Kano

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has ruled to sack Musa Ilyasu Kwankwaso of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and reinstate Yusuf Umar Datti of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) as the rightful representative of the Kura/Madobi/Garun Malam Federal Constituency election in Kano State. 

The ruling was made by a three-man panel led by Justice Tunde Oyebamiji Awotoye, who stated that Datti’s appeal had merit and allowed it to proceed.

The panel criticized the tribunal’s decision to count the date of the appellant’s resignation on the day of his party primary, emphasizing that Section 77 of the Electoral Act was misapplied.

They clarified that the matter of membership within a political party is an internal affair, beyond the jurisdiction of the court. 

This ruling marks a significant victory for Yusuf Umar Datti and the New Nigeria Peoples Party, reaffirming the importance of fair electoral processes and adherence to legal procedures.

By Mansur Hassan, PhD

Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Executive Governor of Kano State, has recently shed light on the alleged misappropriation of funds by Nigerian governors, exposing lack of impactful policies.

Over the past eight years, Kano State witnessed a dearth of policies that benefit the less privileged directly. In contrast, the Kwankwasiyya administration, led by Abba Gida Gida, has swiftly demonstrated its prowess in governance within five months, particularly through transformative healthcare and educational ‘revolution’ spanning from primary to tertiary levels.

Under Kwankwasiyya’s leadership, there has been a significant focus on education, including sponsoring first-class graduates to foreign universities—an initiative emulated by other nations. The educational revolution initiated during the 1999-2003 and 2011-2015 periods has left an enduring mark, with numerous scholars benefiting from foreign scholarships.

However, the governors who presided over the state from 2015 to 2023 failed to implement any substantial policies for the state’s improvement. Criticism was leveled against the transformative programs introduced by H.E. Abba Kabir Yusuf, particularly after the mass wedding event known as “auren ‘yangata.” The sponsorship of 1001 first-class graduates further intensified opposition, with the former Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, dismissing the program as useless.

This criticism seemingly stemmed from the program’s focus on underprivileged children, contrasting with Ganduje’s past sponsorship of his own children’s education abroad. The clash underscores a debate on priorities and equitable policies in Kano State.

Dr. Mansur Hassan is a Senior Lecturer, Department of Mathematics, Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Ten students from ENGAUSA HUB, a pioneering educational centre focusing on imparting modern digital skills in the Hausa language, were recently gifted essential tools by an anonymous benefactor. 

The generous donation was extended to students, including recent graduates, who have displayed remarkable dedication to their studies. 

The unidentified donor, who preferred to remain anonymous, handed over the valuable tools to the students, emphasising his support for their educational pursuits.

This unexpected gift not only serves as a testament to the community’s collective commitment to nurturing young talents but also underscores the significance of empowering the youth with practical skills. 

ENGAUSA HUB, which stands out for its innovative approach to education by conducting classes in the Hausa language, is gearing up for its upcoming semester.

Prospective students are invited to seize this opportunity and enrol in the new semester, which commences on Monday,  October 23 2023. 

Aspiring learners interested in joining the ENGAUSA HUB classes can obtain further details by contacting the centre through the provided phone numbers: 07038224643, 0701 513 0683, or 0708 886 1618.

Additionally, comprehensive information about the courses and enrollment procedures is available on the official website: www.EngausaHub.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The future of some graduates of the Basic School of Midwifery in Dambatta hangs in the balance, as they were left without licences to practice their profession years after graduation.

The graduates recount their ordeal at the hands of the school management, saying that they have been left stranded for years.

The graduates accused the school management of “intentionally dragging them into a dilemma and academic standstill.”

A former student of the institution said that the licence “is the only thin veil that serves as a blockade to his future.”

Many of the former students of the institution decried alleged widespread corruption by the school officials, whom they accused of giving licences to only the well-connected.

The Daily Reality gathered that the licence that is issued to students upon successful completion of their studies is the only barrier between students and multiple job opportunities or university admissions waiting at their doorstep.

Our prayers for intervention were in vain.

The students said that all their efforts to seek intervention from the state government and relevant authorities were in vain, a development that exacerbates their condition.

Mukhtar Ali (not real name) said that some of the students had paid the amount prescribed by the institution to secure the licence, but they have neither received the licence nor a refund of their money.

However, it was gathered that among the students struggling to secure their licences were the first set of students at the institution who had completed their studies eleven years ago.

Members of the batch of graduates said that they had sought intervention from the immediate past administration in the state and the school management, but also agencies like the Human Rights Agency and Anticorruption, but the outcome was not fruitful.

A female student who preferred anonymity said that it was unfortunate that her future was being unjustly destroyed despite the huge investment her parents made in her studies.

She said, “Despite paying for the licence over the years, I have yet to secure it. However, some of my friends who have connections have already secured theirs.

“My fear is that some selfish individuals have gone with our money because the school management denied knowledge of our payment for the licence, even though we have paid. We went back to the place we made the payment, but the whole thing is confusing,” she added.

Another student told our reporter that the school management put pressure on them to pay for the licence as soon as they graduated.

“A very high pressure was mounted on us to pay this money by the school management. We paid N38,000 each. However, three years later, we are yet to secure the license.

“We are confused as to where the problem is. We are urging the Kano State Government to please come to our aid so that we can get our licence and move on.”

Sadiya Ibrahim, not her real name, said that she is totally disappointed by the development, saying her future is being robbed.

Sadiya Ibrahim said, “My fear is that the school management may require us to pay another N38,000, despite the receipt we showed them to prove that we had made our payment.

“The whole thing is so disturbing that the government should please intervene and talk to the relevant authorities about the development,” she stated.

Students with connections not involved

The students disclosed that other students who have connections with some politicians have already secured their licences, as many of them have started practicing or got admissions into the university.

They also stated that daughters of influential businessmen or traditional rulers grab their licences immediately after they graduate from school.

We are working to address the issue— Management

When contacted, Hajiya Asiya Sani, the principal of the School of Midwifery Dambatta, said that the school management has been working tirelessly to address the issue, saying their efforts have started to see the light of day.

She said some of these licences are now ready and will soon be distributed to the owners.She explained that the problem is a vital one that the school management has devoted its time to addressing.

She said, “I am aware of the problem. However, as I am speaking with you now, the Ministry of Health is involved in addressing the problem.

As it is known to everyone, including the students, we don’t give this license. Instead, we also applied for it.”                                               

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has approved the release of funds to settle overdue registration fees for students sponsored by the state at Bells, Igbinedion, and Al-Qalam Universities. 

The decision aims to alleviate the burden on students who have faced eight years of neglect by the previous administration, enabling them to finally receive their graduation certificates. 

Governor Yusuf, emphasising his commitment to education, announced the move via his official Facebook page. 

The timely intervention has been met with relief and gratitude from students and their families, ensuring a brighter future for these deserving scholars.   

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a statement to clarify recent confusion regarding its involvement in the Kano State Governorship election petition case.

Reports suggesting INEC’s withdrawal from the appeal process were based on an unauthorised letter, which has since been retracted. 

In an official announcement, Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, noted that the letter in question was not authorised and does not reflect INEC’s stance.

He reassured the public and stakeholders that the INEC has not withdrawn from the case or abandoned the appeal.

When INEC is involved in a legal matter, the Commission is bound to respond appropriately, and this commitment remains steadfast. 

Olumekun reaffirmed INEC’s dedication to upholding the law and ensuring justice prevails.

He stated that the Commission has instructed its legal representatives to proceed with the case in accordance with established policies, which remain unchanged.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has announced a series of key appointments in various government parastatals. 

These appointments, made with a focus on expertise and experience, are poised to bring fresh vigour to the state’s administration. 

Among the notable appointees are Salisu A. Kabo, who takes charge as the Director General of Youth Empowerment, and Dr. Hamisu Sadi Ali, entrusted with the position of Director General at the Debt Management Office.

Additionally, Yusuf Kabir Gaya has been appointed as the Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), reflecting the government’s commitment to bolstering the education sector. 

These placements also include essential roles such as Abduljabbar Mohammed Umar (Director General, KAN-INVEST), Mustapha Adamu Indabawa (Managing Director, Abubakar Rimi Television), and Hamisu Dogon Nama (Managing Director, Kantin Kwari Market). Abdulkadir B. Hussain, Dr. Kabiru Sani Magashi, Aminu Aminu Mai-Famfo, and Engr. Abubakar Sadiq J. complete the roster, taking on vital responsibilities in their respective sectors. 

Governor Yusuf has called upon these appointees to harness their expertise and experience to serve the people of Kano State diligently. 

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Kano State Government has launched an innovative initiative to empower 45,000 girls through a groundbreaking N20,000 stipend programme. 

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf unveiled this initiative during a speech at Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary celebration held at the prestigious Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano. 

Governor Yusuf stated, “To support the girl-child education and encourage parents to send their daughters to school, we are issuing a stipend of 20,000 Naira to over 45,000 girl-child as a pilot scheme to support them to continue schooling. 

“We are also re-introducing the girl child school buses to transport them to and from schools.” 

This initiative represents a significant leap towards achieving gender equality in education within the state.

By providing financial assistance directly to families, the government aims to remove economic hurdles that often prevent girls from attending school.

The stipend not only promotes education but also empowers young girls to dream big and aspire for a better future. 

Furthermore, Governor Yusuf reiterated his administration’s commitment to nurturing academic excellence.

As a testament to this commitment, the government will sponsor 1001 first-class graduates for master’s degrees at renowned international universities.

This initiative not only supports high-level manpower development within the state but also strengthens Kano’s global presence in the academic arena.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Federal High Court in Gyadi-Gyadi, Kano, has fined the Kano State Government 30 billion Naira for the unauthorised demolition of shops within the historic Idi Mosque premises at Kofar Mata. 

The ruling, delivered by Justice Simon Ameboda, strongly condemned the government’s actions, labelling the demolition as an “illegal activity full of brutality and malice.” 

The court’s decision also mandated the state government to compensate the affected businessmen whose shops were razed to the ground.

Justice Ameboda emphasised the severity of the government’s offence against the less privileged members of the community, leading to the imposition of a significant fine. 

This substantial penalty serves as a stern warning against any future attempts by government entities to infringe upon the property rights of individuals and small businesses within the state. 

The ruling also included a restraining order, preventing the Kano Government from interfering with the lands and affairs of the shops, including reallocating them to other entities. 

The legal community and activists have applauded the court’s decision, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring accountability and justice, particularly for those who are economically vulnerable. 

The affected businessmen, their legal representatives, and the community have expressed relief and satisfaction with the court’s verdict, hoping that this landmark judgement will serve as a precedent, deterring any similar actions by government authorities in the future. 

By Uzair Adam Imam

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has expressed his deepest displeasure over the dilapidated conditions of Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital, a government-owned and one of the busiest hospitals in the state.

The Governor showed dissatisfaction concerning the state of the facility when he led other top government functionaries on an unscheduled visit and on-the-spot assessment of the hospital over the weekend.

Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the state’s Chief Press Secretary, made this disclosure in a statement he signed and made available to journalists on the weekend.

Dawakin-Tofa quoted the governor to have said, “As a teaching hospital for training medical professionals and provision of tertiary medical care, the hospital needs to be overhauled and expand its services, especially maternity services and care for the children.

“It is disheartening to meet the hospital that caters for the medical needs of thousands of patients daily in a condition uncomfortable for human inhabitation, a situation that needs to be checked and corrected,” Governor Yusuf stressed.

“I do instruct the management of the hospital to, as a matter of urgency, forward the request for rehabilitation and expansion of the hospital for immediate action to restore the lost glory of the gigantic health facility,” he added.

The Daily Reality, in an investigative report last year, recounted the monstrous condition of another state-owned hospital, Sir Muhammadu Sunusi Specialist Hospital, Yankaba, where patients were living miserably without water and light.

Our reporter visited the hospital and met some patients in dire situations, fighting excessive heat with their hand fans, which has thrown many of them into a dilemma.

The Daily Reality learned that all the taps in the hospital were not working, except one borehole, which the patients said works for less than one hour every day.

Recounting their experiences, some patient sitters complained that they used sachet water, alias pure water, to bathe, flush toilets, make ablutions and wash their dishes.

They also complained about the lack of electricity, which they said was responsible for many problems in the hospital.