₦airaland Forum

Barring any last-minute change, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission will today arraign afresh a former National Security Adviser (NSA), Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd), and a former General Manager with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Aminu Baba-Kusa, together with two firms: Acacia Holdings Limited and Reliance Referral Hospital Limited, before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Today’s arraignment is coming after the FCT Chief Judge, Justice Hussein Baba-Yusuf, who was hearing the case before he became the CJ, transferred the case to Justice Charles Agbaza, before whom the defendants in the case marked FCT/HC/CR/43/2015 will be arraigned today for the case to start de novo (afresh).

The former NSA, who served in the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, with other defendants and a former Director of Finance and Administration, Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Shuaibu Salisu, were first arraigned before Justice Baba-Yusuf on December 14, 2015 on a 19-count charge bordering on money laundering and breach of trust to the tune of N13.5 billion.

The charge was later amended by the prosecution with the name of Salisu dropped from the charge, while the others were on May 11, 2018 re-arraigned on an amended 32-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust, dishonest release and receiving various sums of money to the tune of N33.2 billion and misappropriation of funds meant for procurement of arms to fight insurgent group, Boko Haram.

The prosecution had only called one witness, the investigating officer who investigated the alleged arms sleaze, and was yet to conclude his evidence-in-chief when the case was adjourned sine die (indefinitely).

The anti-corruption commission had in 2015 instituted two separates cases against Col Dasuki before Justice Baba-Yusuf, sitting at Maitama, Abuja.

In the other case marked FCT/HC/CR/42/2015, the former NSA was charged as the second defendant alongside a former Minister of State for Finance, Ambassador Bashir Yuguda; a former Sokoto State governor, Attahiru Bafarawa, his son, Sagir and his company, Dalhatu Investment Limited.

They are facing a 25-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust, misappropriation of public fund to the tune of N19.4 billion

The case had since been transferred to Justice Yusuf Halilu, sitting at Maitama by Justice Baba-Yusuf upon becoming the CJ and has been progressing since its transfer.

Both cases initially have suffered series of adjournment due to the refusal of the Department of State Service (DSS) to release Dasuki on bail despite being granted bails by competent courts, including Justice Baba-Yusuf.

Today’s fresh arraignment, it was gathered, is coming after much pressure was mounted on the Chief Judge to transfer the case to another judge, considering the fact that he has his hands full on administering the FCT judiciary and other matters.

The unexpected resignation of the Kano State Commissioner for Internal Security and Special Services, Maj. Gen. Muhammad Inuwa Idris (Rtd), on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, has further fuelled concerns over the internal crisis rocking the ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party in Kano State.

Although the party has been grappling with internal and external challenges, Idris’ sudden exit from Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s cabinet has intensified speculations about instability within the administration.

His resignation was officially confirmed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

According to the statement, Governor Yusuf accepted the decision, expressing gratitude for Idris’ service and acknowledging his contributions to the newly created ministry.

“We thank Major General Muhammad Inuwa Idris (Rtd) for his unwavering commitment and contributions until March 25, 2025, for the development of Kano State, right from his days in the military.

“We wish him a peaceful and fulfilling retirement as he transitions into a well-deserved rest from public service,” the statement read in parts.

Despite his brief tenure, the governor noted that Idris was credited with laying the groundwork for the ministry’s operations, expressing confidence that his successor would build on this foundation to strengthen internal security efforts in the state.

However, Idris’ departure is not an isolated incident. His exit follows the resignation of Engr. Muhammad Diggol, who stepped down as Commissioner for the Ministry of Project Monitoring and Evaluation on January 5, 2025.

Diggol, who initially served as Commissioner for Transportation before being reassigned in December 2024, left the cabinet under circumstances that also raised eyebrows.

Beyond these two high-profile resignations, several other officials within the governor’s administration have also exited their positions in recent months.

In August 2024, Abdulrahman Muhammad Sulaiman, popularly known as Mai-Kadama, also resigned from his role as the Senior Special Assistant on Entrepreneurship.

His resignation was followed by a swift defection to the opposition All Progressives Congress, further fueling speculation of internal rifts within the NNPP.

Similarly, in September 2024, Sani Abdulkadir Dambo, the Special Adviser on Investment, equally resigned from his job. Like Mai-Kadama, he too pitched his tent with the APC, a move many political analysts interpreted as part of a broader realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Adding to the wave of exits, Abbas Sani Abbas, the former Commissioner for Rural and Community Development, who was dismissed during the December 2024 cabinet reshuffle, officially defected from the NNPP to the APC in January 2025.

Our correspondent reports that his defection, coupled with earlier resignations, has heightened speculations that dissatisfaction with the current administration is driving several key figures away from Governor Yusuf’s government.

These growing departures have also raised concerns about the stability of the administration.

Not a few political analysts who equally spoke with Arewa PUNCH argue that the wave of resignations may be linked to the increasing discontent over Governor Yusuf’s leadership style, policy decisions, and political appointments.

A senior party source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, suggested that these resignations could be a sign of deeper cracks within the administration.

“There are increasing concerns about governance issues and political realignments. The recent resignations may not be the last, as more officials are reportedly unhappy with the state of affairs in the government,” the source revealed.

Meanwhile, the NNPP’s internal strife is unfolding at a time when the party is facing stiff opposition from the APC, which continues to challenge the legitimacy of Yusuf’s government.

The APC has repeatedly accused the NNPP of failing to provide stable leadership in the state, a narrative that these resignations may further reinforce.

With the 2027 general elections gradually approaching, the NNPP in Kano faces a crucial test in maintaining internal cohesion while delivering on its governance promises.

Arewa PUNCH reports that Governor Yusuf’s ability to manage these internal challenges will determine whether the party can maintain its stronghold in Kano or risk losing ground to the opposition.

For now, political observers are closely watching for further shake-ups in the Kano State government, with fears that more high-ranking officials could tender their resignations in the coming months.

According to another analyst who does not want his name in print, “The departure of Maj. Gen. Muhammad Inuwa Idris (Rtd) serves as yet another warning sign that all is not well within the NNPP government in Kano State.”

fuckingAyaya:
when Jonathan was called unprintable names and some even carried his coffin oppositions weren't chronic then?

Mr Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike has reacted to an alleged obituary photo of his principal making the rounds.

DAILY POST reports that there has been rumours speculating that the Minister collapsed at an event in Abuja on Friday.

Some TikTok and X users even alleged that the Minister was dead, circulating his ‘obituary photo’.

However, Wike made a public appearance on Sunday when he led FCT community leaders on Sallah homage to President Bola Tinubu at the State House.

Lere, while reacting to the photo on his official X handle, accused a Nigerian Actress, Hilda Dokubo of being paid to cook up the collapsing story.

He wrote, “But normal normal, Fubara suppose collect his money from this Hilda Dokubo.

“After collecting Millions of Naira from Opobo Judas of Rivers to stage Wike’s Obituary pictures, and do some RITUALS, they cooked up that story of Wike collapsing and being in coma so that Fulbara will be happy that they have delivered.

“So what will FAILED ACTRESS HILDA DOKUBO tell Fubara now? Ugochinyere duped Fubara. Hilda Dokubo duped Fubara. Who else”?

Special Forces Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA have intercepted terrorists attempting to plant Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) along a strategic route in Gando Forest, Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the troops, operating under Operation TSAFTA DAJI III Phase 3, launched an ambush when they encountered a group of terrorists laying IEDs.
On sighting the advancing troops, the terrorists fled into the forest under the cover of darkness, abandoning their explosives and equipment.

Recovered items include: One motorcycle, Three 25-litre jerrycans filled with IED components, 300 meters of sapper cable, one DET 33 electric detonator and one hoe used for planting explosives.
The Nigerian military has continued to maintain an aggressive posture against terrorists and criminal elements in Zamfara State, with Operation FANSAN YANMA and Operation TSAFTA DAJI III targeting bandit strongholds across Anka, Bagega, and Bukkuyum axis.

sweetrace:
Sycophant! How do you know she loves Christ? What has she done or said to display this love for Christ? Is it Nigeria’s money that she sometimes shares to further her families political ambitions that makes you think she is a Christian?

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu on Thursday, hosted former First Ladies of Nigeria, female National Assembly Members, wives of National Assembly members to Iftar, a symbolic breaking of fast during the month of Ramadan.

She however reassured Nigerians that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is doing all it can to improve the country and make life better for the citizens.

Senator Tinubu admonished everyone to take one person at a time and lend a helping hand to such, as this will go a long way in ameliorating the hardship of others.

While noting that Ramadan and lent coincided this year, she said it is something that God had ordained before time.

“It is the time of sober reflection for our Muslim brothers and sisters and even the Christian brothers and sisters. They are having the Lent. God had ordained it to be so even at this time in a nation,” she stated.

She also admonished the Muslim umah to continue in the virtues, which they exhibited during the Ramadan, adding that they should always pray for God‘s mercy.

Earlier, the wife of the Vice President in her welcome remarks thanked the first lady for the Iftar.

She urged everyone to remember the President and indeed the nation in Prayers at all times.

The vice chancellor of Azman University, Kano Professor Fatima Mukhtar gave the lecture on the spiritual significance and teachings of Ramadan.

Special prayers were offered for the nation, the President and the entire citizens.

A newly surfaced document, titled “Report of the Advisory Committee for the Selection of Presidential Running Mate,” has contradicted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s claim regarding his choice of running mate for the 2023 presidential election.

The document, shared on social media by Lere Olayinka, Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, challenges Atiku’s claim that he selected former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa because he was the committee’s top choice.

Atiku, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made the claim during an interview on Untold Stories with Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie last week, where he insisted that his decision was guided by party consultation and that he had no regrets about not choosing Wike.

In the interview, Atiku explained that he had learned from past mistakes and allowed the party to decide his running mate. He recounted how in 2019, after securing the PDP ticket, he consulted former President Olusegun Obasanjo on selecting a vice-presidential candidate.

“In 2019, when I won the ticket in Port Harcourt, I came back here and then went straight to Abeokuta to meet my boss, President Obasanjo, and told him, ‘Mr. President, I have got the ticket.’

So he asked me, he said, ‘Okay, from where is your running mate going to come from?’ I said, of course, it’s either South-east or South-west. He said, ‘No, leave South-west because I was there for eight years. Go to the South-east.’ I said, ‘Okay, sir.’”

Atiku recounted that Obasanjo initially suggested Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, now the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and later Charles Soludo, but both were ruled out due to their lack of PDP membership. Ultimately, Peter Obi was chosen after party leaders, including Wike, endorsed the decision.

Following criticism that he had not consulted widely enough in 2019, Atiku said he allowed the PDP to set up a committee to recommend three candidates for his 2023 running mate.

According to him, the committee listed Okowa as the first choice, Wike as the second, and former Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel as the third.

“So I picked number one,” Atiku stated, implying that Wike was not the preferred choice by the committee.

However, Olayinka’s leaked document tells a different story. The document shows Wike’s name listed as the first.

Olayinka criticized Atiku for allegedly distorting the truth, even during the holy month of Ramadan.

“How can a committee present the person who had two votes as the first choice over the person who had 13 votes?” he said.

“The committee set up by the PDP picked Wike as Atiku’s running mate, but for reasons best known to him, he settled for Okowa, who had only two votes from the committee members.

That’s the truth Atiku should tell and stand with, not trying to colour his decision with falsehood,” he added.

The attention of the Office of the First Lady of Federal Republic of Nigeria has been drawn to a video circulating on social media, showing chants welcoming both the first lady of Delta state and the first lady of Nigeria during the renewed hope initiative's donation of 10,000 professional kits to the midwives in the South-South zone held at the Dome center, Asaba, Delta State, on Tuesday 25th March, 2025.

The event was primarily to motivate midwives across the nation with the aim of reducing infant and maternal mortality and morbidity rate in Nigeria. Her Excellency deeply appreciate the warm reception by the Delta State Government, the people of Delta State, as well as enthusiasm shown by nurses, midwives, women group and student nurses present at the event.

However, a section of the video allegedly recorded by some students at the event, showed a spontaneous and playful twist to the welcome song. Sequel to that, it has come to our attention that some of the students of Nursing Sciences have been issued a query regarding their participation in the chants. While the office of the First Lady respects the right of the institutions to uphold discipline, it is important to understand that students, in the moments of excitement, often express themselves in a light-hearted and jovial manner.

The Office of the First Lady believes that educational institutions should foster an environment where students feel safe to express themselves while maintaining decorum. The First Lady's visit was intended to inspire and uplift healthcare professionals, and it is our hope that this event remains a positive and motivating experience for all involved.

We trust that the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences will handle this matter with understanding and fairness, ensuring that students continue to strive in an environment that balances discipline with free expression.


Signed:
Bukola Kukoyi,
SSA Media to the
First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
28th March, 2025.

Racoon:
https://www.thecable.ng/rewind-the-military-tried-to-stop-me-in-2014-nwosu-said-abiola-won-june-12-election/

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thuxzwda1:
I only see people smiling in the pictures