₦airaland Forum

By Yemi Itodo

A conference of Civil Society Groups, known as Coalition for Good Governance and Rule of Law, on Tuesday, raised alarm that, the Muslims Rights Concern (MURIC), was pushing to turn the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) into a religious organization.

Ishaq Akintola, the leader of MURIC, had reportedly accused the Director-General of ITF, Sir Joseph Ari of recruiting only Christians into the agency, since his assumption of office.

MURIC was reported as saying, out of 487 staff employed at the ITF in 2019, only 90 were Muslims and that this was just 18.48 percent, while Christians were 81.52 percent.

But at a Press Conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Leader of the Coalition, Comrade Isaac Ikpa, said the allegation of nepotism in the ITF was an attempt by MURIC to cause unnecessary distraction in the operations of the agency in an attempt to malign the character of the leadership.

He said Sir Ari was reputed to have entrenched a regime of transparency and accountability in the operations of the ITF since he assumed office.


“The Coalition for Good Governance and Rule in its numerous engagements with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in the country indeed finds it worrisome that MURIC would elect to turn the truth on its head in a most brazen and despicable manner.

“We are constrained to add our voice to this narrative for the fact that the allegations are unsubstantiated. The allegations are also lacking in merit because it is obvious from all indications that MURIC relied on hearsays before making its position known in the public space”, the Coalition said.

The group also described as “uncharitable”, the allegations by MURIC, saying, it was an indication that the leadership of MURIC was not in tune with reality and the operational structure of the ITF that emphasizes meritocracy due to the sensitivity of its operations.

“It is our considered view that MURIC mistook the ITF for a religious organization where religious considerations should be the yardstick for employment as against experience, qualifications, and suitability for the job” the group added.

The Coalition stressed that it had on several occasions, continuously tasked agencies of government on good governance and the rule of law, “and it is instructive to state that the ITF remains one of the agencies of government that has displayed a high level of compliance to the extant laws guiding its operations, including recruitment at all cadres”.

The group said the ITF Board was known to have carried out its employment in line with the federal character principle and there was no iota of favoritism or nepotism as being speculated.

“We believe that MURIC was misled into its hasty conclusion without carrying out a detailed investigation. We, therefore, implore a respected organization like MURIC to do some research before making public statements on petitions before it and will encourage MURIC to continue to carry out its roles as a respected civil society organization, or at the risk of been labeled as a tool for inciting religious tension in the country” Ikpa added.

By Yemi Itodo

A conference of Civil Society Groups, known as Coalition for Good Governance and Rule of Law, on Tuesday, raised alarm that, the Muslims Rights Concern (MURIC), was pushing to turn the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) into a religious organization.

Ishaq Akintola, the leader of MURIC, had reportedly accused the Director-General of ITF, Sir Joseph Ari of recruiting only Christians into the agency, since his assumption of office.

MURIC was reported as saying, out of 487 staff employed at the ITF in 2019, only 90 were Muslims and that this was just 18.48 percent, while Christians were 81.52 percent.

But at a Press Conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Leader of the Coalition, Comrade Isaac Ikpa, said the allegation of nepotism in the ITF was an attempt by MURIC to cause unnecessary distraction in the operations of the agency in an attempt to malign the character of the leadership.

He said Sir Ari was reputed to have entrenched a regime of transparency and accountability in the operations of the ITF since he assumed office.


“The Coalition for Good Governance and Rule in its numerous engagements with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in the country indeed finds it worrisome that MURIC would elect to turn the truth on its head in a most brazen and despicable manner.

“We are constrained to add our voice to this narrative for the fact that the allegations are unsubstantiated. The allegations are also lacking in merit because it is obvious from all indications that MURIC relied on hearsays before making its position known in the public space”, the Coalition said.

The group also described as “uncharitable”, the allegations by MURIC, saying, it was an indication that the leadership of MURIC was not in tune with reality and the operational structure of the ITF that emphasizes meritocracy due to the sensitivity of its operations.

“It is our considered view that MURIC mistook the ITF for a religious organization where religious considerations should be the yardstick for employment as against experience, qualifications, and suitability for the job” the group added.

The Coalition stressed that it had on several occasions, continuously tasked agencies of government on good governance and the rule of law, “and it is instructive to state that the ITF remains one of the agencies of government that has displayed a high level of compliance to the extant laws guiding its operations, including recruitment at all cadres”.

The group said the ITF Board was known to have carried out its employment in line with the federal character principle and there was no iota of favoritism or nepotism as being speculated.

“We believe that MURIC was misled into its hasty conclusion without carrying out a detailed investigation. We, therefore, implore a respected organization like MURIC to do some research before making public statements on petitions before it and will encourage MURIC to continue to carry out its roles as a respected civil society organization, or at the risk of been labeled as a tool for inciting religious tension in the country” Ikpa added.

By Yemi Itodo
A conference of Civil Society Groups, known as Coalition for Good Governance and Rule of Law, on Tuesday, raised alarm that, the Muslims Rights Concern (MURIC), was pushing to turn the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) into a religious organization.

Ishaq Akintola, the leader of MURIC, had reportedly accused the Director-General of ITF, Sir Joseph Ari of recruiting only Christians into the agency, since his assumption of office.

MURIC was reported as saying, out of 487 staff employed at the ITF in 2019, only 90 were Muslims and that this was just 18.48 percent, while Christians were 81.52 percent.

But at a Press Conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Leader of the Coalition, Comrade Isaac Ikpa, said the allegation of nepotism in the ITF was an attempt by MURIC to cause unnecessary distraction in the operations of the agency in an attempt to malign the character of the leadership.

He said Sir Ari was reputed to have entrenched a regime of transparency and accountability in the operations of the ITF since he assumed office.


“The Coalition for Good Governance and Rule in its numerous engagements with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in the country indeed finds it worrisome that MURIC would elect to turn the truth on its head in a most brazen and despicable manner.

“We are constrained to add our voice to this narrative for the fact that the allegations are unsubstantiated. The allegations are also lacking in merit because it is obvious from all indications that MURIC relied on hearsays before making its position known in the public space”, the Coalition said.

The group also described as “uncharitable”, the allegations by MURIC, saying, it was an indication that the leadership of MURIC was not in tune with reality and the operational structure of the ITF that emphasizes meritocracy due to the sensitivity of its operations.

“It is our considered view that MURIC mistook the ITF for a religious organization where religious considerations should be the yardstick for employment as against experience, qualifications, and suitability for the job” the group added.

The Coalition stressed that it had on several occasions, continuously tasked agencies of government on good governance and the rule of law, “and it is instructive to state that the ITF remains one of the agencies of government that has displayed a high level of compliance to the extant laws guiding its operations, including recruitment at all cadres”.

The group said the ITF Board was known to have carried out its employment in line with the federal character principle and there was no iota of favoritism or nepotism as being speculated.

“We believe that MURIC was misled into its hasty conclusion without carrying out a detailed investigation. We, therefore, implore a respected organization like MURIC to do some research before making public statements on petitions before it and will encourage MURIC to continue to carry out its roles as a respected civil society organization, or at the risk of been labeled as a tool for inciting religious tension in the country” Ikpa added.

The Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, on Saturday witnessed the turbaning ceremony of nine District Heads and three traditional title holders performed by Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashar.

The historic ceremony took place at the Abdullahi Fodio Palace, in Birnin Kebbi, amidst pomp and pageantry.

Shortly after the turbaning ceremony, the Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashar, who is also the Chairman, Kebbi State Council of Chiefs, admonished the celebrants to embrace all segments of the society and dedicate themselves to the service of the people.


He also charged participants to always remain peaceful with one another, be security concious and seek divine intervention from God, through fervent prayers.

“You have to offer selfless service to all manner of people in your domains .

”Our country is passing through a trying period of security challenges, seek divine intervention from God,” he charged.

According to a press statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor, Mr. Yahaya Sarki, The monarch thanked Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu for approving the appointment of the new District Heads and the Emirate Council for their support.

Those turbanned were : Alhaji Buhari Muhammud Gidado, District Head of Aliero, Alhaji Siddiku Ibrahim Saad, Ubandoman Gwandu, Alhaji Aminu Abubakar Dangaladima, District Head of Gulumbe and Alhaji Muhammadu Aliyu Maiyama, Sarkin Kudun Maiyama.


Others were: Alhaji Yakubu Abubakar Kaoje, Sarkin Yamman Yamusa and Alhaji Hassan Sulaiman Jega, Marafan Dangamaji.

Others were: Uban Kasar Kimba, Alhaji Bashar Aliyu Muza, Alhaji Umaru Dodo Aliero, District Head of Sabiyel and Alhaji Tukur Umar Bahindi, Ubankasar Bahindi

The three traditional title holders turbaned were: Alhaji Haliru Haruna Rasheed, as Katukan Gwandu, Sarkin Edo Gwandu, Mohammed Kaseem Oshame and Sarkin Delta Gwandu, Elder John Ovuerhiroye Emeni.


The turbaning ceremony was attended by the Speaker, Kebbi State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Samaila Abdulmuminu Kamba, Members of the National and Kebbi State House of Assembly, Judges, Khadis, Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Advisers, Local Government Chairmen, District Heads, businessmen and put, among others.

Her Excellency, the Kebbi First Lady, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, on Saturday 27th February 2021, visited Vastum Aluminium factory in Tondi, along Yauri – Koko road with her team.


The factory, which is about to start full operations, specializes in the corrugation of aluminum roofing sheets and alloy zinc, among others. It is the second of its kind in the state and only one in the Yauri axis.


The company’s Managing Director, Engr. Ahmad Rufai Khalifah, who received Dr. Bagudu at the factory, thanked her for the visit, and her commitment as the mother of the state, to see young people succeed in their various fields of endeavors. He said that the company was set up to reduce the burden for builders around the axis, who always have to buy roofing sheets from far locations, and in most cases damages due to occur before it arrives. The MD also thanked Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu for providing an enabling environment for entrepreneurs in the state.


Dr. Bagudu expressed satisfaction in the work done so far in the factory. This includes the assembly of two machines and their test running. She commended the young entrepreneur and further assured that the Bagudu-led administration will patronize and support the company in line with the governor’s vision to support emerging businesses in the state to thrive.

By Yemi Itodo

National Commandant of Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN), Professor Dickson Akoh, has said the frequent kidnapping of school children by armed bandits would be a thing of the past, if the Bill establishing the Nigerian Peace Corps is given speedy passage at the National Assembly and eventually assented to by President Muhammad Buhari.

Akoh said members of the Corps had been sufficiently trained to tackle insecurity and other social vices around educational institutions in the country.

The Bill for an Act to establish the Nigerian Peace Corps, to give legal backing to the existing PCN under Prof. Akoh, passed second reading at the Nigerian Senate December 2020, while the House of Representatives is set for its final passage.


President Buhari had in 2018, declined assent to the Bill passed by the 8th National Assembly, citing paucity of funds and duplication of roles of existing agencies.

The Bill, however, has been re-gazetted by both chambers in the 9th Assembly, after “the grey areas raised by the President had been addressed”.

At a world press briefing in Abuja on Monday, the Peace Corps Boss called on National Assembly to quickly pass the Bill for onward assent of the President.

“In view of the heightening insecurity challenges in our country, I strongly appeal to the leadership of the National Assembly to fast-track the passage of the Bill and for Mr. President to assent to this all-important Bill.

“This will indeed, enable the Peace Corps to deploy its Officers and Men to educational institutions as they have been adequately trained and oriented to serve as supporting agents of social order by providing a second line of public safety”, Akoh said.


He explained further that, the Peace Corps can “adequately address insecurity in schools by upholding bottom-up surveillance through monitoring, observation, evaluation and to detect, collate and analyse intelligence data on matters that may likely cause breach of peace and security within the school community and properly transmit same to appropriate Security Agencies for preventive actions”.

Statistics have shown that a total of 1,140 school children/students have been abducted in the period of seven years, ranging from Chibok to the most current incident in Jangede.

Some of the abducted students were either killed, forcefully married away, maimed or remained traumatized even after regaining freedom.

Source: https://www.naijavoicenews.com/2021/03/01/akoh-to-nass-immediate-passage-of-peace-corps-bill-will-checkmate-students-kidnapping/

By Yemi Itodo

The House of Representatives is set to commence investigation into
allegations of unlawful waiver, obtained by a private equity firm, Alta Semper Capital, to co-own a popular retail pharmacy, Health Plus, in Nigeria.

The Spokesperson of the House, Rep. Benjamin Kalu made this known while addressing newsmen on Wednesday.

He said the decision by the House to investigate the matter, followed a petition by one Oladimeji Ekengba, challenging alleged waiver granted by Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) to Alter Semper Capital, also known as Idi Holdings.

According to him, the petitioner argued that according to Section 2(2) of the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria Act, P.17, 2004 (PCN Act), a retail pharmacy can only be wholly owned by a registered pharmacist or in partnership with other registered pharmacists.

Kalu stressed that petitioner further stated that the letter of ‘No Objection’ allegedly issued to Alter Semper as a waiver by PCN was illegal.

"The Committee on Public Petitions has been mandated by the House to investigate this issue.

"The management of Health Plus, Alter Semper Capital, Pharmacists Council of Nigeria plus and every other person who has played a role in the issue will soon be invited to the House.

He noted that, " as you are aware, the PCN Act established the PCN, a body charged with responsibility for regulating the practice of the pharmacy profession in Nigeria, and also charged with the responsibility for maintaining a register of qualified pharmacists and pharmaceutical businesses.

"The combined provisions of the PCN Act and the PCN Regulations stipulate that a retail pharmacy can only be owned by a registered pharmacist or in partnership with other registered pharmacists.

"So it was shocking to learn that by a letter dated 30 October 2017, the PCN Registrar granted a waiver to an equity investment relationship between Health Plus Limited and Alta Semper Capital (a.k.a. Idi Holdings) in March 2018.

" This is in defiance of the clear stipulation of our laws, which does not permit unqualified persons to own or operate a retail pharmacy business in Nigeria.

"A mere letter cannot and must not be allowed to abrogate an Act of the National Assembly.

"Therefore, any structure put on that weak foundation should not be allowed to stand because it was not birthed by legality.

"The only remedy for the Alter Semper-Health Plus anomaly is for parties to be returned to status quo. While we are open to foreign direct investment, private equity companies must come through the front door and not the back door.

"We are a rule of law compliant nation. Investors must understand this and comply with our laws."

The spokesperson further pointed out that "the Covid-19 scourge has critically impacted medicine security in Nigeria.

"So, as we navigate the challenges of the pandemic, now more than ever, there is a grave responsibility on the government to ensure best practices and a healthy regulatory space for local pharmaceutical businesses to thrive.

"Pharmaceutical practice standards and the integrity of the supply chain should not be distorted or compromised.

"We cannot allow unlicensed practitioners in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical space because it could create a window for fake or substandard drugs to be introduced into the system," he said.

Kau expressed confidence that the House would do justice to the concerns raised by the petitioner to ensure the health and safety of Nigerian citizens were safeguarded against predatory or charlatan practitioners in the pharmaceutical sector.

Reacting, some pharmacists in Nigeria expressed displeasure with the development.

They argued that the relationship between Alter Semper Capital and Health Plus, was based on an illegality which they said was harmful to the pharmaceutical sector.

A pharmacist based in Abuja who preferred to remain anonymous said, "what happened with Health Plus and the foreign investors sets a wrong precedent in the pharmaceutical industry if allowed to stand.

"It is an affront to the integrity of the profession that an unqualified person will be allowed to run a pharmacy in Nigeria simply because he is a foreign investor.

"This cannot happen in the legal profession or the medical profession, so why should it happen to pharmacists?

The pharmacist stressed that "the Registrar was wrong and acted illegally by issuing a letter of no objection to a flagrant abuse of the PCN Act.

"In my own mind, let the investors be refunded and health plus made to wait for them to come through the proper channels."

He said if the allegations were found to be true, the disciplinary committee of the PCN should invite the Registrar for questioning.

He commended the House for rising to the occasion, saying, "we hope it will return sanity to the profession by returning all parties, both Health Plus and Alter Semper to their initial positions before the letter of no objection.

By Yemi Itodo

A Chieftain of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Dr. Garus Gololo, has called for the arrest and prosecution of the Minority Leader of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Enyinaya Abaribe.

This was coming on the heels of the statement credited to the leader of opposition in the Senate, when he appeared at a Television program Monday morning.

Abaribe had reportedly faulted President Muhammad Buhari, for not declaring Fulani herdsmen as terrorist group.

But addressing newsmen in Abuja Monday evening, Gololo lambasted Senator Abaribe, describing him as a hypocrite.

He said the lawmaker had no moral justification for suggesting that "the largest tribe" in Nigeria be proscribed.

"It is very unfortunate that, same Senator who stood as surety to abate the release of a man who was being prosecuted for crimes against the state, and the man later jumped bail to a foreign land; could still have the mouth to speak against Fulani people.

"What crime could be more terrible than that of a man who sought to disintegrate the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with the intension to having his own sovereign state and be printing his own currency at will? Treason is a serious crime all over the world. Yet, Abaribe stood for him.

"Senator Ali Ndume who stood as surety for someone who was just accused of embezzlement, was arrested and imprisoned, until the accused showed up, I wonder why they still allow Abaribe to be moving freely and still be attending plenary, to the extent of having the guts to speak in a manner to disintegrate this country.

"The Inspector General of Police should work with the Federal High Court and have him arrested, so he could produce the culprit he assisted to run away. The Senate President should not even allow him attend plenary, because his conduct is not that of a leader", Gololo said.

He said at a time when the nation is in a turmoil, what a good leader would do is to proffer solutions on how to arrest the insecurities and unrest, to enable Nigerians stay as one indivisible entity, and not to be making inflammatory statements that could further jeopardize the peace and tranquillity of the nation.

Gololo added that, like other tribes, criminal elements also do exist amongst the Fulani people, saying the government and security agencies should rather go after the criminals and bring them to book, instead of listening to enemies of one Nigeria.

In addition to the 20, 000 customers metered so far under the National Mass Metering Programme, the Management of Jos Electricity Distribution Plc through its Head, Corporate Communications, Dr Friday Adakole Elijah has assured electricity user that 100,000 customers would be metered in the next six months.

This was disclosed last weekend during a three day Strategy Retreat organised by the Management for Divisional and Departmental Heads, alongside Regional Managers.


Titled “Turning The Tide For Improved performance “, the Managing Director, Engr Hashim Ibrahim Bakori said that the company would provide 20 more operational vehicles to enable the field staff discharge their work more effectively.

Engr Hashim disclosed that an additional 500 Maximum Demand meters would be procured and installed for customers before July ending.

He cautioned that on no account should Regional Managers allow the meters to lie fallow saying all meters supplied must be installed for customers at no cost.

The Managing Director also directed the Regional to ensure that all prepaid meters in their domains are polemounted with immediate effect.

Engr Hashim also disclosed that in order to ease the work of the field workers, Management has procure 50 ladders, Toolboxes, Pliers, Led phases testers, Operating rods, Safety belts, Boots, Hats and Jackets for usage.


In addition to the above, the Chief Executive Officer of the company further revealed that network consumables such as fuses, cross arms , sockets, ferrules, aluminium conductors, disc/pot insulators, transformer oils amongst others have been procured and distributed with the aim to stabilising and solidifying the network.

He said that the company under his leadership would embark on aggressive rehabilitation of lines and feeders so as to enable the company deliver stable, reliable and durable quality energy to her customers.

He called on the Regional Managers to constantly check and guide against overloaded transformer in their domains stressing that effective and beneficial customer relationships management should be their priorities.

The Managing Director therefore appeal to customers to reciprocate the quality services being provided by the company by timely paying for their consumed energies stressing that at the moment, the company was going through a lot of difficulties with most customers whom he said were hugely indebted to the company.

By Yemi Itodo

A Chieftain of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Dr. Garus Gololo, has cautioned Benue State Governor to stop using ex-convicts and other criminal elements to kill and extort Fulani men around the state.

At a press briefing in Abuja Sunday evening, Gololo specifically accused one of Ortom’s appointees, Mr. Linus Zaki, the Benue State Commander of Livestock Guard of extortion money from Herders whose cows they arrested, in the name of anti-open grazing law in the state.


Gololo said, aside empowering the one time most wanted criminal in Benue, Late Terwese Agwaza (Gana); Ortom also allegedly secured the release of Mr. Zaki, who served 5 years out of his life sentence, owing to series of cases of murder, and made him to head the team fighting Fulani herdsmen who were going about their normal business.

“You can see from this picture here, the carcass of a young Tiv businessman, Derga Yasfa, whose mother is an elder sister to Ortom’s orderly. He was lured and murdered by the same man Ortom appointed in his government as Commander, in Guma local government in 2013.

“Same Zaki was accused of killing Alhaji Shayi, leader of Fulanis in Gwer West in 2010. When you go to State CID in Makurdi, you would see many of his files involving killings, robbery and others. When you come to Federal SARS in Abuja, you would also see many case files of Zaki bothering on so many crimes.

“Few days ago, he went to Keana, a place in Nasarawa and claimed one Alhaji Gajere was indulging in open grazing. He arrested 120 cows belonging to him and took to Makurdi. Gajere had to pay N10m as ransom to collect his cows back, that was after about 30 cows were declared dead or missing.


“Everyday we get reports from our tribesmen how Ortom’s men arrest their cows and collect ransom, ranging from N3m to N10m. All the criminals recruited by Linus Zaki are now big millionaires, from Fulani sweats. I have told you last week how they stop and search for Fulanis and kill them.

“But you won’t see any of these in the media, because the Fulanis don’t have such influence on the Nigeria’s media. But I have just told you the reality”, Gololo said.

He added that, when Governor Ortom proposed the Anti-Open Grazing Law in Benue in 2017, he promised to run a ‘Pilot Ranching’, where there could be borehole water for the cattle and herders, Police Stations and Livestock Guards as well as Veterinary and other healthcare services.

The APC Chieftain advised the Governor to put those things in place and also stop his boys from attacking Fulani herdsmen so he could be running to the media to cry the victim.

He also described it as “laughable”, the statement credited to Governor Ortom in many pages of Sunday newspapers that he (Ortom) was ready to receive those Fulani herdsmen being displaced in the South West.

“How can someone who is asking the indigenous Fulanis born and bred in Benue, that have been living in peace with their host communities to leave the state, and then turn back to mock the Fulani nation that he would receive those coming from Yoruba land?”, Gololo rhetorically asked.

According to tradition and the culture of the Igala people, if an Attah Igala goes on a hunting expedition and he does not return home on time, another Monarch is selected to take his place because an Attah never dies as believed by the Igala people. So when HRM Michael Idakwo Ameh Oboni II left for hunting and could not be found, the stool spiritually became vacant after the traditional rights of passage had been completed. The processes for the enthronement of a new Monarch kick-started from then on.

The four (4) ruling royal houses know whose turn it is to ascend the throne and those that are qualified from the particular lineage lines up in contest by submitting their expression of intent to the Etemahi of Igalamela, who is the Head or Chairman of the Council of Kingmakers.

But to the bewilderment of the Igala race, the Etemahi called for expression of interest from the four ruling houses instead of the Ameacho lineage that is supposed to produce the next Monarch. This misnomer by itself created acrimony and confusion in the selection processes. This was done in our judgement to create an avenue for manipulations and compromises.


The selection is supposed to be based on the 2015 Kogi State Government Gazzete. But all those that submitted an expression of interest were invited by the Etemahi on the 15th of December, 2020. On that day, the Etemahi constituted a Committee of eminent persons headed by Pastor William (Aju Ocholi) while the secretary was Aminu Sule from the four ruling royal families and enjoined the Committee to come up with a report by selecting the most qualified candidate among the sixteen (16) contestants. He gave the Committee up to 29th of December, 2020 to submit their report. The Committee finished their assignment in accordance to the terms and reference and submitted a report on the 29th of December, 2020. The report of the Committee was read to the hearing of all and sundry in the Palace of the Etemahi on the said date of 29th December, 2020.

From the report read, Prince Matthew Opaluwa Oguche was recommended by the Committee with the findings and reasons for the recommendation in the presence of all other contestants. It was applauded by some while 3 members of the Committee did not sign, reason being that they have their own candidate (Aju Akogu) They committee was appreciated for a job well done which will create an easy process for the final selection by the Kingmakers.

Rather than the Etemahi working with the report of a Committee he set up by himself which was hailed by all those present at the presentation of the report, he gave another date for the screening of the interested individuals. The candidates all endured and faced the screening squarely for over a month on daily basis except Sundays. After the screening was concluded he told the candidates to go and that soonest, they will hear from him. By normal practices, he is supposed to meet with other Kingmakers two to three times. The other kingmakers are the likes of Achenya Attah, Agukele, Onubiogbo, Ananya Attah, Onede, etc.

After three weeks of completion of the screening, news filtering around is said to have the Etemahi picked Ocholi Opaluwa Oguche, the most junior of the Opaluwa Oguche children in the contest. This volte-face we understand is as a result of the under-arm tactics being employed by Juliana Idakwo Ameh, the wife of the immediate past Monarch.

The Etemahi we understand resorted into intimidation and name-dropping by telling the other Kingmakers that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello has been on his neck to forward the name of Ocholi Opaluwa to him for approval against his interest and the interest of due processes and procedures. It is absurd and unthinkable that an Executive Governor will descend so low to concern himself with the selection of a Monarch that entails custom and due processes. That the Etemahi in conjunction with his Secretary, Mahmoud Okpanachi and J S A Idakwo will drag the Executive Governor into a matter he has absolutely nothing to do with is the highest height of sacrilege. Two names we heard, was finally submitted to the Achadu for Selection, why was it suddenly changed to one without due process? Why did the Ètèmahi not work with the report of the committee he set up? May God Almighty give us a leader that will redeem the Igala kingdom!!


They must remember that “Akpane, ane-akpa.” What a sacrilege!!

Written by Omichi Ejuile Sani
Source:
https://www.naijavoicenews.com/2021/02/06/kogi-attah-igalas-vacant-stool-is-on-sale-at-the-etemahis-palace-sani/

Dr. Garus Gololo, a Chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC), has called on President Muhammed Buhari-led federal government, to quickly intervene and stop the killings of Fulani herdsmen in Benue state and other part of the country.

Briefing newsmen in Abuja on Thursday, Gololo lamented the killings of dozens of Fulani people in Benue State within the last one week, accusing Governor Samuel Ortom of being the cause.

He claimed no Fulani man or woman could travel through Benue to another state anymore, as those suspected to be of Fulani origin were being stopped and dragged down from their vehicles for onward massacre.

"Last week, the youth militias empowered by Ortom, stopped a commercial vehicle in Gboko and the 7 Fulani people in the vehicle were burnt to ashes. Few days ago, they also did same in Yandev.

"Fulani people now are afraid to travel through the state to their respective destinations. They now have to pass through Gombe state to access Taraba, even those that are Civil servants can't travel through Benue to their office. Even me, when I enter Benue now, they would stop me and check if I'm Fulani, the next thing is to execute me", Gololo lamented.

He said the Fulani had suffered more casualties in Benue than the locals. Gololo argued that, an average Fulani man always minds his business and has no business to be going to the media all the time like Ortom does, stressing that, they don't have a voice even in their own country, the reason people don't get to hear of their plights.

Gololo dares Ortom to announce and parade the 7 Fulani herdsmen he claimed he arrested with guns last week, adding that, he should also disclose the names of 17 militias of Tiv origin arrested with Ak-47 too, believing to be followers of the late Mafia, Terwase Agwaza (aka Gana).

He pointed that, "the South West governors are currently fighting Fulani people, the South East and South South too. The Fulani people are becoming helpless and hapless in their own country, yet, the President watches and does nothing, simply because he is a Fulani man and he is probably being careful so they won't blackmail him that he is taking sides with his people.

"No one is asking the President to take sides with anyone. We are only saying a life of a Fulani man matters as that of other tribes too. No life is more important than the other, he should intervene and stop all the killings".

Gololo admitted that, there are criminals amongst the Fulani race, just like every other tribe in Nigeria also has criminal elements too, "but those who are genuinely doing their business should be allowed to do so. Everybody cannot be bad in a tribe. The robbery, kidnapping and other crimes going on across the country are being committed by all tribes in Nigeria and the security chiefs should intensify to bring anyone involved to book".

The APC stalwart also berated former Chairman of People's Democratic Party (PDP), Abubakar Kawu Baraje, for saying the APC imported Fulani to the country in 2015 for the purpose of winning elections.

He said, "before APC came to power in 2015, there were kidnappings, bombings, insurgencies, militancy and other form of criminality", asking where did PDP import machineries from that period?

Source: https://www.naijavoicenews.com/2021/02/04/apc-chieftain-gololo-charges-fg-to-end-fulani-killings-in-benue-other-states/

By Yemi Itodo

In reaction to the removal of Service Chiefs in Nigeria by President Muhammad Buhari, calls have continued to mount from various sections of the country that the immediate past military heads should be probed.

This became intense as serving officers of the Nigerian military, Army and Navy in particular, have continued to jubilate over the removal of the service Chiefs.

In a press statement signed by himself on Thursday, Dr. Garus Gololo, specifically called on President Buhari to set up an independent Commission of Enquiry, to probe the activities of the immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai and his Navy counterpart, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas.

Gololo said, he has personally interacted with members of the milliary force in all formations and could authoritatively say the tenure of Buratai and Ibas was the worst off, buttressing the reason for jubilations over their sack.

"I want the President to probe the former Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Naval Staff. The jubilations amongst Army and Naval officers shows that a lot went wrong under their regime. But as serving officers, they could not have voiced out to avoid being court-marshaled.

"I could still recall how many times Buratai organized court marshal for serving officers, most of whom were fighting insurgencies. Even his two predecessors didn't do that.

"That was same man that boasted he could end Boko Haram insurgency within 6 months, yet, the security situation became worst after his fruitless and wasted 6 years as Army Chief. Yet, he had the temerity to redeploy the Commander of Ops Lafiya Dole, for failing to capture Shekarau within 6 months.

"Buratai should also tell us why over 270 Nigerian Army personnel resigned from service within 24 hours. Could it be that their entitlements were not being paid? Was their welfare not properly handled? What happened to billions of naira being budgeted and released to Army to purchase weapons and equipments to fight terrorism? Why couldn't they make any headways with the fight against insurgents, bandits, despite all the allocations?

"Why are Air Force officers not happy that the Chief of Air Staff left? We want the President to assist us get answers to above questions. Failure to probe the two of them, will afford me the opportunity to drag them to court and see that serving officers including families of slain officers get justice", Gololo said.

He added that, since Buratai enjoyed taking soldiers to court marshal, he is now in the court of public opinion and the best thing Nigerians want from President Buhari was to bring the aforementioned ex-service Chiefs to account.

President Buhari had on Tuesday, relieved Nigeria's Service Chiefs of their duties, having served for 6 years and replaced them with new Heads from the ranks and files of the military.

Source: https://www.naijavoicenews.com/2021/01/28/apc-chieftain-gololo-wants-buhari-to-probe-ex-service-chiefs/

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.