Kaduna State

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin

Since 2007, when the two-term tenure of Fourth Republic governors ended, one godfather crisis or another has occurred. The outgoing clung on to the anointing for several reasons: influence in godson administration, protection from their misgovernance, or, last and least for many godfathers, continuity (although it is the most important factor for good governance). 

The surprising succession crisis brewing recently involved Uba Sani and Nasir El-Rufai. It was unexpected because El-Rufai did not appear to be interfering with the Kaduna government. Unlike Wike, El-Rufai, known for reading and writing books, might have learned the lesson from previous cases, but Sani took the fight to his door. 

Uba Sani shook the table when, in a town hall meeting (apparently held to burst the bubble), he lamented the burden of loans he inherited and decried the lack of money not only for infrastructure development but also for threatening the state’s ability to meet its current expenditures.

That outburst was followed by mixed reactions. Some commentators point to hindsight, stating that it was their prophecy that came to pass. But for some, it was a big trouble for Uba Sani because, according to this category, he was given the green light to become a senator for one thing: to pave the way for getting the loan. So, this category sees Uba Sani as an accomplice rather than a victim. They unearthed his videos eulogising El-Rufai, which trended. 

The double trouble for Sani was that the effect of the loss was visible in Kaduna state, so wowing the public became an uphill task. However, the current dollar-to-naira exchange rate compared to when the loan was secured is rather unfortunate.

 One primary beneficiary of this situation is Shehu Sani. The former senator of Kaduna Central used the situation to settle scores. He took the case on social media, profiling himself vindicated. 

On the contrary, a Nigerian figure who will be taken aback by the looming political crisis in Kaduna state is his eminent Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. During the KADINVEST 7.0, SLM extols marvellous achievements in Lagos state thanks to the continuity. 

Bola Ahmed Tinubu laid the foundation for the modern Lagos state, which Fashola built upon. When Ambode came continued, but when he wanted to digress, it cost him his second term ticket (this can happen in Lagos, where a serving governor failed a primary election); the fruit of continuity is just bearing fruit in Lagos state under Babajide Sonwo-Olu. 

Uba Sani was shown nodding his head in belief during the SLS lecture. I told myself that Kaduna is lucky because if Uba Sani could only service the debt and continue with some uncompleted buildings, Kaduna would be great. 

El-Rufai remained quiet in the saga, unlike his disquieted son Bashir El-Rufai, who was a junior to Bello El-Rufai. Several commentators confuse Bashir with Bello- the current serving house Rep. The latter was cut between the devil and the deep blue sea, he recently gave an interview in which he eulogised Uba Sani as his mentor, mentioning how Sani paved the way for him, not his father. He even mentioned something philosophical: if anyone wants to go far, he can’t dare join issues with his master; someone aware of this philosophy must be tied down between supporting his father or his boss.

A theory explaining Sani’s outburst with El-Rufai was that the former was being cajoled by the presidency. With no love lost between El-Rufai and the presidency, he must part ways with his boss.  

Apart from the godfather himself, loyalties are a major factor fanning the flames of discord. The outgoing lieutenant’s influence will be hanging in the balance while the new government loyalties stampede to establish their loyalty to the new government. It becomes a struggle for survival. 

In the reactionary salvo that Kaduna state women leaders fire on Uba Sani, reading in-between the line, one could easily figure out self-serving because she decried how Sani has not been responding to her requests.

 The leaders involved in such a situation are in a delicate balance. They need deliberate effort to piece together the puzzle (provided that it is not too late); otherwise, the matter will blow out of proportion.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin wrote via bilal4riid13@gmail.com.

By Lawan Bukar Maigana 

The sagacious former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, is once again in the news with his usual controversial stance on government policies and decisions. 

Last week, after granting journalists an interview about his presentation at a capacity-building training for Borno’s top government officials in Maiduguri, he became the hot story on every national daily, both online and offline. 

According to him, the Nigerian government has reconsidered returning fuel subsidies, mentioning that President Tinubu’s administration secretly pays billions of Naira for fuel subsidies.

As a journalist specialising in fact-checking, I needed to investigate his claim because there were no credibility elements in his statements. I quickly ran a keyword search, and the result revealed that the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, has refuted the claim and described it as ‘wrong.’

The trouble with El-Rufai started when the Senate withheld his confirmation over security checks during the ministerial screening in August 2023, even though he is a seasoned politician who used to be a minister. 

Since then, he left Nigeria to go abroad, failing to attend his son’s wedding ceremony, Bello Nasir El-Rufai. After his return from abroad, he was seen visiting strong politicians from the opposition party, which was said to be a political plot against the 2027 presidential elections. 

This was justified by his son, Bello El-Rufai, in a podcast interview with Seun of Channels Television, where he mentioned that his father and the President have never been on good terms, citing exchanges of unfriendly remarks in the past.

It is human nature to leave when discomforted or offended; therefore, Malam has the right to not only leave the All Progressive Congress (APC) but also form a new party, let alone merge with cult-like parties like the Labour Party (LP). 

El-Rufai is an outspoken politician whose relevance has passed because he couldn’t deliver his state to the APC, indicating he is now politically weak. It’s clear that politics transcends outspokenness. 

Another trouble facing El-Rufai now is with his successor, Governor Uba Sani. At a town hall meeting, he said that he inherited a huge debt burden of $587m, N85bn, and 115 contractual liabilities from the immediate past administration of Nasir El-Rufai, complaining that the huge debt has eaten deep into the state’s federal allocation. 

This has necessitated the formation of a committee by the Kaduna State House Assembly to probe El-Rufai’s administration, even though he has always proudly challenged the people of Kaduna to uncover any financial wrongdoing by him.

Allegedly, Bello El-Rufai, who proudly identifies himself as a replica and a clone copy of his father in politics, has thrown the public into scepticism regarding his father’s integrity. He was said to have sent insulting words and threats to the Speaker of Kaduna State Assembly, Hon. Yusuf Liman, since the establishment of the committee to probe his father’s administration that drowned Kaduna in debts, amounting to billions of Naira.

If I were El-Rufai’s son, Bello, I would appreciate the Kaduna State Government’s efforts to uphold justice and accountability in the state. I would privately intervene respectfully, if necessary, without being jittery about the outcome of the investigation.

Lawan Bukar Maigana writes from Maiduguri and can be reached via lawanbukarmaigana@gmail.com.

By Sulaiman Mohammed

Education is often regarded as the foundation of every society, the key to unlocking prosperity and success for nations and individuals alike. Yet, despite its importance, the individuals responsible (teachers) often find themselves not only underpaid but also underdeveloped.

The most common complaint among teachers in private schools is the poor payment as monthly income they receive for their hard work and dedication. As a profession (teaching), it requires significant time, effort, and skill. Many hours are spent planning lessons, grading assignments, and providing individual student support. Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future of society, yet many are struggling to make ends meet.

The low salary that many teachers receive fails to reflect the importance of their work and makes it difficult for them to support themselves and their families. This affects their well-being and their ability to teach and inspire their students effectively. 

In my community (Rigasa, Kaduna state), I know of many qualified and experienced teachers who left school for another or even a different profession outside of teaching, all courtesy of underpayment and undervaluation to the detriment of the students. 

Finally, to ensure that students receive a quality education, teachers need to be adequately compensated in terms of fair salary, access to benefits, and other professional opportunities for staff sustainable development. Only then can we ensure that our schools are staffed with dedicated and passionate educators who can provide the best education. 

This is in dedication to Mallam Salihu, Bn Masood, Yunusa Bala, Mallam Umar, Haruna Bala, and several other teachers in this profession. Keep on keeping on; the students and society are our concern.

Sulaiman Mohammed wrote via muhammedsuleiman213@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, is bracing himself for a multifaceted showdown with President Bola Tinubu, poised to unfold in both courtrooms and the court of public opinion.

El-Rufai’s legal offensive is aimed at vindicating himself from allegations of being a security risk, which have tarnished his reputation and dashed his ministerial aspirations.

Despite his instrumental support in Tinubu’s rise to power, El-Rufai was abruptly dropped during Senate ministerial screenings, citing purported security clearance failures.

This stunning turn of events has spurred El-Rufai to action, with plans underway to challenge the accusations in court. Sources close to him have affirmed his resolve to clear his name and restore his integrity, leveraging his extensive international connections and legal resources.

Simultaneously, El-Rufai is mobilizing politically to challenge Tinubu’s influence in the court of public opinion, setting the stage for a potentially contentious lead-up to the 2027 elections.

While his exact role in the upcoming political landscape remains uncertain, El-Rufai’s strategic maneuvering against Tinubu underscores a rift that has emerged despite their past collaboration.

El-Rufai’s journey from a key ally to a formidable opponent of Tinubu reflects a complex dynamic within Nigerian politics, where alliances can shift rapidly, driven by personal ambitions and ideological differences.

As the battle lines are drawn, the nation watches with bated breath to see how this clash of titans will reshape the political landscape in the years to come.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Shehu Sani, the former Senator representing Kaduna Central, has raised the alarm over the suffocating debt burden gripping Kaduna State under the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

Sani expressed regret that his warnings against El-Rufai’s aggressive borrowing were ignored, leading the state into a financial crisis of significant proportions.

Speaking to reporters, Sani highlighted the dire consequences of the debt accumulation, emphasizing that if his advice had been heeded, the state would not be grappling with the current predicament.

He recalled facing criticism for opposing a $350 million World Bank loan sought by the El-Rufai administration, foreseeing the looming challenges now faced by the state.

Governor Uba Sani, in a recent town hall meeting, disclosed that the state inherited a staggering debt of $587 million, ₦85 billion, and ₦115 billion in contractual liabilities from the previous administration.

This heavy financial burden has severely hampered the state’s ability to meet its financial obligations, including salary payments.

The current administration disclosed that a substantial portion of the state’s federal allocation is being diverted toward servicing the debt, leaving insufficient funds for essential expenditures such as salary payments.

With the sharp increase in exchange rates, the amount being repaid has almost tripled, exacerbating the financial strain on the state.

Out of the N10 billion received as federal allocation in March, N7 billion was deducted to service the state’s debt, leaving only N3 billion available.

However, this amount falls short of covering the state’s monthly salary bill of N5.2 billion, further exacerbating the financial crisis.

Sani cautioned that the repercussions of the state’s debt burden are now being felt acutely, underscoring the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the financial challenges facing Kaduna State.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Good news emerged on Sunday when the Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced the successful rescue of 137 kidnapped students from Kuriga.

A coordinated effort involving the military, local authorities, and government agencies led to the students’ liberation, according to a statement by Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defense Media Operations.

The primary and secondary school students, abducted on March 7, were freed early Sunday morning. The rescued group comprised 76 girls and 61 boys.

According to Buba, this operation signifies a broader commitment to combating terrorism. On March 21st, troops also secured the release of 16 hostages, including schoolchildren, in Sokoto State.

He added that the military remains steadfast in its pursuit of all hostages and will ensure those responsible face justice through the Nigerian legal system.

Security forces are also actively searching for the perpetrators behind the recent killing of 18 soldiers in Delta State. Justice, according to the DHQ, will be served.

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The phrase “Ni Dan Rigasa ne” (which means “I am an inhabitant of Rigasa”) was once notorious within the Kaduna metropolis, evoking a troubled history. Rigasa, a well-known community under the authority of Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, boasts a dense population of over 3 million inhabitants, primarily from the Hausa tribe, making Hausa the predominant language of communication in the community.

In the past, the phrase “Ni Dan Rigasa ne” was akin to saying “I’m from O’block” in Chicago, United States. It connoted hailing from a place where violence was rampant, almost warning others to steer clear due to assumed tendencies for aggression. While certain notions about the community were stereotyped, these stereotypes held some semblance of truth, however generalised.

Due to Rigasa’s population density, a large number of out-of-school children roamed the streets. Some scavenged within different marketplaces, while a fortunate few were sent to learn skills. Many adolescents and young people in the community had been immersed in illicit activities, often engaging in violent altercations, causing harm to themselves and others while also perpetuating property destruction.

During this period, the term “Yan shara” was commonly used, referring to gangs of thugs armed with weapons, causing mayhem and inflicting injuries and damages. This unrest often served as an opportunity for robbery, leading to the theft of belongings from innocent passers-by.

Phone snatching was prevalent, and individuals lived in fear of being victimised in broad daylight. Such incidents resulted in injuries, disabilities, and even fatalities.

As a result, the community became daunting to outsiders, dissuading visits from people from other parts of the state due to the fear of potential unrest or falling victim to robbery.

“Yan hayi” was another term those living outside Rigasa used to describe the residents, signifying people residing in Hayin Rigasa. The word “Hayi” conveys “crossing,” and was derived from the fact that a river at the entrance of Rigasa had to be traversed before entering the community. During that era, being called “Dan Hayi” implied that one was unwise or unsophisticated.

These stereotypes gradually dissipated over time as Rigasa transformed into a burgeoning community with abundant, relatively affordable land. People from other parts of the state began to immigrate to Rigasa and construct houses. Consequently, Rigasa has become one of the most rapidly developed communities over the past two decades, a testament to its positive transformation.

Despite the aforementioned tumultuous events, the residents of the Rigasa community are among the most selfless individuals one could encounter. Their spirit of altruism and patriotism is unparalleled, and they channelled their unity towards overcoming adversities and shaping a brighter future for their community. Education served as the fulcrum for this positive transformation, marking the inception of their development journey. 

Over two decades ago, a group of forward-thinking individuals came together to establish a forum to foster education and community development to promote success. The Rigasa Students Forum (S-Foris) was formed to orient, educate, and mentor the people within the community, including the younger generation and the elder populace. 

S-Foris was instrumental in providing extramural lessons to students and introducing adult education to elderly individuals, particularly women who did not have the opportunity to acquire education earlier in their lives. The forum made significant strides in transforming the mindset of numerous youths in the community, achieving notable success.

Subsequently, other student bodies, such as the Rigasa Students Association (RSA) and Rigasa Old Student Association (ROSA), emerged with similar aspirations, continuing the trajectory of success.

Building on these achievements, the same group of individuals sought to elevate their advocacy efforts by expanding the scope of development-related initiatives. This led to the formation of the Rigasa Action and Awareness Forum (RAAF). RAAF operates as a pressure group, enlightening the community about various aspects of development and advocating for adherence to the rule of law. Moreover, the forum takes proactive measures to ensure that the government addresses the needs and concerns of the Rigasa community.

Due to the tireless efforts of a dedicated group, Rigasa can be considered a benchmark for positive change. The community boasts numerous talented individuals who excel across various domains of development. Academically, Government Secondary School Rigasa has produced a multitude of intellectuals who have excelled in academia. Moreover, developmentally, Rigasa is home to the leading youth civil society organisation in Kaduna, the Enhancing Community Action for Peace and Better Health Initiative (e-CAPH), headed by the vibrant young leader and prominent human rights advocate, Yusha’u M Abubakar. Additionally, the Village Debbo Care Initiative (VD Care), led by Samira Isah Modibbo, serves as another influential platform for women’s rights, among other organisations contributing to the community’s progress.

Before the 2023 election, during the voter registration exercise, RAAF played a pivotal role in mobilising citizens for registration and transfer, as Rigasa welcomed the addition of over 80 polling units. This effort led to mobilising over 10,000 additional votes within the community, presenting a significant political advantage considering the maxim “politics is a game of numbers.”

“Dan Rigasa” or “Dan Hayi” is no longer derogatory but a source of pride. Rigasa is now widely represented in learning institutions and governmental agencies across northern Nigeria. Rigasa youth have obtained prominent positions in government, excelled in business endeavours, and showcased their skills across various industries. The community has notably enhanced its security, becoming one of the safest locales in Kaduna State, fostering an environment where individuals can navigate without fear of robbery or threat to personal safety.

Amid these accomplishments, humanitarian services have also flourished. Zauren Al’umma, led by Idris Tumba, has emerged as a notable humanitarian organisation providing crucial aid to vulnerable individuals in diverse capacities, further accentuating the community’s spirit of benevolence.

Rigasa’s journey reflects a remarkable transformation, underscored by a commitment to education, civic engagement, and holistic community development. Rigasa people are fond of helping each other in an individual capacity and as an organisation.

I can confidently beat my chest wherever I find myself and proudly exclaim, “Ni Dan Rigasa Ne,” without fearing any stereotype or judgment. I am confident that Rigasa is now well-represented widely.

Abdullahi Yusuf is a graduate of Health Education, Bayero University Kano. He wrote from Rigasa, Kaduna, via abdoolphd@gmail.com.

By Ishaka Mohammed

In its latest recruitment exercise, which commenced on December 18, 2023, Kaduna State University (KASU) is demanding ten essays from every applicant seeking a lecturing position. 

The Daily Reality gathered from an applicant that the writing section is one of the ten steps in the application process. The essay topics revolve around technology in education, teaching philosophy, assessment formats, critical thinking development and journaling.

KASU opened its recruitment portal on December 18 for qualified individuals seeking lecturing jobs in the various departments. The positions include contract, internship, graduate assistant, assistant lecturer, lecturer II, lecturer I, senior lecturer and professor.

The application is completely online, and interested individuals are to create accounts at https://recruitment.kasu.edu.ng and submit their applications on or before December 31.

Founded in 2004, KASU has about 40 academic departments and is the only state university in Kaduna.

By Ishaka Mohammed

The Northern States Governors’ Forum, under the chairmanship of Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahya of Gombe State, has donated 180 million naira to support the victims of the accidental bombing in Tudun Biri, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

This was part of the resolutions adopted at the inaugural meeting of the Forum under the new administration. 

At the meeting held in Kaduna on Friday, December 15, 2023, the Forum commiserated with the government and people of Kaduna State over the accidental bombing by the Nigerian Army, which killed over 100 people and injured scores of others earlier this month.

The Forum commended both the Kaduna State Government and the Federal Government of Nigeria over the handling of the situation while promising to ensure a full investigation into the incident.

“The Forum resolved to to work collectively to ensure that the tragic incidence [sic] is thoroughly investigated with a view to compensating victims and taking corrective measures to prevent future occurrence,” part of the statement signed by the chairman reads.

Earlier, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had directed a full-fledged investigation into the incident. Also, Vice President Kashim Shettima, accompanied by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajuddeen; Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; and the APC National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; had visited Kaduna to console the survivors as well as the families of the dead victims of the bombing.

The incident has generated a lot of reactions from the Muslim faithful, who continue to demand in-depth investigations and adequate compensation.

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.