Aliyu Abubakar is the MD. Rbm e-Tech and Digital Services, Hadejia, Jigawa State. He can be reached via aliuabubakar852@gmail.com.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 
 
The 2023 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for visually impaired candidates from Kebbi and Sokoto States was hosted by the Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) on Thursday.
 
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Muhammad Zaiyan Umar, inspected the venues of the examination and praised the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, for ensuring that this cause to support persons with special needs in Nigeria is promoted.
 
The candidates and other individuals with special needs were urged by the vice chancellor to make the university their first choice, adding that the university had been working hard to meet the needs of the disabled students who were enrolled there so that they would have easy access to places and other learning facilities.
 
He was quoted as saying, “Being blind, deaf or albino is not a license for failure. There are several instances where people with special needs excel far more than normal person. This indicates that once given the opportunity to excel, they could do the country proud in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) as well as Humanities and Education.”
 

By Muhammed Baba Isah

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) have for long been duped with serious — dereliction in time of accessing outstanding salary structure to some extent, this can be assessed — mostly among the youngest rank personnel. However, this paramilitary institution is much younger than that of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Armed Forces. Hence, there is still a need to revamp this sector due to a higher cost of living and other things similar that bedeviled Nigerians expecially household.

Likewise, even in this poor salary structure, this cannot even be, for once, enhanced for the mismanaging of their duty by collecting of fifty naira by the roadside from driver and also harassing them if cannot pay. This intimidation of less-privilege are not part of their work.

On that account, It’s not against the increments of recent police amount (or anything similar), but rather this will go a long way in reducing the rate of taking brown-envelope and mismanaging of government access by the corps. And, of course, this can increase the level of manpower capacity in engaging the bad elements that priotise the vandalism of government items to be drastically low.

Being a prime target of the enemies, also like any other human being — security personnel owned the privilege to shows their disinterest on anything obstacle that could result in deterioration — on the discharging their duty. Because they are mostly die in war front, hence, they are still worst paid unlike any other agencies.

And therefore, under the eye of this present Commandant-General (CG), Ahmed Abubakar Audi, Ph.D, mni, OFR. Much better achievement have been put in place already — Apart from the field of providing much security items by the corps to augment tackling insecurities across the all angles of six geopolitical zones — and indeed there are also — a bunch of putting effort in laying the foundation of many training schools aside from that (of Katsina, Bauchi, Enugu and Cross River State), this will help the young generations to be seriously manage this work accordingly.

On the other side, crime is one of the major issues bedeviling contemporary Nigerian society. The menace of crime is affecting not only economic development of Nigeria but also to tarnish the image of the country in the eye of international community.

Thus, it rising serious concern about law and order in the society. And, it’s a known fact that the security and welfare of the people is primary responsibility of government — in other to address this challenges confronting Nigerians. The corps through his watch (Commandant-General), has ensure protection of lives and properties and protect the public items against vandalism as well as assist other agencies in crime prevention and control.

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps has also succeeded in playing so many other roles — ranging from arresting so many criminals and controlling many variety of criminal activities. It empowered to maintain 24-hours surveillance over infrastructure, sites and project for the federal, state and local government.

Muhammed Baba Isah is an NSCDC personnel at Nasarawa State Command Headquarter. Writes from Jos, Plateau State. He can be contacted via muhammedisah080645@gmail.com.

By Dansaleh Aliyu Yahya

The way time skyrockets must frighten the humanity of every human. It was like yesterday we started to fast the holy month of Ramadan, but today, it has gone like a blink of an eye. And, later, it will come back like a sudden show of lightning—those that will live to the time will see it.

For the reason above, I would like to advise us all by saying; that time isn’t something we’ll play with—one has to milk every opportunity that comes to them. And, don’t dare to lose any worthwhile thing that may come to you in your life—when you do so, it’s challenging to have the ability later.

Secondly,  we all remember the good deeds we did during Ramadan, give, read the Quran, perform Tahajjud, and learn numberless things and teachings by listening to our scholars that did Tafseer during the month. So let us continue doing all the profitable workouts, by doing so, our societies will change into a splendour that must attract all people around the globe.

Ultimately, I’ll use this medium to admire each Muslim from every part of the world — precisely, those from Africa who fasted under the taxing situation of sunshiny days and many obstacles. Although, they could eat in their closed rooms and drink when performing ablution, in toilets, offices, and others. However, they didn’t,  due to their beliefs that their creator is with them everywhere and in every situation. Therefore, we must be praised, indeed!

May Allah SWT accept our deeds, amin.

Dansaleh Aliyu Yahya wrote via dansalealiyu@gmail.com.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 
 
The Federal Government of Nigeria said in Abuja that it had spent $1.2 million to send 40 buses in Sudan to pick up at least 2,400 stranded Nigerians.
 
Geoffrey Onyeama, the minister of foreign affairs, revealed this to the State House reporters shortly after this week’s Federal Executive Council meeting, which was held in the Aso Rock Villa’s Council Chambers in Abuja.
 
According to Onyeama, the exorbitant expense of the evacuation was necessary to cover security for the eleven-hour trip from Aswan to Cairo and the eight-hour journey from Luxol to Cairo, Egypt.
 
Despite their agreement to end hostilities at midnight on Monday, the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces reportedly resumed fighting on Wednesday.
 
The evacuation attempt that was scheduled for Tuesday was unsuccessful because of logistical issues.
 

• News Desk

The fourteen (14) year old daughter of an Igbo Muslim, Mallam Tahir Akpan, has been reportedly defiled. The suspect, Emeka Emmanuel, 29, has been remanded in Kirikiri Correction Centre.

But an Islamic human rights organisation, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has raised the alarm concerning attempts being made by certain people to sweep the matter under the carpet. MURIC has insisted on justice for the family of the defiled Muslim girl.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, by the Executive Director of MURIC, Professor Ishaq Akintola.

The statement reads :

“A fourteen (14) year old Muslim girl has been allegedly defiled by one Emeka Emmanuel, 29 of No. 2, Sam Onwudinjo Street, Igbo Elerin, Lagos State. The victim is the daughter of an Igbo Muslim, Mallam Tahir Akpan.  

“Although the suspect has been remanded in Kirikiri Correction Centre by the Family Magistrate Court, Agbo Malu, Ajegunle since 13^th April, 2023, we are raising the alarm today because of attempts being made by certain people to sweep the matter under the carpet.

“According to the victim’s father, Mallam Tahir Akpan, from Ini Local Government of Akwa Ibom State, a highly placed individual in Igbo Elerin, Lagos State, has threatened to deal with him for refusing to soft-pedal on the matter. The father also alleged that the culprit’s lawyer also threatened to write a petition against him alleging child abuse.

“MURIC rejects this attempt to arm-twist Mr Tahir Akpan. He is a well-educated, highly enlightened, disciplined and fearless man. The threat to deal with him and to charge him for child abuse is sheer blackmail. How can a sexual abuse complainant be turned into an accused? What kind of justice is that?

“We suspect foul play. We warn that officials involved in this case should not allow themselves to be used in circumventing the law. Any attempt to turn the case upside down will be resisted with every legitimate means available. We want those involved to know that Akpan is not alone. MURIC and all conscious and freedom-loving Nigerians are with him.

“MURIC demands justice for the Akpan family on this case of sexual assault on their underaged daughter. Also, in view of threats issued against the victim’s father, Mr. Tahir Akpan, we warn that nothing should happen to him or any member of his family.

“MURIC is in possession of the medical report which confirms a case of penetration and defilement against the culprit. We therefore warn all those who are making attempts to interfere with the course of justice in this case to steer clear. The Akpan family is fully aware of their Allah-given and fundamental human rights and any attempt to encroach on any aspect of their rights will be rebuffed with the full force of the law.

“Finally, we commend the police in Iba for playing their role professionally and fearlessly. By taking the case to court, the police have proved that they have no skeleton in their cupboard.

“However, it is not over until it is over. There is one more thing the police need to do. We demand full protection for the family, and the onus falls on the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Iba Police Station, Iba, to ensure this for Mr Tahir Akpan and all members of his family. MURIC will continue to monitor the situation until justice prevails.”

#JusticeForAkpanFamily

By Muhsin Ibrahim

Part One

It was 2005 when I applied for admission into Bayero University, Kano (BUK). In Nigeria, getting admission without knowing someone at the university is pretty hard. My late father was working there as an accountant, but remembering how my immediate older brother couldn’t secure admission a year before despite our father’s efforts, I did not bother to ask for his help. Our eldest brother (Yaya Babba), now late, was nonetheless a student. Knowing he was not an ‘ordinary’ student due to his age, I approached him for assistance.

I was lucky Yaya Babba knew Malam Jamilu Ahmad Salim. I cannot say what his position at the University was then, but he could help, Yaya Babba assured me. My only fear was my SSCE result, which was neither WAEC nor NECO, the two conventional entry exams. I had NABTEB and was applying to the Faculty of Education. But on the other hand, my UTME/JAMB result was excellent.

Yaya Babba met Malam Jamilu during a Hajj pilgrimage the previous year, and they clicked. To those who knew our brother, he was almost everyone’s friend. Thus, they maintained a cordial relationship after the Hajj. When we met Malam Jamilu, he calmed me down, virtually assuring me of admission. Although I got the admission without his help – or anyone’s but Allah – in the end, how he treated me was fantastic and fatherly.

Part two

After graduating in 2010/2011, Bayero University employed me as a lecturer. Fast forward, I got another lecturing position and admission for my PhD at the University of Cologne, Germany, in 2017. I signed a bond and left BUK on a Study Fellowship in late August. Months later, I thought about the implication of collecting two salaries, something I didn’t plan for. I thought I would only be a Teaching Assistant à la the American university system. I discussed this confusion with selected colleagues, including my contemporaries and seniors. Opinions differed. Confused, I decided to go to the top.

With the intervention of a friend, I met Malam Jamilu, now a Director of the Establishment. He advised me as if I were his child on what I should do when I met the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Yahuza Bello. So, I did, and it worked like magic. Appreciating my sincerity, Malam Jamilu thought the University could (should?) release me – on a Leave of Absence (LOA) – without paying back the few months’ salary I received. So, he asked me to request that in my application letter. Although it didn’t work, I remain eternally grateful for his rare kindness and generosity.

Part three

Weeks before my four-year-long LOA ended, I received an email from my Head of Department that I should resume or resign. My love for BUK is more than you can imagine. But, of course, I love my new workplace, which offers me abundant opportunities, resources, and much more. Still, I hesitated to divorce my beloved BUK, where my academic journey began just like that. Nevertheless, my close family and friends suggested I bid BUK a final farewell. But how do I do it? Just tender your resignation, and that’s it, a voice told me. Another one said no, contact the ever-helpful Malam Jamilu for guidance – so I did.

Malam Jamilu, now a Registrar – the peak of his career – was much busier. He probably lost my number and couldn’t return calls from unknown callers. The friend who helped me the other time and his underling, Rabia Shour, told him that Muhsin called the other day. He apologised for not answering. Thus, when I called again, he quickly picked up. He was apologetic in his welcoming manner.

Upon hearing my story (again) and my current request, he didn’t mince his words on what he would do in my situation: resign. He added that that was a development we should all celebrate. He briefly lamented the condition of Nigerian universities and congratulated me.

I was about to drop the call when Malam Jamilu advised me to word my letter carefully and diplomatically. For instance, instead of titling it “Letter of Resignation”, it should read “Notice of Withdrawal of Service”, among other excellent tips.

The last part

I am sure Malam Jamilu did more for many more people in his decades-old career, four of which were as the University’s top administrator. He was an incontestably hardworking, dedicated and brilliant manager who rose through the ranks and contributed significantly to the university and its members’ growth and development. Since our father’s death in September last year, no other death shocked me as his. Wallahi, I spoke about him with a friend visiting me from Nigeria yesterday. We didn’t know he would die at the age of 59 later in the night!

May Allah forgive the shortcomings of Yaya Babba, my father (Alhaji Ibrahim Lawal), Malam Jamilu and our other loved ones. The list is getting longer. Everyone and everything will perish (Quran 55:26).

Muhsin Ibrahim, PhD, wrote from Cologne, Germany. He can be contacted via muhsin2008@gmail.com.