By Yemi Itodo

The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo General Assembly Worldwide, Barr Basil Onyeachonam Onuorah, has commended President Muhammadu Buhari for yielding to the long time expectations of Nigerians for the change of Service Chiefs.

In a congratulatory message on Wednesday, the Ohaneze President charged the newly appointed Service Chiefs to get prepared for "the onerous task and daring challenges of insecurity in our country".

Barr. Onuorah, however, lamented that, despite cries of the Nd'Igbo of being marginalized, the President has also failed to pick any of the appointed service chiefs from the South East.

He said, "there is no Igbo man among the newly appointed service Chiefs. Those who claim that the newly appointed Chief of Defense Staff, Maj. Gen. Leo Irabor is an Igbo man should tell us if IRABOR is an Igbo name".

He therefore advised President Buhari and his party, the All Progressive Congress (APC), to look inward and make an Igbo person the head of the Nigeria Police Force.

"As the Inspector General of Police is due for retirement and fast getting ready to exit police apex position, we call on the APC led Federal Government to consider an Igbo man for the position of new Inspector General of Police.

"If there is no Igbo man or woman qualified for the job of IGP, promote the Igbos next in line in the Police Force to fit in", the Ohaneze said.

Source: https://www.naijavoicenews.com/2021/01/27/appoint-igp-from-south-east-ohaneze-ndigbo-tells-buhari/

By Yemi Itodo

A 40-year old man from Gombe State, Mr. Mustapha Abubakar, has declared himself Commandant-General of yet-to-be approved Nigerian Peace Corps (NPC).

Abubakar, until recently, was said to be the personal assistant to the Commandant-General of a Non-Governmental Organization, National Unity Corps (NUC), Chinedu Nneji.

The moment Abubakar broke up from NUC in 2020, the Nneji-led group, according to a report, made a disclaimer on him via national dailies.

The drama took a twist Monday, when Abubakar officially addressed the press and said "the presidential inauguration committee" had made him the Commandant-General of NPC.

Reacting to the development, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN), Patriot Milicent Umoru-Osakwua, described as misleading and sour claim, coming from an impostor, urging the general public to discountenance it.

Osakwua said Mr. Abubakar "has never been a member of the Peace Corps of Nigeria whose Bill went to the 8th National Assembly and overwhelmingly passed by the two Chambers as Nigerian Peace Corps Establishment Bill".

She added that, "though the Nigerian Peace Corps Establishment Bill has been reintroduced by the two Chambers of the 9th National Assembly, it is yet to be a legal entity or enjoy any statutory backing until when passed and assented to by Mr. President as constitutionally provided".

Osakwua stressed that, the Nigerian Peace Corps Bill currently before the National Assembly is to give statutory backing to the existing Peace Corps of Nigeria under the leadership of its National Commandant, Prof. Dickson Akoh.

"The Nigerian Peace Corps, when given statutory backing via the assent of the Bill by Mr. President, in accordance to Part 3, Section 11(1), is to be headed by a National Commandant who shall be appointed by the President and Commander-In-Chief, on the recommendation of the Minister.

"Therefore, any claim by any individual to have been appointed as Commandant-General of Nigerian Peace Corps by members of the Corps is not only laughable but illegal, ridiculous and self-seeking", Osakwua added.

While urging members of the Corps to remain focus and prayerful on the Bill pending in the National Assembly, Osakwua also called on the general public and officers not to be distracted "by the antics of Mustapha Abubakar".

Source: https://www.naijavoicenews.com/2021/01/12/drama-as-young-man-declares-self-commandant-general-nigerian-peace-corps/

By Oriri Peter

The National Coordinator for #PROJECT2023, Comrade Abba Adaudu has began campaign for emergence of a Youth President of Nigeria ahead of 2023.

This was made known at a World Press Conference on Monday in Makurdi, Benue State, Comrade Adaudu noted that the only alternative to stabilize the country from it’s dwindling shape was to elect a youth as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come 2023.

He opined that in 1960 when the country gain her independence and the post independent era, those who were trusted with the responsibilities of piloting the affairs of the country were mostly youth including the presidency, but wondered why in the contemporary electoral history of the country, the Youths were relegated to the background.


Adaudu who is an economist by training and later became a youth activist also revealed that the organization code named PROJECT 2023 was solely aimed at sensitizing the Youths on the need to politely reject youth inclusion in governance but rather embrace the taking over of the governance structure especially at the center since to him, the youth constitute majority in the build up of every electoral process in the country.

According to him, the recently held protests nationwide by #EndSARS protesters who were mostly youths clearly showed that the current crop of leadership at the helm of affairs in the country have failed the nation, hence the need to elect capable youths at the presidency, state and local government levels.

The #Project2023 coordinator as well spoke on other key issues ranging from Agriculture, qualitative education, skills acquisition as well as industrialization among others.

Source: https://www.naijavoicenews.com/2021/01/04/project2023-abba-seeks-for-youth-presidency/

Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Friday, felicitated with the people of the state and Nigerians on the occasion of the New Year, 2021.

The Kebbi State Governor who is also the Chairman Progressive Governor’s Forum however solemnly recalled that,the just outgone year, 2020, was regrettably too turbulent and intricate .

This, Bagudu, noted , was sequel to the myriad of unpalatable events and occurrences, with devastating socioeconomic and health impacts .

These, included the raging global Coronavirus Disease pandemic and the wanton destructions caused by the unprecedented flood disasters , among others .

These unforseen phenomena, Bagudu averred had far reaching consequences on the globe, without any exception to Nigeria or Kebbi State .

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. YAHAYA SARKI, The Governor further said that , the past year was an extremely difficult for all those involved in governance, occasioned by the above objoxious events .

” These unforseen dastardly developments had significantly withered the resources of nations, including Nigeria.


“Alhamdulillahi, we were able to grudgingly weather the storm, with exemplary leadership from our indefatigable leader, President Muhammadu Buhari.

” We should never despair , just as we are really very optimistic that , the brand new year , 2021, promises a lot of fortunes and good news for the citizens ,” Bagudu, added .

Bagudu also appealed to Nigerians to continue to be patient , persevering and fervently prayerful.

He also urged the people of the state to sustain their subsisting tempo of support and cooperation to the three tiers of government.

The Governor further urged the people of the state to sustain the observance of the prescribed COVID-19 prevention protocols .

These include the use of face masks, regular hand washing and social distancing, among others.

31/12/2020
OPEN LETTER TO THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF BENUE STATE, H.E SAMUEL ORTOM ON THE IJIGBAN CHIEFTAINCY TUSSLE

Your Excellency Sir,

FLAWS IN THE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S LEGAL ADVICE AND THE LIKELY GRIEVOUS CONSEQUENCE OF A FALLACIOUS LEGAL INTERPRETATION

With humble regards, the above matter refers.

The attention of the concerned people of Ijigban of Ado Local Government Area of Benue State has been drawn to an official memoranda, emanating from the office of the Attorney General of Benue State signed by the Chief Legal Officer, Wombo J.I and the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs signed by Mrs. R.M Chia on the Ado Chieftaincy Affairs, particularly Ijigban District.

While the memorandum issued by the Attorney General of the State seems more like a response of the Attorney General to an initial memo requesting clarification from the Bureau, the other was addressed to the Ado Council Chairman, in which case the Executive Chairman, Hon. James Oche is directed by the Bureau to maintain "status quo" in line with the correspondence from the Attorney General's Office.

Your Excellency Sir, it is pertinent to bring you to speed as regards this issue. In March 5th, 2008 the then District Head of Ijigban His Royal Highness Chief Oriri Ocheje went on a hunting expenditure and as customarily done, his son Chief Simon Agbo Oriri was appointed Acting District Head pending the election of a substantive head. In 2013 there was an attempt to conduct election that broke into fracas with Mr Christopher Okpekwu Onumah claiming to emerge the District Head.

Dissatisfied with this, his rival Mr. Samuel Ogbu challenged the said election in Suit No: Okp/HC/5/2013 and motion No: Okp/HC/154M/2014. wherein they both filed motions seeking to restrain each other from acting or parading themselves as District Head pending the determination of the case. One of the motions was granted in a court ruling dated 4th September, 2015 restraining Mr. Onumah from acting in the capacity of District Head pending the determination of the main suit. The ruling further ordered that, the status quo ante bellum be maintained.

In the light of this and consequent upon a letter from the Bureau to the Ado Local Government Chairman to reinstate the Acting District Head pending the outcome of the case, the Chairman obliged and reinstated Mr. Chief Simon Agbo Oriri on 1st December, 2020.

However Sir, having carefully read and analyzed the two official communications, we are constrained to make the following observations with a view to properly enlightening interested individuals who may have been taken aback, upon reading these communications and to also seek your fatherly intervention not to allow the Attorney General misdirect chieftaincy affairs under your watch as Executive Governor.

1. It must be noted that the office of the Attorney General, or any other, cannot, under any guise, invalidate or upturn a valid decision of a court of competent jurisdiction. If anything of such is to be done, it would be through the same court, a court of coordinate jurisdiction, or one of superior jurisdiction. There is, thus, no potency in the advice of the Attorney General, upon which the Bureau seeks to rely. It should be seen as what it clearly is: an advice beclouded by humongous political considerations, rather than any legal basis.

2. The concept of "status quo," as used in the Bureau's communication could be said to be misdirected. If there is any status quo to be maintained, it is that ordered by the court of law which the Council Chairman, Hon. James Oche has fully implemented. Even an elementary student of law understands what "status quo ante bellum," as ordered by court, implies. The Bureau cannot, therefore usurp the powers of the court by using one status quo to nullify an already implemented status quo. Status quo can only be one; in this case, that ordered by the court.

3. That the Council Chairman cannot, in good conscience, implement the politically-ridden "legal advice" of the Attorney General of Benue State as it is a recipe for disaster among the Ijigban community. The pulse of the public, as accentuated by the court order, must be gauged in an action such as this, in order not to set an otherwise peaceful community on a calamitous path just to please those who seek to rule at all cost, without recourse to their legitimacy level.

4. The spirit of the ruling of the court wherein it held that status quo be maintained instructs parties to return or maintain the position of things ab initio before the suit until the just determination of the questions brought before the court (who legitimately won the election?). The Court in her wisdom has given an erudite ruling to preserve the res and the would be judgment which could be rendered nugatory if status quo is not maintained. Assuming that at the end of the day, judgment is given against Mr. Onumah, he would have succeeded in illegitimately presiding over, and shortchanging the will of the Ijigban people.

5. It is also our firm opinion that the Attorney General and Special Adviser of the Bureau, in issuing the advice and directive respectively betrayed the positions entrusted to them for political and/or pecuniary gains, having allowed themselves to be used by a member of the House of Representatives for this ignominious action.

In conclusion your Excellency, we humbly urge you to quickly wade into this brewing crisis and ensure the court order is religiously implemented in the interest of justice. Justice is blind and must not recognize anyone, no matter how close he is to the Benue People's House.
Merry Christmas and happy new year in advance my youth friendly governor.

Yours faithfully,
Oriri O. Peter
(For and On behalf of the Concerned People of Ijigban District of Ado Local Government)

Benue | Ijigban Chieftaincy Tussle: Oriri Writes Open Letter To Ortom, Highlights Flaws In Attorney General’s legal Advice

https://www.naijavoicenews.com/2020/12/31/benue-ijigban-chieftaincy-tussle-oriri-writes-open-letter-to-ortom-highlights-flaws-in-attorney-generals-legal-advice/

A Non Government Organization, Global Mission Leader, Social Justice and Peace Advocate headed by it’s National President & CEO, The Para-Mallam Peace Foundation, Rev. Dr Gideon Mallam-Para has reacted over several comments emanating as a result of Bishop Matthew Kukah’s speech on the state of the Nation.

Speaking recently to journalists at a press conference, the President stressed that “Government is too big and important to be left with hands of politicians.”

Dr. Gideon further said, For over 44 years that Bishop Kukah has served as a Priest, till date, this would be the first time his Christmas homily has been so widely read and talked about nationwide. Perhaps globally, special thanks to all social media influencers. For all practical purposes, the Nigerian Presidency gave oxygen to Kukah’s homily! If I were Bishop Kukah, I would thank Mr. President for the publicity he gave to my homily in this remarkable unforgettable year 2020.’ Indeed, how could we forget 2020 so quickly? Not with COVID-19 still fresh on our minds.


For Nigerians, the real question remains, should they be battling the COVID pandemic, worry about their personal safety on the roads and the confines of their homes or be worried about a President and his hangers-on who choose to go after them for ‘wailing’ over their travails and woes in a country which today is ranked among the most dangerous countries to live in the world and also the poverty capital of the world?

I have never been able to wrap my head around this fact. Each time well-meaning Nigerians cry out against the insecurity and insincerity of our leaders; the President’s spokespersons and sometimes security personnel start attacking and going after such decent citizens. All because they are honest to their conscience by speaking out for love of our country?

Dr Gideon further explained, There is no doubt that Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah’s Christmas homily took a swipe at the glaring leadership deficits we all see in Nigeria under President Buhari’s government. But instead of listening and appreciating Bishop Kukah and others for having the courage to tell them the truth, the Presidents’ spokespersons are crying wolf against Kukah. They and other agents of confusion are now accusing Kukah of instigating a coup and dividing the nation by setting the South against the North, etc. Really? Was this the spirit of Kukah’s homily? Why is this government ALWAYS defending the indefensible?

They did not stop there, the Minister of Information and Culture went as far as calling Bishop Kukah graceless meaning ‘lacking grace, elegance, or charm.’ He also used the word impious meaning ‘showing a lack of respect for God or religion.’ It is incomprehensible that such words could be used to denigrate Bishop Kukah, a respected Bishop of the Catholic Church in Nigeria.

This government is going too far. The Minister went further to say that “religious leaders have a responsibility to speak truth to power, such truth must not come wrapped in anger, hatred, disunity and religious disharmony.” Yet, the truth is that government cannot also afford to hold itself to lower standards of accountability. We must avoid a situation in which it is okay for government to lie while citizens are not encouraged to counter such with truth. Truth telling must be two sided.

The Minister went further to say that Bishop Kukah was “Calling for a violent overthrow of a democratically-elected government, no matter how disguised such a call is, and casting a particular religion as violent is not what any religious leader should engage in, and certainly not in a season of peace.” Reading the same homily, the Minister read, I have real difficulties drawing the same conclusions. I found no place in the homily where Kukah called for a “violent overthrow of the State.”

I noticed that this is the same convoluted and unfounded line of argument being advanced by MURIC and others. What is government trying to spin along with their spin merchants? Groups like MURIC and others attempting to speak in defense of government against Kukah are missing the fine points on the issues he sought to draw both ours and government’s attention to. Kukah was not just speaking to government only but also to Nigerians. The call by Bishop Kukah should be a cause for soul searching and change of approach in governance rather than the futile and infantile invectives and vituperations it is receiving from official quarters and their paid pipers.


I urge Bishop Kukah and other religious leaders: both Christian and Muslim clerics to continue with the responsibility of speaking truth to power. We must continue and never keep quiet, for to kowtow would be spiritual suicide. Prophetic voices must NEVER surrender at the altar of political expediency. Saving Nigeria should be our collective priority. Nigerians own Nigeria not the leaders. Our collective wisdom can save Nigeria, not the self-serving interest of some in power.


Dr. Gideon called on the government not to respond negatively to what Nigerians say which they don’t agree with. Governments do not always have the monopoly of being the only ones who know everything about Nigeria and how to fix it.

Government’s performance so far, shows a major need for improvement in their primary responsibility of protecting lives and properties. For example, when the Kankara boys in Katsina State were kidnapped, the initial reaction of government was to downplay the numbers when they suggested that only 10 students were taken. In the first place should the conversation be really about numbers or saving lives? The initial numbers provided by the Federal government was flat-out LIES. This portrayed the government as though they care less about human lives. They need to take additional concrete steps to practically end these killings!

If this government sees itself as democratic, why are they in the habit of unleashing the Police or DSS on people who demonstrate their fundamental rights to freedom of speech in speaking truth to power? Let’s get this straight, Kukah has spoken not only for himself but millions of Nigerians who harbour much pains, hurts; and are wailing deep inside their hearts. Our schools are not safe neither our markets, major roads (especially the notorious Abuja – Kaduna) are not safe. University lecturers are not safe in their homes, religious leaders both Muslims; but especially Christians are not safe in their homes or in their Churches. Our villages are not safe, may be the Government should explain why this is the case even after almost 6 years of their being in power. It seems to one that this government’s main attraction is the grandeur of power and its trappings and not the responsibility that comes with winning elections and governing responsibly.


Dr Gideon said, Let it be known widely that this is not the first time the Presidency has sought to discredit and rubbish Kukah. They tried it in December 2019, and it failed. They tried it on Pastor Enoch Adeboye a few months back and they failed. Prof Ango Abdullahi of the Northern Elders forum was dismissed as a one-man band – why?


At the height of the killings in the Middlebelt, Femi Adesina, a Presidential spokesperson said it was better to give your land to a ‘foreigner’ than to be 6 feet underground. As if not to be left out in the competition of outdoing themselves, Garba Shehu, another Presidential spokesperson a couple of weeks back suggested that the mass slaughter of innocent Borno Zabarmari farmers stem from them not taking permission from the Army to go to the farm. What illogical reasoning!!!

Mr. President, a lot of people had confidence when you were voted into power back in 2015. Many believed things will change for the better. But the facts on ground have nullified such confidence. I urge your Government to recalibrate and commit more to protecting lives and property for all Nigerians. I encourage you to govern more inclusively. Nigerians are fed up with impunity in governance and in the country.

Dr Gideon appealed to the President not to make the mistake because Bishop Kukah has spoken for millions of Christians and Muslims alike, North, South, Central, East and West. I implore you to listen to the spirit of that homily. I know Bishop Kukah personally. He is a man of peace and good conscience. His undying love for this country is real and out there in the open for all to see. Mr. President, you can still redeem your image by changing our national trajectory. Arresting Kukah as some overzealous loud mouths are suggesting could lead to cataclysmic consequences for your government. Listening to them would be a mistake and may trigger catalytic chain reactions. If I were you Mr. President, I would invite Bishop Kukah and other well-meaning Nigerians for further progressive interrogation of his ideas.

Millions of Nigerians still want to see Nigeria work and for your Government to succeed; hence many are speaking out. What they say may appear as bitter political pills but such truth is needed today in Nigeria. This is what Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah has just done in his Christmas homily of 2020, in administering bitter pills (truth) to an ailing nation on the precipice. Let the end of December 2020 set the stage and tune for a brighter and promising New Year for Nigeria. Only truth can inspire hope, justice and peace in 2021. He said.

Source: A National In Search Of Vindication: Buhari Has Done Kukah A Huge Favour – Dr. Gideon

https://www.naijavoicenews.com/2020/12/31/a-national-in-search-of-vindication-buhari-has-done-kukah-a-huge-favour-dr-gideon/

By Yemi Itodo

Nigerian Senate has been called upon to investigate all the donations and allocations to the Boss Mustapha-led Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 from the federation account.

A chieftain of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Dr. Garus Gololo made this call at a press briefing Wednesday in Abuja.

Failure to probe the PTF under the leadership of Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mustapha; the APC chieftain threatened to approach the court and compel his probe.

Gololo also added that the nation needed no other lockdown, stressing that it would have adverse effects on the social, economic, and security situations of the country.

"I'm in support of Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State on this. People are playing politics with this COVID-19. The figures so far released, should tell us which villages or communities the figures emanated from.

"What the masses need now is the security of lives and food security. Those in the villages don't know COVID-19, what they know is hunger and killings of their tribesmen. All the monies they are releasing to Boss Mustapha should be channeled to food production and fighting insurgencies. There is no COVID-19 as they peddle", Gololo said.

He lamented that "despite allocating the sum of N338bn to The PTF and another N8bn recently to fight COVID-19, the Committee is still demanding for another money to procure vaccines. For what"?

Gololo added that, though the Senate had invited the PTF once to explain how it expended the monies, Mustapha could not furnish the lawmakers with reasonable means for spending such a huge amount.

"Now Mustapha is gradually pushing for another lockdown. We won't allow that to happen. We the masses that voted for Buhari won't allow that to happen. Boss Mustapha didn't support Buhari, he lost his Council Ward in Hong local government area of Adamawa State to PDP. So, he won't tell us that he loves Buhari or Nigeria more than us.

"What some of them are after is not about fighting COVID-19, what they are after is enriching their pockets. We won't allow anyone to bring the integrity of Mr. President down. This government is committed to fighting corruption. Probing the SGF and his team should not be excluded", he added.

By Treasure Orokpo

Orokam-born Benue talented and fast-rising crooner, Excellent Ejeh, famously known as Xbizzy, is set to thrill fans at the forth-coming biggest street party on the western flank of Benue Valley, Ochacho Carnival.

The effervescent artiste would be sharing the stage with other A-list singers such as HKN Music head-honcho, David Adeleke, otherwise known as Davido, Mayorkun at the carnival which would hold on December 25 and 26 at No. 7 Ochacho Avenue Otukpo, Benue State.

It was observed that Xbizzy is only indigenous artiste that was picked to perform at the event, a development the organizers attributed to his hard work.

The young man warmed his ways into the hearts of many music buffs in 2018 when he released his debut album entitled 'Success Story'.

The release of Success Story, indeed kick started his journey into stardom in the highly-competitive music industry.

A graduate of Mass Communication, Xbizzy has a lot of head-banging tracks to his credit, amongst which is 'O kpo kpo kpo', a song dedicated to Ochacho Real Homes.

The rave of the moment, whose songs have enjoyed massive airplay on many radio stations across the country and the blogsphere, has worked with other top entertainers and producers, including Gabriel Oche Amanyi, also known as Terry G.

Signed onto iProSound Entertainment, a new record label that is out to hunt and hone raw talents in the Idoma enclave, the youngster has been described by music lovers as ‘the next to blow’ if he remains consistent and not carried away by spectators’ cheers.

"Xbizzy would sure prove his mettle when he mounts the stage in Otukpo this yuletide", Mr. Inalegwu Ameh (Coxxy), his manager told our Reporter.

Ameh hinted that the event was being strictly organized in line with the federal government new COVID-19 guidelines, warning that attendance is strictly by invitation and with recommended facemask.

The National Centre for Women Development (NCWD) commenced a 30-day Artisanship Training for 200 Female Artisans on 23rd November 2020 to enhance their skills in the Construction Industry.

Thus 6 participants from Kebbi and 2 from Zamfara states where supported by H.E Dr Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu to undergo the training which was in six different trades namely:

Plumbing and Pipe Fitting, Plant and Generator Mechanics, Tiling and Masonry, Refrigerator and Air Conditioner Repairs, Plaster of Paris (POP), Electrical Fittings/Wiring.

Upon their return on Friday 18/12/2020 following a successful training, the beneficiaries were received at the Ministry for women affairs by the Special Adviser to the governor on women development Hon Zahrau Wali, the Hon Chairman Zuru LGA Alhaji Kabiru Rafi and Permanent Secretary ministry of women affairs, Hajiya Aisha Maikurata. The beneficiaries had been certified and supported with startup kits from the DG of the women development center Barr Mary Etta.

Addressing the beneficiaries, the dignitaries called on them to make good use of the opportunity provided to them by practicing what they have learned to help their families. They commended the wife of the governor Dr Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu for her efforts in initiating programs that will touch the lives of women and children in the state.

In separate remarks, the beneficiaries Hajara Baka Sami and Suwaiba Abubakar Dabai who could not hide their joy thanked Dr Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu for the love she continues to show to the entire women in the state. Similarly they thanked Hon Zahrau for looking for their welfare all through the course and presents recieved also.

Earlier at the end of the training, the participants were engaged by a team from Medicaid Cancer Foundation for medical education to raise their level of awareness of breast and cervical cancers that are prevalent among women.

The team trained them on self breast extermination and explained the symptoms and preventive measures of cancer after which they were given packs of sanitary pads as well as leaflets carrying medical education on breast and cervical cancer. They were also taken on tour of Medicaid Center in Abuja.

Dr Bagudu is an ardent advocate of women's rights. she especially believes that economic empowerment is the best tool for fighting gender bias. This is why she yet again provided the young women with the opportunity to participate in this worthwhile training. Recently, she commissioned a women skills acquisition center in Women Center Birnin kebbi which trains women in different skills for self reliance and is available to all.

Media Team
Dr ZSB

By Oriri Peter

African NGO a media platforms designed to inform, educate and promote the good work of Africa NGO’s whose major objectives are to touch lives positively has conferred an excellency award to Mr. Ozegbe Chuks Emmanuel, the President of Global Youths Skills Acquisitions and Poverty Eradication Organization.

Global Youths Skills Acquisitions and Poverty Eradication Organization emerged as the winner of ‘Entrepreneur Organization of the Year’ after a rigorous process of nomination, voting, and vetting.

The African NGO Impact Awards is a platform that identifies the impact and contribution of African organizations to their communities or youths development across Africa.

GYSAPEO has over the years proven credible and reliable through its numerous community service projects and programs that have transformed individuals and communities at large.

The award was presented to the organization by Samaila Vangawa the African Coordinator and the secretary Suzan James and a host of others on 19th December 2020.

According to the African Coordinator, while conferring the award to the president of GYSAPEO, he stated that the award is bestowed on the organization to recognize its contribution and impact in touching lives in the African communities and the wider society.
Mr. Ozegbe Chuks Emmanuel has consciously built an image of a humanitarian, result-oriented, a mentor, an authority in the social work sector, a seasoned community development agent.

According to the president, Global Youth Skills Acquisition and Poverty Eradication Organization (GYSAPEO) is the National Apex Organization of women and youths in Nigeria.

The idea is to promote sustainable economic growth and development, at the grassroots, support low-income earners in rural communities, to alleviate poverty, and create mass employment for the economic stability of women and youths, physically challenged, and orphans nationwide.

The occasion was graced by dignitaries from different parts of Nigeria.

According to the GYSAPEO National president in his speech, “It is quite heartwarming that today, the delegates of African NGO came to honor GYSAPEO by presenting an Entrepreneur Organization of the Year Award’ to us, after an extensive independent survey, nomination, voting, and vetting.

“I sincerely appreciate the organization for deeming us fit for this award and we pledge to put more effort into making the lives of Vulnerable Nigerians better.
“With Joy in my heart, I dedicated it to God Almighty, all my state coordinators, local government coordinators, staff, and the entire people we serve. Together we can achieve more” He said.

By Oriri Peter

Baynakum Family Counseling Center Abuja founded by Ustaz (Dr.) Absulfattah Adeyemi, a man known for numerous humanitarian services, hosted widows in Abuja at an event tagged Widows Entrepreneurship Training and Empowerment Program (WETEP) For 2021 Start-Ups.

The event was graced by extraordinary entrepreneurs, Lawyers, Social Workers, Humanitarians, Medical workers and media teams etc.


The aim of the program is to position widows to achieve an equal future.

According to the Founder and Director of BFCC, the name Baynakum is a term, coined from the Qur’an chapter 30 verse 21, which speak technically on the importance of love and mercy “between” spouses, and by extension, between the members of humanity at large.

Ustaz (Dr.) Abdulfattah Adeyemi is a Transformational Marriage Coach/Muslim motivational speaker.


The organization educates the general public on family matters through symposia, lectures, conferences, publications etc.

The occasion was divided into two segments, the first part comprised of extensive lectures by extraordinary speakers.

The first speaker, Coach Salamatu Ladan Shuni who is a Personal Life and Executive Coach, Specialist in Potential Discovery and Business Coaching, took time to teach the widows ‘Financial Literacy’, she made sure they understood budgeting and its importance.


According to her, one of the rules of financial intelligence is that any money that comes into your hand should be divided into four, the first part should be saved, second invested, third pay yourself and save for holiday or vacation.
The second speaker, Asmau Yusuf Maibasira who is known as an entrepreneur, Chef, Marriage Counselor and Life Coach. Opened the eyes of the widows to Business Ideas that sells, she gave list of small businesses that can be established and skills that can be commercialized.


The second segment of the occasion was handled by the Baynakum CEO, who gave bank cheque of twenty thousand naira each to over sixty widows.

Some of the Beneficiaries includes Assanatu Saidu, Cordelia Aisha Mustapha, Zinab Yahaya, Ladidi Toyin Amin, Bikiss Zakari, Lami Adam Isa, Uthman Toyin Khadiyat, Amina Isa, Hajia Maria and numerous others.

The over joyous beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the organization and pledged to use the money given to them judiciously.
The Founder of Baynakum encouraged widows and promised that the grant giving is a new phase of the organization and it has come to stay.



He talked about the plight of widows and assured that the organization will put more effort in training widows through skills acquisitions, render supervisory services, counseling, and legal services.
He emphasized that Islamic religion encourages us to watch out for one another, and help each other.


The Director of Operations Mr. Olayode Abdurasaq aka philosopher king noted that for this to continue the organization needs partners and sponsors, he further opined that they are looking forward to sponsoring intending couples, empowering them to making their marriages work

By Yemi Itodo

The Nigerian Senate, on Wednesday, confirmed the appointment of Chief Onyemuche Nnamani as a Member, Police Service Commission.

President Muhammad Buhari, had in October 2020, sent the nomination of Chief Nnamani for confirmation.

The Senate subsequently referred the nominee to its committee on Police Affairs for screening.

Presenting the Committee report at the Plenary on Wednesday, Chairman of the Committee, Senator Jika Dauda Haliru (Bauchi Central), said the nominee passed the screening exercise, adding that, there was no petition against him.

Senator Chukwuka Utazi (Enugu North), while supporting the nomination of Chief Nnamani, described him as a nationalist who, when appointed, would help the Commission achieve the desired goals.

Utazi said that, despite being a member of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Chief Nnamani was in peace with everyone in Enugu State, including the oppositions, urging his colleagues to support his nomination.

The Senate Chiefwhip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, while calling on his colleagues to support the nomination, said the nation needed someone like Chief Nnamani at the moment.

With no objections to his nomination, the Senate therefore unanimously confirmed the appointment of Chief Nnamani.

Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, a lawyer and former Secretary to Enugu State Government is presently a Chieftain of the APC, an entrepreneur and Chairman of the Autostar Group.

By Yemi Itodo

The Nigerian Senate, on Tuesday, passed for a second reading, the Bill for an Act to establish the Nigerian Peace Corps.

The Bill, which was read the first time in the 9th Senate on Tuesday, 17th December, 2019 is being sponsored by former Senate Leader and Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Senator Ali Ndume.

Leading the debate on Tuesday, Senator Ndume reminded the President of the Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan how the Bill was introduced and passed in the 8th Senate when he (Lawan) was the Senate leader.

"The Bill went through all legislative processes, including Public Hearing and was overwhelmingly passed. The Bill also passed through all the same necessary legislative crucibles in the House of Representatives and eventually passed", Ndume narrated.

He explained the core mandate of the Corps which seeks "to develop, empower, and provide gainful employment for the youth to facilitate peace, volunteerism, community services, neighbourhood watch, nation-building and for other related matters".

Ndume added that, the Bill would "give statutory backing to the existing Peace Corps of Nigeria, which currently has over 187,000 members, comprising of regular staff and volunteers with well-structured network of branches in 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory".

He stressed that, the Peace Corps of Nigeria, which came into existence in 1998, is an incorporated body by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

"Based on its laudable achievements over the years, the Peace Corps was accorded Federal Government recognition, through the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development. On the international scene, the Corps was equally granted a Special Consultative Status by the African Union (AU) and the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)", Ndume added.

He urged his colleagues to support the Bill, saying, "the Nigerian Peace Corps, when established, beside engaging millions of our unemployed youths on permanent basis, has the capacity of complementing the functions of conventional security agencies in the areas of developing its members as supporting agents of social order by providing a second-line of public safety".

Senator Ndume explained that the issues raised by President Muhammad Buhari as reason for withholding assent to the Bill in the 8th Senate had already been addressed in the new Bill.

The Senate leader, Senator Abdullahi Yahaya, while seconding the Bill, urged his colleagues to give accelerated passage to the Bill, since it had already gone through the rudiments of lawmaking at both chambers in the 8th National Assembly.

The Bill had no objections.

President of the Senate, Lawan, who presided over Tuesday's plenary, therefore, referred the Bill to the Senate Committee on Interior, for further legislative actions.

Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State was among hundreds sympathizers who attended the funeral prayer of Hon. Muhammad Sani Umar Kalgo,a former House of Representatives Member, representing Birnin Kebbi/ Kalgo/ Bunza Federal Constituency.

The late former federal lawmaker, who was also one of the Kebbi State Governorship aspirants in the 2015 election died in the early hours of Tuesday, 8th December, 2020, at his residence located at 6 Sabo Ago Avenue, Life Camp Abuja, following a protracted illness.


The funeral prayer which took place at the National Mosque, Abuja, was well attended by top government functionaries, serving and retired, former Governors, Ministers and politicians, amongst who were National Assembly members, as well as friends and well wishers from Kebbi State and beyond.


The late Muhammadu Sani Umar Kalgo was born on the 15th of May, 1950, in Kalgo Local Government area of Kebbi State.

He is survived by one wife and five children, amongst whom is the incumbent Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr.Abba Sani Kalgo.


Some of the important personalities who attended the Janaiza prayer were Senator Muhammadu Adamu Aliero, Senator Aliyu Magatatarda Wamakko, former Sokoto State Governor, Attahiru Bafarawa, Dr. Bello Haliru, former defence Minister, former Minister for Special Duties, Kabiru Tanimu (SAN) , Hon. Kabiru Tukura, Hon. Bello Yakubu (Rilisco), Chief of Staff Government House Birnin Kebbi, as well as Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu, (Jarman Kabi).


Others were the Former Deputy Governor and the Chairman, Direct Labour Agency, Hon. Bello Dantani (Magajin Rafin Kabi ), Chairman, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Alhaji Sani Dododo and Usman Buhari Aliyu.

Signed
YAHAYA SARKI
Special Adviser (SA) Media to Kebbi State Governor
8/12/2020

Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, Friday night, in Birnin Kebbi, condoled the family of Septuagenarian, Alhaji Aliyu Bagudo, who died on Thursday, at the Federal Medical Centre, Birnin Kebbi, at the age of 78.

Bagudu was accompanied on the condolence visit by two former Governors of the state , Senator Adamu Aliero and Alhaji Saidu Nasamu Dakingari.

The Governor said: ” We are here for a condolence of the demise of the renowned devout and patriotic elder statesman.

“We are here on behalf of the people and Government of Kebbi State in this unfortunate loss of our late erudite statesman.


“Death is inevitable and all of us must at one time or the other die, at God’s appointed time.

“His family, relatives, well wishers and all of us must take heart and pray for the Almighty Allah to, grant him Aljannat Firdaus, as well as give us the formidable fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

The late elder statesman was buried on Friday, in Birnin Kebbi, according to Islamic rites.

He is survived by four wives, twenty five children and seventy two grand children.

Earlier, the Chief of Staff Government House Birnin Kebbi, Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu (Jarman Kabi) offered special prayers for the repose of the soul of late Alhaji Ali Bagudo (Jarman Bargu)

The Special Adviser on Media to the State Government, Mr. Yahaya Sarki noted that the Governor was accompanied by Former Governors of Kebbi State, Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero, Alhaji Sa’idu Usman Nasamu Dakingari, Member House of representatives representing Jega-Aliero Federal constituency Alhaji Muhd Umar Jega, Dr. Hussaini Suleiman Kangiwa, Chairman Persons with Disability Commission, Chief of Staff Government House Birnin Kebbi , Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu (Jarman Kabi), Commissioners, and the Chairman of Argungu Local Government, Alhaji Musa Muhammad Tungulawa among others.

By Yemi Itodo

An Ebonyi born lady, Victory Obasi, has promised to purchase the party nomination form, to enable Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello run for the presidential election in 2023.

Miss Obasi, the Founder of Veee Support Initiatives, said in a statement on Monday, that she would use her nongovernmental organization (NGO) to obtain the nomination form for the youthful Governor.

Governor Bello is a member of the All Progressive Congress (APC), a party that sold nomination forms to presidential aspirants for N45m in the 2019 general elections.

Obasi hinged her decision to obtain the nomination form for Governor Bello, on the need to retire old and "recycled politicians" and the need to inject young blood into the governance of the nation.

"The country is bedeviled by untold and highly despicable poverty which ridiculously multiplies in the peed of lights over unbelievable periods

"Nigeria at 60 and the survival does not tally with the age.

"Most of the leaders who oversaw the affairs of this nation still oversee it till the current state, it is obvious the doctrine of old wine in a new bottle in Nigeria leadership promotes hardship, if not harder.

"It is not too much to ask for a change in the dimension of leadership control, especially, if we have to do it via a youthful injection at the helm of affairs", Miss Obasi posited.

When asked what informed the choice of Kogi Governor for her nomination, amongst the many Nigerian youths, Obasi said, "a conscious experiment resulted in the person of Alhaji Yahaya Bello".

She said, "His character of leadership visibly can activate the vital and valuable neglected section of our dear country.

"The choice of Veee Support Initiatives in buying a presidential ticket for Alhaji Yahaya Bello was well thought, through and strongly influenced by personal experiences on the need for survival of the youths and the nation at large".

Miss Obasi stressed that her organization was principally concerned about the plight of less privileged kids, orphans, and the widowed in the society, adding that, the choice of Governor Bello would help her initiative achieve its goals of fighting poverty amongst the downtrodden.

Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, was among thousands of enthusiastic football fans who thronged Kano City, Nigeria’s commercial hub, Sunday, to witness the final match of the maiden APC North West Unity Cup, 2020.


Sports watchers will not however be surprised as Bagudu, who is also an ardent sports fan, especially football, has remained unwaveringly committed to bolstering sports development in Kebbi State.


He has also been steadily encouraging youths participation in sporting activities, especially the game of football, within and outside Nigeria.

Interestingly, Kebbi State has also remained a pacesetter in the country and Africa, especially in beach soccer.


During the final football match, Kebbi State team, locked horns with the Kano team,with each team fiercely creating scoring chances to the admiration of the fans.

However, the match finally ended up 0-0 at the expiration of 90 minutes of play, but the Kano team won, 2-1, via penalty kicks.


Bagudu, who was the Special Guest at the football match, commended the efforts and resilience of the Kebbi Team for holding the host Team to a 90 minutes goalless draw, on their home soil.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yahaya Sarki, Governor Bagudu noted that ” Our boys did well, getting to the finals is a big win. Loosing by penalty at the finals shows how good they are. Kudos to our boys,” he averred.


Bagudu was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu (Jarman Kabi), Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Hon. Gidado Aliyu Kaliel and the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Usman Ladan.

Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu has said that Government and people of the state were embracing the Distributed Renewables for Energy Access ( DREA).

This is just as the Governor disclosed that, the technology had impacted positively on no fewer than one hundred and fifty million people around the world since 2009.


Bagudu disclosed this, at the 38th National Solar Energy Forum (NASEF 2020) holding in Sokoto, with a theme: “Solar Energy in Post COVID-19 Economy.”

The Governor, who was the Guest Speaker added: “The DREA systems are present in both urban and rural areas and the developing world .

“And they provide a wide range of services, including lighting, appliances, cooking, space heating and cooling, biomass cooking stoves, biogas and solar cookers, electric stoves and many productive uses.”


Bagudu in a press statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yahaya Sarki also stated that, the state government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company ( NNPC), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), to cultivate 20,000 hectares of cassava and sugarcane for biofuel production.

According to the Kebbi State Governor, the ethanol project was jointly financed by the state government and NNPC, to the tune of N 1 billion.

He added:” So far, the state government has assigned 5,000 hectares of land for the project,out of which, 2,675 hectares have been cultivated and fully established purpose of generating seedlings and raw materials, for a test run of machinery.


“This will not only boost the internally generated revenue of the state,but, more importantly create thousands of direct and indirect jobs for our teeming youths.”

Bagudu averred that, energy is an important index of socioeconomic development of modern society, as it powers heating, cooling , lighting , transportation, communcations , health and agriculture, among others.

The Governor also said that, Nigeria was endowed with abundant energy resources like oil gas and coal, solar energy, biomass resources, wind power and hydropower resources, among others.


Bagudu however regretted that, Nigeria was yet to fully utilize her abundant renewable resources, to provide adequate energy access to the citizens in the rural, semi-urban and urban communities .

The Governor said that, the theme was apt and timely as COVID-19 had brought out how interdepence on oil and other countries could spell doom for nations.

He also noted that, the era of hydrocabon has come to an end, while the only plausible solutions remained renewable energy sources, especially solar power .

Bagudu opined that, some policies put in place by President Muhammadu Buhari were efficacious and that was why Nigeria’s economy was still working.


He cited the example of the pumping of over. N 2.7 trillion into the economy by the Federal Government, to cushion the devastating effetcs of the pandemic.

He commended the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria for conferring on him then” Advocates of Solar Energy and Fellowship,”.

Bagudu promised to sustain his partnership with the society to better the lives of the people of Kebbi State

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto Professor Lawal Suleiman Bilbis and Professor Bala who represented the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu commended the university particularly the Solar Energy Society for promoting research in the country.


On his part, the President of Solar Energy of Nigeria, Professor I. J Dioha called on policy makers to make Nigeria have energy law.

He commended the Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu for his emphasis on the development of Science and Technology recalling that the first Solar village was cited in Kebbi State at Tungar Buzu.

The governor was accompanied on the trip to the 38th National Solar Energy Forum in Sokoto by Hon. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Hassan Shalla,Aminu Garba Dandiga, Hon. Commissioner for Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, that of Water Resources, Hon Nura Kangiwa , former Minister of Science and Technology, Professor Abubakar Muhammed Kaoje and member representing Maiyama constituency, Kebbi State House of Assembly, Hon Umar Sallas Sambawa (UU).

Highlights of the event include the conferment of award on Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku who received the advocate of Solar Energy in Nigeria and Fellowship of Solar Energy Society of Nigeria. Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and his Zamfara State counterpart, Alhaji Bello Mutawalle , were also among the Awardees.

Other awardees include the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, who was represented by Professor I. J. Dioha, the President of Solar Energy Society of Nigeria, Professor Suleiman Bogoro, Jelani Aliyu, Director General, National Automative Design and Development Council among others.

By Yemi Itodo

Dr. Garus Gololo, a national chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC), has warned former President Goodluck Jonathan to be weary of the Governors who are visiting him ahead of 2023 general elections.

Some Governors had met Jonathan in his Abuja residence on Friday, the day he was celebrating his 63rd birth anniversary.

Though the reason for the visit was unknown; but it was not unconnected to the rumoured presidential ambition of Jonathan in 2023.

Some northern group had earlier rallied Jonathan, reportedly drafting him to run for presidency under the APC in 2023.

But Gololo, while responding to questions Monday night, said the Governors were only there to deceive Jonathan.

He said, "they were there on their own. Nobody sent them. They are busy body Governors. They abandoned the business of governance in their States and be chasing shadows.

"Who told them Jonathan will win any election again in Nigeria? And who told them we are in shortage of candidates in APC? At the appointed time they shall be shocked by the arrays of capable personalities that would indicate interest in 2023".

Gololo said the Governors knew what they were doing, stressing that they would soon dump Jonathan when the chips are down.

"I'm not a prophet but I know that those Governors will soon dump him. They all have their ambitions and interests in their pockets, yet, they will not allow Jonathan to rest.

"If he (Jonathan) truly wants to remain a hero, he should just retire and watch from the background. He has tried by conceding defeat in 2015. That's a great achievement. That is what the whole President of America, Donald Trump cannot have the courage to do. But let him not disgrace himself by running for 2023, because he can't even win any election in Nigeria again.

"Nigerians won't vote for anyone who has been tested in any office before. We want a more capable hand, a fresh hand with fresh ideas. Those Governors don't own their States, they have just only one vote. Let Jonathan know this and save himself of the embarrassment", Gololo added.

By Aida Nath Ogwuche

The term "trias politica" or "separation of powers" was coined by Charles-Louis de Secondat, baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu, an 18th century French social and political philosopher.

His publication, Spirit of the Laws, is considered one of the great works in the history of political theory and jurisprudence, and it inspired the Constitution of our great nation, Nigeria.

Under his model, the political authority of the state is divided into legislative, executive and judicial powers. He asserted that, to most effectively promote liberty, these three powers must be separate and acting independently.

The intent of which is to prevent the concentration of power and provide for checks and balances.

The entire gamut of separation of powers is primarily to avoid an absolute government of dictatorship where there is excess power concentrated in the head of government or any arm at all.

Hence, why checks and balances is a sine qua non to achieving effective governance and separation of powers by checking the excesses of any arm of government.

It therefore goes without saying, that the Legislative arm in this country has failed the citizenry and in the most sacrilegious manner, continuously betrays the oath of office it swore to uphold.

This piece seeks to remind the Legislative arm of its functions, powers and raison d’etre and further implore it to act expeditiously to protect human rights, the Constitution and prevent a total breakdown of law and order in Nigeria.

Our Nation has in the last couple of weeks witnessed a mass action by Nigerian citizens, mostly the youth, against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigerian Police Force whereby the youths made known their grievances towards the brutality and professional misconduct by operatives of this particular police unit who have for too long derailed from the core mandates of their establishment to curb incidents of armed robbery and other similar crimes, and have become threats to the same citizens that they were meant to protect in line with the general mandate of the Police under the Nigerian Constitution.

It is of serious concern that the Nigerian government and the Police responded to the protest through further acts of police brutality that resulted in the loss of lives of protesters, unlawful detention of protesters and disruption of peaceful protests.

The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) provides for various fundamental rights, including the rights to life, human dignity, personal liberty, privacy, freedom of expression and the press, freedom of assembly, and association.

It is, however, clear that the Executive arm of government has lost all sense of responsibility and thrown caution to the wind. In a further annihilation of rights of protesters, the Executive arm has proceeded to arbitrarily arresting certain protesters, block their bank accounts and deny them of travel outside the country.

It is completely disheartening and reprehensible that the government will deploy tax payer’s money to pursue frivolous actions in court against protesters and surreptitiously arrest/detain them.

It is in light of the foregoing that I feel very concerned, as a Citizen, a Lawyer, a Youth and a staunch advocate for efficient democracy in Nigeria, to implore the Legislative arm to perform its constitutional functions of checking the excesses of the Executive arm in its stride to suppress the rights of the people.

Otherwise, we run the risk of further unrest in this country whereby the center will no longer hold, the falcon will not hear the falconer, and the best lack all conviction, while the worst are full of passionate intensity. A situation where the celebration of innocence is drowned.

I therefore call upon our distinguished and honourable Legislators to wage into the dire situation we find ourselves in this country.

May I also take this opportunity to salute the efforts of our lawmakers thus far in passing effective laws. However, Nigeria’s problems have never been the unavailability of laws, but rather, the unwillingness to execute and enforce the existing laws.

I also use this medium to appreciate our youths for exhibiting unparalleled interest towards the betterment of this nation and not losing hope in the bright future we all long for.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.


(Barr. Aida Nath Ogwuche writes from Ogbadibo, Benue State).

By Our Reporter

An Abuja based media practitioner, Comrade Yemi Itodo, has called for synergy between Nigeria's Journalists and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that are into social works, to fight the menace of social vices in the country.

Itodo stated this on Friday in National Assembly, while receiving a 'Symbol of Peace for Greater Nigeria' award, presented to him by Nigerian Women for Peace Initiative, Jos.

The Chairman of National Assembly New Media, expressed optimism that, when the media partners with relevant organizations in creating awareness against rape, cultism, drug abuse and other social vices in the society, Nigeria would be a safer place for all.

Comrade Itodo gave instance of how he mobilized over 40 groups in an awareness rally against rape in Otukpo, Benue State in June 2020 and how that has drastically reduced the menace of rape in Idoma land.

"Also in September this year, I partnered with Miss Idoma Ambassador, Queen Esther Ene Daniels of Free Image Entertainment, where we trained 100 girls drawn from the 9 local government areas of Benue South for one week, on different skills and a takeoff capital of N20,000 was given to all of them.

"From the feedback we got, those girls are well established in their endeavors now and are also empowering others", Itodo said, stressing that education of the girl child was paramount to his course.

Earlier, leader of the group, Hajia Maryam Sule, while eulogising Comrade Itodo, said he was not just only a Journalist, but a humanitarian par excellence, who has contributed to the emancipation of the youth, especially, the girl child in the society.

She said, "Comrade Yemi Itodo is morally balanced, highly equipped and socially interesting, who is always behind the scene to ensure the success and betterment of other humans.

"His passion and commitment to the society is ever present, as he works day and night to improve the impact and visibility of his people.

"He is a man of great heart, immense strength and sweet nature. He is a man worth 1000 other men. He is a father, not just to his biological children, but to other children, especially, orphans he comes across. He loves and gives selflessly without expecting anything in return. We can never pay you for all you do for people around you. But we are here to celebrate you and thank you for all you do for humanity".

On his part, Secretary of New Media in National Assembly, Mr. Haruna Salami, described Itodo as a selfless leader who would forget himself and family to fight for his members and colleagues.

Salami thanked the group for finding Comrade Itodo worthy of the award, adding that, his (Itodo's) contributions to humanity through media advocacy and philanthropy would always stand him out amongst his peers.

Yemi Itodo

A chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Dr. Garus Gololo, has described as "childish politics", the press briefing of the Ebonyi National Assembly Caucus, wherein Governor Dave Umahi was disowned for leaving his party.

The Ebonyi Federal Lawmakers had Wednesday afternoon, while addressing newsmen, distanced themselves from the defection of Governor Umahi from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

Speaking through their leader and former Governor of the State, Senator Sam Egwu, the Ebonyi PDP National Assembly caucus had said Governor Umahi was the greatest beneficiary of PDP's patronage in the state, adding that he should have been grateful to the party.

But Gololo, while responding to the lawmakers' position, said it amounts to childish politics for anyone to think that the Governor had no right to associate with any group or political party of his choice.

Gololo stressed that, Umahi had done, under 5 years, what Senator Egwu or other former Governors could not achieve for years in Ebonyi.

"That one called Sam Egwu was there for 8 years, what did he do during his tenure? Go to Abakiliki and environs now and see how Umahi has transformed the entire place like Abuja.

"His (Umahi's) defection to APC is a big plus for us. We have caught a big fish and the PDP can't even get crayfish. That's why they are angry. But they can't do anything about it.

"They are angry that, before President Buhari came, it was 4 PDP Governors in the 5 States of the South East with no APC at all. But now, we have 2 Governors from there, the PDP has only 2 while APGA is in control of 1 state", Gololo said.

The APC chieftain called on Senator Egwu and other lawmakers in National Assembly, to toll the line of Governor Umahi, "who has seen the light, and make the people of Ebonyi feel the impulse of federal presence".

When asked if he would support Governor Umahi for presidency in 2023, Dr. Gololo said "2023 is in the hand of God", stressing that, his joy was that the Ebonyi Governor was one of the best in South East and that he is now a member of APC.

By Yemi Itodo

Dr. Garus Gololo, a Chieftain of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), on Tuesday, called for the probe of some Ministers and Permanent Secretaries under President Muhammad Buhari.

Gololo was reacting to the call from the Senate Public Account Committee (SPAC), that the Acting Auditor-General of the Federation, Mr. Adolphus Aghughu should probe the financial transactions of big revenue generation agencies in the country.

Chairman of the Committee, Senator Mathew Urhoghide had specifically requested for holistic and comprehensive auditing of the accounts of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Authority (NIMASA), among others.

Responding to questions from newsmen in Abuja on Tuesday, Dr. Gololo said, there are some Ministers and Permanent Secretaries under the present administration that should be probed too.

Though Gololo did not mention any ministry in particular, but he said, despite huge budgetary allocations to those ministries, departments and agencies every year, there are little or nothing to show for it.

"The success of this government does not depend on the Presidency alone. Let the Ministers invite the President to go and commission completed projects across the country. Let them show us what they have been using our money for", Gololo said.

He appreciated the determination of the President to expose and probe the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Babachir Lawal and the former Acting Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ibrahim Magu, urging that same searchlight be beamed on other appointees of the government.

"In addition to that, I would also want the various allegations of budget padding, contracts inflation, constituency projects siphoning and others mounting on members of the National Assembly probed.

"If the President must succeed in his quest to get this country rid of corrupt eggs, then it must be holistic, so as to have a clean record of achievements", Gololo added.

The APC Chieftain, while throwing his weight behind the many empowerment programs of the Buhari-led administration, also called on the President to ensure strict supervisions of the process, so as not to taunt his image.

A Benue-born beauty Queen, Onyeche Success Ogboji, was on Saturday in Sheraton Hotel, Abuja, coronated as Miss Northern Nigeria 2020.

Speaking at the event that was well attended by high profile dignitaries, the Senator representing Benue South, Comrade Abba Moro, urged Nigeria's leaders to encourage and support the youths in their social endeavours.

According to him, it is when the youths realise they have the sense of recognition and belonging, that they would get off the streets and honour the leaders.

"When you look at these young men and women, putting themselves together, creating happiness for themselves, radiating with hope, I want to believe that with some level of determination, focus and hard work; the future may not be as hopeless as it looks.

"So, I come around all the time to identify with them because, when I tell you my age, it tells you a story that, my time is coming to an end. And because nature has no vacuum, it is important that, we give encouragement to the younger ones that are coming, to develop the sense of entitlement that the future belongs to them, Senator Moro said".

The Lawmaker said the youth had been a serious determinant in his electioneering successes and it must not be when they die before he eulogizes them, calling on leaders at all levels to get closer to the youth and make the society free for all to inhabit.

In her acceptance speech, Queen Ogboji promised to dedicate her whole self in serving humanity, even as she called for respect for the dignity of the girl child across the country.

"I will join my voice to the voices of those who are already championing this course, as I stand for what is right and stand against what is wrong", she said, while calling on parents to invest in girl child education.

She acknowledged the many achievements of her predecessor, Queen Uko Glorious Unahi, promising to consolidate on them in making her reign worthwhile and in building on the original dreams of the organizers of the pageantry.

Highlights of the event was presentation of awards to Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, Senator Abba Moro, Mrs. Janet Odoh Williams and others, while star prize of a car was presented to the new Queen, with other prizes to the runners up.

Miss Northern Nigeria 2020 is the second edition of the beauty pageantry being organized by Whyte Image Entertainment across the 19 northern states in Nigeria, to train the girl child in upholding the many cultural ideals of the northern people.

By Yemi Itodo

A Chieftain of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Dr. Garus Gololo, has thrown his weight behind the position of Senator Ali Ndume (Borno South) against the move of the Federal Government to rehabilitate and de-radicalize repentant members of Boko Haram.

Ndume, the Senate Committee Chairman on Army, had on Wednesday, during a budget defence of the Nigerian Army in National Assembly, reiterated his stand against empowering those members of the dreaded sect who are repenting.

At a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Dr. Gololo said there was no way any terrorist, albeit, Boko Haram members could genuinely repent.

"Boko Haram can never repent, they are members of ISIS which is terrorising the entire world. They can only repent when bullets hit them", Gololo said.

The APC Chieftain who is well experienced in military tactics and security, said, "it was only when fire became too much, that Boko Haram hibernated and pretended to repent".

He said "it was repented Boko Haram members that ambushed Col. Bako in Danboa, all because they had already understudied the mode of operations of the Nigerian Army and the usual route they use".

Gololo also called for greater funding for the Nigerian Army and Police Force, adding that, "Police should not use sticks and bare hands to fight banditry".

"I want to call on President Muhammad Buhari to advise whoever that is in charge to rather use this money of deradicalizing Boko Haram members to fund the Army and our security agencies.

"Boko Haram now using AA and Shilka which has 10 muscles and have higher capacities than Tank, it is used as anti aircraft which can magnet helicopters and flights.

"They are well equipped and get their funding from oversea. Nigeria should not waste money on rehabilitating them. The Nigerian Army had done it in Liberia, Yugoslavia, Sierra Leone, Darfur in South Sudan and even at Somalia, where there is Al-Shabaab.

"So, who is Boko Haram, a church rat that the Nigerian Military will be afraid of? Let them work within their 'IS' and the Sponsors of these monsters who have been operating for 10 years shall be known to them", he added.

Gololo said the Army can perform under little trainings, stressing that, "let them be funded and get more equipments and fight these pagans who are bent on wiping this generation".

Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, has declared that , Nigeria is United, just as it is on course, as well as on the right track to more greatness. He. Made this known through a Statement signed by his Special Adviser on Yahaya Sarki.

Bagudu spoke on Sunday, when he addressed a mammoth crowd of the members of various Kebbi youth groups, at the celebration of the 2020 National Youth Day , held at the Haliru Abdu Stadium, in Birnin Kebbi.

He said:” Nigeria is a one , united , indivisible country and we pray that, it continues to be so.

“It cannot however be said that , it cannot be made better . This is our collective responsibility".

The Kebbi Governor added that, there was the urgent need to provide the youths with the confidence of a truly united Nigeria.


“This is to empower them to take up competitions with other countries, to do better and support Nigeria ,” Bagudu, averred.

He further expressed delight that, Nigeria was abundantly blessed with a crop of talented , committed and robust youthful population .

The governor spoke eloquently about an indigene of Kebbi State , Zaidu Sanusi Jega who has attained international fame as a professional footballer now playing for the Portuguese first division club , Porto and also a member of Nigeria’ s Super Eagles .

His words :” This is contrary to what is happening in other countries that are suffering from the abject dearth of such a blissful youthful population .

” Proactive efforts should however be made to effectively harness these abundant resources and blessings, to better the nation .

” The youths should be made to effectively take up their future leadership challenges and help them to explore and exploit their talents fully.

” There are numerous opportunities in entrepreneurship, ICT, sports, agriculture, entertainment and arts, among others .

” There are also abundant opportunities provided by the three tiers of government in the areas of training and marketing , as well as enabling policies and programmes in this direction .”

Bagudu cited a glaring and classical example of two young Nigerians who sold their ICT firm for $ 200 million , equivalent to 80 billion naira in the midst of the #ENDSARS protests .

The governor commended President Muhammdu Buhari for his patience and understanding during the Endsars protest.

‘ It is only under Buhari that, the youths are able to vent out their grievances to the government in such a brazen manner””, he averred.

He however regretted that , the #ENDSARS protests were hijacked by hoodlums and enemies of a peaceful , united and an indivisible Nigeria .

The Kebbi Governor further extolled the diligence, dedication and patriotism of the corps members , whom he said had sacrificed their comfort to entrench peace,unity and national development.

He also called on youths in the country to respect and appreciate what the security agencies were doing in their relentless efforts in providing security and protection of lives and property of the citizens.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Gidado Aliyu Kaliel, expressed gratitude to governor Bagudu for his physical presence at the event.

He described governor Bagudu’s administration passion for youths welfare and development as unprecedented in the history of the state.

Kaliel said that, the Kebbi State Government under the leadership of Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu has placed emphasis on the development of teeming youth.

This is by providing an enabling atmosphere for youth to discover their hidden talents and provide abundant opportunities for them, to excel.

He further commended the youths in the state for demonstrating decorum and maturity during the #Endsars protests.

This he said, was by exhibiting peaceful resolution of their differences unlike youths in other parts of the country who engaged in violent protests and destruction of properties.

The Commissioner also called on youths in the state to take advantage of the various initiatives provided by President Muhammdu Buhari and governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, to better their lives through SMEs businesses, skills acquisition and entrepreneurship.

He announced that his Ministry would commence sensitization of the teeming youths on the ongoing NYIF initiative, saying that, the sensitization and registration would commence on Monday,2nd November, 2020 at designated centers in all the local government areas of the state.

In their seperate goodwill messages , Dr. Buhari Usman Gwandu, Dr Saratu Mera, Haiya Zara’u Wali Special Adviser to the governor on Women Affairs and the Emir of Gwandu and the Chairman, Kebbi State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Muhammdu Iliyasu Bashar, represented by the Wazirin Gwandu, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar, commended both the state and federal governments for the myriad of interventions unfolded for the development of youths.

Dr. Buhari Usman Gwandu urged the youths to wake up and take advantage of the initiatives provided by government towards making the youths self employed as government, he said, cannot provide job to everybody in the country.

In her message of goodwill, Dr. Saratu Mera, challenged the youths to brace up by also contributing to the socio -economic development of the country by being active members of the society, rather than engaging in social vices.

Hajiya Zahra’u Wali, the Special Adviiser to the Governor on Women Affairs, stated that governor Bagudu has not left any stone unturned in ensuring that youths, especially women were provided with formidable entrepreneurship skills and empowerment.

” The governor has recognized the importance of gender , he has recognized gender equality, even in the agricultural sector ‘.

She commended the wife of the governor, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, for her humanatarian initiatives and interventions, especially for women and children in the state in the health sector.

On his part, the Emir of Gwandu, represented by Wazirin Gwandu, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar, expressed satisfaction for commemorating the youth day, describing it as apt and appropriate.

He lauded the NYSC scheme as an avenue for unity and youth development, calling on the federal government to sustain it.

The youths, he said, are crucial segment of the country, pointing out that any country that neglected its youths, was doomed.

The monarch also enjoined youths to be prepared to champion the course to take the country to the promised Land.

Highlights of the activities to mark the National Youth Day featured novelty football match, paper presentation by Distinguished Senator Kashim Shetima, former governor of Borno State on Youth Development and Mentorship: The Role of Northern Elites and Panel discussion on Assessing the National Youth Investment Funds , Prospects and Challenges.

Yemi Itodo

A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Garus Gololo, on Sunday, warned former Nigeria's President, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GEJ) against contesting the 2023 presidential election.

Though Gololo admitted that it would be the turn of the South to produce the next President, but he said it would certainly not favour Jonathan as it is no longer for South South region.

Gololo, while speaking to newsmen in Abuja on Sunday, said it would be foolhardy for Jonathan to think he could still win any election in Nigeria.

Some northern groups and associates of Jonathan in the South, according to Sunday's Nation newspaper edition, had reportedly met in Abuja, while considering drafting the Bayelsa-born politician to gun for 2023 Presidency.

Their calculation is that, the Presidency can return to the North in 2027 since Jonathan, if he wins in 2023, will be ineligible to contest again.

But Gololo, while reacting to questions, said such calculation was evil and selfish.

He said, "I'm from the North and I want to say it emphatically that power should return to the South in 2023 for eight years.

"Northerners are not the only Nigerians in this country. I can't support such evil and selfish permutations. And for Jonathan, he should rather go and rest. If he dares to contest, we shall do to him what we did in 2015".

Dr. Gololo also warned the former President to be weary of some political jobbers who may be muting the idea of drafting him into the contest.

He said, "there is nothing wrong in asking someone to come out to contest, but what makes the difference is the votes. The votes shall decide who becomes the next President and if PDP like, let them give it to Jonathan, same fate shall repeat itself, like in 2015".

When asked which region should produce the next President from the South and if he had anyone in mind, the national APC Chieftain said there are many other capable hands in the South that can deliver.

"It must not be Jonathan. He was there before and we all know what happened then. Let's try fresh people who have capacity. Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is there. He has enough capacity.

"I would even prefer PDP giving it to Jonathan so we all mobilise and team up for Tinubu in APC and Jonathan's defeat will shock him, like Donald Trump. We are wise now and this country is bigger than any individual", Gololo added.

By Oriri Peter

The National Youth Liberation for Good Governance (NYLGG) founded by Comrade Gabriel Edoh Paul has presented an award of Humanitarian Service to Ambassador Honourable Kennedy Angbo Agbogo, a man known for his numerous humanitarian services.

Honourable Kennedy has consciously built an image of a father, peace lover, pace setter, result oriented, a mentor, an authority in the finance sector, a seasoned Auditor and a chartered accountant.

The title 'Icon of Humanitarian Service' was conferred on him, on 3rd November 2020 by the National Youth Liberation for Good Governance.

The occasion was graced by Comrades and Honourables from different parts of Nigeria and Delegations of NYLGG.

The event was chaired by Mr. Abba Adauda, Principal Partner Abba Adaudu and co.
In attendance includes Barrister Aba Ejembi a Former Director Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Ajeni Maria Miss Idoma Nigeria 2019/2020.

According to the NYLGG president in his speech, "It is quite heartwarming that today, the delegates of NYLGG pay a courtesy visit to present a Golden Role Model Award to AMB. HON. Kennedy Agbo Agbogo after an extensive independent survey of your passionate contribution to qualitative service in Nigeria and National Buidling. Indeed, your foot print is inspiring, flourishing and your outstanding tract record is worthy of emulation."

"As it is often said that a golden fish has no hidden place. It's crystal clear that your positive contribution cannot be overemphasized t our present dispensation or generation it's in view of the above that this Noble organization acknowledged your style of leadership and mentorship. It's indeed an epitome of a good leader and a true mentor worthy of emulation."

In a brief speech by Aba Ejembi, he gave account of how Hon. Ambassador Kennedy rose to the top from struggles in students and youths movement in Idoma Land, he was not a man that happened on the scene without a solid foundation. As a youth, Honourable was among the founders of Akpa Youth Progressive Forum a solid foundation that determines what happens in the land.

Aba Ejembi through his speech, motivated the NYLGG for greater works.

Honourable Kennedy, known as a man of few words, appreciated the NYLGG delegations and also endorsed their idea of Building youths for a better Nigeria, acknowledged their previously good works, received the award and encouraged them for greater works that will transform Nigeria as a Nation.

The wife of Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu says the successful elimination of Polio from Nigeria will not have been possible without the effective contribution of our traditional fathers.

Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu made this acknowledgement in Argungu at the celebration of World Polio Day 2020 at the Emirs palace, Argungu on 28th October 2020.

The paediatric consultant is happy about the wise counsel by traditional rulers in Kebbi State and other parts of the Federation individually and collectively through the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee ( NTLC).

Dr. Bagudu through a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor Yahaya Sarki commended the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammdu Mera for his role, acclaimed internationally to countering misinformation which helped to overcome boycott of the excercise.

She equally appreciated the vital role played by other government, agencies, civil societies and partners.

The wife of the governor commended her husband, governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu for prompt release of funds and providing necessary support that made it possible to attaining 80 percent coverage of polio immunization in Kebbi State while also acknowledging the political will of President Muhammdu Buhari.

She urged parents and health workers to sustain the landmark eradication of polio in Nigeria.

On cancer, the Director of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), Dr Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu said that 26 women die of cervical cancer daily and “As it stands, Nigeria has the highest cancer death rate in Africa. Cervical cancer can be eliminated by a simple vaccine against the human papilloma virus- HPV.”, she counseled.


Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu who was recently elected as the Director of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) used the occasion to announce that the country is set to commence the vaccine against the disease in 2030 sequel to the adoption of a global strategy by World Health Organization (WHO) to eliminate the cervical cancer by 2030.

She stressed the need to learn from the polio experience of ensuring adequate enlightenment campaigns in communities in order to achieve success of the exercise.

She also revealed that, her foundation, Medicaid Cancer Foundation in collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) had been working with local and International partners to ensure the vaccination became a reality for women.

“In Yauri, Kebbi State, with funding from Jaiz Foundation, we pioneered a pilot vaccination study for 100 girls, the findings of which will be published soon in a peer review journal.


“Thus, it is my prayer that the the fight against cervical cancer using the HPV vaccine receives the same momentum that polio has received in Nigeria,” she prayed.

In his remarks, Dr Razi Muktar, representative of WHO, acknowledged the role played by the traditional institution in the fight against the disease , especially the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Mera.

Muktar assured of continued support to Kebbi State in implementing all intervention programs in order to improve its health indices, especially routine immunization.

“We shall also support the state government to deliver an integrated service delivery and strengthen primary health services,” the representative assured.


Also,a representative of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Alhaji Shehu Abdul-Ganiyu, stressed the need for continued polio immunization in spite of polio free certification indices of the country.

He also tasked traditional and religious leaders as well as other stakeholders to sustain advocacy and mobilization of women to attend ante -natal care facilities nearest to their communities.

The Chief of Field office UNICEF Sokoto, Muhammadeen Fall represented by Mustapha Illo said the organization was always glad to be associated with Kebbi Government and acknowledged the strong leadership role played by governor Bagudu with traditional leaders in the elimination of Polio in the state .

” Eventually we have succeeded after 30 years of struggle and battle to end polio “, he averred.

On his part, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammdu Mera, commended all those in position of authority and development partners for their support to end polio in Nigeria.

He particularly commended the commitment of Governor Bagudu for his unrelenting efforts and for giving the traditional and religious leaders opportunity to contribute in the fight to end polio in state. Disclosing that other state have since come to study the experience.

He said that,” The fight to eradicate polio is a collective one, hence the need to appreciate all for their wonderful contribution.

Mera also assured of the readiness of all traditional rulers across the state to continue to support and sustain the fight against poliomyelitis and other policies and programmes of the government.

The Commissioner for Health, Jafar Mohammed similarly lauded the efforts of governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, his wife Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, national and international partners for their individual and collective support for the fight to end polio in Kebbi State.

Highlight of the event was a drama by polio survivors stressing the need for immunization. This was followed by exchange of awards and presentation of certificates between the wife of the governor Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu and his royal Highness, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammdu Mera.

Similarly active stakeholders who made various contributions to the eradication of polio in the state were presented with awards of appreciation.

They include , Dr. Abubakar Kaoje, Gulman Gulma, Muhammdu Bashar, Mai Arewan Gabas Yeldu, Alhaji Lawal Kakubu, Muzan Bayawa, Murtala Muhammed Kaka, Sarkin Shikon Kamba, Alhaji Muhammd Zarumai .

Others were, Muhammedeen Fall, Chief Field Office Unicef Sokoto, Alhaji Yusuf Sauwa, State Health Educator , Limamin Kabi, Muhammdu Tukur and Dr. Abubakar Muhammd Wali.

The Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, has commended the security agencies in the state for their relentless efforts in the provision of security to the state.

The governor through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media Yahaya Sarki also sympathised with the Police on the unfortunate incidences of the deaths of their colleagues, in the line of duty, in other parts of Nigeria.

Bagudu made the commendation today, Tuesday, during a visit to the Police Command in the state, where he was received by the DC Operations ,Mr. Godwin Eze .

He urged the security agencies to continue discharging their duties diligently , while at the same time, being mindful of the messages from a cross section of innocent and patriotic Nigerians, who supported them and also sought for improved security of their lives, as well as property.

Bagudu also vehemently condemned the hijack of an otherwise peaceful demonstration by youth, by some divisive elements, hoodlums and those who do not wish Nigeria well.

The Kebbi Governor reiterated that, the unity , peace and socio-economic prosperity of the nation, cannot in anyway be compromised.

Governor Bagudu was accompanied on the visit by Chief of Staff, Government House, Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu (Jarman Kabi), the Secretary to the State Government, Babale Umar Yauri and other Government functionaries.

The Nigerian House of Representatives will be partnering with the Online Media (New Media) Journalists in the National Assembly to curb the menace of fake news and quackery in the society.

This was made known as the House also called on New Media practitioners in Nigeria to diversify into reaching Nigerians in their indigenous languages in order to drum home the culture of democracy and rule of law.


Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Benjamin Kalu disclosed this on Tuesday evening, during a courtesy visit by the National Assembly New Media Forum (a forum of Online Journalists), at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.


The House Spokesman noted that the emergence of the New Media has democratized information dissemination and improved the participation of the public in issues of governance, not just only in Nigeria but the world over.

“Technology makes the job easy. Technology makes access to information better, and faster. Technology makes you feel the piece of information as if you were there,” he noted.

Speaking on the need to reach more Nigerians with vital and accurate information, Hon. Kalu called on Online Journalists and Publishers to “sharpen” their delivery skills, especially language skills in order to communicate more effectively with the audience.


He noted that being online should not restrict news medium to the English language alone.

“That you are online does not restrict you to only English language. You could be online in Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, Urhobo, Ijaw, Ibibio or any of our indigenous languages,” he advised.

Kalu noted that the 9th House of Representatives was exploring ways “to engage the public in their own languages or pidgin English.”

The Spokesman restated the resolve of the 9th House of Representative under the leadership of Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila to partner the New Media in mainstreaming democratic values and culture in Nigeria.

He noted that, “the National Assembly has a very fragile image and that has been fueled by wrong narratives pushed through the media that ordinarily is supposed to be telling the stories the way they are” while calling for collaborations to end the menace of fake news and quackery around the National Assembly complex.

He assured that the House of Representatives was determined to dismantle the opaque view of the National Assembly as an institution and an arm of the Federal Government of Nigeria through a transparent engagement with the public through the online media platforms.


He said, “The House of Representatives is willing to partner with the online media, especially under my watch as the spokesman of the House of Representatives.

Good enough, the Speaker is very interested in working with you. If the Speaker did not show interest in working with you, I would not be here. The Speaker has shown interest that we need to do a diversification of media platform so that we can achieve our aim of dissolving the opaque view of the National Assembly, this cloud, the veil that have enveloped the activity of the National Assembly.

The more we crack it, unveil it, the more transparent we become before the people we are representing, and the more they understand through platforms of transparency, the more they understand what we do, the more we are accountable to them, the more the credibility of this institution will rise. And the more the credibility of this institution, the more the confidence of the citizens in this institution. The more confident the citizens have in this institution which remains the fulcrum of democracy, the more they believe in the principles of the rule of democracy, because this is the backbone of democracy.

Why the public is attacking the National Assembly is because they don’t seem to understand what we are doing here.

“And that is why we seek strategic partnership with people like you, the online media who control the bulk of social media participants”.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the National Assembly New Media Forum, Comrade Yemi Itodo, thanked the Spokesman for his openness and professionalism in handling the image management of the House of Representatives.

Itodo noted that, despite the antagonism and suspicion of online journalism by traditional media practitioners, the “New Media remains the way to go in journalism and media practice. ”

He called on the leadership of the House of Representatives to support online journalists through various capacity building opportunities for better output.

Itodo assured the Spokesman and the leadership of the House of Representatives of the readiness of online journalists to partner with them and indeed the National Assembly in reaching out to the Nigerian public for a better understating and appreciation of the tedious and patriotic roles the parliament is playing to stabilize democracy in Nigeria.

Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, on Thursday commended the Nigerian Army for extending its Corporate Social Responsibility to flood victims in the State.

Bagudu appreciated laudable efforts of the Nigerian Army for reaching out to Kebbi flood victims in KoKo and Bagudo Local Government Areas with relief assistance.

The governor, was represented by his Special Adviser on Security, retired Major Garba Rabiu Kamba, at the distrubution of palliatives and flag off of Medical Outreach organised by the 8 Division, Nigerian Army , Sokoto, in Government Day Secondary School, Besse and Maizagga village, in Bagudo.

The governor through his Special Adviser on Media Yahaya Sarki described, the gesture of the Army in reaching out to flood victims in the state with food Palliatives and building materials as commendable and a formidable way of maintaining the extant cordial civilian – military relationship in the state.

He averred, “I will like to wholeheartedly thank the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant- General Tukur Buratai, for honouring Kebbi State and for finding it necessary for Army to maintain its corporate social responsibility, by coming up with their own contribution to flood victims, more especially in Koko and Bagudu LGAs .

‘ What we are witnessing today is a sign of generosity and responsibility which the Chief of Army Staff has found necessary to extend to the flood victims.

” This will also facilitate the existing military/civil relationship aimed at bringing succour to our teeming flood victims scattered all over the state.”

He expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff and his representative, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Brigadier General Aminu Bande and all the entire staff, as well as Officers and men of the Division.”

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, in his message to the IDPs said, the Army would sustain absolute cordiality in civil-military relations.

Buratai affirmed that, the Army was fully committed to ensuring friendly interactions with the civilian population, as well as offer necessary support to those in need.

Burutai urged the citizenry to regard the Army as the people’s army and not an occupying force.

The Chief of Army Staff further sympathised with the flood victims in Kebbi state.

He explained that, the army provided palliatives to them as part of its social corporate responsibility.

Gen. Buratai advised traditional rulers to be enforcers of social justice and reorientate youths against taking the law into their hands.

The Special Adviiser on Security , retired Major Garba Rabiu Kamba flagged off the exercise on behalf of Governor Atiku Bagudu.

Items distributed were assorted foodstuffs, including 2,000 15kg bags of rice and 200 bundles of zinc of roofing sheets, among others .

The Chairman of Koko-Besse local Government Area, Yahaya Bello, thanked the Army for its magnanimity to the flood victims.

Similarly, the Chairman of Bagudo local government Muhammadu Kaura Dan Hakimi Zagga commended the Nigeria Army for its benevolence and compassion to the people of the area.

Among the important dignitaries that graced the occasion were, Hon. Commissioner for Health, Jafar Mohammed, Permanent Secretary/CMD, Sir Yahaya Memorial Hospital, Birnin Kebbi, Dr. Aminu Bunza, top military Officers, local government staff and traditional leaders of the area.