Emefiele is really fighting hard

Well articulated…. Brown envelope journalism and glorification of corrupt persons must stop.

As funny and strange as it may appear, a quick examination at the DSS (SSS) mandate reveals that the issue of fuel scarcity fits inside its jurisdiction of combating any economic crime. We can consult Instruction No. 1 of the 1999.

Unknowncommenters at work....

Many of those who say the DSS warning is insufficient are the same people who condemn and castigate them for doing what they refer to as "police work."

I come in peace....

I think governor Tambawul is saying the truth, cos Deborah’s father said same thing in an interview and even commended the DSS.

The Many Rantings Of Bishop Kukah By Ezra Gyang

The unending pursuit by Bishop Matthew Kukah to stir up controversy that agitates the public is indeed intriguing. It is also questionable that this act of treachery by a so-called clergyman is often ignited during festive periods. This evolving trend and targeted strategy by renowned religious leaders to gain widespread publicity by abusing their platforms should stand condemned. For the umpteenth time, Bishop Mathew Kukah once again used his pulpit to meander into politics and fan the embers of division along ethno-religious lines. Under the auspices of goodwill messages, religious leaders issue statements embedded with false assumptions, inciteful connotations and inflammatory words.

A critical analysis of Kukah’s Easter message shows that though it started on a religious note, he dangerously delved into politics, targeting the present administration. This intentional tactic is devoid of any real intent to spread the lessons of the sacred sacrifice of bringing salvation to humankind significant to Easter. Rather, he inflamed the public using well known issues not caused by the Government. Not only did he condemn this administration of dividing citizens on the basis of ethnicity and religion, he claimed the government has slid into hibernation mode and that the country is broken. Kukah was only echoing his masters and those he serves as agent for. He knows them. Called for the need to reclaim the country from impeding plunge into anarchy is actually the voice of these masters. If Nigeria is truly broken as portrayed, Kukah and his likes would not write such messages from the comfort of their homes.

While security challenges continue to bedevil our dear country, it could have been worse if government and its institutions were not making decisive efforts to surmount them. Prior to the coming of this administration, Kukah would attest that many churches, mosques and religious houses were either bombed, shutdown or closed due to worsening security situation in the country. Kukah is not aware of security challenges in other parts of the world or Buhari caused them. Is Kukah unaware of this glaring truth? It is gradually dawning on the public that Kukah is a stooge that allows himself be exploited by the opposition so it is understandable that he is only doing his paymasters biddings. No wonder, he has never criticized Obasanjo or Jonathan in the PDP 16 years leadership.

Since this administration took over, all channels for siphoning funds in the name of religion and looting government coffers to bribe clerics were blocked thus Kukah’s many rantings and vituperations. A true cleric given to the cause of humanity would never or inflame his country to the brink of anarchy. Kukah and his likes continue to feed on issues of insecurity and destabilization to gain undue attention regardless of how negatively it impacts peaceful coexistence. Is it coincidental that the exact words uttered by Kukah in his message were recently expressed by the Sultan of Sokoto where they both claimed a government that fails to protect lives has no justification to be in power? How has Kukah used his platform in the promotion of cohesion. He was called by God to lead and to build people’s faith rightly. So, he must eschew sentiments and personal interest and simply discharge his duty more responsibly.

It is unfortunate that at a time other Bishops and men of God are choosing to preach unity, peaceful coexistence, tolerance, hope, salvation and forgiveness in the spirit of easter on their platforms, Kukah chose to be divisive and political. In a message that should be filled with unifying words especially at a time when the country needs it most, he once again proved right the assertion that his motives are ulterior. Had Kukah taken a cue from the Pope’s Easter address which implored for peace, his goodwill message could have been tailored differently and positively.

Ezra Gyang is a public affairs analyst and lives in Jos, Plateau State

https://politicsdigest.ng/the-many-rantings-bishop-kukah/

Let's face it: clergy, politicians and traditional rulers are to blame for 90% of Nigeria's problems.

By Suleiman Kassim

Increasing criticism by major stakeholders in the country including religious and traditional leaders on the state of the nation is becoming appalling. In a seeming quest to add a voice to the many vituperations on security challenges facing the country, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Saád Abubakar III recently asserted that a “government that cannot protect lives and property lacks justification to remain in office”. Unashamedly, the Sultan, by his actions and comments, has remained a staunch opposition member whose partisan disposition is no longer hidden. With large followership, he is a religious leader whose words are revered and should never be seen as biased or taking sides. Is this not suggestive of a call for regime change? Is this not an invitation to anarchy? It is embarrassing to the Sultanate Council that instead of uniting the people, he is dividing and causing discordance. Should someone who bears Eminence as part of his title not really be decorous in conduct? The Sultan and other politicking traditional rulers should have learnt lessons from the Sanusi Lamido Sanusi’s saga if they were intelligent but nay, the stubborn fly will always follow the corpse into the grave.

It is no longer a secret that the Sultan and Ruler of the esteemed Sokoto caliphate has become the mouthpiece of the opposition. This explains the recurrent flare to always castigate the government every slightest chance he gets. The action of the Sultan is highly indicative of dirty politricks to malign the Buhari government and curry sympathy in favour of the opposition party he supports with 2023 around the corner. It is saddening and worrisome that the sacredness of our religious institutions is gradually been eroded by individuals who now carelessly dabble into politics and set aside their core roles of giving spiritual guidance and hope. As the spiritual curator that the Sultan is, how many times has he organised lectures and sensitisation campaigns to enlighten Muslim faithful about the dangers of fanaticism and zealotry? This is important especially that the majority of these unscrupulous individuals claim to be Muslims.

Why is there absolutely no record of him ever encouraging residents to work with or provide information to security agencies? It is also curious that the Sultan never voiced out at the peak of Boko Haram/ISIS terrorism during President Goodluck Jonathan administration. In Sokoto state, the seat of the caliphate and its neighbouring states, thousands have been killed and displaced by bandits, but there was never a time he lamented the failure of his Governor and Local Government authorities to provide effective leadership. Or are we still in doubt about who his sponsors are? He and his governor are in mutual support of each other. He should have known, as a retired security officer that governance is not solely the responsibility of the central government.

However, while thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are looking for food, he was at the forefront of celebrating the distribution of expensive vehicles to Zamfara state’s traditional rulers. What have been his contributions to the security of his State and Nigeria as a whole? How many vehicles or security equipment has he bought or donated to enhance security in his state? How has he promoted successes recorded by Nigerian forces in the fight against terrorism and insecurity or is he blind to the positive and sees only the negative? Yet he comes out to claim sympathy to the plight of innocent Nigerians. Such disgusting hypocrisy.

Let it be known that Nigerians understand the desperation by politicians to clinch power in 2023; a reason the Sultan has become a willing tool in their hands. He is at home at opposition Government houses. It is a known fact who his paymasters are. When the Sultan is not supporting Tambuwal, he is supporting Wike or Ortom and decides to turn blind eye to their failings. This is indeed bad politics. But while at this, it is only decent to play by the rules rather than engaging in misadventures that further divides us as a nation. Yes, the country is facing security challenges but the situation should not be exploited to at the detriment of national security. Religious and traditional leaders serve as symbols of hope, dignity, unity and must distance themselves from politics and its schemes. Instead of criticizing and blaming the central government, the Sultan and other traditional/religious leaders should all do their part to ensure a peaceful, united and indissoluble country in which we can all sleep with our eyes closed. The politicisation of our Sultanate and Emirate councils must stop now!

Suleiman Kassim is a Public Commentator from Kebbi State

https://thenaijanews.com/2022/04/12/bad-politics-of-sultan-of-sokoto/

Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on Wednesday, said he was frustrated and helpless, adding that the military knew the location of the bandits wreaking havoc in the state, but was refusing to bomb their hideouts.

This is just as The PUNCH learnt that five months after a Federal High Court designated bandits as terrorists, the Nigerian military had yet to deploy the Super Tucano aircraft in the North-West.

Recall that the Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), had on November 25, 2021 obtained a judgment designating all gunmen in the North-West as terrorists. This was said to be a condition by the United States government for the deployment of the aircraft outside of the North-East.

However, top sources confirmed to The PUNCH that the Super Tucano had not yet been deployed in the North-West.

Addressing journalists on Wednesday when the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, visited the state to assess the situation following a terrorist attack on a Abuja-Kaduna train that left at least eight persons dead, El-Rufai said the terrorists’ hideouts should be bombed.

He said the location of the terrorists was public knowledge and even the Department of State Services usually monitors their telephone lines.

The governor stated, “We have enough intelligence for us to take action. The Air Force undertakes enough ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance); and the DSS has informants all over the place.

“We know what they (terrorists) are planning. We get the reports. The problem is for the agencies to take action. Don’t wait until they attack before you respond. The Army should go after their enclaves to wipe them out. Let the Air Force bomb them.

The governor insisted that the camps and phone numbers of the terrorists were known by the military agencies, stressing that Kaduna State was currently in a state of war.

“We know where their camps are, we know where they are; the SSS have their phone numbers, they listen to them, and they give me the report. We know what they are planning. We shouldn’t be waiting for them to attack; why can’t we go after them?” El-Rufai asked.

The governor said the bandit areas should be declared a warzone, adding that he was ready to allow a few innocent people to lose their lives in the process.

“We are in a state of war; this place should be declared a warzone. The Army, Air Force, and the police should go in there and kill them. Will there be innocent casualties? Yes! In every war situation, there are casualties,” he added.

The governor stated that train services should stop at 4pm as night time had become too dangerous.

El-Rufai stated, “We have written to the Nigerian Railway Corporation twice to stop the evening service. The last train from Kaduna to Abuja should leave by 4pm so that it will get to Abuja in daylight.

“If anything is to happen, the response time will be quick, maybe in 30 minutes. When something happens, the response time will be faster in the daytime. We were lucky the military response was just within an hour, because it (attack) was dead in the night.”

The governor expressed his frustration about the situation, saying, “I’m angry, frustrated and feel totally helpless. Let us establish military bases within Katari and Rijana (in Kaduna).”

On his part, Amaechi said the Nigerian Air Force would start escorting trains, adding that repair works on the bombed rail track would commence immediately as efforts were now on to install security sensors on the tracks.

He said, “I will speak with the President. He is already giving directives. I’m sure by the time we finish the repair of the rail tracks, we would have got approval for the security equipment and we would possibly have installed it.

“But even if it hasn’t been installed yet, we have spoken with the management of the Nigerian Air Force to escort the trains. They were previously escorting the trains, but recently the weather has been very bad and visibility dropped to below 500 metres, so they couldn’t fly.

“So, they’ve not been flying and this is why this (the attack) was successful. They have resumed flying and will escort the trains when we resume.”

The minister said the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), had approved that the ministry should employ people who would work on rail tracks for the next six to seven months until the security equipment was installed.

“We intend to employ villagers on the corridor so that they can report any suspicious movement to us and the security agencies,” he stated.

Amaechi said the Army had given maximum medical care to the patients, who were brought to the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna.

He stated, “They treated the patients with bomb wounds and for the lady with gun wounds in her heart, they are bringing in a specialist, a cardiologist, to attend to her.

“They have just seven patients left; the rest have been discharged. The Federal Government is grateful to the military for the assistance. We will liaise with the hospital to see how much money we can contribute to the victims’ medical bills.”

On when the repairs of the bombed tracks would be fixed, Amaechi said, “We will commence work immediately and the military has promised us security as we work. It is less than 2km of rail tracks. We will complete the work as soon as possible.

“If the Ministry of Finance releases the funds, then we can know the number of those to employ. But we will involve the DSS in screening the people we will employ.”

On passengers and other persons on the ill-fated train, who had yet to be accounted for, the minister said, “We are still contact-tracing to establish those missing.”

The Chief Medical Director, 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna, Col Stephen Onochukwu, said the patients received by the hospital from the incident were all stable.

“We had 25 of them that were admitted. We discharged some of them that are stable but we are still following them up. Currently, we have seven of them left in the hospital,” he stated.

Attempts to get a reaction from the military proved abortive as the Director of Defence Information, Major General Ohwonigho Akpor, did not respond to calls or a text message.

https://punchng.com/train-attack-el-rufai-carpets-military-acf-laments-dhq-fails-to-deploy-tucano-in-nwest/?amp

ASUU: PATRIOTS OR SABOTEURS By Abike Adebayo

It is increasingly worrisome the ease with which the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) embarks on strike actions at the slightest chance. Of greater concern is the Union’s nonchalant attitude to the plight of Nigerian students and the impact of incessant industrial action on them, the Education sector and the Nation at large. Facts have emerged that just like Public Service medical doctors who operate private clinics and consultancy services, university lecturers now establish private institutions as side businesses. This could only be the logical explanation for the Union’s indifference to the pain of their actions on students, particularly those who cannot afford the luxury of attending private institutions or foreign studies.

ASUU has become synonymous with strikes with no record of notable accomplishments in promoting the quality of higher education in Nigeria. The Union has made industrial action the easiest and cheapest form of blackmail against the government and without hesitation, deploys this ostensible weapon when it suits its members’ selfish interests. Established with an objective to promote the welfare of its members and the development of the nation’s education sector, the Union has metamorphosed into a bully. Its priority has majorly centered on wellbeing of lecturers. Nothing else matters to it. Predictably, agitations for upgrade in salaries, concerns over IPPIS, delay in payment of remunerations and earned allowances are more pronounced when the Union embarks on industrial actions.

The Union is never about Nigeria or Nigerians. It is never about the Nigerian students. With interrupted learning and academic calendars that negatively affect their performance, innocent learners continue to bear the brunt of the Union’s insensitivity. It conveniently goes on strike for prolonged periods to push for self-seeking motives with no sense of empathy. Incessant strike actions continue to be beneficial to ASUU members as long as it affords them ample time to run their private Universities and render extracurricular pecuniary services. And despite efforts by the federal government to negotiate and also meet some of their demands, the Union remains callous and wastes no time in exploiting industrial actions to their advantage.

A case in view is the ongoing industrial action which commenced in February, 2022. Regardless of government’s efforts and current economic realities, the Union has remained adamant and has even gone ahead to extend its strike action by another eight weeks. This is more so that the Minister of State for Education, Mr Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba has asserted that all of the Union’s demands had been met and that all earned allowances and revitalisation funds had been released. It is pitiable and beyond reasoning that ASUU continues to deploy the same pattern over and over again to agitate supposed grievances. This is regardless of the fact that this strategy has produced minimal result, outlived its usefulness and crippled public tertiary institutions. Evidently, aside other things, strike actions enable ASUU members cash out on closure of public Universities to promote their personal investments and run their private Universities. Thus, their actions are deliberate, all-in pursuit of egoistic and opportunistic pecuniary gains. The Union’s style has undoubtedly become counterproductive, yielding no positive results and only inflicting unimaginable agony on Nigerians while impinging development. While this Union still exists and not scrapped beats all imaginations.

It is, however, encouraging that some Universities are starting to see through ASUU’s insanity and hypocrisy. This is the reason Abia and Delta State Universities backed out of the senseless strike, thereby unshackling the leash of ASUU’s destructive agenda against their own students. Other Universities should wake up and follow suit. Unfortunately, calls by student Unions to embark on protests have also fallen on deaf ears. ASUU has become the elephant in the room and could care less if the country is engulfed by demonstrations that ground socioeconomic activities. The Union should remember that one of its core objectives centers on the good of Nigeria and Nigerians. This strike is not good for us. ASUU must be seen to show empathy in its dealings and explore alternative means of conflict resolution. It must stop taking the easy and unethical path of strike actions to channel its grievances and seek the government’s attention. ASUU should grow up! Otherwise, no one will be wrong to term it as a saboteur.

Abike Adebayo,
Public Commentator from Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State

https://thenaijanews.com/2022/03/25/ASUU-patriots-or-saboteurs-by-abike-adebayo/

Nasir El-Rufai notoriously never watches his utterances. He has consistently exploited his gift of a vile tongue to gain relevance, power and authority. At first glance he appears as an un-conformist, but he controversially has a knack for feigning forthrightness or bluntness. In fact, his actions since his days as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) reeks of unapologetic contention and this depraved trait has spawned into his administration as Kaduna State Governor so much so that controversy is now synonymous to his name. His latest hullabaloo and false claims that Governor Mai Mala Buni’s sack as National Chairman of the Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Committee Planning (CECPC), and replacement by Governor of Niger State, Abubakar Sani Bello was ordered by President Buhari, is disparaging and makes mockery of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In staying true to his extremely controversial nature, El-Rufai deliberately incites an internal conflict in the APC with this skewed narrative, giving grounds for the opposition to spite his party and set it up for unsavoury commentaries in the public space. Why would someone who claims unalloyed loyalty to his party and President make such tactless assertions despite knowing the implications will project the APC as fractured and conflict stricken? Interestingly, multiple facts have emerged indicating otherwise. El-Rufai’s claims showcase him as a dangerously flippant person and a compulsive liar. Even if the President indeed confides information in him, why take the place of party or President’s spokesperson with such discordant media expose’? His action was not only a mockery of the President, but also a complete breach of oath of secrecy and allegiance. But for Governor El-Rufai, that has always been the style. He ferociously pursues any self-serving interest and makes emphatic reprehensive and fictitious statements with a borrowed sense of authority. Laughably, El-Rufai once claimed he was begged to become the DG of Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE), so also his appointment as Minister and Governor. Who knows if he is now looking for those that will beg him to be President or Vice President? What a wonderful accident Civil Servant.

No wonder, his former boss, Olusegun Obasanjo in his book My Watch, Vol.2 describes him as “a malicious liar, a pathological purveyor of untruths and half-truths with little or no regard for integrity”. Obasanjo further notes that “Not only is El-Rufai a deceiver but also selfish”. As FCT minister, he was allegedly renowned for land grabbing and stripping individuals of legitimate land and property. Also, as Minister he was accused of coveting the official residence of the Vice President and allocated lands to his friends and family. One will expect that by now he should have satisfied his vain materialism.

But El-Rufai is soulless, devoid of emotion and spares no one. His nasty penchant to forcefully acquire has left a trail of victims of illegal demolition, revocation and ejections. One of such cases is the premature demise of late Justice Bashir Sambo, former Chairman, Code of Conduct Tribunal, which was attributed to the forceful seizure of his residence by El-Rufai. Similarly, his administration as Governor of Kaduna State is riddled with similar cases of land grabbing, grandstanding and illegal forceful takeover of property as well as obliterating life investments, cutting across the poor, rich, political opponents, retirees, widows/widowers and orphans. His family members and associates have been met with his merciless antics including own uncle turned foster Father as well as elder half-brother have all had their bitter share of El-Rufai’s viciousness.

Even ABU Zaria, his alma mater is a victim of the fiery darts of his untameable and unquenchable wickedness. The school is currently calling for withdrawal of his degree certificate for encroaching into the institution’s land. El-Rufai remains ruthless, heartless and unperturbed by the consequences of his undesirable character. In fact, he is insensitive and wants what he wants no matter whose ox gets gored. He is so self-seeking and self-centred that his former boss described him as a man without character who can only deliver under close supervision and lacks ability to sustain loyalty for long. It is impossible to fully describe El-Rufai outside Obasanjo’s perception of him. The former President recognised El-Rufai’s ease to betray at the slightest impulse. This is not far from the truth. His recent hysterics and misconception about the CECPC translate to anti party activity thus re-establishing El-Rufai as someone unfit to hold a public office under a truly democratic set up.

While it is glaring that his long nurtured Presidential ambition is becoming slim as 2023 elections approaches, it is evident that he has taken up the path of destroying the reputation of the APC to cut down the chances of whoever might emerge as its candidate. This is not surprising, as he is known to barefacedly lie against his colleagues and so-called friends. Word around the circle of Governors is that he is ostracised for his careless maleficence and callous grandstanding when humane decisions are being considered.

His recent foul mouthing against not just the APC but the President is to further his unethical ambition. His claims of having the President’s ear, was always a scam. Could El-Rufai have been working for the APC? From his utterances, it is obvious he is for his pay masters. One won’t be surprise if by tomorrow he goes back to the PDP or works for Atiku. He may be out to destroy the APC and even the PDP-all for the good of his grandmaster- Obasanjo. Nigerians must remember that while serving as Obasanjo’s lieutenant, he disparaged President Buhari. Once the tide turned, he was everywhere kneeling before him like a stooge and allowing himself be photographed to meet his motive. El-Rufai cannot change. He can defame and betray anyone; even sell his soul in the quest for sustained inordinate power.

The unfortunate thing about El-Rufai is his inability to realise that Nigeria is bigger than him. Nigeria is far beyond his reach. Clinching presidential candidacy to satisfy his egoistic ambition would only be a pipe dream given his negative antecedents. Majority of Nigerians do not like him. His ancestral home of Zaria loathes him. To them, he is a traitor and economic predator. His ploy of setting confusion in the APC to further his interest has surely backfired on him. Not only has he exposed himself as an agent of destabilization and the mole used by some interests to weaken the party, APC faithful and the general public can now reconfirm he was and always will remain a con politician. For a person of dishonourable and questionable character like El-Rufai only doomsday await him.

By Salihu Abubakar, a Public Commentator from Kaduna

https://thenaijanews.com/2022/03/15/nasir-el-rufai-controversial-accidental-public-servant/

Don’t be willing tools for do-or-die politicians – Buratai advises youths

The Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has advised Nigerian youths not let themselves be used as willing tools by do-or-die politicians who want to stir up trouble in their communities.

Buratai gave the advice in his Message to Nigerian Youths, titled, “Dynamism in Politics and Nigeria’s Founding Fathers”, posted on his verified Facebook page on Friday.

He challenged them to instead, embrace the tenets of political dynamism and root out every factor contributing to the democracy deficit in Nigeria, such as voter apathy, ballot snatching, looting, arson, and the likes.

According to him, youths constitute a large percentage of our voting and working population and are also going to be the number one population block that will suffer the consequences of bad governance and incompetent leaders in the future.

“Therefore, you must do everything to safeguard your future survival and welfare in mind. Get actively involved in the democratic process by joining a political party and electing those who will lead you. Remember that voting is a civic duty expected of every Nigerian,” he said.

The former Chief of Army Staff said he spent his entire service life defending the nation and democracy because of his conviction that the political system is most conducive to peace, sustainable development, rule of law, and respect for human rights.

He said that Nigeria’s 22 years of uninterrupted democracy is worth celebrating, saying that elections devoid of integrity could not bring legitimacy to the winners, security to the losers, or public confidence in their leaders and institutions.

This, according to him, weakens polities by encouraging disaffected groups to seek out less constructive outlets for their discontent, saying some people feel that there is no need to commend the Nigerian democratic project because of this challenge associated with all nascent democracies.

“I respectfully disagree. We are evolving, and as you can see, the system is improving daily as a result of our leaders’ periodic enhancements to the democratic system.

“For instance, the 2022 Electoral Act which the President, Commander-in-Chief, President Muhammadu Buhari just signed into law, is a factor that will undoubtedly improve the transparency and acceptability of the country’s future elections and promote democratic governance.

“Democracy remains a universal aspiration because it actually delivers.

“For example, of the 20 countries with highest levels of human development as measured by the UN’s human development index, 19 are liberal democracies.

“Among the top 40, 36 are liberal democracies. And even the citizens of poorer democracies live, on average, nine years longer than citizens of poor autocracies, because they have better access to health and education.

“Democracies are also less vulnerable to famines and conflicts.

“It was the Greek philosopher, Aristotle, who said, “Man is, by nature, a political animal.” It means that a man is born, lives, and dies as a member of a community, and the affairs of that community are therefore his and vice-versa.

“This is why since my transition back to civilian life from the Army, I have continued to participate in every civic activity I could to promote peace and strengthen our democracy. It is the reason I decided to send this message to all Nigerian youths,” he said.

Buratai also urged Nigerians youths to take the critical issues of participation and a vibrant democratic system in Nigeria as sacrosanct, and embrace what he termed political dynamism.

He defined political dynamism as vigorous political activity that is geared towards progress, and strength in the polity usually characterizlsed by patriotism, service to the fatherland, and youth inclusivity.

According to him, youth can be a creative force, a dynamic source of innovations, and they have undoubtedly, throughout history, participated, contributed, and even catalysed important changes in political systems, power-sharing dynamics, and economic opportunities.

“However, young people also face poverty, barriers to education, multiple forms of discrimination, and limited employment prospects and opportunities.

“This is a global challenge although it differs across countries, and it is why the youth must take the issue of electing their leaders very seriously,” he said.

Buratai hailed the dynamism exhibited by the founding fathers such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello and Obafemi Awolowo and offering an inclusive impression that all the regions had a say in the formation of the country.

He said that President Buhari had laid a foundation for a new Nigeria, adding that he had kept faith with his vision and principles in spite the myriad of challenges.

He urged youths to carry the vision and principles beyond the current administration and protect the legacies for a greater Nigeria and a formidable future generations.

https://thenaijanews.com/2022/03/05/dont-be-willing-tools-for-do-or-die-politicians-buratai-advises-youths/

DSS Reacts to Ayu’s Unprovoked Diatribe Against the Service

The Department of State Services has counseled the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Dr Iyorchia Ayu, of making an unwarranted statement against security agencies including the Service.

This was revealed in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Peter Afunanya.

He said “has been drawn to an unwarranted statement made by the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Iyorchia Ayu against security agencies including the Service. The Party Chairman, while speaking at an event on 23rd February, 2022 in Owerri, Imo State, was quoted to have said that his party would not use the SSS to harass the people when they take over Aso Rock in 2023. Though the Service restrains itself from joining issues particularly with politicians, it wishes to state its disapproval of such statement which is considered unjustified, unfair, speculative and preposterous”.    

“Except to malign and incite the people against it, the Service questions the rationale behind such an unprovoked description of it by Chief Ayu who had variously benefitted from it and indeed the State. Having served variously as Senate President, Minister of Education, Industry, Internal Affairs and Environment, with full complements of Security details, he knows the Service is never used to harass the people. And if he ever used the details for negative purposes (unknown to the Service), he should know that the times have changed. Dr Ayu knows that the Service is a frontline guardian of democracy and respects the rule of law in Nigeria. It is committed to the protection of the people. For the avoidance of doubt, it does not shield its personnel who offend its rules and in fact, laws of the land, from disciplinary action, thus the untruthfulness of his statement. The DSS has undoubtedly made profound sacrifices for the existence and unity of the country and will continue to, despite deliberate attacks on it”. 

“While members of the public are urged to disregard Dr Ayu’s statement, politicians are enjoined to desist from making unguarded utterances with tendencies to breach public order. Overall, the Service prefers that it is left out of any political fray as it is committed to maintaining usual neutrality and transparency in the discharge of its mandate”.
https://thenaijanews.com/2022/02/28/dss-reacts-to-ayus-unprovoked-diatribe-against-service/

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is set to embark on an indefinite industrial action following the failure of the Federal Government to implement the existing agreements with the body.

The nationwide strike starts from 14th February.

Details later.
https://saheliantimes.com/breaking-ASUU-to-embark-on-indefinite-strike/?amp

A staff of the Department of Security Services, DSS, Akwa Ibom State Command, Mr. Ama Okeke has given evidence before state High court sitting in Uyo, of how the first accused person in the murder of late Miss Iniubong Umoren, Uduak-Abasi Akpan raped and murdered the diseased in his house

Okeke who appeared in court as the 10th Prosecution Witness (PW10) said the three accused persons made their confessional statements voluntarily to the Special Incident Response Unit of the DSS, Uyo which was video recorded.

He told the court that Uduak Akpan in his confessional statement narrated how late Umoren refused to have sex with him which made him struggle with her adding that in the process, he observed that the deceased (Iniubong Umoren) has already sent a voice note to someone that he did not know.

He added that in frustration, the deceased accepted to have sex with the accused on the condition that he wears a condom but later attacked him (Uduak) with an iron nearby as soon as he removed the condom he wore.

He said Uduak told them that to ensure the deceased did not shout, he took a black cloth and stuffed it into her mouth and tied it. He said he then used a standby stabilizer to hit her on the abdomen which made the deceased bleed profusely.

The DSS officer said Uduak told them that at that point, he used the jeans trouser of the deceased to strangle her, dug a 3feet grave and buried her at about 13:00hours to 20:00hours on the 29th of April, 2021 adding that the first accused told them that the second accused person, Frank Akpan who is his father was not around when the incident happened.

He said Uduak told them that the following day when he opened his Facebook page, he saw to his dismay news with his picture and that of late Iniubong Umoren trending that he was the one that kidnapped her.

He said out of fear, Uduak ran to Calabar to hide in his sister’s house who is standing as the third accused in the trial adding that the investigative team was able to travel to Calabar where they tracked and recovered the Samsung galaxy phone that belonged to the deceased adding that those arrested with the phone are standing trial also.

The trial Judge, Justice Bassey Nkanang admitted the Samson Galaxy phone in evidence by the prosecution and marked it as Exhibit 13.

But the lawyer to the accused, Samson Adula raised an objection insisting that his client made the statement out of compulsion.

Justice Nkanang, however, adjourned the case till February 15, for a trial within- trial to determine the claim of involuntariness of the statement.

https://www.facebook.com/482749575105792/posts/4733879823326058/

SANUSI LAMIDO AND HIS HALLUCINATIONS by
Abdullahi Tahir, A Public Commentator resident in Kano

What does one say about a man who is often full of himself and seeks undue relevance? What personality disorder is that called? Sanusi Lamido will not be the first and last false prophet of doom to talk about a Nigeria that will break or disintegrate. His forebears foresaw a disunited Nigeria before 2015. The year came to pass and the country is still one. Unsatisfied, Sanusi and his cohorts, from within and outside, are at it again. This time, Sanusi is trying, without any mandate, to declare fatwa on beloved country. According to him, Nigeria is on the brink or “living on extra time”. As a fortune teller or seer that he has become, he did not see his dethronement and banishment. But he is so pessimistic to see a collapsed nation.

When looking for a typical illustration of a hypocrite, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi fits the description perfectly. Sanusi has carved a niche for attacking and throwing tantrums against authorities to attract attention and sympathy to himself while covering up his antecedents of self-glorification, imprudence and perceived corruption. His entrance into limelight came after he got appointed as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria in 2009 to serve under the Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. He was to descend on the President at any given opportunity.

As a seasoned economist and financial analyst, presenting an astute persona, Sanusi was quick to warm his way into the hearts of Nigerians who believed his wealth of experience would transform the country to a world class economy. Unbeknown to many, behind the eloquent exuberance and adornment of bespoke outfits, lies a controversial figure and intellectual nuisance who craves attention by inciting the public. Like the proverbial phrase that says “time reveals all things”, Sanusi’s actual character gradually unveiled with time. Sanusi is a loose cannon. He shoots without aiming. He is an unpatriotic citizen who continues to hurl baseless criticism against authorities even when he is part of it.

In the Jonathan era and under this administration, his condemnations were a defence against allegations of misconduct and abuse of office during his tenure as CBN Governor and Emir of Kano, both positions in which he was disgraced and shown the way out. It is widely known that under the Jonathan administration, he operated the CBN like his personal venture and allegedly committed humongous financial atrocities. Report of a panel set up in 2014 to probe him noted that Sanusi was indicted for being fraudulent, reckless and wasteful. He was fingered in the missing N38bn by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria in April 2013. The money was said to have been paid to Nigeria Security Printing and Minting Press, a subsidiary of the CBN. However, MINT account showed no evidence of such transaction. Between 2011 and 2012, he supposedly expended the outrageous sum of N5.3bn on legal and professional fees, private guards, lunch for security aides and promotional activities. Mr Saint indeed.

Accusations of recruiting staff into the CBN without following due process were also levelled against him. According to PremiumTimes report of 31 March, 2014, Sanusi was further suspected by Federal Government of being one of the financiers of boko haram terrorism in the country. This culture of impunity was quick to attract a query from the then government. Rather than answer to his financial impropriety and terrorism financing, he hastily went on the offensive and began making inconsistent public statements about financial indiscretions in the NNPC. After his disgraceful exit from the CBN and as trademark of his character, he cunningly lobbied his way to become the Emir of Kano to escape prosecution for his “crimes”. Sanusi was never a qualified candidate for the throne. Some quarters believe he (un)wittingly had long began scheming his way into the Kano emirate when he suspectedly arranged for Boko Haram members to attack the former Emir, Alhaji Ado Bayero who later died after succumbing to the injuries he sustained.

Sanusi of course, brought immense pressure on the Emir. He brought him to Abuja to support the third term bid of then President Obasanjo, a reason the ordinary Kano people, for the first time, stoned their Emir or his convoy. He never hid his likeness for the seat of the Emir and became desperate to occupy it even while the incumbent was alive. The Emir eventually died from mental harassment suffered from Sanusi. In connivance with Rabiu Kwankwaso and Abdullahi Ganduje both of whom, for political exigency, installed him as Emir. The duo of Kwankwaso and Ganduje were Governor and Deputy Governor of Kano State. Against popular demand, they conspired to make Sanusi Emir. And same people, at least Ganduje undid Sanusi. They realised that Sanusi is a dog which does not know its owner. Friendship with Sanusi is like buying a wild cat for a pet.

Even as Emir, he lacked respect for due process and constitutional authority while desecrating traditional institutions. To show his double standard, Sanusi continues to advocate the culture of family planning among northerners. He also condemns polygamy. Meanwhile, he is married to four wives with thirteen children as at last count. He preaches against corruption but in less than three weeks after ascension as Emir, Sanusi was accused of embezzling at least N4bn from the Emirate Council coffers and squandered over N37m on recharge cards. He politicised the emirate and created unnecessary tensions in Kano State and divisions among the populace. This led to him being disgraced once again, dethroned and banished from the State. Though some of the issues are under litigation, it is not probable he would ever win in the court of public opinion even if he wins in the Court of law.

As proof that he does not care about the people he claims to serve, Sanusi chose Lagos, a cosmopolitan state outside the conservative North to enable him get close to his local and foreign hostile allies. Reason for his choice of Lagos instead of Loko LGA of Nasarawa State where he is banished in disregard of customary rites daily manifests. It is obvious he is partisan. His public utterances betray him. He seeks to be among Lagos Big Boys as well as power brokers in the country. His preoccupation is to install a President of a South West extraction and he is assiduously working for this.

In his unending quest for power, influence and relevance, Sanusi again shamelessly bribed his way into becoming the leader of the Tijjaniyya sect in Nigeria and continues to appear in the full regalia of Emir and addresses himself as one. Luckily, the Tijjaniyya sect knows who its real leader is. Adorning the outfit of an Emir exemplifies his disrespect for the people. An insensitive man, Sanusi appears in full regalia of a sitting Emir simply to deceive the unsuspecting public. Deposed and banished, how does he think he can return to Kano to reclaim the seat. Kano people are not lily livered. And Sanusi knows he cannot test their resolve. Only a highly hallucinating person like Sanusi will decide to live in his dream world. Sanusi and his Hallucinations!

Sanusi is not the only Emir to have been deposed and banished. His grandfather was deposed. Then Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Ibrahim Dasuki and Emirs of Muri and Gwandu were once deposed and banished. They took it in good faith. Faced with their fate, they never constituted a nuisance as Sanusi has. They went about their normal businesses and did not incite the public against constituted authorities. They never sought to go back to their thrones. Sanusi’s desperation to sneak into Kano is an aberration. Why does he want to destabilise Kano? Is it a task from his Lagos sponsors so the authorities can be marked as failed.

Those who come to equity must do so with clean hands. While citizens have the right to advise and criticise, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi lacks that moral ground. Where the Judicial system works, Sanusi would be in jail serving time for his crimes. Rather, he continues to play victim by skewing narratives that project him as virtuous to divert attention from his indecorous personality. If Nigeria is on the brink, distressed, sinking or living on borrowed time, Sanusi and his wasteful lifestyle contributed immensely to it. Sanusi should do a soul searching and change for good, As a good Muslim, Sanusi should accept his fate and imbibe the teachings of Islam. He should adhere to the admonition of Quran that God gives power to whom He wishes and takes it away from whom He wants. Mallam Sanusi wake up and stop hallucinating.

https://thenaijanews.com/2022/02/11/sanusi-lamido-and-his-hallucinations-by-abdullahi-tahir-a-public-commentator-resident-in-kano/

Fein is nothing more than a well-educated yahoo yahoo +++ Oldman.

By Goni Abdullahi

In the preparations towards the Nation’s general elections, the year 2022 is expected to witness a surge in an array of political activities. Political permutations and scheming by political gladiators, parties and regional interests, could upshot inflammatory statements, inter/intra party conflicts, assassinations and thuggery.

Furthermore, internal conflicts within political parties, if not properly managed, could lead to increased defections, new alliances and/or formation of political parties, thereby overheating the polity. Inadvertently, underlining threats such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping among others, will be exacerbated while regional agitations, organised crimes, arms proliferation and activities of unknown gunmen is expected to escalate. And because political support for election in Nigeria is generally divided along geographical lines, the possibility of ethno-religious crises is imminent. The year could also witness rejuvenation of the civil society space and infiltration of these groups by opposition parties within and outside the country to advance subversive interests.

On a general note, gubernatorial elections in the South West region particularly in Osun and Ekiti States, scheduled for June and July 2022 respectively will mark the start of the 2023 elections. In Osun state, with the incumbent governor on the ballot, it will be a close-fought battle due to the political infighting in the All Peoples Congress (APC) structure in the State. The region would also witness tense political wrangling between the camps/loyalists to Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu, the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and the Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, over their speculated Presidential aspirations. In addition, heightened secessionist agitations by coalition of Yoruba Nation groups may evolve.

Likewise, the political arena in the South East is expected to be dominated by increased activities of the outlawed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), leading to amplified acts of civil disobedience. Also, unrelenting politicians may continue to exploit Nnamdi Kanu's detention to attract sympathy and political gains. The power tussle between the erstwhile Governor of Imo State, Senator Rochas Okorocha, his son-in- law, Uche Nwosu and the current Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, could worsen the security situation in the state and in the region in general. Although the declaration of Presidential interest by the duo of former Senate President, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim and the Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. Dave Umahi though in different parties (PDP and APC) will no doubt, pit their supporters against one another. This and the quest by the PDP in Ebonyi State to retake power from the APC may heat up political activities in the days to come.
Similarly, the South-South is rife with speculations on the return of former president, Goodluck Jonathan which is generating varied public reactions that could also overheat the polity in the region. The political atmosphere in Cross River State is envisaged to be tensed especially with the decamping of the state governor, Senator Benedict Ayade to the ruling APC. This is more so that the PDP may intensify political gimmicks to clinch back power. The rift between Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike and the Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, and coupled with the intra-party conflict in the APC, may degenerate with implication for peace and stability of the State.

In the North Central, though Yahaya Bello has not formally declared interest to run for president, his posture and sideline campaigns, suggest that he is undoubtedly going to contest. The perceived intra-party squabbles between Bello's loyalists and that of Tinubu could snowball into violence in the State. The Nationalities Alliance for Self-Determination Group (NINAS) may also intensify clamor for secession in the region premising it on perceived marginalization and inequitable distribution of resources. On the other hand, activities of bandits in Niger, Nasarawa and Benue States may disrupt electioneering processes and public order/safety.

Equally, considering that all the Governors in the North West except the governor of Zamfara State will be finishing their tenures, it is projected that some of them may vie for national assembly positions, which may cause major disaffection between the governors, serving senators and party loyalists. Similarly, the issue of anointing a successor may likely generate clashes between the Governors and party executives in the States. Lastly, though the political arena in the North East is relatively peaceful, the threat of terrorism in Borno, Yobe and part of Adamawa states could affect electioneering process. Also, the APC may attempt to reclaim power in Adamawa and Bauchi States, which may heat up the political atmosphere.

In the interest of peace and national stability, politicians must strictly play by the rules and have it at the back of their minds that rulership is only possible if the country is peaceful. Likewise, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as the electoral umpire should be conscious of its actions as it will dictate the tone of the Nation’s socio-political atmosphere before and after the elections. Security agencies should remain professional in discharging their duties and also properly analyse emerging threats and come up with measures to manage them. Therefore, a strong collaboration is recommended for the critical stakeholders.

https://nigeriannewsleader.com/index.php/interviews-opinion/2023-general-elections-and-the-challenges-ahead

SOWORE AND HIS PERSONALITY SEEKING SYNDROME
By Sumunu Razaki
Omoyele Sowore never gets tired of displaying the histronic personality disorder life has cursed him with. He has constantly exhibited symptoms of a narcissism. He will bully and feign victim all in a single situation. Very evidenced in how he conjures lies against his ideal victim, the government, to draw public symphathy to himself in furtherance of a ludicross political ambition which he leverages to enrich himself. It is simply inconcieveable that someone in their right state of mind could allege the deactivation of national identity and bio-data by Government. Sowore is many things. From accusing the Federal Government of assassination and kidnap attempts to staging being shot by Police in a poorly scripted dramedy show, all is not well with him mentally. Sowore is not only sick, but pathetically so.
The most ridiculous of his antics is his recent rant accusing the federal government of deleting his NIN and other forms of national identity of all the millions of NINs on the database. The Federal Government's and its apparatus' silence, on the other hand, is a sign of maturity and an attribute among many others for which people like Sowore can never rule. Unfortunately, some gullible Nigerians believe these lies to the point of resorting to violent protest. These sort of people deserve our indulgence and for them I choose to write.

Sowore is a self-albatross, he has sought cheap fame by being at the forefront of radical activities, his antecedents display opportunistic violent activism, dating back to his Student Unionism days at Lagos State University. He co-founded African Action Congress (AAC), embezzled funds belonging it and was suspended after nearly destroying the party following his humiliating performance during elections. Frustrated by the series of events, he resorts to once again exploiting his sham news platform, to canvass rebellion against a democratically elected government. Despite the fact that his plans were foiled by security agencies, particularly the Police and Department of State Services (DSS), he has continued to flaunt bail conditions by not only instigating but engaging in violent protests, including the #EndSARS.

The sooner Sowore's gullible followers and online minions realize that their supposed saint and saviour is nothing more than an arrant swindler and cashtivist, the better. The ordeal of one of his close associates, Oluwatosin Adeniji, who apart from risking her life for Sowore' cause, was also imprisoned but only to be used and dumped for foreign grant. This is one among many of how far Sowore can go to achieve his motive to the detriment of anyone.

Frankly, Sowore is just a Nigerian version of Ugandan politician, Bobby Wine, who believes that blackmail, propaganda, gaining international sympathy, and inciting violence will get him elected as Nigeria president. Afterall, he Sowore has terrorised, bullied and blackmailed a host of personalities in numerous screwed reportage. Most certainly, if all disgruntled politicians toe the line of Sowore and his co-conspirators, be rest assured that the Nigeria of our dream will remain a mirage. Sad for him and his likes, it cannot be.

Nnamdi Kanu never fails to prove his gutter games. Give it to him his ability to coerce and twist anyone’s perception is one of his gifts. And he uses it well. This Fendi goes to Court religiously like a Court Clerk, as though also standing trial with Kanu. His mischief to sell the belief that he’s worn only it for Months is quite a ridiculous premeditated gimmick to get off DSS detention. He will wear it until it attracts the right attention, and it did. Now, that the Judge has understood this strategy, he should adult up and face the consequences of inciting the killing and maiming of many, too many to count. As leader of a proscribed group who has engaged heinous murders he should probably consider a Gucci, but answer for his innumerable crimes.

SNM accuses Nnamdi Kanu of Crimes against humanity ....calls for his trial. By Raphael Atuu

The Save Nigeria Movement has called for a full and open trial of the Leader of IPOB Nnamdi Kanu over what it described as unforgivable crimes against humanity . Convener of the group Rev Solomon Semaka insisted that calls for a political solution to Kanu's trial were a plot to to rubbish president Buhari integrity and dismiss the country as a "Zoo" without strong institutions. Rev Semaka further reacting to such calls drew the attention of Nigerians to the attocities caused by IPOB in the last five years , noting that such could even be classified as sabotage to Mr Presidents regime. "If your son is desruptive in utterances and actions, chances are you are complicit" As a group we are strongly inclined to state that some Igbo leaders body language and moves is suggestive of a conspiracy especially amidst growing calls for equity and fairness among regions in the country . "We tend to believe that some people may want to politicise the legal and legitimate trial of Nnamdi Kanu" this act in itself is unpatriotic. The group said statistics indicate massive figures of casualties who were killed during IPOB reccuring attacks accross the south east region. With no or little control over IPOB activities , Igbo elders are expected to allow a full and fair trial of their son" I believe this is what any reasonable patriot would do" Over(88) people killed and scores of properties destroyed by IPOB could not be downplayed on the alter of politics" While some individuals may be part of such plea to Mr president out of fear and intimidation, the Save Nigeria Movement will always stand out to defend the rights of all Nigerians and insist on the rule of law without minding whose ox is gored" Rev Semaka fumed. By this statement , the Villa and the Department of State services should take notice that any attempt to succumb to blackmail from any quarters to consider the release of Nnamdi Kanu without a full trial will be met with resistance by Nigerians" "We will mobilise across the length and breath of the country to "Save Nigeria" we will occupy the country if such request for a political solution is considered in breach of a full trial. "Enough is enough " In this country we have seen situations were petty thieves are lynched to death sometimes over false alarms, how then do we excuse the release of Nnamdi Kanu who has wrenched himself in blood of hundreds of innocent citizens? The group said it had called the attention of the British Government to the attrocities of IPOB in the past and expressed hope the British government was satisfied; in this regard, with the whole world watching , only a full trial could console the citizens and bring healing to the South East region. The group appealed to security agencies to stand their ground and never be distracted in the course of protecting the country .

https://www.actionnewsng.com/2022/01/snm-accuses-nnamdi-kanu-of-crimes.html?m=1

For peace to reign in the South East, the leader of the online Republic, Cownu must remain incarcerated ...

Saw this on DSS website, think it will be useful here

The leadership of the Ambazonia Interim Government, a separatist group in Cameroon, has insisted that its agitations for a separate country has no similarities with that of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Samuel Sako, the leader of the group, said during a virtual press conference Sunday that they would not want to jeopardise their relationship with the Nigerian government because thousands of Southern Cameroonian refugees have benefitted from the country’s benevolence.

“It is political suicide and a very wrong calculation for us to take any position that jeopardises the lives of 120,000 of our people who are enjoying the hospitality of Nigeria right now under the eyes of the government and security forces,” said Mr Sako.

The IPOB, led by Nnamdi Kanu, who is facing charges of treasonable felony and terrorism before a Nigerian court, is a group in the country’s southeast agitating for a secession.

In August, Mr Sako had stated that the activists agitating for an independent Ambazonia have no alliance with IPOB, drawing harsh criticism from the Ambazonia Governing Council, another separatist group led by Ayaba Cho Lucas.

At Sunday’s press meeting, Mr Sako said the response from Mr Lucas does not carry any weight because he only represents a handful of Ambazonians.

“The weight of any statement depends on who made the statement, not the content of the words,” he said.

“So if I say that Ambazonia doesn’t have an alliance with IPOB, the weight of that statement depends on who I represent when I said so. This is the interim government, representing more than 90 per cent of the people of the Southern Cameroons.

“The opposition in any nation can say anything but what matters is what the government says. And we say we don’t have an alliance and we don’t intend to have one because our fights are not the same. We don’t want to be misunderstood.”


https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/491844-why-we-are-distancing-ourselves-from-ipob-ambazonia-interim-govt.html

He died on active duty... RIP Papa

VIDEO: Nollywood Actor, Chiwetalu Agu in custody told soldiers that he was promoting Rising Sun and not Biafra or ESN.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sG-gDXYNqM&feature=youtu.be

Hafsat Ganduje, the wife of Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano, has been arrested by the EFCC over a bribery and land fraud case reported by her son, PREMIUM TIMES has learnt. The arrest comes weeks after her failure to honour the anti-graft agency’s invitation.

Mrs Ganduje had earlier been invited to report to the EFCC’s Abuja headquarters on September 13, PREMIUM TIMES reported previously. But she did not appear and the EFCC then threatened to arrest her. Sources close to her later said she travelled to the UK at the time to attend the graduation ceremony of her son.

Investigators are questioning Mrs Ganduje over allegations relating to land fraud in a petition by her own son, Abdualzeez Ganduje.

A person, who has the knowledge of the arrest but asked not to be identified, said “she was arrested this (Monday) evening.”

Mrs Ganduje was still at EFCC headquarters as of 6a.m. on Monday, this newspaper learnt.

Background

Abdulazeez had dragged his mum, Hafsat Ganduje, to the EFCC, sources familiar with the matter said, suggesting a pattern of corruptly using family access to power for private enrichment.

Mr Ganduje, the governor, had previously been involved in a corruption-related scandal. He has struggled to untangle himself from the public perception that he is a corrupt public servant since 2018 when Daily Nigerian published a series of videos that showed the governor collecting money from a government contractor.

According to sources who saw Abdulazeez’s petition, he reported that he was approached by a property developer to help facilitate the acquisition of some plots of land in Kano with some hundreds of thousands of US dollars and at least 35 million naira as “facilitation commission”.

PREMIUM TIMES further learnt that Abdulazeez said he paid the sum in dollars to his mother, Mrs Ganduje.

“But three months later, (the property developer) discovered that the plots of land he wanted and had paid the first family for had been allocated to other buyers and he then requested to be refunded,” one source added.

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/488176-just-in-efcc-arrests-gandujes-wife.html

Rehimusals:
October the 1st comes with varying meanings for Nigerians for diverse reasons. For sexagenarians and those older who are reminiscent of that day in 1960, their feeling go from nostalgia to incurious feelings. While on another hand it may appear for the young, like a day almost habitually to bemoan the tepid realities of a contraption, borne by the socio-political and ethno-economic trials of the present. Nonetheless I will rather align that October 1, cannot be factually described as solely a day that elicits jinxed feelings. Quite honestly, I do not think there is luxury to dwell on anything near that description.

After this 61st anniversary, aspiration can be rekindled and a spirit of defiance, for audacity to rebel against this craze for divisive conquest that not only sows stunted growth but threatens the very foundations spoken of by the older few among us.

I too take it arguably that the visioned Nigerian Eldorado was to be birthed on the geographical but most importantly ideological amalgamation of an embodiment of the Nigerian spirit. But we are what we are! Largest collection of maybe most diverse Black people in one space, somehow we toxically breathing down on each other along the innumerable divides that colonial repudiation passed on to us, with a loudly yelled out whisper “You are Same but Different”. You are Nigerian, but Southern. No! Christian or but Northern, oh, not Northern, you are yet again, South-Southern, no you are not only South-Southern, you are Itsekiri too much so to be Ikwerre and far different from being Igbo, but yet again not very Igbo enough, so you are Osu! Middle-Belt, yes not Fulani enough to herd or barely Hausa enough…so you are good enough to be Tiv! Even so, the compartmentalization can continue endlessly. But definitions, they were or are supposed to be. Now they divide, so we fought and a minuscule few want to sustain the fights. Nevertheless, we are One, indissolubility is still not negotiable, sorry I won’t renounce that. Since after the Civil war, despite contending with long years of Military rule and an array of economic depressions, the year 2020/2021 has probably been one of the most difficult, particularly vis a viz joining in a global war with a health calamity amidst the worst forms of insurgencies and sectionist rebellions. We in ourselves needn’t be the adversary within. We must recognize that scars from injuries are there to remind that solutions though not convenient options, are available and healing is assured. Therefore, with recent happenings, one wonders whether ‘the labour of our heroes past will end in vain?? Sure, there are loyal Nigerians who will trudge against ridiculing what we treasure of six(6) decades of nationhood.  God forbid it that those advocating disintegration win, the breaking will never see an end.

Recently, a young development professional and social justice enthusiast was asked by a notable columnist “what her vision is for Nigeria in the next 50-60 years” her calming response in part resonates with me.” But I’m confident I have a consequential role to play. The place to start is not to be part of the problem I see but the solution. Whatever I do no matter how insignificant it looks (positive or negative) has a larger role to play in the scheme of things”. 

Going forward, the choice cannot be vague anymore. Nigerians cannot toy with nationalism and patriotism, eschewing “religiousism” tribal and ethnic rivalry or superiority, fighting corruption. The structure and systems of government institutions must be deepened, as a basic fact. Nigeria is our country and our means individual responsibility for actions and inactions. We ought to embrace peace and dialogue, shun secessionist ideas or movements, invest in the country, encourage law enforcement officers and public office holders showing empathy for their being targeted and murdered arbitrarily. Social media should also be used as a tool to portray the positives of the country and not the dissemination of fake news which has done more harm than good in the past one year. 

Let us not forget that great nations have rode on faults, becoming better, good enough for reference. Need I remind you that on 6th January, 2021 even the “Greatest” almost came to her knees. But for the defiance of her constitution, strong institutions and the solid will of her resilient patriotic citizenry. Consequentially, our institutions that have upheld their mandate must be empowered and supported, I will not shy from urging that sectional politicization of security challenges or the efforts of our forces must stop. Now more than ever, it is clear that Nigeria is at the brink of greatness, we all need to hold on and push a little bit harder to see that there is really nothing we cannot achieve as a United country.

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How I wish my dear country people will listen...

October the 1st comes with varying meanings for Nigerians for diverse reasons. For sexagenarians and those older who are reminiscent of that day in 1960, their feeling go from nostalgia to incurious feelings. While on another hand it may appear for the young, like a day almost habitually to bemoan the tepid realities of a contraption, borne by the socio-political and ethno-economic trials of the present. Nonetheless I will rather align that October 1, cannot be factually described as solely a day that elicits jinxed feelings. Quite honestly, I do not think there is luxury to dwell on anything near that description.

After this 61st anniversary, aspiration can be rekindled and a spirit of defiance, for audacity to rebel against this craze for divisive conquest that not only sows stunted growth but threatens the very foundations spoken of by the older few among us.

I too take it arguably that the visioned Nigerian Eldorado was to be birthed on the geographical but most importantly ideological amalgamation of an embodiment of the Nigerian spirit. But we are what we are! Largest collection of maybe most diverse Black people in one space, somehow we toxically breathing down on each other along the innumerable divides that colonial repudiation passed on to us, with a loudly yelled out whisper “You are Same but Different”. You are Nigerian, but Southern. No! Christian or but Northern, oh, not Northern, you are yet again, South-Southern, no you are not only South-Southern, you are Itsekiri too much so to be Ikwerre and far different from being Igbo, but yet again not very Igbo enough, so you are Osu! Middle-Belt, yes not Fulani enough to herd or barely Hausa enough…so you are good enough to be Tiv! Even so, the compartmentalization can continue endlessly. But definitions, they were or are supposed to be. Now they divide, so we fought and a minuscule few want to sustain the fights. Nevertheless, we are One, indissolubility is still not negotiable, sorry I won’t renounce that. Since after the Civil war, despite contending with long years of Military rule and an array of economic depressions, the year 2020/2021 has probably been one of the most difficult, particularly vis a viz joining in a global war with a health calamity amidst the worst forms of insurgencies and sectionist rebellions. We in ourselves needn’t be the adversary within. We must recognize that scars from injuries are there to remind that solutions though not convenient options, are available and healing is assured. Therefore, with recent happenings, one wonders whether ‘the labour of our heroes past will end in vain?? Sure, there are loyal Nigerians who will trudge against ridiculing what we treasure of six(6) decades of nationhood.  God forbid it that those advocating disintegration win, the breaking will never see an end.

Recently, a young development professional and social justice enthusiast was asked by a notable columnist “what her vision is for Nigeria in the next 50-60 years” her calming response in part resonates with me.” But I’m confident I have a consequential role to play. The place to start is not to be part of the problem I see but the solution. Whatever I do no matter how insignificant it looks (positive or negative) has a larger role to play in the scheme of things”. 

Going forward, the choice cannot be vague anymore. Nigerians cannot toy with nationalism and patriotism, eschewing “religiousism” tribal and ethnic rivalry or superiority, fighting corruption. The structure and systems of government institutions must be deepened, as a basic fact. Nigeria is our country and our means individual responsibility for actions and inactions. We ought to embrace peace and dialogue, shun secessionist ideas or movements, invest in the country, encourage law enforcement officers and public office holders showing empathy for their being targeted and murdered arbitrarily. Social media should also be used as a tool to portray the positives of the country and not the dissemination of fake news which has done more harm than good in the past one year. 

Let us not forget that great nations have rode on faults, becoming better, good enough for reference. Need I remind you that on 6th January, 2021 even the “Greatest” almost came to her knees. But for the defiance of her constitution, strong institutions and the solid will of her resilient patriotic citizenry. Consequentially, our institutions that have upheld their mandate must be empowered and supported, I will not shy from urging that sectional politicization of security challenges or the efforts of our forces must stop. Now more than ever, it is clear that Nigeria is at the brink of greatness, we all need to hold on and push a little bit harder to see that there is really nothing we cannot achieve as a United country.

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By Dr. Peter Afunanya
DSS, Public Relations Officer
Abimbola, I have read your piece, titled, WHAT DOES THE DSS REALLY REALLY DO?, published on the back page of 2nd September, 2021 edition of the Punch Newspaper. By my nature, I do not like joining issues and I know the Department of State Services that I represent and speak for does not like same. The reason is not farfetched. For me, I believe that people who have made up their minds about certain issues will hardly see the other side of the matter even in the face of glaring facts. While you may hold tenaciously to your opinions as duly expressed in the said article, I will educate you and many others who do not understand or appreciate what the DSS does. This is because I know, for sure, what it does. I also know what it wants. The DSS, by nature, is not flippant, loquacious or quarrelsome. It works by the rules. Its mandate is clearly spelt out and in case you do not know, you are kindly referred to the 1999 Constitution - Section 315(5); National Security Agencies (NSA) Act 1986 Cap. 74 and the SSS Instrument No.1 of 1999 as set out in Section 2 (3).

The Service is primarily charged with the detection and prevention, within Nigeria, of any crime against the internal security of the country. It is also saddled with the role of protection and preservation of all non-military classified matters and such other responsibilities affecting internal security or as may be directed by appropriate authorities. The aforementioned laws and extant relevant statutes clearly spell out the other functions of the Service to include investigations of threats to National Security (i.e. Espionage, Subversion, Sabotage, Economic Crimes of National Security dimension, Terrorism, Separatist Agitations and Inter-Group Conflicts, Threats to Law and Order); security vetting and background checks of prospective public officials and the provision of timely advice to Government on all matters of National Security. In which of these has the Service failed? None. I know you have many plans for yourself but I am certain you may not have succeeded with all of them. Yet, you have not stopped making efforts. Therefore, no government or its agency has claimed to possess the power to solve all of its problems. It is a steady work. Work in progress.

I hope you are getting the point Aunty Abimbola. Are you with me? Note please that the DSS has not failed in its duty. And whether it has failed or not is left to your judgment, part of which you have explicitly poured out in your article. The Service disagrees with your judgment and some of the issues you have raised. Put in historical perspective and context, the SSS has not failed in the discharge of its duty and the fact that it does not sing its feats does not translate to inefficiency or failure. Like any Intelligence organisation, it is an unsung hero. Its personnel, who daily face daunting challenges, are same. Not many know what intelligence failure or success is. But what do you do in an environment everyone has become a public affairs analyst or commentator.

All around the world, Intelligence agencies, the DSS inclusive, are known for being discreet and working behind the scenes to achieve their objectives. The advent of democracy and sustenance of same as ideal political system has called for more openness in their operations. This has undoubtedly put the organisations under pressure for accountability and transparency. It is therefore on the basis of intelligence governance that the Service considered this piece. As a responsible organisation, the Service deems it necessary to use this opportunity to address the public for the sake of those who lack the simple knowledge of understanding its affairs. Democracy at work! Isn’t it? As guardians of democracy and indeed the State, the Service owes citizens explanations at intervals. It is unfortunate that when the Service does not voice its successes, people like you accuse it of being introverted, uninspiring and antagonistic. I put it to you that the issues you have raised in your article are not factual. You only succeeded in joining those who consistently serve the public with falsehood which they make to look like the truth. The DSS’ quietness in the face of aggression, abuse and attack should not be taken for docility, fear or surrender. Not at all. It is its avowed respect for dissent.

The seemingly sustained false narrative about the DSS dispersing doctors attending a Saudi organised recruitment anywhere in Abuja or Nigeria, despite a disclaimer by the agency, shows a mischievous intent to ridicule the Service. On your claim that "nobody in Nigeria associates the DSS with intelligence-gathering, stealthy and efficient operations” is not true. Many celebrate the DSS. The Service has remained dedicated to its constitutional role of gathering and disseminating actionable intelligence to relevant consumers. You may be a powerful woman of the pen. You may not be well schooled in intelligence. Besides, you are not an intelligence consumer and do not know the quality of what is passed to relevant stakeholders. Intelligence sharing is guided by the basic principle of Need-To-Know. The operational successes of the Service daily make a difference in our country. But how will you know? The accusation of the Service and its sister agencies not doing well does not always add up. Assuming they were not performing, you and your likes will not possibly have the conducive environment to conjure serial propaganda against it(them).

I am surprised at your doublespeak. You don’t like social media regulation, you do not like surveillance. You do not like deployment of technology in security administration. You and those you represent claim these erode privacy, right of expression and association. Ironically, you are recommending them. Why nah! Because they suit your narrative, abi?

Without publicizing its mode of operations, the DSS has continued to provide intelligence to counter threats of various dimensions. The deliberate exclusion of reports of successes by the Service exposes your bias and unfairness to the agency that thanklessly toils to protect you and fatherland. Abeg give us some accolades, *arabinrin* Abimbola. Wetin be ya interest sef?

It is actually not in question what the DSS does. Ok now let’s go there. Ready? The DSS catches subversive elements, saboteurs, espionage agents, terrorists and insurgents. And it has caught and legally dealt with many. The Service ensures separatist agitators do not cause a breakdown of law and order or dismantle a country like Nigeria whose constitution provides that its unity is indivisible and indissoluble. Mind you, the Service guards the State as it also protects citizens. The Service forms alliances and partnerships with patriotic citizens and groups for common good. In doing these, the Service respects rights of suspects and indeed those of citizens. It obeys court orders and observes constitutional provisions. It collaborates with willing stakeholders to ensure lasting peace in the country. The DSS is loyal to Nigeria and her cause. Are you still in doubt about what the DSS does? Do not be, please.

Aside telling you what the DSS does, let me also tell you what it wants. It wants a peaceful and united Nigeria where everyone can pursue their legitimate businesses. It wants a country without banditry, kidnapping, corruption, political and electoral violence, militancy, armed robbery, ethno-religious conflicts, fake news etc. The DSS desires a country in which the media sees itself as a critical stakeholder in Nation building; a country where journalists will preach peace, tolerance, unity and not push for parochialism, division, violence and disrespect for constituted authorities.

Undoubtedly, sections of the Media, of late, is becoming awash with disparaging articles and commentaries, seeking to either cast aspersions on the DSS or undermine its constitutional roles. Recently, some canvassed for its dissolution and extermination. A few commentators have argued that it has no legal foundation to exist. Many are even engaged in the petty argument about what its real name is – SSS or DSS? No research. Only blind attacks. Other subversive groups also deploy yellow journalism, hacktivism, propaganda, imagined constitutional gaps and other forms of falsehood and subterfuge against the Service to rise to self acclaimed fame or advance pecuniary interests. Another trend is how sections of the media have become biased and willing tools for perpetrating sinister agenda as well as visibly displaying unprofessional journalism for the singular purpose of pulling the country down. These campaigns of calumny to deliberately malign, subvert or weaken the DSS are unnecessary. Publishing the image-sullying piece just days after it intimated the public of sponsored attacks against it is not coincidental. It has validated the agency’s forewarning.

Despite these smear campaigns, the DSS refuses to be distracted by the attempts to damage its reputation, distract it from its core mandate or demoralise its gallant personnel. While reiterating the Service’ commitment to discharging its duties in line with global best practices, rule of law and democratic accountability, it enjoins beloved Abimbola and the media to play their parts in preserving the National Security of Nigeria.

Hello! Abimbola, are you still there. Support the DSS. Support SSS. Support Security Agencies in Nigeria. We all deserve the Support, ejoo.