₦airaland Forum

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.

By Yemi Itodo

A chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Dr. Garus Gololo, has described as "devilish" and "unpatriotic", the calls from some sections of the country that President Muhammad Buhari should resign.

Gololo, at a press briefing on Monday in Abuja, said those calling for the head of the President are enemies of Nigeria who don't want Buhari to continue with his good work.

Some Nigerian youth have taken to streets since last week, demanding the abolishment of the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) unit of the Nigeria Police.

President Buhari, had since, disbanded SARS, through the Inspector General of Police, Muhammad Adamu.

But the protesters still mount more pressures as they continue to occupy the streets with some calling for the resignation of the President.

Dr. Gololo, while briefing newsmen, said the ongoing protest was rather targeted at Buhari and not the SARS, alleging that some powerful politicians somewhere may have been sponsoring the move to make the President Buhari led government unpopular and distractive.

"If not for mischief and devilish thought, why on earth would they still continue to protest, when President Buhari has already disbanded the SARS? That means there are other motives behind that protest.

"To even think some persons will cross the red line and start asking for Buhari to resign is height of insolence and unpatriotic habit. Why are they asking him to resign when they didn't vote for him in the first place? Check out the sections of those calling for his resignation, they didn't vote for Buhari. Those who stood for Buhari and voted for him are pleased with his leadership charisma.

"Revolution can not be gotten on the streets. We practise pure democracy and it amounts to treason to make attempt to upturn a democratically constituted government the way they are going. The only way to change government is through balloting which they could not achieve in 2019 because the majority of the people in Nigeria stood with Buhari", Gololo said.

The chieftain also called on various security agencies, especially, the Police and Secret Service to go after the Sponsors of the protesters who are causing "civil unrest" and bring them to book.

"The Inspector General of Police and the DG of DSS should live above board and carry out intelligence of those behind the civil unrest and move to unseat the President. Let the Service Chiefs also do their work and if they are tired, they should kindly bow out and stop the embarrassment", he added.

The Northern Youths Assembly under the Coalition of Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara Youth and Student leaders held a solidarity Rally in support of the Nigerian Police Force, in a statement signed by the convener Comrade Isah Jabbi, he noted that they have gathered to restate their confidence as Nigerian youth, in the Nigerian Police and its leadership, as the Country continue to battle the challenges of Insecurity, occasioned by the activities of bandits, insurgents, cyber criminals and armed robbery. Over the recent times, we have watched several orchestrated campaign of calumny, well funded and targeted at the Nigerian Police and its leadership. We are worried, that rather than encourage and appreciate the selfless commitment of our policemen to the protection of our national security, some people, have dedicated themselves, to the task of blackmailing, and instigating Nigerians against the police, in order to cover up for series of their atrocities, against our motherland.

Even though the leadership of the force under IGP Muhammed Adamu have alllowed reasoning to prevail by announcing, a ban on the activities of SARS across the country, we wish to state, that the #EndSARS campaigns against the Police and its leadership at this critical moment, are calculated attempts to derail the ongoing war against crime in the country, while also seeking to tarnish the image of the Nigerian Police.


The sponsors of these protests and the fabricators of these spurious allegations have gone beyond the ordinary, just to paint the Police and its Leadership before the general public. We are however convinced, that, though the Police despite its untiring effort in combatting the crimes in the country are not afraid of submitting themselves to public scrutiny has it has often been demonstrated by IGP Adamu led leadership of the Nigerian Police since he took over.

We wish to state, that while we agree with the decision of the police to ban that important unit of the force, SARS, we urge patriotic Nigerians to join the call for a holistic reformation of Nigerian Police. What the police require, an improved funding and Reforms that will make the Police more efficient and professional in discharging their duties. This will go a long way to curtail some excess and over-steeping their scope of assignment or operation. Further sensitisation of the police is another approach to clear personnel who have not being professional in discharging their duties. This should be in a way of conducting test, or interviews and monitoring Enlightenment on Rules of Engagement. When given better welfare, our police will not be tempted to be lured by citizens who are influential with their position, wealth and connection to do what is not part of their rules of engagement.

The Nigerian Police , no doubt remain one of the strongest in Africa. There are several tales of the force’s exploits both on the foreign mission and on the home soil. It is an institution of disciplined and committed Officers and Men.

Despite the challenges posed by the our internal security challenges, their morale is always high and this has been made possible by the visionary and dynamic leadership style of Mr Muhammed Adamu, , the Inspector General of Police, under whose leadership the Nigerian Police has continued to record tremendous successes both against our security challenges and in the general well being of Officers and Men of the force.

IGP Adamu’s brutal confrontation of Banditry, is not only a pacesetter in the history of the Nigeria Police, he is a man with many ‘firsts’ .

The Nigerian Police have conducted Successful Recruitment, Training and Deployment of 10,000 police recruits in line with Federal Government’s manpower development plan of the Nigeria Police.

Enhancement of Operational Capacity of the Force with the procurement of Patrol Vehicles including 46 Police Smart Surveillance (CCTV Camera-on-the Move) Vehicles, Tactical Operations Vehicles fitted with state-of-the-art surveillance equipment; Armoured Personnel Carriers; Troop Carriers; and 7 Anti-Riot Water Cannon Trucks.

The leadership of the Force under IGP Adamu has also achieved the Completion and launch of: The Nigeria Police National Command and Control Centre (NPF-C4i). The first phase of the Nigeria Police Crime and Incident Data Centre (NPC & IDB).

Deployment of cutting-edge technology in our crime management operations with the acquisition of the Police Smart Surveillance Vehicle which are fitted with high-resolution, long-distance CCTV monitoring equipment with night electronic functionalities and are linked to the Nigeria Police National Command and Control Centre (NPF-C4i). The vehicles are currently being deployed for real-time electronic monitoring of the Abuja-Kaduna highway and other major highways and vulnerable locations across the country including the electronic surveillance of NNPC pipelines in the country.

Strengthening of our Democratic Values with the provision of requisite quality leadership that guaranteed the successful conduct of the 2019 General Elections and other off-season elections that were conducted in the year.

The police fight against Banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery across the country by the Police, has brought crime to the barest minimum.

The Police in conjunction with other security agencies have continue to carry out sustained operations against Terrorism and other forms of crime, in line with President Buhari’s focus to eliminate the remnants of the insurgents within the shortest possible time. A mission IGP Adamu is committed to, with all vigor.

The Police continually maintained a posture to defend Nigeria’s internal security, IGP Adamu understands the power of unity and that is why he maintained a robust security relations with security agencies in the county, and together they have achieved tremendous success.

Nigerian Police remained apolitical, professional and responsive in the discharge of its constitutional roles and total commitment to the defense of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Finally, we call on President Buhari to consider an immediate upward review of budgetary allocations to the police and other security agencies in the country, as we continue to support their patriotic commitment to our motherland. Aluta Continua!

The women wing of the Oil Producing Area Association of Nigeria (OPAAN) while congratulating Nigeria at 60 has task President Muhammad Buhari to ensure Sustainable development and prosperity for women in the oil-producing areas.

The National Women Leader Mrs. Patience Shielu Afebu in a statement signed on Thursday noted that there is no doubt that the Oil Producing Areas contributes about 83% of Nigeria's total revenue, but the country's tremendous potentials for growth and sustainable development through crude oil is yet to be fulfilled due to many constraints posed by the industry to the environment. Oil exploitation has thus created chronic poverty, under-development, number of environmental impacts such as soil, water, and air pollution.

Ironically, it is regrettable that the Nigeria oil industry is organized in such a way that there is glaring inequality in women participation, in an environment obviously dominated by men, yet women bear a greater burden of environmental problems which result from oil production in their roles as mothers, domestic workers, farmers, fishermen, and breadwinners.

To this end, it is interesting that at this strategic period when The Nation is embracing and nurturing agricultural growth and development as the mainstay of the economy, the Oil producing Areas can not conveniently embrace and key into this economic developmental initiative due to the saddening and damaging effects of oil exploration and activities, despite the fact that oil has been hugely profitable from time immemorial, thereby making the oil-producing area to be the bedrock, as well as foundation sustaining Nigeria consistently for about a period of 50 years now.

In this regard, there comes the urgent need, particularly with Nigeria celebrating her 60th year anniversary, for the Federal Government to protect and reward the goose that lays the golden egg.

Consequently, At 60 years as a Nation, and with the oil-producing areas sustaining Nigeria for the past 50 years, there is the all encouraging and collaborative need for us as a Nation to re-define and create a sustainable socio-economic agenda, or prosperity Agenda for the vulnerable Oil Woman and child.

In other words and on this critical note, it is our candid opinion that to alleviate the burden of the Niger Delta Woman and child, the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration in line with its transformational change mantra and other critical stakeholders in the Oil sector, among others to ensure the monetization of the gas being flared, as well as impose stringent oil mining rules to ensure a better bargain and environment development plan that will recognize women and children as a most vulnerable group in a challenging environment as we have.

Additionally, measures designed or put in place to alleviate their strains should be specifically incorporated in development projects, especially with the ongoing Agricultural revolution program in Nigeria, so that they can be empowered equitably in meeting the global developmental goal of sustainable environment and gender equity.

As we conclude, we the OPAAN women of thought wish to unequivocally assure President Mohammed Buhari led the Government of our continued support and collaboration towards the successful realization of its developmental goals, as well as sustained peace and security of the oil-rich Niger Delta Region as the mothers of the Nation. We believe in one united Nigeria.

By Yemi Itodo

Spokesman for the Nigerian House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has described as biggest intervention, the approval for the construction of
Umuahia-Bende-Ohafia road (LOT 2) in Abia state by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

At its sitting on Wednesday, the FEC had given approval for the construction of the road which had been abandoned for 44 years.

The approval, it was gathered, came after months of intense lobbying and frequent advocacy visits to the Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, by Rep. Kalu, who is currently representing Bende Federal Constituency at the Green Chamber.

As announced during the FEC meeting of Wednesday, the approval is for the rehabilitation to commence from the Umuahia axis of the road which is valued at N12.08bn and to span a distance of 45km.

In the statement made available to newsmen early hours of Thursday, Rep. Kalu expressed appreciation to President Muhammad Buhari and Mr. Fashola, for such wonderful intervention, which he said would boost the economic fortunes of the people in the area.

According to the statement, a very elated Rep. Kalu specifically thanked Minister Fashola for his listening ear, consideration and support over the last one year regarding the approval and repair of the Bende-Ohafia road.

“I thank President Muhammadu Buhari and the entire Federal Executive Council for acknowledging our request for federal intervention in the Umuahia-Bende-Ohafia road and approving the rehabilitation and construction of the road which had been abandoned since its construction in 1976. The people of Bende have suffered greatly as a result of the severe dilapidation of the road; therefore, FEC's approval of the project is concrete proof that this particular administration is genuine about stopping infrastructure decay in the country.

"I especially thank the Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, for his cooperation and for taking this project as his own over the last one year. I appreciate his passionate presentation of the case of my people at the FEC meeting yesterday and must also acknowledge the Honourable Minister of State, Mines and Steel, Dr. Uche Ogah for lending his voice in support of this project at the FEC meeting and for being the first to break the news joyfully, congratulating me for a good representation of Abia people at the National Assembly.

"Indeed, I am very impressed with the efficiency demonstrated by the people at the Ministry of Works during my engagements with them for this federal government intervention over the last one year. The people at the Ministry of Works demonstrated such excellence that gave me hope for the future of public service in Nigeria.

"I particularly appreciate the Ministry of Works Permanent Secretary, the former acting Permanent Secretary, Engr. Yemi, the Director of Works, South-East Highways, Engr. Funso Adebiyi, as well as the staff at the Abia State office of the Ministry, especially Engr. Nwankwo (rtd.) who worked diligently with my team headed by Cyril Kwubiri during the measurement and design of the road", Rep. Kalu said.

The lawmaker also congratulated his colleagues at both chambers of the National Assembly who represent the axes where the road cuts across in Abia State, while appealing to the leadership of National Assembly to make the road scale through in the 2021 appropriation exercise.

He said, "as this project moves to appropriation, I want to seize this opportunity to appeal to the leadership of both chambers of the legislature and indeed everyone involved in the appropriation process to render their gracious support to put an end to the suffering of my people. I am hopeful that the contractor will be duly funded to immediately commence work from the Umuahia axis, having secured this approval".

Rep. Kalu expressed hopes that economic activities in his constituency would enjoy a boost upon completion of the project.

The statement also quoted the Honourable Minister of Works as assuring the lawmaker and people from the area of "increased effort to fund the project", adding that they should be expectant for the Bende-Itumbauzo-Akwa Ibom road soon.

By Yemi Itodo

In order to make the girl child self reliant and less vulnerable to RAPE, the National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (NARICT), Zaria, last week, alongside other experts, trained 100 girls on various skills in Benue State.

The one-week training was organized at the instance of Miss Idoma Ambassador, Queen Esther Ene Daniels.

The participants who were drawn from the 9 LGAs of Benue South, were trained from Monday 7th to Saturday 12th September, 2020 on skills such as, production of hand sanitizer, liquid soup, odour control, body spray/perfumes, shoes, hand bags, fascinator, carrot oil, cake baking, poultry rearing and makeup.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony at the weekend, the Special Assistant to the Director General of NARICT, Dr. Victor Ochigbo, said he led the team of trainers to Benue on the request of the Benue beauty Queen, whom he commended for her fervent campaign against RAPE.

Ochigbo assured the readiness of his agency and the commitment of the DG, Prof. Jeffrey Baminas to always partner with the Queen in her future activities.

In her welcome address, Miss Daniels said the skill acquisition training was part of her empowerment program for the Idoma girl child, stressing that the gesture would go a long way to reduce the menace of RAPE in Idoma land.

"It will be recalled that, in May this year, I launched an online awareness campaign against RAPE tagged ‘Give Her Pen, Not Penis’. This literary suggests that we should invest in the education/training of the Girl Child rather than causing her pains.

"Aside the awareness campaign which received massive support online by Idoma youth both home and abroad, I have also distributed exercise books to the Idoma Girl Child, including distribution of palliatives during the lockdown, while distributing customized Face Shields with my anti-RAPE slogan to various organizations during and after the lockdown.

"I have also visited virtually all our leaders and elders, both male and female from Benue South, to appeal to their sensitivity to join hands in this fight against RAPE, through a strong legislation, dependable judicial system, orientation of the male folks and a powerful neighborhood watch system.

"One of the ways too, that our leaders could assist in reducing the RAPE menace, is by supporting organizations and individuals who are committed to the empowerment of the Idoma Girl Child. It is believed that when they are empowered through skill acquisition trainings, they become economically viable, self-reliant and less vulnerable to RAPE", she said.

The beauty Queen called on willing organizations and Benue political leaders to support her initiative so as to continue with the empowerment program every year.

"In as much as we intended to do more, we were however, constrained by unavailability of funds to prosecute our thought. Among the many Non-Governmental Organisations we wrote to, it was only Ojechema & Mercy Foundation and Ada Mark Foundation for Girls that have responded through financial and material support, respectively. We also visited and wrote to our leaders for support, but just a few of them answered our calls.

"I intend to make this program a yearly activity. Even long after I have handed over my crown, I would want to continue with this great initiative, through my yet-to-be registered Foundation and with partnership with Free Image Entertainment, the platform that provided me this opportunity to give my voice against RAPE.

"In this regard, I seek your kind support to enable me register and launch Queen Esther Foundation in a couple of weeks to come. I also seek your support to enable me sustain this legacy that I count as the biggest empowerment program ever in the history of Benue State", the Queen added.

In their separate remarks, Member representing Ogbadibo at the Benue House of Assembly, Hon. Peter Enemari and the Paramount Ruler of Otukpa Chiefdom, HRH Sir Sunday Ekele, the Och'Otukpa, Leader, Ogbadibo Legislative Council, Hon. Jacob Idoko and Hon. Emmanuel Ogwuche, commended the initiative of the beauty Queen, while urging more support for her Foundation to make the empowerment more elaborate, subsequently.

Highlight of the program was exhibition of various products by the trainees and presentation of N20,000 takeoff capital to each of the participants by the beauty Queen, with the promise to monitor and mentor them for 2 months to ensure they are successful in their trades.

President Muhammadu Buhari has pledged federal government’s support and assistance to Kebbi flood victims.

In statement signed by Yahaya Sarki, Special Adviser to Kebbi State Governor, Buhari on Saturday had dispatched a high powered delegation to the state,led by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji Sabo Nanono to commiserate with flood victims across the state .

Nanono, accompanied by Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu and top Government officials from federal and state government who stated this during a courtesy call on the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammdu Mera in his palace said that, the president was deeply concerned with the massive flood disasters in the state, as well as other parts of Nigeria .


Nanono also said that, he was in the state on the directives of the president , to commiserate with the govenrment and people of the state, especially the victims .

According to him, President Buhari has also mandated him to holistically assess the extent of damage caused by the flood disasters

He added: ” This is with the view to ascertaining the extent of damages to farmlands ,livestock, houses and other infrastructure.

” We will also go back to Abuja, compile our report and submit same the report .
” In Sha Allahu, the Federal Government will come to the aid of the victims, including those who have lost their livestock .”


Nanono appealed to the farmers not to be dissuaded and discouraged, just as he called on them to accept the disasters as inevitable acts of the Almighty Allah.

” Efforts are also on to provide early maturing seeds of rice , maize and other food crops, to reduce the impact of the disasters on food security and the colossal losses to the farmers ,” the Minister, added.

Nanono extolled the sterling contributions of Gov Atiku Bagudu towards bolstering food security in the country .

He noted that, Kebbi State was now the hub of rice production, a situation that has positive effects across Nigeria.

Responding, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaii Samaila Mera, lauded President Muhammadu Buhari for showing concerns to the plight of the flood victims in the state.


The Emir also commended Gov Atiku Bagudu for showing deep concerns to the victims, as well as unrelenting commitment to offer immediate assistance to them .

He also lauded the Governor for his efforts to ensure that, the flood disasters do not result in the skyrocketting of the prices of food items , occasioned by the submerging of farmlands in the state .

Mera however said,” As Muslims , we have faithfully accepted the disasters as inevitable acts of the Almighty Allah.”

The Minister of Agriculture in the company of the governor and the entourage at Matan Fada river to assess damage to rice farmlands submerged by water gave an assurance to farmers in Kebbi State of compensatory assistance from the federal government.

Alhaji Nanono expressed shock with extent of the destruction by the floods to farmlands said the situation require prompt intervention to those affected.

The Minister assured the farmers that he would brief president Buhari on his return to Abuja while the Federal Ministry of Agriculture would also deliberate on the matter for quick intervention.

The minister commended governor Bagudu for his effective leadership in managing and mitigating the hardship of the disaster on people.

On his part, governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu explained that being on a downward slope, Kebbi State received the brunt of release of water from Goronyo and Bakalori dams upstream as well as release of water from river Niger by authorities of Republic of Niger .

He informed the minister that farmers in the state lost farmlands, crops, animals and fishing ponds but commended them for their resilience and perverence.


Bagudu expressed appreciation to Minister of Agriculture, the CBN and Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) for coming to Kebbi to sympathise and begin process of mobilisation to reenergize farmers inorder to reignite cultivation towards recovering losses incurred.

The governor affirmed the commitment of his administration to offering them necessary moral and material support to replant but solicited for further assistance from the federal government.

Earlier, the Chairman of Wheat farmers association in the state, Alhaji Abdullahi Argungu regretted that almost the entire fadama rice fields in Kebbi State have been submerged by the floods.

He said 90 percent of the farmlands have been submerged by the floods.

‘Farmers made the largest replanting of rice ever recorded in the state before flood water washed everything” , he lamented.

Argungu requested the federal government and authorities concerned to immediately provide the farmers with improved seeds of maize , cassava, potatoes and other varieties for planting instantaneously.

The Minister and his entourage after inspecting farmlands and areas devastated by floods in Argungu and Makera in Birnin Kebbi , rounded up the visit with a courtesy call on the emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammdu Iliyasu Bashar .

The Emir of Gwandu and Chairman Kebbi State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Muhammdu Iliyasu Bashar thanked the minister for the visit and the concern of the president over the sad situation in Kebbi.

Bashar extolled the effort of the governor in dealing with the flood situation.

He called on the victims not to loose hope and have faith in Allah.

The minister was accompanied on the visit by top management officials of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu in company of his deputy, Alhaji Samaila Yombe Dabai, the Chief of Staff Government House, Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu ( Jarman Kabi) , the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Babale Umar Yauri, Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries and other top Government functionaries welcomed the minister on arrival in Birnin Kebbi and accompanied him on the inspection visit.

The Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku in the early hours of Tuesday, visited Argungu metropolis, to personally assess the number of houses destroyed by the recent flood disasters.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yahaya Sarki, the governor walked long distance in the nooks and crannies of Jega town, to assess the houses affected by the flood.

He also commiserated with hundreds of victims whose houses were submerged by the devastating floods .

Bagudu was accompanied by the District Head of Jega, Alhaji Muhammadu Arzika Bawa Jega , State House of Assembly Member, representating Jega Constituency, Hon. Faruk Nasarawa, the chief Imam of Jega, Liman Dayyabu and many residents who were visibly elated by the visit of the governor.


Whle at Titin Kara area where many houses were submerged and residents abondoned their houses for fear of their lives, the governor expressed his deep sympathy over the disaster.

He admonished the victims to accept the incident in good faith , confide in the Almighty Allah and seek solace from Him.

Bagudu said the devastation caused by the floods to food crops, farmlands , houses , properties and in some cases, deaths of precious lives was really worrisome to all.


” Since the report came to me , I have navigated many local government areas to assess the situation. This is my second coming to Jega and I went round to many affected areas as you can see.

‘ I really feel so sad over the situation , God knows why and nobody can question that,” he averred.

Bagudu in a sober voice told the victims that, the flood situation was not only peculiar to Kebbi State,but many states and countries in the world.


He announced that a Team from the State Emergency Management Agency ( SEMA), would soon be dispatched to assess the situation.

This, Bagudu said, was for the government to urgently provide the needed assistance to them , while the farmers will be supported with adequate inputs to go back to their farms when the water receded.

Bagudu also urged people of Jega to be their brothers’ keepers by extending assistance to those in need and the well-to-do to also show compassion to the victims.

The governor while comisserating with the people also conveyed the message of President Muhammadu Buhari over the unfortunate situation.

Earlier, the District Head of Jega , Alhaji Muhammadu Arzika Bawa Jega and the State House of Assembly Member, representating the area, Hon. Faruk Aliyu Nasarawa, thanked the governor for his concern and taking time to personally go round to see the affected areas.

Hon.Nasarawa acknowledged the sympathy message of the president to the people of the state.


The Chief Imam of Jega, Liman Dayyabu offered prayers for God to salvage the problem and give people the formidable courage to bear the irreparable loss.

Among the areas visited by the governor include: Titin Kara, Okay, Ginga, Birnin Yari, Makaranta, Gadar Jega and Bakin Ruwa.

Similarly, governor Bagudu also visited Argungu on Monday, 7/9/2020, for the second time to also commiserate with residents whose houses callapsed as a result of incessant downpour and the attendant floods.

The governor after his message of sympathy to the victims also promised government’s intervention to assist the people.

Some of the areas visited include Tudun Wada Shiyar Justice, Gwazange, Police Division Argungu, Kitarawa, Shiyar Makera and Shiyar Yaraduwa .

He rounded off his visit to IDP camps at Dankoji Nizamiyya and JSS Tudun Wada.

The governor was accompanied by Alhaji Muhammadu Bello Dantani ( Magajin Rafin Kabi), Chairman of Direct Labour Agency, his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu, (Jarman Kabi), and Hon. Nasiru Muhammad DanUmma, Member, State House of Assembly, representating Argungu.

The Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu has approved the appointments of nine Chairmen into the state Boards,Commissions and Parastatals.

Also appointed is Hon. Garba Birnin Tudu as a member House of Assembly Service Commission.

This is contained in an official document signed by the Secretary to the Kebbi State Government, Alhaji Babale Umar Yauri on Wednesday, 2nd , September,2020.

Those appointed are , Hon. Muhammad Bello Dantani , Chairman, State Direct Labour Agency, Alhaji Ibrahim Bawa Kamba, Chairman, Contributory Pension Board, Alhaji Ayuba Illo , Chairman Community and Social Development Support Program ( CSDP), Arch Hamza Abubakar Musa , Chairman State Housing Corporation and Alhaji Muhammad Gado Marafa , Chairman, Health Insurance Scheme.

Others are Hon. Umar Sarkin Shanu, Chairman,Law Reform Commission, Professor Khaleed Jega, Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board, Hon. Umar Usman Kambaza , Chairman,State Pension Board, Alhaji Abubakar Nayaya, Chairman, Local Government Service Commission and Hon. Zailani Muhammed Yauri, Chairman,Kebbi Home Savings and Loans /Micro Finance Bank.

Yahaya Sarki, the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor noted that the appointments takes immediate effect.

The Coalition for Good Governance and Change Initiative, CGGCI, has called on Nigerians to keep faith with the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

The group said price regime is not static as the most important is the availability of the products and the sincerity of the Federal Government in implementing policies for the betterment of residents.

The Coalition, which is made up of thirty eight (38) Civil Society Organisations, encouraged Nigerians to applaud the government rather than the pocket of criticism trailing genuine policies for the benefit of all Citizens.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Okpokwu Ogenyi, pointed out that, there was a time in Nigeria history when fuel was sold between two hundred (200) and four hundred(400) naira on black market at the official price of sixty five naira(65).

The statement reads.

"We must appreciate what we have, we have had a price reduction on the both amenities, electricity and premium motor spirit in recent time. The prices will keep fluctuating until it is stable and it will be stable.

"Sincerely, you can not expect to have pay less when you consume more power. Electricity has improved tremendously in Nigeria. Many location have more than twenty hours supply per day. It is a welcome development, we need power twenty four hours per day, we are getting there. So, you can not expect to pay what you were paying when you only had light four to six hours a day.

"As a civil right organisation, we must stand with the people, advice the people and confront the Government whenever it goes wrong against the people. We are the watch dog of the society, we are also calling on the the distribution companies, Disco to meter every household so, you know what you consume. For those using estimated bill, the distribution companies should not take undue advantage over them by giving ridiculous bills that are not payable.

'We also call on the Federal Government to ensure prompt monitoring of both sectors and should advise on reduction of prices when the world economy stabilises."

The Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, on Saturday visited flood ravaged areas in the state, to assess the situation.

The Governor who was accompanied by officials of the State Emergency Management Agency ( SEMA), led by its Chairman, Alhaji Sani Dododo, visited Augie, Argungu and Arewa local government communities, to asses rice farmlands, roads and bridges affected by the flood.

Bagudu, who defied the dificult terrains of the hinterlands , took time to personally interact with the victims, commiserated with them, diligently and patiently listened to their needs, with a view to assisting them.


Speaking to Journalists at Bakin Gada, in Argungu local government shortly after inspecting rice farmlands submerged by the floods, Bagudu flanked by the National President of Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) , Alhaji Aminu Goronyo, expressed utmost shock over the incident, describing it as regrettable.

‘Things like this happen, we are not unique in the world , it is regrettable. We have seen in the hurricane laura and other hurricanes similar and other worst problems.”

The governor expressed optimism that Nigeria, which according to him, had witnessed similar disasters before , would surmount the problem.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yahaya Sarki, the Governor assured the farmers that, the federal government with its institutions like the CBN and other organisations, would respond to the problem effectively.

He averred: ” We are responding to disasters and supporting each other, and i believe the FGN, the CBN and other associations will respond to this effectively and timely too.”

While thanking the CBN and RIFAN for their concern over the flood situation in Kebbi, Bagudu equally appreciated President Muhammadu Buhari’s leadership derive to making Nigeria self sufficient in food production.

He annonced that, the President would soon summon a meeting of the National Food Security Council and the problem of flood disasters, among others, would be discussed.

The National President of RIFAN , Alhaji Aminu Goronyo, while commenting on the situation, said he led the North West State Chapters to Kebbi State, to physically see for themselves the devastating effect of the flood to rice farms.

According to Goronyo, they will also pay a courtesy visit to the governor, as well as to declare the preceeding dry season program ,2020 in the state.

Goronyo described the devastating effect of the flood to rice farms as beyond comment, saying, ” I can say that the devastating effect of the flood to farms is beyond comment.

” I dont think in the most recent time, this kind of flood has happened to this level, the only thing i can say is that, the Almighty God is in control.

” Everything that we have seen is from God and we must thank Him and i know He can replace whatever we lost, with what we can even imagine. “

Goronyo assured the farmers that, the CBN had sent in its officials from the Development Finance Department, to come to Kebbi and assess the situation, for immefiate action.

The CBN governor, according to him, had directed RIFAN to mobilise one million farmers that can quickly produce five million metric tonnes for the dry season commencing in November , 2020, for support.

Earlier, Governor Bagudu had visited Birnin Tudu, Tiggi, Shaharma and Agoda communities in Augie local government, while in Argungu local government also, the governor was at Matan Fada, Bakin Gada, Zanginawa and Yeldu.

At Sabon Gari community, Birnin Tudu, Magaji Amadu, the village Head of the area complained to the governor how the flood submerged their rice farmlands.

He said that, the flood was a culmination of both the continious intensive rains being witnessed now, as well as the water released from the dam.

An elderly farmer, Alhaji Aliyu Soda, while appealing for assistance from the government, said that, for over 11 years, they have never seen a flood disaster as devastating as this one.

He made a passionate appeal to the government to assist them with farming inputs such as assorted seeds and fertilizers, among others.

The governor, while comiserating with the victims, assured them of his government’s intention to assist them.

At Kwakkwashe village where the State Government through SEMA distributed relief materials to the displaced victims, the governor, while comiserating with the community said government was worried about their plight.

Bagudu further charged them to cooperate with the authorities, as they should temporarily relocate to a safe haven.

He urged them to continue to enrol their children to schools, maintain clean environment, use facemasks to guard against Covid-19.

The governor also advised the community to organise their youths, to form vigilante services, to boost securty in the area.

Alhaji Sani Dododo, the Chairman of SEMA, had earlier told the governor that, apart from the efforts of the agency in the relocation of the victims, relief materials were donated to them .

They included 20 bags of rice,10 bags millet, 10 bags of guneacorn, 5 bags salt, 30 cartons of macaroni,5 cartons of tomatoes,50 bundles of Shadda, 50 bundles of atampa and 7 jerricans of groundnut oil.

Others were 5 cooking pots, 100 plastic kettles,100 plastic buckets,100 plastic cups, 100 platic plates, 100 mosqutoe nets, 5 cartons of bathing soaps, 100 plastic mats,100 blankets and truckload of firewood.

The District Head of the area, Alhaji Suleman Mera ( Sarkin Gobir Lailaba), thanked the governor for the quick response of the government,while he described the government of Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu as people oriented government.

The governor and his entourage had also inspected various roads and bridges damaged by the floods in the local governments he vidited.

At Jefeji community, in Kangiwa local government, where the community was cut off by the damaged bridge, the governor expressed readiness of his government to repair the bridge.

The governor was accompanied at the visit by SEMA officials, RIFAN officials, State House of Assembly member representing the area, the Chairmen of Augie,Argungu and Arewa among others.

It will be recalled that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency had forecasted that Kebbi would be among the states to be hit by flood this year.

By Yemi Itodo

The Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has said, the passage of the Nigerian Armed Forces Support Fund Bill would go along way to strengthen the fight against insecurity in Nigeria.

The Bill was sponsored by the Member representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Defence, Rep. Babajimi Benson.

This was, even as, the Abia lawmaker unfolded the legislative plans for 2021 fiscal year in tackling insecurity in the country.

Kalu in an interview with journalists in Abuja this weekend, said the House of Representatives has already come up with a comprehensive approach to tackle the problem of insecurity in Nigeria.

According the House Spokesman, “We have set for ourselves, certain measurable actions for the short, mid and long term” to ensure that Nigerians and their property are secured.

Shedding light on the national security action plan already adopted by the Green Chamber, Rep. Kalu listed the lower House action plan to include the provision of, “funding in the 2021 and 2022 Budget for recruitment and training of new security operatives to strengthen the security sector workforce;

“Enact legislation and appropriate funds in the 2021 and 2022 Budgets to fund the implementation of community policing, civil-military relations, and crime prevention;

“Approve the procurement of modern security equipment in line with the Defence Procurement Policy;

“Enact laws to support structured funding of the Armed Forces to improve military readiness and enhance our capacity to respond to present and emerging threats to national security".

Speaking specifically on the seemingly unending insurgency in the Northeast as well as the herders and farmers clashes in the middle belt and Southern part of Nigeria, Rep. Kalu decried the lack of adequate equipment for the Nigerian security agencies in the face of daunting challenges before it.

He said, “For over a decade, Nigeria has contended with a recalcitrant insurgency in the North-Eastern part of the country that continues to transform, adapting itself to changing circumstances, yet remaining a significant threat to lives and property, and a drain on limited national resources.

"Similarly, the North-West and North-Central have witnessed several incidences of banditry, cattle rustling and community clashes between farmers and herders while the South-South and South-East regions have continued to experience various agitations. In addition to these are criminal activities such as cybercrime, drug trafficking, organised crime, human trafficking, piracy and kidnapping, amongst others.

"While struggling valiantly to address these challenges, the security forces are not suitably equipped to prevail in the herculean task of protecting our lives, property and territorial integrity".

Kalu, however, said that a bill was already before the House which is intended to fix the funding gap for the Nigerian armed forces in order to provide a lasting solution to the problems facing the security forces.

“We also promised Nigerians that between June 2020 and May 2021, we would enact legislation to support structured funding of the Armed Forces to improve military readiness and enhance our capacity to respond to present and emerging threats to national security.

"It will interest you to know that presently, we already have The Nigerian Armed Forces Support Fund (Establishment) Bill 2020, sponsored by Rep. Babajimi Benson, which has passed second reading and is scheduled for public hearing upon resumption.

"The essence of the bill is to provide Special Financial Support for the revamping of the Nigerian Armed Forces, and to also provide for regular training of Armed Forces Personnel as well as the provision of modern security and defence equipment and other related matters,” Kalu explained.

The House Spokesman urged Nigerians to "actively participate in the public hearing of the Nigerian Armed Forces Support Fund (Establishment) Bill which will come up as soon as the House resumes from the long vacation".

Social Media disruptive, useful, declares Bagudu

Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, says Social Media were very crucial, useful and indispensable,just as they were disruptive.

"In the world of today, the Social Media usage is in Vogue, globally , and Nigeria, as well as Kebbi State will not lag behind," he added.

Bagudu spoke on Tuesday, in Birnin Kebbi,while declaring open a one-day, " Kebbi State Government New Media Consultative Meeting/ Forum at the Presidential Banquet Hall.

It was attended by the Governor, the SSG, Babale Umar Yauri, top ranking government officials and the Social Media Practitioners, Bloggers and Online Publishers.

The Kebbi Governor said that,the event was organized as part of the efforts by his administration to improve the feedback mechanism, between the government and the electorate .

Bagudu said: "We are here to learn from each other, exchange knowledge and learn about new technologies.

"This will in turn boost good governance , the participation of people in governance and shape the right opinions.

"Also, we will be able to record meaningful progress,shape what can be done by the government, hence, enhance growth and development."

Bagudu further admonished the social media practitioners, bloggers and online publishers to always endeavour to ask questions, disseminate information that is objective, incisive and useful.

The Kebbi Governor also underscored the need for them to always be ethical, patriotic and nationalistic, while necessary enquiries and investigations should be done.

He pledged to continue to invest more to improve social media practice in the state,adding, " however, with technology, you need to be imaginative, interested and inquisitive .

"I must however commend you for your sustained efforts to continuously disseminate the activities of the state government,

"You have also been able to inform us wherever we have gone wrong and this is very important fora for any people -oriented governance."

Bagudu stated that,the state government was ready to assist any group that can articulate what they think the government can do for them.

Commenting on a recent survey that ranked Kebbi State as one of the five states with least Internally Generated Revenue as asked by one of the participants , Bagudu averred that, the state government focused more on creating meaningful activities in the state, rather than increasing taxes.

"Our logic is to enable the people of the state to make more income , so as to feed their famiies, as well as provide some services like medications and education.

"By doing so, they are complementing the efforts of the state government, which is equivalent to raising the revenue , by increasing taxes ."

Bagudu further admitted that, the state government can do better in terms of economic activities .

The governor noted that, Kebbi state was abundantly blessed with myriad of natural resources which were yet to be fully explored and exploited.

Earlier in his remarks, the Secretary to the state government, Babale Yauri Umar urged the social media practitioners to desist from posting or publishing stories that were capable of causing crises in the society even if such were true.

"It is better not to post stories that can cause tension or crises in the society especially stories that involves ethnic killings.

"Such is capable of not only creating tension but could lead to crises in the society. Instead of posting such stories, confide in the relavant government officials for necessary action", he advised.

The SSG also charged the social media practitioners to feel free and seek for information about the activities and programs of government from relavant government ministries and establishments.

The Commissioner of Information, and Culture, Alhaji Mahmud Warra, said that the meeting was expected to sensitise and sharpen the practices of Social Media practitioners as well as up date them on ethics of new media handling globally and locally in the state.

"You should learn and avoid libel, character defamation and slander against individual, as well as compliment government in fostering societal development rather than criticisms.

" You should see yourselves as partners in the state architecture and development, " Warra urged the participants.

He lauded the governor for his untireless effort in supporting the Information sector of the state.

In the same vein , the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on New Media , Alhaji Aliyu Bandado also commended governor Bagudu for approving the orientation workshop for social media practitioners in the state.

He expressed optism that the consultative meeting would go along way in repositioning Social Media practitioners in the state in order to compliment the developmental strides of the government while assuring the governor of their total support to his administration to succeed.

Three papers were presented at the occasion on the use of English in New Media, Security Implications of Fake News as well as Effective New Media Use for Promoting Good Governance.

The event also featured questions and answers deligently responded by the governor from the participants.


YAHAYA SARKI
Special Adviser (SA) Madia to Kebbi Governor
25/8/2020

By Yemi Itodo

A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Garus Gololo, has advised Governors and leaders of South West, Nigeria, to tread cautiously, if their agitation for power shift in 2023 is anything to go by.

Speaking with Journalists in Abuja on Thursday, Dr. Gololo said, the idea of running a full fledged armed security outfit at the geopolitical zonal level and refusing to allow its integration into the planned Federal Government's Community Policing program, could jeopardize the chances of the Yoruba people in clinching the presidency come 2023.

South West Governors had last year, launched a seemingly community security movement across the 6 States of the region, known as 'Amotekun'.

The Federal Government kicked against having such security network across the states and moved to proscribe it.

The Governors, however, swiftly made the Bill establishing 'Amotekun' passed through the Houses of Assembly of various States.

Having passed the Bill and assented to by various Governors, the security outfit was officially launched two weeks ago in Ondo State, after the first set of Volunteers passed out from the training.

Speaking on a Television program on Tuesday, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media, Mallam Garba Shehu, said 'Amotekun' cannot operate outside the structures laid down by the Nigeria Police authorities.

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, while responding to Mallam Shehu's statement, insisted the 'Amotekun' would not be subsumed by the Nigeria's security authorities.

This statement was also corroborated by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state, while addressing Local Government Council Chairmen, stressing that the Federal Government would not be allowed to control the 'Amotekun' structures.

But Gololo, while responding to questions, underscored the importance of having a community policing network, in the face of insecurity in the country.

"But saying a particular region wants to have its own security network outside the control of the Federal Government is a ridicule to the essence of national security.

"Nigeria is a sovereign state and since we still practice federalism, it is very imperative for the Federal Government to do all within her capacity to keep the nation as one.

"If the leaders of South West are serious about seeking power to return to the region in 2023, then 'Amotekun' is their least worries. They should allow the Nigeria's security agency design the operational modules for 'Amotekun' as a community police.

"Except they are telling us that 'Amotekun' means different thing from what we know. There is no harm in allowing the Inspector-General of Police to supervise the activities of people who are trained to carry gun. We should work for the interest of one Nigeria, if they have the interest of this nation at heart and also seek to lead the country in 2023", Gololo added.

National Treasurer, Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Comrade Victor Ononokpono (2nd, R) addressing a news conference on the forthcoming joint nationwide strike by PENGASSAN and Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) over alleged three months unpaid salaries, during their final day protest-march in Abuja on Friday (14/8/20). With him are: Branch Chairman, PENGASSAN, Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Comrade Ifereke Udeme (2nd, L); Branch Chairman, PENGASSAN, Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency, Comrade Ayodele Ojele (R); Branch Chairman, PENGASSAN, NNPC, Comrade Matthew Duru (L) and other union officials.


Members of Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), barricading the entrance to the Federal Ministry of Finance Building during their final day protest-march over alleged three months unpaid salaries in Abuja on Friday (14/8/20).


Photos: NAN

Gov Abubakar Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State, Thursday, flagged off the distribution of assorted food relief materials donated to no fewer than 38,047 households by the Coalition Against COVID-19 ( CACOVID ).

The assorted food items were provided by the Coalition, while the disbursement was approved by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The flag off ceremony was being conducted simultaneously on Thursday, across the thirty six states of Nigeria and FCT, Abuja.

The food items included Pasta Macararoni, rice, refined salt ,sugar, sphagetti, flour and indomie .

Bagudu, represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Sama’ila Yombe Dabai , said that, a total of forty five (45) trucks of the items were supplied to the state .

The governor through his Special Adviser on Media Yahaya Sarki explained that, modalities had effectively been mapped out to ensure the even distribution of the materials to all the two hundred and twenty five political wards of the state .

Bagudu assured justice and equity in the disbursement of the items, through the local councils’ chairmen.

The governor was highly optimistic that, the invaluable gesture would significantly alleviate the suffering occasioned by the negative tolls of the pandemic .

According to him: ” All the intended beneficiaries will receive the materials as scheduled and nobody will be missed.

” However, I must still warn that , officials Involved in the distribution should be God fearing and honest in the discharge of the assignment .”

Also speaking, the Chief of Staff, Government House, Birnin Kebbi, Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu,(Jarman Kabi) who is also the Kebbi State Coordinator, COVID-19 Food Relief Programme, stated that , top officials of the state government and those of the Coalition will monitor both the flag off exercise and the actual distribution of the food items, across the state.

Argungu, who was also a former Deputy Governor in the state, noted ,” this is to ensure that, the exercise was done according to the plans,while vowing that, appropriate sanctions await anybody who flouts them. “


The State COVID -19 Task Force Chairman and Health Commissioner, Jafar Mohammed said that, Kebbi State has so far recorded ninety(90) COVID -19 confirmed positive cases,out of the 648 suspected cases investigated.

Out of the number, 83 persons have been treated and discharged.

According to him, the pandemic has so far claimed seven lives ,while there was no any pending positive case in any of the isolation centres in the State .

He lauded Gov Bagudu for according topmost priority to the provision of moral and financial support to all the activities of the taskforce , which was responsible for the colossal successes it had recorded .

In his shortly speech before presentation of the relief materials,the representative of Caolition Against Covid -19 ( CACOVID), Umar Muhammed said the Private Sector coalition Against Covid -19 (CACOVID) is a joint initiative of leading private sector leaders and the Central Bank of Nigeria ( CBN) launched to galvanize urgent support in the fight against Covid -19 in Nigeria.

He said because the virus has been reported among individuals across Nigeria with high risk of spreading to affect the population not only in Nigeria with attendant socio-economic and healthcare distruptions, the need to come together to fight for our nation.

He averred ” Today ,the fight for survival has become a necessity, and it is not just the responsibility of the Government, It is our collective responsibility and we must all join the fight to stay alive”,.

Muhammed also announced that so far the CACOVID in collaboration with state governments has commissioned 38 isolation centers across all the 36 states in Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory ( FCT) as well as improved the testing capacity of the NCDC with the donation of over 100,000 test kits and various PPEs.

He added that the Food Relief Program which had started would cover 1.6 million families, i e over 10 million Nigerians across the country.

He assured that CACOVID has laid out an eloborate plan to effectively and efficiently distribute the relief packages to the target beneficiaries across all local government areas in Nigeria.

” We are doing this to help the most vulnerable households that have been affected by the Coronvirus”, he said.

He thanked governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu for assisting the CACOVID team in the fight against the the dreaded Covid 19 pandemic in Kebbi State.

The event was witnessed by the Secretary to the State Government, Babale Umar Yauri, Commissioners, Special Advisers, Chairmen of the 21 LGAs, the State Covid 19 Task Force team among others.

The APC Progressives Governors' Forum (PGF) under the Chairmanship of Kebbi State Governor, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Sunday, commiserated with Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, over the recent attack on his motorcade at Baga town, Kukawa local government of the state.

Governor Bagudu, was accompanied by his Jigawa State counterpart, Alhaji Muhammadu Badaru Abubakar, during the solidarity visit to Maiduguri.

The progressive Governors' Forum Chairman told the governor that, they were in the state to sympathise with the government and people of the state over the unfortunate attack.

Bagudu through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media Yahaya Sarki assured Zulum of the sustained support and solidarity of all the APC Progressive Governors and prayed God, to continue to protect the governor and his people.

“We are in Borno today, on behalf of all our colleagues, to wish our brother and colleague, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum happy Sallah.

"Secondly, to show sympathy and express our commiseration on the incident that happened in Baga few days ago.

"May God continue to protect you and indeed all the people of Borno State and may He help us defeat these enemies within and outside.

"They have for over a decade now challenged our collective resolve, but they would not break us," Governor Bagudu said.

He added, “On behalf of all our colleagues, I want to assure you and the good people of Borno, that we are on this together.

"I remember in our first visit how full of admiration and appreciation he was of all the security services who were putting their lives and otherwise in discomfort of protection of our people.

"Definitely if it is not over, frustration will set in, but, I believe this will only energise us to do better collectively.

"On behalf of all our colleagues, I urge you to keep doing what you're doing and may God, support you more and may God show us the day that will come, we celebrate the end of this tragedy we have been facing.”


Governor Zulum while appreciating and thanking the entourage for the visit, told the visiting governors that he cannot afford to be silent in the midst of killings, because he has, by the oath he took on May 29, 2019, entered into a covenant with God, to defend the people of Borno.


Zulum also alleged sabotage in the prosecution of the war against insurgency in the northeast, stressing, " the President needs to know the truth."

“Let me also re-echo my previous position with respect to the insurgency in Borno State, I have said several times there is no doubt, the gravity of the insurgency cannot be compared with what had happened between 2011 – 2015.

"From 2015 to date, the President has done well, but the most important thing is, it's good also to say the right thing.

"There is a sabotage in the system that will not allow the insurgency to end. The President has to know this important point."

The Borno State Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur, former Governor Kashim Shettima, Senator Muhammad Ali Ndume and some members of the Borno State Executive Council witnessed the solidarity visit.

Over the past two weeks, the Risk Communication and Community Engagement being conducted by Community Based Organizations across the 21 local governments of Kebbi State, continue to gather serious momentum and has received a warmth embrace by the community members. This was disclosed by the resource person of the Engagement Muhammed Nasir Karofi, through a statement signed by Sabatu Andrew at the end of a progress meeting of the engagement project.

The engagement which was an initiative of the Wife of Kebbi State Governor Her Excellency Dr Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu was designed to ensure accurate and reliable information on Covid19 reached the nooks and crannies of the state. The 32 number CBOs participating are to conduct Risk Communication and community Engagement sessions for men and women in two communities for week over 3 months beginning from 11th of July, 2020. In summary, this project targeted to cover over 750 communities both urban and rural, more than 30,000 persons to be reached and provided with Facemasks to stimulate it's use.

According to the reports rendered by the supervising CSOs over 100 sessions have so far been conducted in about 60 communities, over 1,000 units of face masks and 3,000 tablets of soap have been distributed.

"Consistent with the national response strategy on Covid19, each session of the engagement is expected to target not more than 20 attendees and social/physical distancing as well as use of Facemasks must be observed." The Resource Person has said.

The meeting offered the opportunity to the CSOs to report on the advocacy visits they have undertaken to LGA stakeholders inorder to introduce the CBOs regarding the engagement exercise.

A further step down training and refresher for the CBOs on objectives and programme delivery strategy was also conducted by the CBOs.

"I am happy that our partners are keen in this project, WHO, UNICEF, Oxfam and Breakthrough Action have been very supportive technically but we need further support to augument the modest takeoff grant approved for this project by His Excellency the Kebbi State Governor Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu." Karofi added.