₦airaland Forum

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Etsu Nupe and Chairman Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers Alhaji (Dr) Yahaya Abubakar has conferred the traditional title of Kakakin Nupe on Alhaji Mohammed Idris (Malagi).

Idris, the Chairman/CEO, Blueprint Newspapers and Chairman WE FM 106.3 based in Abuja, is also the General Secretary of the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN).

He replaced the late publisher of Leadership newspapers Sam Nda-Isaiah who died recently in Abuja.

The new Kakakin Nupe hails from Malagi, Gbako Local Government Area of Niger State.

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The Asher Kings and Queens Restaurant is 34 sitting-capacity- at-a-time restaurant, located at #75 Kachia Road, Sabon Tasha, Kaduna State, registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, with with the registration number BN2463851 on 5th December, 2016, under the COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990 Food Production and Processing Services.

The Restaurant is a one-storey building structure, with a VIP Lounge section, where premium customers relax to watch football league games in a cozy environment, with all the comfort; air conditioners and light music.

Whilst the ground floor is where the kitchen and serving spot is, also with chairs and tables for customers to sit and eat their food as required.

We hire/rent the VIP section for light events, of not more than 26 customers.

On the 27th December, 2020, a customer hired the VIP Lounge for a 15-man reunion/Clothing line promo, to appreciate his customers for their good patronage of his brands.

Before the event proper commenced, a friend of mine and I noticed an unusual movement around the main gate to the restaurant, as it was half opened to avoid a crowded environment. We approached the main gate and on getting there I saw two truck load of heavily armed officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

I asked the team leader what was going on but he ignored my question and said he will explain to me when we get to the Police Station, Sabon Tasha Division.

When we arrived the Police station, my customer, who accompanied me to the station, enquired what the matter was and the Police showed us a poster on a GSM phone belonging to one of the officers by name Inspector Felix. It was a poster of an event titled; KADUNA SEX PARTY, which the Police claimed the venue for the supposed “sex party” was scheduled to hold at my restaurant, even though with no address of where it will take place on the poster.

I denied knowledge of that event as there was nothing of that sort taking place at the restaurant and I wouldn’t stoop so low to entertain such illicit activity at my place, but the police refused to belief me and had my friend and two of my staff detained for one night, one day, until the customer that had earlier hired the place for usage on that fateful day was also arrested the next day.

They were released after paying a “bail fee” of #100,000 to Inspector Felix and one other lady officer, fair in complexion.

I noticed how incompetent the NPF were, I suggested to the them to call the number on the supposed “Kaduna Sex Party” poster, which they immediately put a call through and a name came out using the TrueCaller App as MARVELLOUS AKPAN. The Police asked me to pay a fee of #20,000 for them to do their job of tracking the user of the phone number, which I immediately paid them so that they will swing into action.

Marvellous Akpan was arrested the next. He was interrogated and he obliged to owning the phone number on the poster and printing of the poster which was posted on Social Media, assisted by a friend of his named Noah and one other guy. On further interrogation.

Mr Marvellous Akpan confessed to the Police that he doesn’t know me and has never being to my restaurant nor have any knowledge of its address.

Mr Chimeze,who had hired the place was released, summarily, after the successful arrest of Mr Akpan.

The next day, 31st December, while at the other Branch of my restaurant, at Court Road, Sabon Tasha, Kaduna, a friend of mine called me asked me to go to the main Restaurant and see what was going on. I immediately went and saw a combined team of Police men, soldiers, KASTLEA and Vigilante groups guarded a Pay loader to demolished my restaurant.

No prior notice was served to me before the demolition, there was no any form of communication between I and the Kaduna State Property Development Agency (KASUPDA) who came to demolished the building structure.

Even when they arrived the location, the main entrance to the main Restaurant and the restaurant was under lock and key. There was no any form of communication to me!

I watched them pulled down the building without allowing me remove any item before the demolition. As a result of the trauma, I lost my one month old pregnancy.

I also incurred the following loses;

Cooking utensils 2.furniture 3.Electric appliances
Chillers
Deep freezers
Bemarrings out door catering utensils
Cash, et al worth over #32 million, as the place was abruptly vandalized after the demolition.
I plan to seek legal redress for defamation of my character and the loss of my properties in the building.

Signed:
Aisha Mercy Yakubu
CEO,
Asher Kings and Queens Restaurant, Sabon Tasha, Kaduna.
2nd January, 2020

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Kaduna based Islamic scholar Dr Ahmad Gumi has commenced a special da’awah programme to Fulani settlements and villages with the aim of teaching them about the religion of Islam and counselling them against criminalities.

The scholar started on Saturday with Fulani settlements (ruga) and villages in Jere, a town on the Kaduna-Abuja highway. The town is also situated in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

He was accompanied by the Chief Imam of Sultan Bello Mosque Kaduna Sheikh Muhammad Sulaiman Adam, media crew, representatives of Ulamas and students committees, security personnel etc.

In his remarks, Dr. Ahmad Gumi said stark illiteracy is what is ravaging the Fulani and pushing them into bad things, adding that the only panacea to the problem is knowledge.

He stressed that the first verse of the Qur’an that was revealed to Prophet Muhammad S. A. W was iqra (read) signifying the importance of seeking knowledge.

Sheikh Gumi promised that with the little resources that the Sheikh Abubakar Gumi Initiative for the Propagation of Sunnah has, it would build schools for Islamic knowledge and also select some Fulani among them who will undergo series of lectures and trainings with which they will return and educate their people in their respective communities.

The Fulani will also be trained on various businesses and skills to diversify.

A committee will be set up where the Fulani will be lodging complaints of any injustice against them by the government for follow up and/or seeking redress.

Some Islamic books that can assist the Fulani in knowing their religion were shared among them.

“The message was well received by the people as they even asked questions which were satisfactorily answered by Dr Ahmad.”

However, the Fulanl leaders lamented that they were being unnecessarily profiled even though every tribe has its bad eggs. They also said the Fulani have suffered various form of molestation and abuse couple with total neglect by government.

They lamented the incessant molestation and sometimes killing of their members by some criminal elements among government security personnel.

They drew attention to how some of them were arrested and taken to the Katari police station but for the intervention of Dr Gumi.

One of the Fulani leaders admitted that their major challenge was illitracy as they have been left unattended without education, security and basic amenities.

In a similar development, they complained that as a result of the molestation and extortion by security personnel, their socio-economic status has not only been diminished but also crippled resulting in some of them being used as agents of kidnappers and bandits.

Dateline Nigeria reports that people have commended the Islamic scholar for his initiative, urging others to emulate him.

De Sulaiman A. Daji said “This is what all our scholars should do, enter the bush and preach to the Fulani communities. May Almighty Allah guide all those who contributed to this.”

Source: Dateline Nigeria

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The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria has commended Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai for arresting the organisers of the aborted Kaduna sex party and demolishing the proposed venue.

In a statement signed by its Secretary Engr. AbdurRahman Hassan, the council said “Allah (SWT) stated categorically in Suratul Hajj verse 41, thus: “Those who, when We empower them in the land, observe prayer, and give regular charity, and command what is right, and forbid what is wrong. To Allah belongs the outcome of events.”

“In line with this verse, the Council as an advocate of moral and social values commends the steps taken by the Kaduna State Government on the arrest of the organizers of the Satanic so called “Kaduna Sex Party” and the demolition of Asher Hotel at Barnawa, Kaduna.

“No doubt this kind of illicit act is one of the ingredients that is fueling the wrath of Allah (SWT) that we are inflicted with currently. The current merciless bloodletting through banditry, kidnappings, armed robbery, and host of other vices, are as a result of our derailment from ideal moral and cultural values.

“While we commend the Kaduna State Government for this commendable act, we also call on the government to scan for such places where illicit acts are perpetrated in the state, such as ‘Obalende’ area, off Maiduguri Road, in Kaduna North Local Government, where ‘Nude’ clubs do exist.

May Allah strengthen our leaders to do right, may He protect our Imaan.”

https://www.dateline.ng/kaduna-sex-party-sharia-council-hails-arrest-of-organisers-demolition-on-venue/

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The federal and state governments will spend a whopping N21.7 trillion in 2021, with the former accounting for N13.58 trillion or 62 percent of the total sum and the latter N8.15 trillion, according to data aggregation by Dateline Nigeria.

A government budget is a prepared document containing anticipated revenues and proposed spending/expenditure (on salaries and projects) for a fiscal year.

As at the time of writing this story, the federal and state governments have all presented their budgets and most have signed them into law after approval by their respective assemblies.

President Muhammadu Buhari is also set to sign the N13.58 trillion 2021 Appropriation Bill into law any moment from now.

The approved FG budget by the National Assembly comprises total Capital Supplementation of N1,060,751,051,650 and total Capital Expenditure of N4,125,149,354,222, Statutory Transfer stands at N496,528,471,273; recurrent Expenditure of N5,641,970,060,680 and Gross Domestic Product, GDP growth rate of 3.00 Percent.

Across the states also, most of governments voted more funds for capital than recurrent expenditure, suggesting that a number of projects may get completed or come on stream.

Lagos State budgeted the highest with over N1 trillion, while Yobe had the lowest with N106.9bn. By region, South West leads with N2.16tr, followed by South South with N2.02tr; North West N1.328tr, North East N931.4bn, South East N914.4bn, and North Central N804.2bn.

In Abia, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu signed a budget N131.8bn, with N69.1bn (52.49%) voted for capital expenditure, and N62.6bn (47.51%) on recurrent expenditure.

In Adamawa, Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri signed N140bn budget, with 52% for capital expenditure and 48% for recurrent expenditure.

In Akwa Ibom, Governor Udom Emmanuel signed N456.2bn budget. The lawmakers added N6.1bn to the proposed N158.4bn recurrent allocation and 14.4bn to the N226.9bn capital expenditure.

Read full https://www.dateline.ng/fg-states-to-spend-n21-7tr-on-salaries-projects-in-2021/

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Bishop of Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, has responded to critisms trailing his Christmas message.

In the message, Kukah accused President Muhammadu Buhari of nepotism saying if a non-Norrhern Muslim had done the same it would have led to a coup.

But speaking with journalists in Sokoto on Monday, Kukah denied calling for a coup and said Nigerians should get the accurate statement rather than relying on “different lies” being peddled about in his name.

“I am pained and very sad that my emergency critics never see that many innocent lives are being lost daily. The loss of lives in the last ten years, even before this administration’s advent, calls for concern.

Related: Understanding Bishop Kukah’s frustration!, by Dr. Ahmad Gumi

“The reactions are a reflection of every citizen that make up Nigeria. It is sad that when you drop something in Nigeria, everybody goes back to their enclave and abandon the larger picture. I am someone who never takes offence to what people say about me.

“What I said was my opinion based on evidence and what has happened in Nigeria, and if you looked into the records, there is evidence that justifies that statement, and if anyone thinks I am wrong, they should come out with a superior position.

“It is unfair for a journalist or news medium to report that I called for a coup while expressing my personal view about Nigeria,” he said.

Th Bishop also told those calling on him to drop his priesthood cassock and join politics that that would have been during the late Aminu Kano and not now.

“I have no plan and will never play partisan politics for any reason. Those who link my message to partisan politics are only playing to the gallery.

“Take, for instance, brilliant Nigerian youths making comments about Chelsea or Arsenal and have never been to England, does that make them players of such club sides?

“So, why will someone think because Bishop Kukah is speaking; therefore, he is a politician? People who make this argument are ignorant of elementary politics and ignorant of the role of a Priest.

Related: Air task force destroys Boko Haram hideout, kills terrorists in Sambisa forest

“The truth is that a lot of us have not seen a priest saying what I am saying. The fact of the matter is, we are all in politics, but party politics for me, no. I am not a member of any political party, and I cannot be. If it comes to voting, I do my right.

“Whatever I said can please or displease anyone, but that is my own opinion and doesn’t stop others from saying their own opinion. If you think my motive is wrong, say yours.

“I have no problem with Muslims, Christians, or any other religion, but what I don’t like is when someone is using a religious issue to play politics, it is wrong.”

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Sadio Mane has entered the top five Liverpool goalscorers in Premier League history, drawing level with Luis Suarez thanks to his goal against West Brom on Sunday.

The Senegalese forward arrived at Anfield from Southampton for 41.2 million euros in 2016 and has proved to be one of Jurgen Klopp‘s finest acquisitions as coach.

Alongside the likes of Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino, Mane has fired Liverpool to Champions League and Premier League glory.

Related: Manchester United want to extend Cavani deal

His goal against West Brom, struck in the first half of Sunday’s 1-1 draw, was his 69th in the Premier League for Liverpool.

Mane has reached that figure in 141 games, which is 31 fewer than Suarez had played when his Premier League career ended in 2014.

Robbie Fowler (128 goals), Steven Gerrard (121), Michael Owen (118) and Salah (86) make up the rest of the top five in Liverpool’s Premier League scorers list.

Fernando Torres averaged more than a goal every two games during his spell at Anfield, scoring 65 goals in 102 Premier League matches.

Related: Cristiano Ronaldo is 'best Premier League transfer'

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The Lagos State Government will inaugurate 10 Oxygen and Sampling centres to improve management of severe-to-critical COVID-19 cases.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, disclosed this during a media briefing on the update of the second wave of COVID-19 in Lagos on Monday.

Abayomi said that the state would deploy oxygen therapy centres in high burden local government areas to manage severe-to-critical COVID-19 patients.

Related: If you want to travel next year, you may need a vaccine passport

According to him, the centres were sited at the Mother and Child Centre, Eti-Osa; General Hospital Alimosho; General Hospital Isolo; Aguda Primary Healthcare Centre, Surulere; and General Hospital Gbagada.

He listed others as, Mother and Child Centre, Ifako Ijaiye; Ibeju-Lekki Primary Healthcare Centre; General Hospital Apapa; Odi Olowu Primary Healthcare Centre, Mushin; and Amuwo-Odofin Mother and Child Centre.

Abayomi said that the oxygen centres at Mother and Child Centre, Eti-Osa; General Hospital Alimosho and General Hospital Isolo were already completed, while the remaining seven centres would be completed in the next two weeks.

He noted that medical oxygen is the primary treatment for the majority of patients who were suffering severe COVID-19 symptoms.

”Many of these patients present late to the isolation centres, thus leading to fatalities.

“This life-saving gas helps patients breathe when they cannot do so on their own, and timely access to oxygen is critical to ensure the patient’s survival.

“If anyone is breathless, go to any of these centres, and the doctors and nurses there will assist to stabilise you with oxygen before moving you with the ambulance to the isolation centre,” he said.

The commissioner stressed that the state was committed to ensuring improved healthcare system toward enhancing quality healthcare and saving the lives of its citizens.

He, however, warned that the rate of COVID-19 infection positivity was increasing in the state due to the festivities and disregard for safety measures.

”On Dec. 26, the state confirmed 253 new COVID-19 infections, increasing the total confirmed cases of infections in the state to 28,774,” Abayomi said.

He added that 75 confirmed cases were currently being managed at the isolation centres while 3,716 active cases under home-based care were under the state’s EKO TELEMED.

Abayomi said that one fatality was recorded on the reported day.

He said that as the COVID-19 pandemic continued, residents would need to make lifestyle adjustments to live with the pandemic.

“Living with the pandemic means that you should wear your face mask everywhere, follow physical distancing rules, avoid social gatherings, ensure regular hand washing or hand sanitising.

“If you feel unwell, get tested; if positive, self-isolate or present to any isolation centre or follow up clinics,” the commissioner said.

He also said that the state would deploy effective messaging and education through its various platforms, while enforcing all guidelines through the respective state agencies.

Abayomi noted that the state was discovering more positive cases among international travellers into the state.

“Positivity for inbound travellers is on the rise, eight per cent this week, four per cent cumulative as Nigerians in the Diaspora return to spend Christmas in Lagos.

Related: Covid: S’Africa prohibits alcohol sales, ban gatherings, introduces curfew as cases soar

“It has come to our attention that a number of the people are patronising individuals that sell fake COVID-19 results.

“We are currently putting in processes to identify both buyers and sellers and we will not hesitate to prosecute either to the full extent of the law,” he said.

Abayomi said that the state’s goal from inception was to flatten the curve, and would intensify its strategies of identifying, testing, isolating and management of cases to reduce the rate of transmission.

He said that the state had increased its daily testing capacity from August to December, and that the state was now testing between 2,000 and 3,000 samples daily.

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As it marks 50 years of its existence on Monday, the Shehu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto will soon become a University of Education, Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has said.

Speaking on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee celebration and 22nd convocation of the College, Tambuwal said the institution will also retain the name of the former President Shehu Shagari after whom it was named two years before his death.

By this gesture, the College will be the first of its kind to be raised to the level of a university in Northern Nigeria.

Related: TY Danjuma yet to redeem N2.2bn pledge to ABU, seven years after

According to Gov. Tambuwal, the decision to upgrade the institution is premised on the enviable track record it has established in the past half a century, its “uncommon and trademark foresight, vision, creativity and leadership acumen historically associated with our forefathers for over two centuries.

“In addition, the College, the Governor notes “is one of the high-ranking teacher training institutions and among the largest producers of teachers in Nigeria.”

Applauding the past and present leaders of the College for raising the College “to this enviable level,” Gov. Tambuwal said in furtherance of its upgrading, “approval has been given for the construction of two-storey students’ hostels, capable of accommodating over 400 students… in order to address the challenges of students accommodation.”

He appreciated “the combined efforts of the College Council, Management, staff and students for maintaining relative peace and a conducive environment for academic activities on the College campus,” while urging them “to work harder to improve the quality of teachers produced in this institution. This has become imperative for us to achieve our ambition for higher standard in Basic and Secondary Education.”

Related: Exclusive: How beneficiaries of Masari’s amnesty masterminded Kankara abductions

He added that: “while I am happy for the progress recorded by the College over the past 50 years, I urge the leadership of this glorious institution at all levels to be more prepared to position the College for greater achievements in the 50 years ahead. This calls for renewed vigour, creativity, innovative ideas, quality control, cooperation and collaboration to the College to attain its vision of impacting knowledge and skills suited for practice in the 21st Century.”

Gov. Tambuwal said his administration has been embarking on extensive rehabilitation, reconstruction and building of hundreds of primary and secondary schools in the State, just as it will give more premium “to the needs of its tertiary education sector.”

In his address the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof Bashir Garba said through the support of the state government, the college has recorded several milestones over the past 50 years of its services to humanity.

Prof. Garba also added that with the encouragement of Sokoto state government, the college, in a multiple affiliation with the Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, has also been running undergraduate programmes in education for over 20 years.

In his address the Provost of the College, Dr Wadata Hakimi said the college from its inception to date has recorded a total of 48,936 holders of the National Certificate of Education (NCE).

He added that the college affiliated undergraduate programmes have equally produced over 12,500 holders of degree in education.

At the ceremony six personalities where presented with the award of fellowship which include former governor of Niger state, Babangida Aliyu, former chairman of the college’s governing board, Ambassador Shehu Malami and the Executive Secretary of the National Commission forf Colleges of Education (NCCE), Prof Bappa Aliyu Muhammad.

Related: If you want to travel next year, you may need a vaccine passport

The rest are Dr Muhammad Mustapha Bunza, Captain Muhammad Bala Shagari (rtd), who is also the Sarkin Mafaran Shagari and Alhaji Abdullahi Sarkin Gobir Adiya.

Highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the college’s Golden Jubilee monument by Gov Tambuwal with the assistance of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.

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On a Friday, 4th May 2012, in Sultan Bello Mosque Kaduna, I decried the lopsidedness of security chiefs in Goodluck’s government (1). The Muslims were left out at a point when the brunt of ‘terrorism’ was happening in the North.

I saw it as a dangerous precedence that can undermine national cohesion and destabilize the country. I was not oblivious then of the fact that President Goodluck Johnathan was -sorry to say- reckless with power and that the Nigerian polity means less to him as it was ripe in the ‘national chat room’ that his loyalty to the unity of the nation was questionable.

The first ‘terrorist’ bombing of Abuja on 1st October 2010 at Eagle Square which was claimed by MEND was paradoxically reputed by the same president, declaring it as a northern plot against his government.

Related: Kukah: MURIC expresses shock over ‘reckless, inflammatory and unguarded’ comments

Related: Kukah: The untouchable special breed

Related: Northern CAN defends Kukah, accuses Presidency, MURIC of twisting Christmas message

Police detained Raymond Dokpesi, campaign manager for former President Ibrahim Babangida, for questioning over the bombing (2). By Aug 13, 2012, there was a failed attempt to kill me with an improvised explosive that accidentally detonated in the hands of the two ‘agents’ trying to plant it few minutes on my way to the mosque (3) (4).

What unfolded later confirmed that it was the act of some elements in the military intelligence, as the two bodies were carried away by military authorities then, and both the BBC and VOA Hausa correspondents were denied access to information about the victims by the then military officers involved in the case at the scene.

It became evident that; the military was conducting a clandestine operation under the guise of Boko Haram to destabilize the country and kill ‘dissident’ voices or eliminate prominent northern personalities. On Nov 2, 2012, Gen. Mohammed Shuwa (rtd) was killed in his home guarded by soldiers (5).

On Nov 25, 2012, there was another bomb blast in Jaji military cantonment supposedly by Boko haram, which turned out to be targeting the sacking of late Gen. Moh Isah Commander, Nigerian Army Corps of Infantry who was bid to be the next in line to be the next chief of army staff (6) (7). The fingerprint was evident.

These ugly incidences were only made possible by the lopsidedness of appointments in these sensitive security positions. North vs South, Muslims vs Christians struggles cannot be addressed by unequal representations of such a big divide in sensitive positions.

Therefore today, when Rev. Kukah decries the same lopsidedness that favors the Muslims, he is saying what exactly we have decried long ago, and he’s justified to say so.

The only difference, the reverend gentleman needs to understand is that, when Muslims ‘dominate’, they don’t target Christians to annihilate or kill. It was never on record that any Muslim has used the instruments of government to kill any other Nigerian except probably the accidental killing of Brig. Bako (a Muslim) during the Shagari overthrow by northern elements of the armed forces.

However, Muslims were consistently being traumatized by brutal killings of their cherished leaders by Christians using the instruments of governments without rebutting from reverend people like Kukah, which made many to believe that there is much that meets the eyes than an honest ‘seeking for redress’ from his utterances.

I am sure the Reverend Bishop now as a Christian has no fear over his life from the Government, the fear Muslims like me entertain the moment a Christian attain much a sensitive security position.

In the ’60s a Christian Igbo, Major. Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu killed the Sardauna of Sokoto. In the ’70s, a Christian northern minority, Lieutenant Colonel Buka Suka Dimka killed Gen. Murtala Muhammed.

Had it been on record that a Muslim had killed a Christian leader of such caliber using the legal weapons of government, probably Muslims would be banned from conscription and enrolment into the armed forces, and that every year, the press and NGOs will remind us of ‘their’ treason and disloyalty.

Another difference Rev. Kukah should know, is that when things were going out of control, we did not insinuate a military takeover of a democratically elected government but rather called for the resignation of the president (, as some may have deciphered from his recent pronouncements.

Despite all agitations, I don’t believe that any significant section or populace of Nigerians wants the country divided. It’s therefore pertinent, that democracy in full strength should be the cementing factor in our unity.

Democracy has proven portent in uniting people of different persuasions, be it religious, ethnic, and socio-economic class difference as we see in the USA, India, and Europe. It guarantees the rights of the minorities and gives every segment an equitable representation in governance, the true basis of stability.

I, therefore, call on all Nigerians to unite under this mode of political dispensation and allow the natural forces of democratic power to come to play. Every Nigerian should have equal opportunity to participate in the power struggle, no preference should be given to religious, ethnic, and socio-economic difference as such practice has been producing leaders of mediocre ability.

A nation like ours needs to abide by the full tenets of a democratic setting whereby every individual is given the right and opportunity to aspiring for whatever position he/she aspires for so long that people are ready to vote for him/her. This is the least required for our stability. Anything short of it is a recipe for mutual annihilation. I don’t see a winning side.

God bless our Nation and bring tranquility and prosperity to our motherland. Amin

References:

(1) Gumi Wants Security Chiefs Reshuffled; ISMAIL MUDASHIR, KADUNA. https://dailytrust.com/gumi-wants-security-chiefs-reshuffled

(2) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/October_2010_Abuja_bombings

(3) Kaduna bomb targeted prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Gumi www.premiumtimesng.com › news › 96484-kaduna-bo… Aug 14, 2012 — Mr. Gumi, who has been critical of Boko Haram, may have been the target of the bombers. Sani Tukur. The bomb blast in Kaduna, Tuesday …

(4) https://www.facebook.com/dailytrust/posts/renowned-kaduna-based-islamic-scholar-sheikh-ahmad-abubakar-gumi-sheikh-ahmad-gu/439772866074821/

(5) Gunmen kill prominent ex-general, Mohammed Shuwa …; www.vanguardngr.com › News Nov 2, 2012 — MAIDUGURI, (AFP) – A retired Nigerian general, Mohammed Shuwa, who was a key figure in the 1960s civil war, was on Friday shot dead by …

(6) Jaji bombings: Military removes two generals – Vanguard Newswww.vanguardngr.com › HeadlinesDec 2, 2012 — … and Major General Mohammed Isa, Commander, Nigerian Army Corps of Infantry, Jaji – just as Sunday Vanguard learnt that the bombs used …

(7) 11 killed as Nigerian extremists breach military security to … www.telegraph.co.uk › africaandindianocean › nigeria. Nov 25, 2012 — At least 11 people were killed and up to 30 wounded in a double suicide blast at a church in a barracks in northern Nigeria on Sunday, after the bombers breached military … 11 killed as Nigerian extremists breach military security to bomb church … Bomb Explosion in Military Church at Jaji in Kaduna.

( https://dailytrust.com/why-jonathan-should-resign-sheikh… ; May 5, 2012 — Dr. Ahmad Gumi said this yesterday while addressing hundreds of Muslim faithful at the Sultan Bello mosque, Kaduna

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Security agencies have confirmed to the Kaduna State Government the killing of a notorious bandit, Nasiru Kachalla.

Kachalla, who has been on the run for masterminding several criminal acts, including kidnappings, killings, cattle rustling and banditry, was killed in a clash between his gang and a rival group of bandits.

Human intelligence networks confirmed that criminals from the rival sides were also killed, including some of Kachalla’s lieutenants.

The clash occurred in a forest around the boundaries of Kajuru-Chikun local government areas of Kaduna Central Senatorial District. A dispute over a large herd of rustled cattle is said to have triggered the fatal confrontation.

Kachalla and his gang were involved in several crimes, including kidnappings, killings and banditry on the Kaduna-Abuja road and also in the Chikun/Kajuru general areas. He was the mastermind of the 9th January 2020 kidnapping of seminarians of Good Shepherd Major Seminary, Kaduna, and the 24th January 2020 kidnapping of Mrs Bola Ataga and her two children.

The criminals later killed one of the seminarians, Michael Nnadi and Mrs. Ataga before releasing her children.

Kachalla’s criminal gang was also responsible for the kidnap of six students and two teachers of Engravers College, in Kakau village of Chikun local government on 3rd October 2019.

While Kachalla was being pursued, security agents arrested three members of his gang, Tukur Usman, Shehu Bello and Mustapha Mohammed in April 2020 as you can see in the attached picture.

Kachalla’s image is also attached, clad in a jacket and a winter cap.

In another development, troops repelled an attempted attack by armed bandits along the Galadimawa-Zaria road in Giwa local government area.

The bandits blocked the road for some minutes, shooting sporadically at motorists plying the route.

A combined team of the 4 Battalion and Field Engineers Regiment of the Nigerian army mobilized to the location. The road was cleared and normalcy was restored, with no kidnapping or harm to motorists.

Troops and police are currently dominating the area with patrols.

Furthermore, the government was informed of an incident in a forest located in the Western part of Chikun local government, where armed bandits opened fire on some hunters.

Security agencies are carrying out investigations to ascertain the exact location as well as fatalities if any. Citizens will be briefed on the operational feedback as it emerges.

In the meantime, Governor Nasir El-Rufai has appealed to Tsohon Gaya, Sabon Gaya and other communities with members missing in the hunting expedition to remain calm.

Signed

Samuel Aruwan
Commissioner, Internal Security and Home Affairs, Kaduna State.

Other stories

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Kaduna State Government has said that it can authoritatively confirm that motorists are plying the Kaduna-Abuja highwqy which cuts across Chikun, Kachia and Kagarko local government areas.

The government was reacting to a story by a national daily that the road had been deserted following the attack by kidnappers recently.

“Vehicular movement is active on the double lane road, as commercial activities are also visible in local markets in Akilbu, Rijana, Kateri, Jere, Doka, Sabon Gayan and other communities surrounding the main road,” Kaduna State Commissioner for Interior and Home Affairs Samuel Aruwan said in a statement on Thursday.

“Ground troops of the Operation Thunder Strike (OPTS) and Police Operatives of the Operation Puff Adder are presently carrying out aggressive fighting patrols on the route, that stretches the three local government areas,” he added.

Read full: Motorists, travelers didn’t desert Kaduna-Abuja highway – KDSG

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Not satisfied with putting out the most eye-catching and talked about football jerseys in recent memory, in 2018, Nike is looking to take its game up a level with the release of a range of sneakers that are an ode to Nigerian heritage.

The Nike ‘Naija’ pack boasts everything you’d expect from the bold and engaging West African nation as the company looks to build on the bridge of athletic and casual wear it has worked upon so intensely over the past years. The connection between football and streetwear is growing evermore, and Nike’s connection with Nigeria is a leader in the field.

Apart from the football influence, there is also one of the NBA variety via none other than one of the most recognizable young faces in sport. NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo‘s recent signature sneaker release touched on his Nigerian roots, bringing together strong colours and powerful patterns.

The Nike Zoom Freak 2 has been a massive hit within the NBA community, and it was recently announced that it would be getting the ‘Naija treatment’ in a specially released colourway. The Freak 2 is blasted with the zig-zag pattern features you’d expect, and now it’s time for Nike to leave the court and take on other areas of the sneaker community.

Read Also: Asian rivers are turning black. Fashion is to blame.

Giannis’ links with football are well known, stemming from his late father, Charles, bonding with his sons through the sport and enabling them to fall in love with the game. Giannis, himself, revealed that he was an Arsenal fan as a child and played football regularly before switching his full-time focus to basketball.

“I’m really interested in soccer; I used to support Arsenal back in the day when I was younger,” Giannis said last year as his Milwaukee Bucks prepared to take on Charlotte Hornets in the NBA Paris game.

“My dad used to play soccer. I played soccer from nine until 12, and then 12-and-a-half I started playing basketball.”

That love still burns bright, and now three classic Nike silhouettes have been given the ‘Naija’ treatment. The Air Force 1 React, Air Presto and Air Max 95 have all been released in tribute to Nigerian heritage.

All the sneakers feature the pine green, black, sub lime and white palette with geometric and zig-zag details that reference the Nigerian team kits. Other standout features include the use of reflective accents on the heels and custom-woven lace loops that ensure the release is unique rather than a generic, bland format.

The 95 has become a particular success story around the globe, emerging as one of the most sought-after streetwear items in fashion.

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Often teamed with tracksuits, or even jeans for a more high-end look, the signature multiple layers on the sidewall all display a vibrant green hue with intricate detailing that respects the culture of Nigerian styling.

Look inside the sneaker, meanwhile, and you cannot miss the ‘Nigerian Football Federation’ logo.

Lagos, London, Paris, or New York. Wherever it may be, it’s inevitable that Nigeria will continue to have the most heat around even in the coldest months.

Read Also: Bomb on a donkey was used to attack Zulum

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Labour unions have suspended the planned nationwide strike action scheduled to commence on Monday, September 28, after reaching an agreement with the Federal Government.

The meeting between the FG and representatives of the labour unions started a about 8:30pm, spilled over till the morning of September 28.

Representatives of the Federal Government included the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha; Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed; Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo; Minister of State for Power, Godwin Jeddy-Agba and Group Managing Director of the NNPC.

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Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai is coming under intense pressure from different quarters as the race to succeed late Emir of Zazzau Alhaji Shehu Idris enters defining moment.

Dateline Nigeria learnt that princes who have indicated interest in sitting on the Zazzau ancient throne are reaching out to influential Nigerians to make a case for them to the governor, who has a final say on who becomes the new emir.

Already, the council of Kingmakers had communicated its recommendations to the governor with three names – Iyan Zazzau Alhaji Bashar Aminu, Yariman Zazzau Alhaji Munir Jafaru, and Turakin Zazzau Alhaji Aminu Shehu Idris.

However, the friends of the governor are reportedly mounting pressure on him to include Magajin Gari Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, who is also said to be El-Rufai’s favorite, even though he got no vote from the kingmakers.

“This [non inclusion of Magajin Gari] is basically what is causing the delay. The governor couldn’t believe that Magajin Gari was edged out and is now looking for a way of bringing him back.

Related: Zazzau Emirate: How to choose out of contending candidates – Dr Gumi

“That is why the governor said 11 princes are under consideration despite the fact that the kingmakers had trimmed the list to just three. We are however watching,” Balarabe Ali Muchiya, a keen follower of activities in the Zazzau emir’s palace told Dateline Nigeria.

He added that the governor’s decision can make or mar the emirate.

Sources also informed Dateline Nigeria that the names of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Gen TY Danjuma are among those being circulated as supporting the candidacy of Turakin Zazzau Aminu Shehu Idris, who is the eldest son of the late emir.

Yariman Zazzau Munir Jaafaru is said to be enjoying the support of former military president Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and former Minister of Defence Aliyu Gusau among others.

“The level of interest as to who becomes the new Emir of Zazzau is unbelievable. Even the governor is begging for prayers for him to make the right choice. So may Almighty Allah decide what is best for all of us,” Nura Sani, a resident of Zaria, said.

‘Only God’s choice is perfect’

Commenting on the process, a former Federal Permanent Secretary, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed said, “With due deference for the need to be thorough, it is important to remind Gov el-Rufai that only God’s choice is perfect. The longer the process is delayed, the more widespread the speculations that govt is looking for its own Emir, not the Emir of Zazzau. There is history here too.

“There are only the kingmakers, the candidates and the governor involved in this process. No decision will please everybody. Millions are waiting to see if due process, justice and respect for tradition have influenced the decision, not short-term political gains or personal whims.”

Related: KDSG gives update on selection process for new Emir of Zazzau

Also commenting, a lecturer at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Suleiman A. Suleiman wrote, “El-Rufai knows very well that he has already made up his mind who to select, but is trying to shore up support for his choice by pretending that the process of his selecting the new Emir has been deliberative and systematic, even if, in reality, it might have been arbitrary, since he has the power to choose whichever prince he wants. And that is where the problem begins.

“He has now been preempted by newspaper stories about the three nominees screened by the Zazzau kingmakers. The whole country now knows who the three nominees are, what criteria were used to grade them, and what points each scored.

“That means the Governor’s choice is now restricted to those three. If he chooses anyone outside of these three princes, he’ll be open to accusations of bias and arbitrariness, or of political favouritism. The same charges can be made if the Governor selects the candidate with the lowest score.

“My guess is that either one of the three nominees or someone with interest in their nomination leaked the kingmakers’ report to the press to call off El Rufai’s political bluff and showmanship. I hope that the whole process comes to an end peacefully. But there is a lesson in this for our political leaders: stop playing infantile politics with serious issues.”

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The news is on Al Jazeera, Anadolu, Sahara, Punch and more.. We don't do fake news.

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At least 15 people were killed Friday in an attack by the Boko Haram terror group on a convoy of a state governor.

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum was on his way to meet residents displaced by the terror group, according to local media, who said he survived the attack in the Baga region without injuries.

Deaths included seven police officers, three soldiers and an unknown number injured.

About 3 million people have been displaced in more than a decade of terror activities by Boko Haram. Scores of civilians are still trapped in remote communities unable to flee because of insecurity on the roads.

The violence, which has killed more than 30,000 people, has spread to neighboring Niger, Chad and Cameroon, prompting a military response.

Borno state is the epicenter of the insurgency.

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Eight princes of the Zazzau emirate have formally written the kingmakers indicating interest to succeed Alhaji Shehu Idris who passed on after 45 years on the ancient throne.

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The contenders are from three – Katsinawa, Mallawa, Barebari – of the four ruling houses of the emirate. No prince applied from the Sullubawa ruling house, Daily Trust reported citing palace sources.

The council of kingmakers had declared 5pm Wednesday as the deadline for the submission of application by interested princes.

The Katsinawa ruling house has four applicants namely Wamban Zazzau, Alhaji Abdulkareem Aminu; Iyan Zazzau, Alhaji Bashar Aminu; Dangaladiman Zazzau, Alhaji Aminu Idris and Turakin Zazzau, Alhaji Aminu Shehu Idris.

The Mallawa ruling house has three applicants: Ciroman Zazzau, Alhaji Sa’idu Mailafiya; Barden Kudun Zazzau, Alhaji Hassan Tijjani, and Magajin Garin Zazzau, Alhaji Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli.

The Barebari ruling house has only Yariman Zazzau, Alhaji Munir Jafaru as applicant.

Meanwhile, the Zazzau emirate has officially written to the Kaduna State government communicating the death of Emir Shehu Idris.

The Kaduna State government has also said that it was awaiting the recommendations of the kingmakers.

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A couple with their three kids have been killed in a car crash while travelling from Kano to Jigawa State.

The deceased include Abubakar Isa Birnin Kudu (father), his wife Firdausi and three children: Sabir, Sabrin and Mahir. Sabir was said to have given up at the hospital.

Dateline Nigeria learnt from sources that the accident occurred on Sunday when the family members were returning to Dutse, Jigawa State capital, after visiting the father’s parents in Kano.

The three children (Sabrin, Mahir and Sabir) with their mother Firdausi

The father Abdullahi Isa Birnin Kudu with Mahir, the youngest of the three kids

Charred remains of the vehicle in which the family members were travelling
One of the sources said “the kids were our pupils in school. We have no information as to what caused the accident which reportedly occurred around Gaya (Kano).

“But their janaza was held in Kano where they were all buried. May Almighty Allah forgive them and strengthen their family.”

When contacted on Monday, the spokesman for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Kano, Kabiru Daura, said the accident was handled by the Jigawa State Sector Command of the Corps.

The spokesman for the FRSC in Jigawa State, Ado Adamu, could not be reached for comment.


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Survival Fund: Registration portal opens today – FG

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The last colonial Governor of Northern Nigeria, Sir Bryan Sharwood Smith, was the District Officer (D.O.) of Zaria when the Emir of Zazzau, Ibrahim Kwasau, died in 1936. Sharwood Smith, not the Resident, contrived the emergence of Jafaru as the new Emir.

To understand how he did it and what may be going on in the mind of the present Kaduna State Governor regarding who will emerge as the next Emir of Zazzau, we need to understand the personality of Sharwood Smith, for Malam Nasiru El-Rufaí is, as it were, Smith-reincarnate. So, the present Governor is likely to behave the same way Sharwood Smith did under similar circumstance.

In The British in Northern Nigeria, Robert Heussler found Sharwood Smith and John Hinton Carrow as the most effective D.Os that Northern Nigeria ever had. He spent pages describing their personalities and the modernizing effort in Zaria, Kano, Argungu and Sokoto. For they were highly effective and ruthless in getting things done rightly.

“Mai-Wandon-Karfe”

Like El-Rufai, Heussler described Sharwood Smith as “the compact Yorkshireman … gives the impression of having to control a superabundance of energy”. Shortly after, he described him as a “participant who is totally committed to the task… Seeing him pacing back and forth as he talked and almost never sitting down, the Africans dubbed him ‘Mai Wandon Karfe’, the man in iron trousers. Even as a junior officer, Sharwood Smith was not a man of whom it was possible to be unaware.”

Read Also: Zazzau Emirate: 5 frontrunners for the ancient throne

El-Rufai also shares Smith’s passion for development and modernization. In Argungu, Heussler reported that “Communications with Gwandu and Sokoto had become better. D.O.s passion for road building had reduced parochialism in rural areas as well… [He] lined the old town with trees…a new market appeared and a new residence for the Emir.” Think of what is going on in Kaduna today. A Smithian governor is in town.

But Sharwood Smith, like El-Rrufai, was always strategic, making the best of the situation without taking his eyes off the ball. “Sharwood Smiths handling of Argungu”, wrote Heussler, “was a mixture of toughness and common sense.” As a D.O. he worked hard to gain the Emir’s confidence until he was able to carry out a “clean up” that saw a number of corrupt and inefficient Native Authority officials dismissed.

But in the case of a slave who held the title of Majidadi, Heussler said, “although he had a bad record, he was young and able and the N.A. could not afford to be cavalier with anyone who had talent. The man was warned and put on probation. Slowly the D.O. worked downwards from the top of the N.A., encouraging the capable and the straight, dealing quickly and firmly with others. When he handed over to his successor in 1932 Sharwood Smith was able to report improvement in the atmosphere at emirate headquarters.”

No wonder, typical of his type, El-Rufai does not have patience for incompetent and inefficient officials, hence his sacking of many teachers and officials of state and local governments to the disapproval of less firm people like me.Another similarity to El-Rufai manifested in Heussler’s summary on Sharwood Smith. He said, “Sharwood Smith’s devotion to progress also drew fire from critics, some of whom thought him indifferent to tradition. As to the selection of N.A. officials, it was said that if he had to choose between an honest plodder and a hard-driving, efficient cad he would instinctively support the claims of the latter.”

Zazzau and Sharwood SmithNow my reader has a clear picture of the personality and approach of Sharwood Smith. He was posted to Zaria in 1932. Of course, his personality dominated the N.A. administration well over that of his superior, the Resident. By the time Emir Kwasau died four years later in 1936, it was obvious that the de facto resident, Sharwood Smith, was “ready with an emergency plan…”

Returning to Zaria from Kachia, narrated Heussler, “Sharwood Smith got the traditional electors together in his own house before taking them to the Residency. The names of four candidates for the vacant Emirate were listed…Sharwood Smith had already made up his own mind which candidate suited the needs of the moment… He explained that there were four criteria: the new Emir must be of royal birth; he must be acceptable to the people; he must be acceptable to the Government; and ‘he must have the ability to do what had become a very difficult job, requiring much administrative experience.”

Of interest to this discussion is how Jafaru gained the approval of Sharwood Smith. The contest was reduced to two people. Dan Madami, the son of the late Emir, and Jafaru, a grandson of an Emir, who was sent away in faraway Zangon Kataf as District Head by the former Emir who foresaw the threat his popularity could cause to the ambition of his son.

There was no doubt, wrote Heussler, “that the old Emir and some of his closest advisers would have preferred one of his own sons, a district head who had the title Dan Madami. But Sharwood Smith thought this man, though amiable, somewhat colourless and lacking in the necessary drive. Dan Madami was said to have spent a good deal of money to assure his own election.”

However, it was Jafaru, among all the contenders that gained the appreciation of Sharwood Smith due to his ability and integrity, though his father was not an Emir as tradition for eligibility to become one would demand then. Heussler once again: “The D.O. noticed Ja’afaru’s popularity too and knew that it was based on his ability and integrity.

Of the four major candidates only Ja’afaru had had the experience of working closely with the British as an office mallam. He used a typewriter and kept his own district accounts, practices that were almost unique among district heads of the time. And only Ja’afaru satisfied the administration’s four criteria. Although Kaduna fussed as usual about dynastic considerations, it was Ja’afaru who was introduced as the new Emir to a great crowd outside the Emir’s residence.”

El-Rufai and the New EmirOur present day Sharwood Smith must be facing a similar situation in Zaria. There must be many prominent people seeking the coveted seat and may throw in all they have of influence, connection and wealth. They will use whatever argument they can put forward to disqualify a less materially endowed candidate but who may best meet the expectation of our modern day Sharwood Smith.I have no doubt that El-Rufai will be looking for a partner-Emir that will meet the challenges of the information age, where both opportunities and problems are globalized.

If Sharwood Smith was attracted to Jafaru’s ability to use “a typewriter and kept his own district accounts, practices that were almost unique among district heads of the time”, El-Rufai for sure will not fail to correlate the typewriter to ICT today and will not fail to prefer the most competent candidate even if he would be relatively younger and a bit distant in genealogy, like Jafaru, or a Jafari, someone whom he can proudly present as the Emir of the 21st Century.

When the last Emir of Bauchi, Suleiman Adamu, died, the then Governor stipulated the simple condition that the next Emir must be a graduate. That is how the present Emir, the young Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, who was not among the key contenders, emerged. The barometer for Zaria, being a centre of learning, must be of higher calibration, just as is its Governor.

El-Rufai, like Sharwood Smith is cerebral, shrewd and calculating. His penchant for modernity and efficiency cannot be surpassed. His impatience with the past and tradition is legend, like the temper of Carrow. If he is able to discipline his mind at this crucial moment and follow his instincts, he will no doubt be proud of the choice that his judgement will present to the world today, as Sharwood Smith was of Jafaru.

It was refreshing to note that Jafaru emerged among the best three Emirs on Heussler’s scale—the other two being Emirs Yahaya of Gwandu and Abdullahi of Yauri. By coincidence, Zazzau has lost its Emir and the occupant of Kashim Ibrahim House from where Sharwood Smith retired as Governor of Northern Nigeria in 1957 is luckily another Mai-wandon-karfe. The leadership choice he will make for his hometown of Zaria will echo the type made by his legendary distant predecessor. May God be his guide.

Dr. Aliyu U. Tilde, 22 September 2020

The late Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji (Dr.) Shehu Idris who passed on this morning after a brief illness at the 44 NARH will be buried in Zaria today.

This is according to a statement released by the governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai via his official Twitter account.

The governor posted, "VERY SAD: It is with great sadness that I confirm the passing of the father of our state, His Highness Emir of Zazzau, Alh (Dr.) Shehu Idris CFR. He died at the 44 Military Hospital Kaduna today after a brief illness."

He confirmed the Janazah will take place in Zaria by 5p, today.

"Janazah prayer in Zaria is scheduled for 5pm in Sha Allah.", the governor added.

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Palace sources have confirmed Emir of Zazzau Dr Shehu Idris dies at 84. Allah Ya jikan shi, Ya gafarta mi shi.

He is indeed dad, palace sources have confirmed. Read here: (Breaking) Emir of Zazzau Dr Shehu Idris dies

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Introduction

My name is Masturah Aminu Baba. I am a social development worker, a researcher and also an entrepreneur.

What about education?

I studied Biochemistry for my undergraduate, Master’s Degree in Health Economics. I am currently undergoing my MBA specializing in Project Management.

Entrepreneurship…

My journey started after graduating from the university back in 2014. While waiting for my NYSC mobilization, my mum suggested that I enrol at a fashion school, it wasn’t my choice at that time. I just obliged. I went to a fashion academy where I did my diploma, a 6-month programme on fashion design.

I later abandoned it and went for my youth service and I started working. A year after learning fashion design, I started making random dresses for myself – and sometimes family will just admire, and one year later, I decided to make something out of it since people are interested, so let me just try it. So, in 2016, I officially started the brand.

What is the brand name?

It’s called Très Chic. It’s a ready to wear women’s brand. It’s an online business where people order and it gets delivered. I mostly create the designs.

You mentioned you had a diploma in fashion design… apart from that, any other inspiration why you chose fashion?

I actually didn’t choose fashion – fashion chose me. It wasn’t my dream to go to any fashion school, I didn’t even want to – but then my mum wanted me to. Somehow, along the way I found it interesting. I didn’t even think I would make anything out of it. I was just learning for learning sake. But then as time goes on, people were interested. I will make dress for myself and friends and family will come to my house and take them for free. Over time, I decided to turn it into a business because so many people are interested in my pieces and thefact that it was ready to wear.

That was how the brand started.

Are you training anyone?

Currently, I am not training anyone because my business is online. Sometimes, I only make the designs but outsource the production.

And you are into community service…

Last year, I started something. Certain percentage of my profit goes to supporting young girls in secondary schools.

I am a member of Global Shapers community. It’s a voluntary organization where youths come together to address issues in their community. We do guidance and counselling. I saw an opportunity to support young girls so that they can do something and rely on themselves. 10-15% of my annual profit from Treschic is used to sponsor young girls who have graduated from secondary school to a fashion academy. We started last year, in partnership with Global Shapers. They select the beneficiaries and I just pay for the scholarship.

Talking about Global Shapers

I am a shaper and currently the vice curator for 2020-2021.

Every year there is an election for curator and vice curator. I was elected vice curator and I will be occupying the position till July, 2021.

Back to fashion. What are your successes so far?

My success is the kind of people I have met.

I have met so many amazing people through my brand. People that support me beyond the fashion brand. I work with an NGO. And through my brand, I have met people that have supported me in my line of work.

So, my biggest success is the calibre of people I have interacted with. There are people I can reach out to when I have issues concerning my brand. There are people that do free publicity for me.

My brand has exposed me to a lot of people that on a normal day, I won’t be privileged to know.

What about challenges?

The number one for me is combining a full-time work with fashion design, full time. I work from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, sometimes weekends. So having the time to concentrate on my business is hard.

I am the only person managing the business.

Sometimes I outsource my production. And my inability to supervise may affect the quality of work.

And trend?

Fashion comes with trend. You make some pieces, wear it a few times and its no longer a trend. So you have to brainstorm and come up with new ideas.

Looking forward

I was planning to open a showroom earlier this year but COVID disrupted such plans. However, I am still working towards setting up before the end of the year, In sha Allah.

Looking forward, I hope Très Chic becomes a househild name for every woman looking for exquisite ready to wear outfits.

Full interview with Masturah Baba

Former Chelsea striker Demba Ba has called on footballers to stand up for Uighur Muslims and condemn China’s treatment of the minority group regardless of the financial consequences.

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U.N. experts estimate than more than a million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims have been detained against their will for several years in camps in the far western region of Xinjiang.

China denies mistreatment of the group, saying the camps holding many Uighurs provide vocational training and are needed to fight extremism.

“When are we going to see the rest of the world stand up for Muslims?” Ba, himself a Muslim from Senegal who suffered at least one incident of racial abuse when he played for Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua in 2018, told the BBC.

“I have to try and organise something so football players can get together and, in the meantime, talk about this matter because not a lot of people want to.

“I know there are footballers who want to fight for justice. As sportspeople, we have a power we don’t even know. If we get together and talk, things change. If we stand up, people stand up with us.”

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil, a German Muslim of Turkish origin, last year called Uighurs “warriors who resist persecution” and criticized both China’s crackdown and the silence of Muslims elsewhere in the world in response.

China’s state broadcaster CCTV removed Arsenal’s game against Manchester City from its schedule after Ozil spoke out.

Arsenal were quick to distance themselves from Ozil’s comments at the time and Ba, 35, who now plays for Turkish club Istanbul Basaksehir, believes players are being pressured to stay silent on such matters.

“Arsenal talked about Black Lives Matter but when it was about Uighur lives Arsenal didn’t want to talk about it because of the pressure and economic impact,” he said.

“When there are financial benefits, some people close their eyes. Money has more value than real values. I think clubs put a lot of pressure on players not to get involved, but how can you not when you see the injustice with your own eyes.”

The U.S. National Basketball Association said it incurred substantial financial losses in China after a Houston Rockets official tweeted his support for Hong Kong’s anti-China protests last October, infuriating Beijing.

Read Also:
- Guardiola’s return to Barcelona is impossible, says agent
- Meet UK’s first Muslim female referee
- NFF management, staff to undergo COVID-19 tests

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Nigeria’s foreign affairs ministry has summoned Ghana’s Chargé d’Affaires to protest against the recent forceful closure of shops owned by Nigerian traders in Ghana, according to a ministry spokesperson.

Ferdinand Nwoye told the BBC that the government expects “a quick resolution.”

A viral video emerged this week showing forced closure of shops belonging to Nigerian traders in Ghana’s capital, Accra.

Read Also: Ghana closed our shops, Nigerian traders cry out

Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister Geoffrey Onyeama tweeted on Monday that “urgent steps will be taken”.

Meanwhile in Ghana, the head of Nigerian Traders’ Association in the Ashanti region told the BBC that more than 100 shops belonging to Nigerian traders have been sealed off in Accra.

Kizito Obiora said foreign shop owners may opt to leave the country after their businesses were closed.

The authorities in Ghana said the traders failed to comply with regulations for foreign-owned businesses.