Tuesday, May 2, 2023 Edition

Medical Health Workers Union Kaduna state Chapter, with their colourfull unbrella, when the Nigeria Labour Congress NLC marked the International May day Celebration at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna on Monday, May 1, 2023

Zamfara: Anti-thuggery Commandant escapes alleged assassination attempt

From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

The Zamfara State Commandant of the Antithuggery agency, Bello Soja Bakyasuwa, said he luckily escaped assassination attempt by yet to be identified gun men while on driving along FuntuaZaria road on Thursday.

Bakyasuwa who is currently receiving medical treatment at undisclosed hospital in Kaduna for security reason, writes to newsmen in Gusau, notifying that he noticed two hilux

and one BMW vehicles were chasing him from the point he reached a military road block at ‘Yankara village under Faskari local government area of Katsina State where they quickly passed ahead. He further cried that, “On reaching Gangara village still under Faskari LGA in Katsina State, the convoy of alleged assasinators reappeared where those in the BMW overtook and blocked the ongoing lane of the road as they instantly opened fire sporadically on my vehicle before I jumped out

with dislocation on my leg to the bush.

“But those in the Hilux continued shooting. I was able to escape and run into the bush with bleeding. After about 15 minutes, the Police Hilux arrived the scene and quickly rescued me and took me to a Primary Health Care centre at a nearby village.

“I had to spend the night there in the Primary Healthcare under the watch of the Police personnel until next morning when I was conveyed to one of the hospitals in

Kaduna for further treatment. I strogly believe the attack was politically motivated.

“I can recall that few months ago, gunmen had attacked my driver in Gusau on his way from Command Guest-Inn to Anguwar Gwaza thinking that I was inside, they went away with my official Hilux vehicle.

“I am calling on security agencies to come to my aid, as my life is in danger. I am appealing to them to investigate and arrest the perpetrators to bring them to book,” Bakyasuwa cried out.

Workers’ demands will be forwarded to incoming govt —Niger gov

From Yakubu Mustapha Minna Niger state Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello has reiterated that the over 21 point lingering demands by the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress will be forwarded to the incoming government in the state.

The Governor stated this while addressing workers at the 123 parade ground to mark May DAY celebrations in Minna, emphasizing that the outgoing government had done its best. Represented by the state Head of Service, HOS, Hajiya Salamatu Abubakar said the present administration had maintained

very cordial working relationship with the NLC.

Earlier, the Niger state Chairman of NLC, Comrade Idrees Abdulkareem Lafene appealed to the Governor to consider and immediately address the enumerated lingering demands as parting gift to Niger state civil servants.

He listed some of the lingering demands to include improving the general security of the state, sustainable policy on settling backlog of gratuities, reverting the Niger state Joint Account Principal Law as amended 2001 and other extant laws in the administration of local government funds.

Nigeria Labour Congress NLC Marks International May day Celebration

World Veterinary Day: Veterinarians want vet desks in NDLEA, NEMA others

The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), has called for the establishment of veterinary desks in emergency management institutions and other relevant agencies.

Dr Ifeanyi Ogbu. Chairman, FCT Chapter NVMA, who made the call during the commemoration of the World Veterinary Day (WVD), on Sunday in Abuja, listed the agencies as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA and the Nigeria Customs Service.

The event was organised by the FCT Chapter of NVMA.

Ogbu said having veterinary desks or departments in those agencies, would ensure effective and holistic emergency response to both humans and animals.

According to him, whenever there is an emergency, NEMA and others will wage into the situation, but only to rescue humans and save properties, without taking into cognisance the plight of animals.

Citing example of the recent flood in Kogi State, which washed away more than a 1,000 cows, goats, dogs, the veterinarian said NEMA put its recue efforts on just humans and neglected the helpless animals.

“Those human beings rescued depended on the affected animals for survival, so there should be holistic rescue of everything in every emergency situation,” Ogbu said.

NAN reports that World Veterinary Day is commemorated every last Saturday of April, and the theme for 2023 is; “Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusiveness in the veterinary profession”. “Those human beings rescued depended on the affected animals for survival, so there should be holistic rescue of everything in every emergency situation,” Ogbu said.

(NAN)

May Day: I enjoyed robust, cordial relationship with you, Ganduje tells workers

From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

As he plans taking a bow out as Kano state Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on Monday, celebrated his eight-year robust, peaceful and harmonious relationsbip with workers in the state.

He commended the workers for their cooperation and understanding through out his tenure and also thanked God for giving him the initiative to ensure that workers welfare and wellbeing were adequately maintained and protected during his administration.

Ganduje who spoke at Sani Abacha stadium during the 2023 wokers’ day celebration, added that he felt fulfilled witnessing the last workers’ day as a Governor.

He was accompanied by his Deputy, Dr. Nasiru Yusuf

Gawuna, Head of Service, Director General of the Hisbah Board, and a number of members of his cabinet.

He described workers as producers of wealth and the backbone of the nation’s economic development.

Ganduje also advocated against industrial action, describing it as aviodable, while urging employers and employees to find better ways of setting industrial disputes.

According to him, “Labour is one of the most important sector of the production of wealth, as well as the catalyst of the sustained economic growth, societal transformation and development.

“Throughout the tenure of my administration, I made everything possible within the limit of available governmental system and financial resources

to give whatever is due to the labour.

“Perhaps, this unprecedented peace that surrounded the atmosphere of unparallel industrial harmony which the state has been enjoying in the last eight years.

“It is on the premise of this forgoing that I consider it duty bound to give sufficient tribute to Labour leadership in the state and indeed the entire working class under the umbrella of the Nigeria Labour Congress for maturity in upholding the principle of collective bargaining in our related agitations.

“It is my singular opinion that I believe many right meaning actors in the industrial relations will share my philosophy that industrial action is the most avoidable, but last resort in addressing industrial dispute.”

The Governor also used

the occasion to list numerous achievements recorded by his administration for the overall interest of workers in the state.

He also promised to handover keys of low-cost houses built for teachers in the state to the Kano Labour leadership.

In his remarks, Kano state chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Kabiru Inuwa, described the day as, “a reminder of the tireless efforts of every worker in building and shaping our society. Workers are the backbone of any economy. Thier hardwork and dedication drive progress and growth.”

He appreciated Ganduje’s administration for the kind gestures pit extended to workers in the state, promising that workers will continue to put in their best for the overall development of Kano state.

May Day: Zamfara vows to settle unpaid salaries, gratuities, pension

Governor Bello Mohammed

Matawalle of Zamfara

State has promised to settle the two months unpaid salaries, allowances and pension arrears before the end of his tenure on May 29th, 2023.

Matawalle who spoke through the state Head of Service, Hon. Kabiru Mohammed Gayari, gave the assurance on Monday while speaking at the 2023 Workers Day celebrations in Gusau, the state capital.

According to him, his administration is committed towards settling the backlog of arrears of workers, pensioners salaries and allowances before May 29th, 2023.

“We have started

implementing the N30,000 minimum wage but something happened that disrupted our attention, making us not to fully implement the 30,000 minimum wage”.

Speaking, the State Chairman of the Trade Union Congress, TUC, Comrade Saidu Mudi, lamented that the civil servants in the State were not happy with the State government over failure to meet with agreements reached with the labour representatives.

According to him, the government has failed woefully in the area of protecting workers rights and social economic justice, saying that the workers serve as live wire of government in any society.

“Workers rights are sets of principles as clearly defined

by the International Labour Organization, ILO, an agency of the United Nations whose aim is to guarantee fairness, healthy and equitable working conditions for employees by setting forth the International Labour standard”, he lamented.

“While the socio-economic justice involves the provision of equal opportunities to all categories of workers and to ensure that each receives incentives and wages consummate with their task and levels”.

Speaking further, he said that despite all efforts made by the two labour forces in the State but regrettably the the issue has not yet been resolved, pointing out that the amount paid to a cross section of civil servants is

not consistent above all salaries are not paid based on table as salary printout is prepared since November 2022.

He said that workers salaries and allowances are no longer paid by grade levels as the government had chosen to pay poorly to the civil servants in the state.

He said, another boiling issue remains unpaid workers salaries and allowances in the past two months, saying that March and April salaries and allowances by the State’s ministry of Finance despite the fact that the State has received statutory allocations from the federation account.

“Regrettably, the Zamfara State civil servants have experienced their worst moments within these two months because

Nigeria Labour Congress NLC State adminstration union officials maching during the Nigeria Labour Congress NLC Marks International May day Celebration at Ahmadu bello Stadium in kaduna on Monday 1st/5/23

From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

Benue transport union expels chief scribe over alleged corruption

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

Aleading Tricycle Association in Benue state, Peace Tricycle Association of Nigeria has been enmeshed in allegation of corruption.

The Association has therefore expelled its Secretary General, Comrade Stephen Vembe over the issue.

The crisis started following reported issues of gross financial misconduct brought against the ousted chief scribe of the association which metamorphosed into his immediate removal.

Chairman of PTAN in the state, Comrade Asember Boston, Secretary Javis Iju, and other stakeholders in a statement, advised Comrade Vembe to henceforth stop parading himself as a member of the union.

The union leaders warned members of the public against transacting any business of the union with the deposed PTAN scribe on its behalf, and further cautioned him “to stop parading himself as a member of the union”.

They noted that the decision to expel Comrade Vembe was taken during the union’s general congress with stakeholders which unanimously endorsed his expulsion from the union following his gross misconduct and corrupt charges levied against him”,the statement said.

Cleric urges youth to strive for excellence

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The Senior Pastor of House of Purpose Ministry U/ Sunday, in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Apostle Yakubu Yusuf, has called on Christians, especially the youths to exhibit excellent spirit in all areas of their lives.

The cleric gave the advice at the 2023 Purpose Youth Convention with theme; “Excellent Spirit” held in Kaduna yesterday.

Teaching on the subject ‘ Spirit of Excellence’ Apostle Yakubu described distinction as “excellence that sets someone apart from others, distinction for every believer will be based on honour and son-ship”.

Reading from the book of Luke 1:3 the clergy said divine purpose gives divine order and an excellent spirit produces good characters.

Alleged unlawful demolition: Traders ask I-G to investigate police officers

Abuja Traders’ Association has asked the InspectorGeneral (I-G) of Police, Usman Baba, to order the arrest and prosecution of 30 police officers used by Urban Shelter Limited to supervise alleged illegally demolition of structures at Abuja shopping complex. The association also drew the attention of the I-G to the arrest, intimidation and harassment of its executive officers by the police acting on the instruction of Urban Shelter Limited. The traders made the allegations in a petition to Baba dated April

28, 2023, through their counsel, Chukwuma-Machukwu Ume, SAN. Ume, who gave detail background of how the company, in flagrant disobedience to a subsisting court order, mobilised the officers, allegedly tagged to be fake, to give protection to the demolition of the structures at the UTC, Area 7, urged the I-G to intervene. “The said policemen arrived at the UTC, Area 7 Shopping Complex at about 5am on April 4, and gave a fake police protection to the illegal demolition team organised by Urban Shelter, in its efforts

to demolish the complex. “The fact that this illegal demolition done on the complex and its environs that day were all done by the illegal demolition team recruited by Urban Shelter and Abuja Metropolitan Management Council is axiomatic,” the petition read in part. The lawyer called on the police boss not to allow the Nigerian Police Force to be used as a tool for promoting selfish interest of an agent provocateur. He drew the attention of the police to the relevant provisions of its Act and the 1999 Constitution, which is to protect the society from acts of

criminality, lives and property of citizens and apprehend offenders and preserve law and order. “It is wrong for the Nigerian Police Force to lend itself as a tool for disobedience of court orders and manipulations by selfish persons. “It is therefore demanding on your office to immediately take measures to prosecute the 30 perons impersonating your officers and those who aided them, that is Urban Shelter, as well as ensure that the officers of the Traders’ Association are not harassed,” Ume said.(NAN)

Rep member pledges commitment to workers’

Rep Tolulope Akande-Sadipe has said that she was committed to legislative actions that would protect workers’ rights and guarantee appropriate reward for their labour.

Akande-Sadipe said this on Monday in Abuja in her goodwill message to Nigerian workers as they joined their colleagues worldwide to mark Workers Day.

“We remember the sacrifices made by Nigerian workers and advocate their welfare, we must recognise the importance of creating a conducive working environment that promotes productivity, job security, and fair

compensation.

“We can build a more prosperous and equitable society for all… as we mark this day, it is essential to reflect on the challenges faced by the Nigerian workers.

“Despite their significant contributions to the country, workers often work under harsh and unfavorable conditions, with little or no job security, and inadequate compensation,” she said.

She said it was unfortunate that many Nigerian workers had lost their jobs due to the harsh economic realities.

rights, welfare

“Some have lost their lives, some their mobility due to various job related disabilities and poor working conditions, resulting in increased hardship and suffering for families across the nation,”

Akande-Sadipe said.

She said it was important for the incoming Sen. Bola Tinubu administration to partner the 10th National Assembly to provide the right atmosphere for Nigerian workers whom she described as being resilient.

“We celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of the Nigerian workers who have tirelessly, against all odds, had to

develop the economy of Nigeria.

“This day is a time to appreciate the efforts of workers who have made countless unimaginable sacrifices through trials and toils to ensure that our society functions.

“With the incoming government of President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the 10th Assembly, the welfare of the Nigerian workers will be a priority.

“Laws to encourage improved and adequate compensation, job security and better working conditions will be priority, ” the legislator said. (NAN)

Members of the Nigerians workers, at the 2023 international Workers Day celebration, at eagle square, yesterday in Abuja yesterday

Photo: Mahmud Isa

New Kano Emirates remain, no one can destroy them, Ganduje dares Kwankwaso

From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

Kano state Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on Monday, declared that God will not allow anybody to destroy the four new Emirates created by his administration in Kano.

He made the declaration during his speech to mark the 2023 Workers’ Day at Sani Abacha stadium, Kofar Mata, Kano.

Ganduje’s administration had split Kano Emirates, creating four new Emirates of Bichi, Karaye, Rano and Gaya, being ruled by First Class Emirs.

With the ancient Kano Emirate, Kano now has five Emirates, with the Emir of Kano, His Highness, Dr. Aminu Ado Bayero, as the chairman of Kano Council of Emirs.

Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, was the Emir of Bichi, until the dethronment of ex-Emir Muhammad Sanusi 11, over issues bordering on alleged insubordination to the Governor, among others.

Muhammad Sanusi 11 was installed by former Governor Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, upon the death of His Highness, Emir Ado Adbullahi Bayero, father of the current Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero and Emir of Bichi, Nasiru Ado Bayero.

However, just recently, National Leader and Presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, on a viral

video said the incoming administration in Kano, will revisit the dethronment of exEmir Muhammad Sanusi 11, former Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Kwankwaso also revealed in his video message that the incoming administration of Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf also has plans to review the creation of four new Emirates in Kano.

The said video message by Kwankwaso has generated controversy and tension among traditional institutions within and outside Kano state.

But Ganduje, during his May Day speech insisted that the newly created four Emirates have come to stay.

According to him, the four new Emirates are etiquettes of unity, progress and even development

across the state.

Ganduje said: “Any of you that visits the headquarters of these new emirates will believe me that we have brought development to these places. These emirates were created for unity, progress, history, and also for the recovery of the reputation of the traditional institutions. We created them to honor the people of these regions.

“I want to assure you that these

emirates are permanent, they have come to stay. And anybody that will destroy them, God Almighty will not bring him to Kano state. We assure you that these emirates were created because of you, because of your progress.

“Even if we are not in government, we are praying and we will keep praying for God to protect these emirates from all evils. I thank you all.”

Southern Kaduna: 518 killed, 20 villages displaced in six years — Community leader

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The President of Atyap Community Development Association, Mr. Samuel Achi, has disclosed that 518 people have been gruesomely killed with thousands taking refuge, 20 villages displaced, while 18 villages burnt down from 2017 till date in southern Kaduna, Kaduna State.

The ACDA president, who stated this yesterday while addressing a World Press Conference in Samaru Kataf, said the persistent attacks were likened to those of 2019 and were the handwork of some criminal elements in their midst that needed to be apprehended and punished in accordance with the provisions of the criminal law by

the security agencies.

He said the systematic attacks, killings and burning going on in Atyap allegedly by armed militias with the collaboration of the local Fulani, aided and sheltered by the Hausa community in Zangon Urban, were all aimed at taking over their land which they shall resist with the last drop of their blood.

“We call on our people to exercise their natural, fundamental, and constitutional right of self defence against any further unprovoked attacks,” he said, stressing enough is enough.

“We also want to make it very clear that henceforth any attack on any of our communities will attract a total no-go area for rearing cows,” Achi vowed.

While lamenting the alleged

complicity of the military, he noted that the military drafted to provide security in the area were not helping matters.

He alleged that instead of performing their primary assignment of securing all life and properties of the communities, the military were selected by taking sides with the herdsmen.

“This is evident in the 2023 First Quarter Security Report presented to the Kaduna State Government by the Sector Commander, Operation Safe Haven, in Southern Kaduna, Brigadier General Timothy Opurum, on the recent killings in Atyap land.

“In his doctored submission, the Sector Commander gave an unbalanced, lopsided report and was very economical with facts

which prompted the governor to note with concern the continued failure of the traditional and community leaders in Zangon Kataf Chiefdom to prevent resort to self-help by recalcitrant youths, and I assure you that we will take some actions to send a message in this regard.”

Achi expressed concern over why the Sector Commander deliberately failed, neglected and/or refused to highlight the contributions of the Traditional Council in Atyap land towards maintaining peace in the Chiefdom and the influx of many dangerous, lawless Fulani terrorists into Zangon Kataf Urban Hausa settlement and their attendant criminal activities in the last three years as responsible for the brutal

attacks on mostly innocent and defenceless women and children in Atyap villages, which facts are known to him and other security agencies in the area.

“His report did not convey the positive role played so far by the Traditional Council and other community leaders in dissipating the conflicts.

“The Executive Chairman of Zango Kataf Local Government Area, Hon. Francis Sani (Zimbo) has called on the Federal Government and the International Community to come to the aide of the vulnerable Communities.

“He said the displaced persons are in dire need of medical assistance to help treat their ailments and rebuild their burnt communities,” he said.

Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi (middle), with other members of the Nigerians Labour Congress (NLC), at the 2023 International Workers Day celebration at eagle square, yesterday in Abuja, Photo: Mahmud Isa

JAMB gives May 6 examination date for outstanding UTME

Maryam Abeeb

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) says candidates that could not sit for the 2023 UTME would be rescheduled for the examination on May 6

.In a statement by the board’s Head, Public Affairs and Protocol, Dr Fabian Benjamin, in Abuja.

Benjamin said candidates under these categories were those who were verified at their centres but could not sit the examination, those who could not be biometrically verified, and those with mismatched data.

”You will recall that the Board scheduled the conduct of the 2023 UTME from April 25 to May 2.

”It is equally noteworthy that the Board had informed Nigerians that it would be using

some novel innovative methods in conducting the exercise with the aim of completely arresting incidences of examination infractions.

” This has been largely achieved as the exercise recorded the lowest reported cases of infractions but with equally emerging challenges on account of human negligence which led to some candidates not being able to sit the examination on the first day.

”This notwithstanding, out of the 1,586,765 candidates that indicated interest in sitting the examination, only 80,166 are now outstanding,” he said.

Benjamin said on the first day of the UTME, a number of candidates in some centres could not sit the examination as well as in some centres in subsequent days due to diverse reasons.

He added that though a reasonable number of them had been rescheduled and had taken the examination, some were yet to take their examination.

”As part of the decisions reached at the end of an emergency management meeting held on April 30, the Board has fixed Saturday, May 6 , for all categories of candidates who have not sat their examination,” he added.

He listed the categories of candidates scheduled to take the examinations as unverified candidates, those at Beautiful Beginning CBT centre, Apo and candidates with data mismatch.

Others he said were candidates rescheduled to take the examination on April 27 but could not receive the notification slip and candidates in centres with reduced capacity.

He also said that the Board would be releasing the results of candidates, who had taken the examinations on May 2

He, however, said the Board had delayed the release of examination to ensure that all necessary screening were concluded while also ensuring that the mean and standard deviation were reasonably obtained before releasing the results.

”As candidates check their results on Tuesday, May 2 , those who sat the examination but had challenges without being aware of such, would not see their results but would instead see their notification for rescheduled examination.

”Consequently, all candidates who sat the examination are urged to check their results on or before Thursday, May 8.

Sudan crisis: Al-Yolawi commends FG for evacuating students

An Abuja Based Islamic Cleric, Yahya Al-Yolawi, has commended the Federal Government for the evacuation and rescuing of Nigerian students trapped by the Sudan crisis.

Al-Yolawi made the commendation while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Abuja on Monday.

” I will like to thank and appreciate efforts made by the Federal Government for the evacuation of our students and youths trapped in Sudan due to the ongoing war.

” However, more needs to be done as it appears some are still stranded and even those carried by buses are still to reach their destination, based on the clips being circulating by the the students themselves.”

CSOs urged to step up advocacy in health sector

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

Civil Society Organizations

(CSOs) in the health sector have been urged to step up advocacies on various health related issues in the country.

Francis Ohanyido, Director General of West African Institute of Public Health, stated this at the weekend in Abuja, during Save the Children (SCI) sensitization meeting to mark the 2023 World Immunization Week.

He said the time has come for the CSOs to champion health advocacies and place health related issues in the front burner.

“We need to understand what is happening in the sector. We need to be getting update from the ministry either on monthly or quarterly basis so that we can effectively function.”

Al-Yolawi noted that islam considered life- time of persons as great valuable resources, thus believers were encouraged to be conscious of their action and inaction in life.

” To achieve maximum benefit out of this life, one needs to recognise its importance and organise it wisely.

” If human beings do not waste or abuse life but rather perceive it as a blessing from Allah, they would have every chance and hope for success both in this life and in the hereafter.

” Islam teaches us that your life passes quickly and can never return; it is irreversible. It is also the most precious gift that mankind possesses and can be taken from us at any given moment.”

He urged the youth to utilise their energy for the sake of Allah by seeking knowledge, obtaining halal means of sustenance, and worshipping Allah through acts that he or she might not be able to do later in life.

” When people lose their youth, they find it harder to do certain deeds which were easier to do at a younger age. Youth, here, does not mean the concept of youth where youthfulness finishes after the age of 13 or 19.”

The cleric also advised Muslims to take advantage of their good health before they being overcome with illness or disability.

” What we often don’t realise is that our health is a blessing from Allah. When we are in good health, we take it for granted and don’t always appreciate what we

have.

” It is only when we fall sick that we realise what a great blessing we had and how we lost it by not doing as much as we could have done.”

Al-Yolawi also enjoined wealthy muslims to take advantage of their wealth before poverty.

” One day we might have much more than we need, and the next day, we might not have anything.

“One day, a person might have the best of jobs or the best of businesses; yet, the next day, something happens and he does not have the job or the business, and loses all his sources of income.

” So the wise person uses his wealth before he loses it. He invests for his future,” the cleric said. (NAN)

UNICAL graduates 7,769 students at 35th convocation

The University of Calabar will graduate 7,769 students during its 35th convocation holding on Friday and Saturday.

Prof. Florence Obi, Vice Chancellor of the institution, disclosed on Monday in Calabar while enumerating activities lined up for the week long convocation.

Obi said that Friday was for the award of first degrees, diplomas, masters and post graduate and also induction into UNICAL alumni for those found worthy in character and learning.

She explained that Saturday was scheduled for award of doctorate and honorary degrees to deserving students and awardees.

According to her, Thursday has also been scheduled for the investiture of the 6th Chancellor of the institution, Alhaji Aminu Ado-Bayero, the Emir of Kano.

The Vice Chancellor said that the convocation lecture would be delivered by Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari.

She said that the convocation topic is “The Leadership and Followership Question in Nigeria: Imperative or Ethical ReOrientation.

“For the 35th convocation of our university, we are happy to announce that 11 students made first class, 899 students

made second class upper, 3,396 graduated with second class lower, while 721 got third class.

“Also, we have 519 students for doctorate degree, 1,078 for masters and 556 for post graduate diploma and others.

“For our sandwich programme, 162 students made second class upper, while 251 made second class lower,” she said.

The VC also announced that the senate of the university accepted three personalities for the award of honorary doctorate (honoris causa) degrees.

She said they include; Dr Goodluck Jonathan, former President of Nigeria, Mrs Winifred

Akpani, Chief Executive Officer of Northwest Petroleum and Ms Tola Johnson, a business woman and an advocate of women and youth empowerment.

She described Jonathan as a humble gentleman who places Nigeria above any other personal consideration, referring to him as a unifying factor in Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.

She commended staff and students of the institution for their support for her administration, adding that the university under her leadership would continue to strive for academic excellence and quality research.

(NAN)

Speaking further, he told the members of the CSOs that their lackadaisical attitudes could create room for corruption the sector.

“We need to stress our advocacies in areas of immunization and why it is necessary. Many people are relying on us and we should not let them down.”

While speaking on the role of the media in improving immunisation coverage in Nigeria, Line editor of the NGO/ CSO page and Correspondent of Blueprint Newspaper, Adeola Akinbobola identified media as a critical components in ensuring immunized across the country.

She said there are always misconceptions about vaccines and immunisation making it difficult for people particularly at the grassroot to accept them.

“To change these attitudes, strategic media campaigns targeted at creating understanding and acceptance is required.

“Journalists can counter these threats with accurate reporting on disease outbreaks and immunization.

“And so, there is need for an effective communication strategies that can address some of these issues by making more people aware of the benefits of immunisation; correcting false beliefs, rumours, or concerns that prevent people from getting immunised; and informing people where and when to get immunised, thereby potentially increasing vaccination rates.”

On his part, the Director of Advocacy, Campaigns, Communication and Media, Save the Children International (SCI) Nigeria,Amanuel Mamo said, ‘Going forward, we should create

Workers’ Day: NSCDC boss promises improved condition of service Group tasks Vice-

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

As the world commemorates the International workers’ day on May 1, every year, the Commandant General (CG) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC), Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has commended all officers and men of the Corps.

NSCDC in a statement by its spokesperson, Olusola Odumosu said the commandant appreciated all his personnel for contributing immensely to peace, safety and national security, as well as the protection of critical national assets and

infrastructure.

“He salutes their courage for demonstrating unflinching loyalty and patriotic zeal in carrying out various national assignments despite the challenges being faced daily in the discharge of their duties to the nation.

“The CG urged personnel in all formations not to relent in carrying out the mandates of the Corps effectively, promising to continue to initiate policies and programs that will benefit staff, improve their welfare and their condition of service.

“I celebrate all my personnel today and always for their dedication, diligence, loyalty,

perseverance and commitment to national service.

“I am proud of you and salute your courage for working tirelessly everyday to bring peace and stability to our society and the entire nation.

“I assure you that the management of the Corps under my watch will not toy with your welfare, rather, we will continue to initiate policies and programs that will improve your condition of service and make life more meaningful across board,” CG said.

Dr Audi seized the occasion of the workers’ day to pray for the repose of the souls of all the gallant officers who died while

carrying out their constitutional duties over the years.

“I also remember all the gallant officers we have lost while carrying out their constitutional duties and pray for the repose of their souls.

“Rest assured that we shall continue to pay all the benefits and entitlements of our workers, including those who are gone because that is our responsibility as leaders and a motivation to get the best out of them,” Dr Audi assured.

The CG commends all Nigerian workers for their contribution to nation building and wishes them the very best of celebrations nationwide.

Presidentelect on Minister from Borno South

Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG), has tasked Vice-President-elect Kashim Shettima, to ensure that the ministerial appointment for Borno is given to the southern zone of the state.

Dominic Ogakwu, President, CSGGG, said this at a news conference in Abuja.

Ogakwu said that for decades the southern part of the state had suffered marginalisation in terms of state and national appointments.

Honourable Minister Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige delivering his solidarity message at the 2023 International Workers Day celebration at eagle square, yesterday in Abuja yesterday Photo: Mahmud Isa

NGO advocates agency for ethics, values

The National Community Ethics and Value Environmental Compliance Corps, a nongovernmental organisation (NGO), has called for the establishment of a national agency to revive respect of ethics and values among Nigerians.

Mr Musa Kelvin, the organisation’s FCT Commandant, made this call at the end of a training on Promotion of Integrity and Attitudinal Change among Nigerians in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training, which had about 70 participants, were trained on being change agents in their various communities.

Kelvin said that there was need to re-awaken the consciousness of integrity, accountability, discipline and morality among Nigerians, which had been on a decline for so long.

According to him, it is

important to have integrity police at the grassroot level to consistently monitor and correct every act of misdemeanor among Nigerians.

“In line with bringing back the moral standards, we need agents who would inculcate it in people, remind and educate them about behavioural change.

“The essence of this training is to keep these agents abreast of the current realities that have devoid our ethics and respect for values.

“This is also in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s vision of promoting ethical values among Nigerians,” he said.

Kelvin called also on the legislatures and the presidency to look into the bill for the establishment of a National Agency for Ethics and Values Compliance, adding that it would be a good legacy they would be giving Nigerians at the end of their tenure.

“It is necessary to bring back

Nigerians to these moral values that we have lost and to also redeem our image to the outside world,” he said.

He added that the organisation was already working with various government agencies to ensure behavioural change among Nigerians.

“We are already working with the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, Security agencies, Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), among others.

“At the FCT level for instance, we have approval of the Universal Basic Education Board to establish moral integrity clubs in schools to catch them young and inculcate in them respect for ethical values.

“With NEMSA, we are working with the organisation to correct wrong electrical connection that leads to fire

outbreak in markets and houses in various communities, among others,” he said.

Speaking also, Mr Gana Yusuf, the organisation’s CommanderGeneral, added that there was need for re-orientation on the importance of ethics and values of the Nigerian culture.

Yusuf, who spoke on the topic “Ethical Steps to Undertake During Field Activities” urged the participants to discharge their duties effectively, saying that ”they must be the change they want to see.

“It is important for Nigerians to know that whatever we do today will return back to us, either good or bad.

“So we expect Nigerians to embrace integrity and attitudinal change, because lack of respect for these had affected us for so long.

“The participants should also endeavour to inculcate behavioural change by ensuring that they correct any deviation from ethical norms”.(NAN)

He said that from 1979 till date, the north and central zones had continue to occupy the state governorship office, while the south was yet to occupy the office.

Ogakwu added that the southern zone was also at disadvantaged position in the political arrangements in the state.

He said the group appeal was not an ethnic agitation nor a religious protest, but a ‘moralsuation.’

“We are only appealing to the humanity which binds all of us and calling the good people of Central and Northern Borno, led by Vice-President-elect Shettima, to ‘be their brothers keepers’ this time.

“We must back a Southern Borno person for appointment as a federal minister, for balancing, inclusion and participation, which are key criteria for political equity, fairness and justice.

“Considering the current political setup in the state, we are particularly calling on the president-elect to lead the charge for sociopolitical and socioeconomic integration, by appointing a person from Southern Borno as a federal minister,” he said.

Ogakwu said the appeal was critical considering the disadvantage and marginalisation position the people of the south in the state were already facing.

“As civil society, we are appealing Shettima to leverage on his influence in the party to mend the broken fences.

“To build a bigger, better and more united Borno State and Nigeria, by throwing his weight behind Borno South for federal ministerial appointment, to compensate and bring them into the fold as one family,” he said. (NAN)

2023 guber election: APC candidate predicts justice at tribunal

From Ahmad Muhammad, Bauchi

Bauchi State governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 election, Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar, has expressed confidence that he will get justice at the Tribunal . APC candidate said he believes in the judicial system of Nigeria, adding that the truth cannot be suppressed.

Sadiq told Journalist in Bauchi on Monday that , “I believe in Nigeria’s judicial system and I have strong faith that the truth cannot be suppressed.”

He reiterated that the last governorship election was marked by many irregularities,

Kajuru emirate council turbans 15 title holders

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The Kajuru emirate council has turbaned sixteen title holders to strengthen the activities of the emirate.

The turbaning was conducted yesterday by the Emir of Kajuru, Alhaji Alhassan Adamu at his Palace in Kajuru, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

“The upgraded title holders include Surv. Iliyasu Abdulmumini Sa’eed MNIS (Sarkin fadan Kajuru) who was upgraded from Danmadamin Kajuru to Sarkin Fadan Kajuru and Alhaji Mohammed Shehu from Shamakin Kajuru to DanBuran Kajuru.

Others turbanned were Alhaji Zakariya Abdulmumini Sa’eed as Wan ‘Yan Kajuru, Alhaji Sa’eed Yunusa, Katukan Kajuru and others.

After the turbanning ceremony, the Emir charged them to endeavour to uphold the good image of Kajuru emirate and pursue things that will bring more and better development of the emirate and its people.

hence he was denied victory where he won.

The candidate asserted that he played fair during the election and would not hesitate to contest

any form of irregularity at the law court.

“We will not stop in our bid to seek justice for the people of Bauchi State and liberate

them from the PDP. We will do our best to see that justice prevail and peoples wishes are respected, success belongs to God but we believe in justice and

equity, we are sure the Tribunal judges will look and examine the facts of everything before them and we will emerge victorious by the grace of Allah”.

Workers Day: Gov. Bello charges workers on productivity

From Yakubu Mustapha Minna

Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello has tasked workers to be more efficient and productive in the discharge of their duties for the progress and development of the state.

In a statement to mark the

2023 Worker’s Day in Minna, he expressed concerned with the huge wage bill of the state which has remained static as well as the lingering anomalies in the civil service over the years.

He said it is imperative that civil servants be effective and productive in the performance of their duties.

The Governor tasked the Civil Servants in the state to be sincere with themselves and support the state incoming government in addressing ugly trends that have continued to bring setbacks within the system.

He appreciated the organized labour and commended the state workforce for serving as

catalyst in the formulation and implementation of government policies.

Governor Bello also disclosed that the state government had employed 250 graduates into the state civil service, 400 health workers and that it has completed the employment of over 2,000 primary school teachers.

NCPC boss flags off 2023 Easter pilgrimage exercise in Imo state

By Albert Akota

The Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rev Dr Yakubu Pam has flagged off the 2023 Easter pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan in Owerri, Imo state capital.

The NCPC boss in his remarks affirmed that the Commission has a policy of ensuring that flag off events of the Commission are held in the state with the highest

number of pilgrims, hence the Easter pilgrimage flag off was brought to Owerri as the Imo state government sponsored the highest number of pilgrims in this exercise.

He described the gesture of the Executive Governor of Imo state, Senator Hope Uzodinma as unprecedented for having sponsored the highest number of pilgrims in recent time, thereby declaring Imo state as the first in the federation.

The highly excited Executive

Secretary of NCPC said he was happy to identify with the governor whom he described as the “Chief Mobilizer of pilgrims”for the Commission.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Imo State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Rev. Fr Gilbert Alaribe thanked the Executive Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma for his generousity in sponsorsoring 1000 intending Pilgrims to Israel and Jordan.

He explained that since

2014 Imo State had not sponsored christians to the Holy land, stating that no past administration in the state had ever sponsored these number of christians to the Holy land.

The first batch of intending Pilgrims of Imo State made up of about 300 were airlifted through the Port Harcourt International Airport direct to Amman, kingdom of Jordan where they are expected to spend three nights before proceeding to Israel.

President Muhammadu Buhari receives Hon Yusuf Gagdi in an audience at the Residence State House on Sunday in Abuja.

Kebbi workers demand pension increment

From Ahmed Idris, Birnin Kebbi

The Kebbi State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has appealed to the out going Governor of the State, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu to give approval for the harmonization of three

increments of pensions which are 12%,15% and 33% agreed to at different times but not approved 29 days to his exit as Governor of the State.

The congress also demanded for the implementation of the 30% consequential adjustment occasioned by the approval of

N30,000 minimum wage of April 2019 by President Muhammadu Buhari.

2018. He pleaded with government to implement hazard allowance for the national association of Nigerian nurses and midwives, CONHESS, salary adjustment for lecturers in the state school of nursing and improve security of the health workers.

Workers Day: Buratai foundation advocates better working condition, social protection for workers

By Usman Sha’aib

T

Humanity Care Foundation has joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating the Workers Day, while advocating for better working conditions and social protection. Social protection consists policies and programmes designed to reduce poverty and vulnerability by promoting efficient labour markets, diminishing people’s exposure to risks, and enhancing their capacity to manage economic and social risks, such as unemployment, exclusion, sickness, disability, and old age.

he Tukur Yusuf BurataiIn a statement on Monday in Kaduna, the National Coordinator of the foundation, Mr. Ibrahim Danfulani, said better working conditions and social protection for workers, irrespective of their MDAs or educational qualification, would enhance productivity. He said therefore, that it would translate to having better economy and stability of livelihood. Danfulani noted that the day, set for celebrating the hard work and sacrifices of workers all over the world, should serve as opportunity to reflect on the importance of workers contributions to the

growth and development of the society. “As we celebrate this day, it is important to recognise the challenges that workers face, particularly in Nigeria. Many workers in our country are faced with low wages, poor working conditions and limited access to social protection,” he lamented. According to him, the challenges being faced by workers are exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, adding that it has had significant impact on the global economy and disproportionately affected workers in low-income countries like Nigeria. The national coordinator expressed the foundation’s committment

to supporting workers and their families, particularly the most vulnerable ones. “We believe that access to quality healthcare, education, and social protection is essential for all workers, regardless of their sector or employment status,” he said. He called on employers, government officials and civil society organisations to work together in addressing the challenges facing workers in Nigeria. He also urged stakeholders to prioritise the welfare and well-being of workers, and to take concrete steps in improving their working conditions, to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion.

From Gambo Ahmed, Lafia

N

igeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Nasarawa state has decried the high charges rate on consumers by the management of AEDC in the state, saying that Nasarawa is made up of mostly Civil servants which is making Life unbearable.The State NLC chairman comrade Ayuba Unar Okoh who made the assertion while delivering his workers day speech held at the Lafia Square Monday , called on the state government to intervene in the situation.

"We as labour leaders strongly called on the state government to bring an end to this inhuman treatment showed to consumers of AEDC in the state.”

2023 Census will be acceptable by NigeriansFederal Commissioner

By Usman Shuaibu

T

Members of the Nigerians workers, in a march pass during the 2023 international Workers Day celebration, at eagle square, yesterday Abuja. Photo; Mahmud Isa

Minister lauds DG, NWRI on projects

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

T

The minister made the commendation during the commissioning of some key capital projects at the NWRI in Kaduna yesterday.

Engr Adamu said the NWRI has been one of the most vibrant

he Minister of Water Resources, Engr Suleiman Adamu, has said he is pleased to associate with the successes and initiatives of the Director-General of the National Water Resources Institute, (NWRI), Prof. Emmanuel Adanu.and consistent parastatals in the Ministry of Water Resources that is contributing to national development and representing Nigeria internationally, hence it deserves modern technological facilities to operate.

He added that the evidence available is that, confidence reposed on the NWRI is not misplaced.

The projects commissioned include; a 50 Bedroom Students Hostel, that provide conducive accommodation for short course middle-and high-level participants from within and outside Nigeria at affordable

cost.

The other project is a Hydraulic Modelling Centre initiated to provide knowledge and necessary skills for fluid flow system such as a water system, dams, reservoir analysis, sewer system or a storm system, used to analyse systems’ hydraulic behaviour.

The Minister also commissioned a 100 Seater Lecture Theatre initiated to provide a conducive learning environment and sitting minimum capacity for 100 participants.

“I enjoined the management,

staff and students maintain these facilities and double their efforts and commitment towards making Nigeria great again,” he said.

Earlier in his remarks, the DG of NWRI, Professor Emmanuel Adanu, thanked the minister for his support of the Institute since his assumption of office in 2015.

He also said the ongoing plan to upgrade the Institute to a full fledge Water Resources university initiated by the minister is a welcome development, and pleaded for him to push more to make it a reality.

Shazin, who disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Kwali, also said the 2023 census would be free, fair and credible.

He then assured the people of the FCT and Nigeria at large that the security agents would be engaged during the census exercises.

He revealed that adequate preparations had been made in terms of sensitisations, advocacy, demarcations as well as inauguration of the publicity committees towards achieving the victories during the census.

He said his leadership would deem it necessary to give the necessary support and co-operation to the enumerators to carry out their duties effectively.

he 2023 census would be acceptable by Nigerians, the Federal Commissioner representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at the National Population Commission (NPC), Hon. Joseph Shazin Kwali has said.When asked on the security challenges facing the country for so long now, the Federal Commissioner called on the in-coming government to complement the efforts of the out-going administration in order to wage war against insecurity for the benefit of Nigerians.

Workers day: NLC decries high rate charges by AEDC in Nasarawa

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has urged members of the National Assembly to remain vigilant and resist last minute attempts under whatever guise to pass a bill that seeks to deprive Nigerians of their Godgiven lands in favour of pastoralists across the country.

The Governor in a statement on Monday signed by his Special Adviser on Media/ICT Terver Akase and made available to the media maintained that the National Grazing Reserves Council Bill is not

Workers’ Day: Benue Governorelect laments over dampened morale of workers

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

Benue State Governor-Elect, Rev Fr. Hyacinth Alia has lamented over the manner the outgoing administration in the State remained aloof to issues of pensions and salaries, stressing that the non payment of the arrears of workers’ salaries has not only caused untold hardships but dampened the morale of Benue workers.

Fr. Alia promised to infuse life into the civil service to keep it working.

He made the pledge in a goodwill message, signed by his media aide, Isaac Uzaan to all workers in the state as they join the rest of the world to celebrate the 2023 International Workers’ Day, advising workers in the State to remain steadfast in the hope that good days are just by the corner.

Fr. Alia said May Day is set aside to formally acknowledge and celebrate the amazing efforts of all workers, particularly those who put in extra energy in building societies and nations.

He described civil service as the engine room of every functional government, regretting however, that the Benue civil service has become very epileptic and in a state of near collapse with a lot of backlog of unpaid salaries, pensions and gratuities

“Our workers are the inspiration for all of us; their hard work and dedication motivate others to work for the growth and development of the state.

“I therefore call on the people to honour the efforts and salute the hard work of Benue workers, because without workers, no nation can walk the path of success and progress”, Alia said.

Ortom urges NASS to reject National Grazing Reserves Council Bill

only a violation of the Constitution and the Land Use Act, but is also a fang of impunity, subjugation and a deeply rooted conquest agenda against Nigerians.

He also said the bill is a direct land-grabbing legislation designed to make Nigerians slaves in their country while serving the selfish and parochial interests of herdsmen.

Governor Ortom urges members of the National Assembly to act as true representatives of the people for the sake of posterity, and to remember that the future and unity of this nation lies in their hands. He encouraged the federal lawmakers to remain dogged in their rejection of the bill and any other surreptitious attempt to mock millions of innocent Nigerians who have fallen victim to the occupation agenda.

Governor Ortom said he finds it curious that since 2016, the Presidency has sent the grazing reserves bill to the National Assembly bearing different names,

and despite the public outcry, it is not giving up the idea of having the bill passed.

“If the current administration had concentrated on tackling insecurity in the manner they have pushed for the enactment of a cattle grazing reserves law, the country would have been safer for every Nigerian.

“In November 2016, the Senate rejected the controversial bill seeking to establish a Grazing Management Agency which was to ensure the creation of cattle grazing areas across the country.

“In 2017, the Federal Government again tried to influence the passage of a bill adorning the same regalia which was called National Grazing Routes and Reserves Bill. That bill was similarly rejected following the alarm raised by some patriotic Nigerians.

“The government subsequently introduced the National Water Resources Bill which also came with a singular objective of bringing

all water sources (surface and underground) and river banks under the control of the Federal Government, a move that attracted an avalanche of condemnations from Nigerians.

“The Federal Government introduced Ruga, Cattle Colonies and several other programmes, all aimed at creating settlements for pastoralists in all the states of the federation. It is on record that Governor Samuel Ortom was the first to speak out against the draconian bills.

“In August 2021, President Muhammadu Buhari approved recommendations of a committee to review “with dispatch, 368 grazing sites, across 25 states in the country, and to determine the levels of encroachment.” Again, Benue and other states rejected the presidential approval and the idea eventually lost steam.

“We understand that those who are bent on taking over the ancestral lands of Nigerians to give

to pastoralists are looking for the opportunity to hastily pass the bill which they have now renamed as National Grazing Reserves Council Bill. The proposed law has been in the National Assembly after it was reintroduced, and its sponsors, sensing the mood and suspicions of the people, have been trying to find the right moment to have it passed.

“If passed by the National Assembly, the law will establish a Council with the powers to take over land in any part of the country for grazing reserves and pay ‘compensation’ to the land owner(s). Beneficiaries of the usurped land will be pastoralists whose animals will enjoy unfettered access to the land.

“It must be emphasized that the stand of the Governor on national issues is borne out of patriotism and not for any personal agenda or gain. He believes in fairness, justice and equity”,Governor Ortom maintained.

FG lauds Peace Corps for maintaining peace culture in schools

The Federal Government has commended the Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) maintaining and inculcating peace culture in schools.

Mr Victor Opeyemi, Principal Executive Officer, Special Duties in the Ministry of Education, gave the commendation when he led a delegation from the ministry on a visit to the Headquarters of the corps in Abuja.

Opeyemi also commended PCN for it’s quality contributions in setting up Peace Corps Clubs,

maintenance of discipline in schools and colleges across the country.

“The ministry commends the effort of the corps in youth empowerment, peace and security, and assures PCN of greater partnership and support.

“Peace corps’ activities in schools and colleges through the formation of peace clubs has helped significantly in inculcating the culture of peace in the younger generation.

“We will continue to partner

with the corps in unity schools across the country,” he said.

Opeyemi prayed that the bill for an act to establish the Nigerian Peace Corps which would give statutory backing to the organisation passed by the National Assembly and transmitted to President Muhammadu Buhari would receive positive attention.

He said that this would enable the organisation continue with it’s value -driven programmes geared towards the socio-economic

development of youths in Nigeria.

Responding, Prof. Dickson Akoh, National Commandant, PCN appreciated the ministry for the visit and for sustaining mutual relationship with the corps since 2002 when it was registered as an NGO.

Akoh assured the federal government that it would remain resolute in its commitment to national creativity, peace and youth development, which has been the cardinal objectives of the organisation.(NAN)

Cross section of activities and Participants at the 2023 Workers Day celebration, held yesterday in Abuja..Photo: Justin Imo-owo

Secret of Netherland’s advancement

By Ismail Misbahu

“God created the earth, but the Dutch created the Netherlands” The Dutch.

The Netherlands hugs the North Sea and shares borders with Germany and Belgium, making it a great jumping off point for exploring Western Europe. Trains and buses are available for anyone who bothers not travel by plane to countries like France, Germany, United Kingdom, Canada, Belgium etcetera. On waterways are ships bringing in different people from Kiev, Venice, China, and Canada for tours on the Netherland’s countryside. Tours on the NL’s lowland areas is an amazing exploration of natural beauty and great memories of historic towns and cities. Although the tour was not the initial purpose of my trip, it provided great insights on major historical events known to have shaped the history of Europe centuries ago.

The saying “God created the earth but the Dutch created the Netherlands”, explains how the latter stood up to conquer nature ⸺ ‘man and nature relationship’ a historian would say. This relationship explains how the Dutch become products of their environment. A greater part of the land, almost a half of it is below sea level and according to the documentary we watched at the touring site of Kinderdijk, some kilometers away from our instructor’s beautiful district, Dr. Simon Polinder, dikes of considerable sizes helped shield the low flat land from invasion by the North Sea. Without the existing dikes more than half of the country would be flooded daily. The Dutch have made many lakes and turn parts of the sea dried, creating polders flowing through it, hence the saying above.

At the Kinderdijk, we saw how water is pumped from the lower level to the highest flat by various windmills. This continues until the water is drained from the areas to the nearby river, making the land less exposed to flood or swamps. About 19 of such windmills are present at Kinderdijk, and on boat, we had the privilege to reach into the sites of such windmills and shine our eyes. The insides of the mills are extremely Dutch cultured, material remains unbelievable to fathom. One must see how the Dutch were so hardworking and efficient.I could figure out from the inside a wife’s groom in, a bedroom and a kid’s cabinet, wardrobe, kitchen, sewing machines, farm tools including some fishing rods and nets etcetera.

Not only are windmills in the Kinderdijk but also are the remaining wheels of the steam engine and the graphic art designs of the windmills themselves. This must remind someone of the role of the Netherlands as the champion of water management during the industrial age of Europe. Although this development came to the Netherlands later, at about 1850,the documentary seemed to have suggested that the country’s hydro-tech and power prominence might not necessarily be the result of industrial revolution, it must have begun much earlier. Not only was there a glimpse of these

historical events but equally important were also the souvenirs including a wooden boot which, as impressed by the story in the documentary, must have been used by farmers at the early age, and perhaps by people in charge of the river delta.

This reminds me of the great delta we saw in Wapenveld, another beautiful district of our teacher and trainer, Dr. Eva Krah,a healthy village with beautiful tracts of lush agriculture.

The delta in this touring site is a storage of various sediments forming at the cross triangle of several distributaries and water channels, hence the delta. History has indeed shown how deltas have been significant to the development of human civilization. Historians believe that it was in the fertile river delta in Mesopotamia that humans first learned to harness the power of water for irrigation in agriculture. So were the ‘creators’ of the Netherlands who also harnessed and transformed their lands into a very fertile, green, and lush agricultural expanse. Along the great Mesopotamia for instance, emerged civilizations such as those of Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, Israel, Egypt, Kuwait, Turkey, and Iran. The stability brought on by agriculture allowed culture to flourish and little wonder farming and herding of cattle become the most important issues of national concern in the Netherlands. On the contrary, they remain the most topical security challenge to the country just as to the rest of other parts of the World.

The reason is clear why greater part of the Netherlands is under water. ‘The Little Ice Age’ brought colder winters to parts of Europe and North America including the Netherlands. Farms and villages were destroyed by encroaching glaciers during the mid17th century. Canals and rivers which have been the distinguishing environmental features of the Netherlands were frequently frozen deeply enough to support ice skating and winter festivals. We visited the sites some few kilometers away from Wapenveld where the glaciers were said to have been deterred by human blockade.

The U.N.-funded panels of scientists say global warming is responsible for the melting ice, that heat-trapping gases from burning fossil fuels are nudging up temperatures. Scientists dismisses global warming, arguing natural climate fluctuations are responsible. That glaciers are proposedly caused by cyclical lows in solar radiation, heightened volcanic activity, changes in the ocean circulation, variations in Earth’s orbit and axial tilt (orbital forcing), inherent variability in global climate, and decreases in the human population.

Religion has been one of the most important historical antecedents shaping the believe and value system of the people of the Netherlands. Yet the opposite is the case where in Nigeria, people become religious without adhering to the religion. Netherlands is among the countries with high religious tolerance. The interview I had (as part of our ethnographic field exercise) with one of the elites in Wapenveld hinted at saying that politics has become a threat to democracy and as well, has continued to challenge Freedom of Religion and Belief (FORB) especially since

the Tram attack in 2019. To many in the Netherlands, minority Muslims from Morocco and Turkey are the threats to religious freedom and democracy. However, some academic professors including University students might have held different opinion, only to believe that this is rather a perceptible phenomenon not necessarily that there has always been a connection between migration, Islam and terrorism.

The history of the Church and the reminders of the 16th century Reformation are expressed in various forms of arts, paintings and statues across the city of Utrecht and virtually all over the Netherlands. Inside the Utrecht University campus is a large hall hosting different worshipping corners. On the doors up the stairs are paintings of the great protestants: Martin Luther, John Calvin and others. While Germans hold on to Lutheranism, most Netherlanders are Orthodox Calvinists with others believing in Anabaptism. In the village of Wapenveld, we saw Orthodox Christian Churches and we were told how Christians in the village dress decently, different from the half-naked dresses of the many you could see in Nigeria!

On our Free walking Tour, the Hague, I was shown a place at the backyard of the King’s palace where gun powder was stored and of course, the reason why the soil appears different from the other ones in the city; ash and sandy. We were told that the sea and the storing of the gun powder were strategic to the protection of the King during the Protestant wars. In other words, this development also impressed on the impact of industrial revolution on the part of the Netherlands.

A stone-throw from the King’s palace was a tall building decorated in a style like that of King Luis XIV. We were told that the architect was asked to replicate the Luis’ style and there’s of course a sketchy mark to impress the architect’s mastery of art. This was a place where, as we were told, leading members of Roman Catholic and Protestants usually gather to set the armistice of peace. In one of such occasions, a ‘Roman Catholic’, of course the Dutch would say, shot one of the Protestants to death, marking an end to the armistice of peace between the two Christian followings leading to dismemberment and subsequent emergence of nationalities such as the Rome (Italy), Spain and the Netherlands.

Few steps into the entrance of the King’s palace, was a statue and a building, now hosting the body structure of the State’s judiciary. The statue was a man (I could not remember his name) who had the courage to unite various European cities under the King of Netherlands and the court and the judicial bodies adjacent to it were used to enact and pass laws to the cities under control. When I asked, ‘did he subdued them’? Ronald, our walking eye, insisted it was an effort to ‘unite’ them’ and of course, he said, this started a long time ago when some of these cities fall under the power of the Dutch East Indian Trade (the VoC) up until the Renaissance.

Ismail Misbahu is a Public Affairs Analyst.

Int’l Labor Day: Reflection of 8 years of suffering in Nigeria

By Auwal Ahmed Ibrahim

Despite the Muhammadu Buhari government implemented minimum wage for the civil servants in the federation coppers but up to date many states in the country didn’t abide by the law of the civil service, while there are many states indebted to the laborers.

It is vehemently true that the eight years of the out going government on the 29th of May caused more damages to Nigerian laborers than the good promised. Exactly from the 29th May, 2015 up to this time; private, public workers and all the citizens of the country tasted a life upside down from what is expected. Nigerian workers in the federal government to the state and local government workers in some states got the change of suffering, despite the fact that the level of hardship varies from state to state and local governments.

Though it didn’t work, but Buhari’s government in 2022 took a decision to sack civil servants above 50 and to levy any civil servant earning more than N30, 000 but Kaduna state usurped 25% of it’s workers during the Covid 19 lockdown and more than 21,000 civil servants were sacked. In exactly 2021, April the government of Nasir Elrufai sacked 4000 local government workers, and Niger retrenched 754 from the state service. Ondo sacked 2000 personnel in July, 2022, Zamfara state sacked 21 Permanent Secretaries, these are the kinds of jeopardy and catastrophe that befalled Nigerian civil

servants in most states. While, the condition of payment is another turmoil, the denial of civil servants their rights to protest in a peaceful manner is the unforgivable crime in the eight years of President Muhammadu Buhari. The loggerheads of the Federal Government and the Academic Union of Universities (ASUU) was frequent over the past governments. ASUU engaged members in strike for the total 13th months; almost 600 days with little achievement, Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics spent 147 days in strike, and that was how many unions went on strike for various reasons of broken promises by the government of Muhammadu Buhari.

The deteriorating economy is a big punch to Nigerian civil servants in the eight years; Nigeria inflation before 2015 was in a single digit: less than 9.6 % in December, 2016 but at 2023, Nigerian inflation hits 21.82% in January 2023. Pump prize was N87 per in 2015 but 185 in 2023 while sold at 210 to 300 in some parts of the country now. Electricity unit was N11 per kWh but costs N72.2 per unit, diesel was less than 200 hundred but now hits N800, bag of foreign rice was less than N9000 but hiked to almost N30, 000, Dollar exchange rate was below N200 but official is N547 which is hardly seen in accepted markets, the prize of education followed suit. Some states and Federal universities increased almost 50% to 150 percent tuition fees making it unbearable for civil servants to send their children to higher institutions.

Despite the Muhammadu Buhari government

implemented minimum wage for the civil servants in the federation coppers but up to date many states in the country didn’t abide by the law of the civil service, while there are many states indebted to the laborers. Zamfara state is owing it’s laborers two months; Taraba, Nasarawa, Edo, Ebonyi, Ondo, Plateau, Imo, Abia owe their workers salaries of two to six months respectively and Federal government is owing ASUU 11 months. And when the government added 40% it excluded lecturers and doctors upon their crucial tasks and demand for salary increment.

When one glance at the condition of Nigeria in 2015 and now that can prefer things to turn back for better because the economy has been wrecked and the condition of life turned upside down from the promises of Muhammadu Buhari, because on the 1st of May, 2023 when other laborers in other countries are rejoicing for their own progress and achievements Nigerian workers will mourn for the 8th years of their suffering. Though, sooner a light is at the tunnel as another government ushers in the 29th of the month. Nigerian laborers will be happy to have a government that will revisit the economy and proffer solutions to it, make sure that inflation and cost of life are mitigated for the general citizens.

Auwal Ahmed Ibrahim (Goronyo) is a lecturer of Mass Communication Department, Kaduna Polytechnic and can be reached via auwalgoronyo@ gmail.com

10th Senate: What is the fate of the South East?

By Izuoma Ibe

APC should take a new direction by running an inclusive government. This can only be possible if they can bring in South East as Senate President to redeem the negligence of them by the Buhari administration between 2015-2023. Don’t be bored if I choose to start by saying that provided that the President is Yoruba, and the Vice President, is Hausa/Fulani, it can only be fair for the Senate president to be Igbo. Don’t say I am marginalizing sub-ethnic groups in Nigeria by projecting only Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba because if it is the case, Ijaw, a sub-ethnic Igbo group couldn’t have become president before Igbo, a major ethnic group in Nigeria. It can only be justice for the Igbo to take the third office in the hierarchy of political offices in Nigeria should we sincerely consider the true state of Nigeria’s heartbeat.

Walk with me. Did you realize that Igbos are justified in their argument that they are marginalized in Nigeria? Don’t blame them. If one of a triplet is not treated in the same measure as his others, the world will blame him if he keeps quiet. The Igbo has been denied their place in Nigeria, directly and indirectly over the decades of Nigeria’s nascent democratic era. They have not risen above the office of senate president since 1999.

Have they presided over the seat of Senate president for long? It can be true! Nnamdi Azikiwe was the first. He assumed this position on January 1, 1960, and left on October 1, 1960. Three years later, Nwafor Orizu took over on October 1, 1963, and left on January 15, 1963. The fourth republic under Obasanjo as president had five (5) Igbos as Senate presidents, but none of them stayed in office for more than three (3) years. Except for Senator Bukola Saraki, who stayed as senate president for only one term (primarily) because wasn’t re-elected in 2015, David Mark and Ahmed

Lawan have stayed out their two terms in office. By logic, isn’t it okay to ask: would they have completed their terms if they were Igbos?

Will APC still neglect Igbo with Yoruba as president, just as the Hausa have done under Buhari? The Buhari administration claimed that Igbo did not vote massively for him in 2015 and 2019 hence the party ensure that Igbo did not clinch the office of senate President; they elected another Hausa man as president. Isn’t that a glaring act of marginalization? The highest office Igbo had in Nigeria since 2015 was the Leader of the Senate, Enyinnaya Abaribe and later senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu. But did that help APC to get votes from Igbo in 2023? NO!

There have been unpatriotic sentiments making the round again that because South East did not overwhelmingly vote for Tinubu, they should not be allowed to take the senate presidency. But, does victimizing Igbo justify the idea of a government of national competence instead of national unity as espoused by Tinubu? Is there no competent Senator from the South-East? Zoning the office to the entire South can only be a smokescreen to further marginalize Igbo just as APC did in the build-up of the presidential primary of the party as they tactfully zoned the ticket to the entire South when their interest was South West. Will Tinubu maintain this status quo? I think APC/Tinubu should run a balanced government where Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba are well represented.

To face realities, APC needs to convince Nigerians that they have come in for good. Tinubu should govern differently from Buhari in terms of inclusivity. Marginalizing South East won’t help Nigeria. If the South East are agitated that they are not well represented in Nigeria, won’t these subtle means of relegations embolden their demands for a referendum for their secession? South East has two senator-elects. One is Orji Uzor Kalu. He is a ranking senator. Having been elected in the low

chamber of the national assembly before becoming a two-term governor and then ascending to the upper chamber of the National Assembly, even sitting as the Chief Whip, he deserves the next step based on competence if the Bola Tinubu administration will start with justice.

Senator Umahi is another senator from the South East, but he is a newbie to the Senate; he has just been elected Senator. Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe is another fine Igbo legislator who could sit in as senate president, but he is from the minority party in the senate, APGA. Taking the senate president’s office to South-South will be a bold side-lining statement from APC against Igbo because the immediate past Deputy Senate President, Senator Agege is from South-South. There is just no justification for relegating Igbo from the office of senate president this time.

If we can state the truth, the 2023 presidential election had three ethnic groups on the ballot. Each group did their best to elect their ethnic candidates to the office of president. Hausa voted Hausa, Igbo voted Igbo, while Yoruba voted Yoruba, mainly. It will be political victimization to hang one region for voting their own. Nevertheless, APC should use this opportunity to build its base in the southeast. With Senator Orji Kalu as Senate president, there is a lot to gain for APC given that he is one politician whose politicking cuts across political divides in South East. Without disparaging the influence of Senator-elect Umahi, he is no match for Senator Orji Kalu when it comes to galvanizing South East politically.

APC should take a new direction by running an inclusive government. This can only be possible if they can bring in South East as Senate President to redeem the negligence of them by the Buhari administration between 2015-2023.

Izuoma Ibe is a Public Affairs Analyst.

Nigeria faces a food crisis and other challenges in 2023

By Palash Kausher

The northwest region, encompassing the states of Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto, is a growing epicenter for food insecurity and malnutrition. An estimated 2,9 million people are presently experiencing severe food insecurity (Phase 3 or worse of the Cadre Harmonisé) This number is expected to rise to 4,3 million during the dry season if no immediate action is taken.

According to the October 2022 Cadre Harmonisé, a Government-led and UN-supported food and nutrition analysis conducted twice yearly, nearly 25 million Nigerians are at risk of confronting hunger between June and August 2023 (lean season) if immediate action is not taken.

This is an increase from the current estimate of 17 million persons at risk of food insecurity. This alarming trend is primarily driven by ongoing conflict, climate change, inflation, and escalating food costs. Persistent violence in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) northeastern states and armed banditry and abduction in states such as Katsina, Sokoto, Kaduna, Benue, and Niger have impacted food access. According to the National Emergency Management Agency, widespread flooding during the rainy season of 2022 harmed over 676,00 hectares of agriculture, reducing harvests and increasing the risk of food insecurity for families nationwide. Flooding is one consequence of climate change and variability

affecting Nigeria. More extreme weather patterns that threaten food security are anticipated in the future.

Three million of the currently food-insecure 17 million persons reside in the northeast BAY states. Without urgent action, this number is anticipated to rise to 4,4 million during the lean season. This includes highly vulnerable displaced populations and returnees who are already struggling to endure an extensive humanitarian crisis in which 8.3 million individuals require assistance.

Mr. Matthias Schmale, the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria, stated that the food security and nutrition situation throughout the country is extremely concerning. “I have visited nutrition stabilization centers teeming with children battling for survival. We must act immediately to ensure that they and others receive the necessary lifesaving assistance.”

The most susceptible to nutritional insecurity are children. 6 million of the 17 million food-insecure Nigerians are under-5 children residing in Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Sokoto, Katsina, and Zamfara. Acute malnutrition poses a substantial mortality risk among infants. The number of children suffering from acute malnutrition is projected to rise from 1.74 million in 2022 to 2 million in 2023 in the BAY states alone.

UNICEF, in collaboration with the government and partners including MSF and ALIMA, is investing

in expanding preventive nutrition interventions and ensuring that vulnerable children have access to lifesaving nutrition services. In 2022, UNICEF and its partners were able to provide life-saving nutrition services to approximately 650,000 children in the six aforementioned states.

The northwest region, encompassing the states of Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto, is a growing epicenter for food insecurity and malnutrition. An estimated 2,9 million people are presently experiencing severe food insecurity (Phase 3 or worse of the Cadre Harmonisé) This number is expected to rise to 4,3 million during the dry season if no immediate action is taken.

Together with its partners, FAO has assisted the government in restoring livelihoods in the northeast and northwest. This includes livestock production, agricultural production, micro-gardening on the homestead, value chain development, and aquaculture.

The United Nations is urging the Government of Nigeria, the donor community, and public and private actors to immediately commit resources and implement mitigation measures in order to save lives and prevent a potentially catastrophic food security and nutrition situation. Support for vulnerable families throughout the nation is required immediately, not tomorrow.

Palash Kausher is a Public Affairs Analyst.

Speakership position: Groups dismiss alleged betrayal of APC in Abia

ACoalition of Civil Society Groups has dismissed reports that Rep. Benjamin Kalu betrayed the APC chapter in Abia State during the last general elections.

The groups, comprising the Northern Patriotic Front, South -West Professionals, and Coalition of Arewa Youths Development, made the refutal at a news conference in Abuja on Friday.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Mr Ali Abacha, Chairman, NPF, dismissed the alleged betrayal as false and misleading.

He said the smear campaign against Kalu was designed to give a false impression of him to the leadership of APC, given his chances in the upcoming race for the Office of the Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives.

“If Benjamin Kalu truly sold the party in the South-east, he would probably not be the only surviving House of Reps member from APC in the entire Abia state with eight federal constituencies.

“His victory is a testament of his hard work to project the party in his state and region.

“If Benjamin Kalu truly sold the party out in the south-east, as being alleged, how come he was the only one whose office was attacked with over 100 bullets, destroying properties with so many lives put at risk in the incident?

“How come he was the only member whose life was threatened by hired assassins who were sent to silence him for projecting the APC presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu. ?

“If these allegations by his traducers are to be taken seriously, how come he was the only one who campaigned publicly for his party APC in Abia State.

“This remains an unfounded allegation against the aspiration of Benjamin Kalu by desperate politicians who lack any moral standing to occupy any leadership position in our nation. ”

He said Kalu, from records, stood high amongst all his detractors as he was already in the House, when most candidates from the south-east rejoined the assembly after their victory in court.

According to him, Kalu has sponsored the highest number of bills among the new members of the House with about 43 bills.

Centre for Legal Rights Advancement seeks abolition of corporal punishment

The Centre for Legal Rights Advancement (CLRA), a Non Governmental Organisation (NGO), has called for the abolition of the practice of all forms of corporal punishment in the country.

The founder of CLRA, Prof Ben Angwe, made the call in a statement in Abuja to commemorate the 2023 International Day Against Corporal Punishment of Children.

The International Day against Corporal Punishment of Children is observed April 30 of every year.

Angwe noted that the practice of all forms of corporal punishment in Nigeria was a serious violation of Child’s Rights Act 2003 and the International Convention on the Right of the Child, among other laws.

He said that relevant stakeholders should advocate the review of Section 295 of the

Criminal Code, Section 55 of the Penal Code and other similar legislations that permit the use of force to correct children.

“These sections undermine the the relevant provisions of the Child’s Rights Act and other national laws, as well as related international treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory.

“Corporal punishment is against the Convention Against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

“”This ugly practice constitutes an obstacle to the realisation of the right of the child to health, development, safe environment and education.

“Unfortunately, such acts are usually carried out by some parents, guardians, caregivers and teachers, in spite of legal provisions”.

Angwe who is a former

Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) regretted that Nigeria was not among the 65 countries out of about 199 that currently banned all forms of corporal punishment.

He commended the 36 states of the Federation for passing into Law the Violence Against Children Legislation and the majority of the states for adopting and passing into Law the Child’s Rights Act in their various jurisdictions, even as he urged them to ensure their smooth implementation.

He called on government at all levels and other stakeholders to double their collaboration to end corporal punishment in its entirety.

“I use this opportunity to condemn all forms of child rights violations including child trafficking, child labour and child abuse both at home and in school.

“Instead of indulging in such despicable practices, all decisions involving children should be taken in their best interest as enunciated in the Child’s Rights Act.

“There is a need to comply with the relevant national, regional and international laws prohibiting harsh or degrading treatment, and desist from spanking, hitting, punching, kicking, confinement in small spaces and subjecting any child to a fixed posture for long periods.

“Parents and other custodians of children should rather use verbal warning and make references to good moral conduct of persons of reputable character in the society, bearing in mind that an abused child is usually sad and could carry such a mood to adulthood with the attendant unpleasant consequences to the larger society”.

Senate Presidency: Group cautions Tinubu, APC not to consider undeserving zones

From: Femi Mustapha Oyelola

The Northwest Progressives Forum (NPF) has cautioned the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to beware of ambush by politicians seeking to take undue advantage of the APC’s electoral victory to divert the Senate President slot to undeserving geopolitical zones.

Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna yesterday, the group’s Coordinator, Nasir Dambatta said they are worried by the ongoing regional struggle for the position of the President of the 10th Senate that has been going on since the conclusion of this year’s presidential election and the emergence of Tinubu as presidentelect.

Dambatta said they were aware of moves and counter-manoeuvres by regionalist political actors seeking to place their respective zones at the advantage where it was not deserved.

According to him, official election result figures showed that the North West produced the highest number of votes for Tinubu which made it the natural and legitimate claimant to the number three position in Nigeria.

“While we do not expect President-elect Tinubu and the APC to give to any zone, not least the North-West, what it does not deserve, we however, feel it would only be fair to reward the people that toiled for and earned it.”

“The rule of fairness, justice and decency demands in this circumstance, that the North-West,

and not any other zone, deserve to be rewarded for its commitment to the APC and the Asiwaju ideals which it aptly proved at the polls.

We therefore join the call for the APC and the president-elect to act justly and fairly by zoning the position of the Senate President to the region that gave him more than 30 percent of his winning votes,” Dambatta said.

The group called attention to the standard northern tradition of never compromising national unity whenever given the opportunity and cannot afford the residing of Executive, Legislative and Judiciary Powers in one region.

“It is also on record that the North has been tested and trusted with power, making the region eminently eligible for the Senate Presidency to stabilise and balance

power,” he said.

The North-West, according to the Group, also has the record of giving the APC ticket the most volume of votes, which positions the region as the natural and legitimate claimant to Senate Presidency.

“We feel obligated, after considering so many factors, to suggest that when eventually the slot is micro-zoned to the Northwest, the person that is eminently competent for the job is former Zamfara State Governor, AbdulAziz Yari,” he said.

The Group said it has critically examined the credentials of all the candidates being presented in the job, particularly from the North-West before arriving at the conclusion that Yari is most suitable to be the next President of the Nigerian Senate.

L-R Chairman, Ekiti State Traditional Rulers’ Council, HRM Oba Gabriel Adejuwon; Secretary to the state Government, Dr (Mrs) Habibat Adubiaro; Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji ; Special Adviser on Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management, Mr Niyi Adebayo; and Federal Commissioner National Population Commission (NPC), Hon. Deji Ajayi ; during the inauguration of the State Publicity Committee/ Logistics and Security Committee for the 2023 National Population and Housing Census, at the Conference Hall, Governor’s Office. Ado Ekiti, yesterday.

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

All Progressive Congress (APC) support group, under the auspices of Concerned All Progressive (APC) Youth Movement, has enjoined the President elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint the Coordinator of Tinubu Support Group (TSG), James Faleke, as his Chief of Staff (CoS).

This is just as the group expressed its full support for the President-Elect, Tinubu, saying he was voted for overwhelmingly by Nigerians on February 29, irrespective of political party affiliation.

In a statement signed yesterday by the group’s National Spokesman, Comrade Abdullahi Dauda Little, the National Secretary, Hon Adamu Garbajo Yola, National Women Coordinator, Hajiya Bahijja Mahmood Bauchi, the group noted the hardwork and dedication of Hon. Abiodun Faleke, Hon. Adamu Garbajo Yola and all others who provided the support through proper coordination of all support groups.

While reminding the President elect that his success as recorded in the past was largely due to his knack for head hunting competent, loyal and capable citizens who share his vision to entrust them with positions of responsibility with little supervision to deliver, the group said having worked with many of his appointees, especially in the lead up to the 2023 general elections, they have come to the

2023 polls aftermath: APC support group backs Tinubu, lobbies for Faleke as CoS

conclusion that Hon. Faleke stands heads and shoulders above others for the position of Chief of Staff.

“Our conviction was strengthened by his commitment to the Tinubu/ Shettima Campaign where he played the pivotal role of coordinating various Support Groups which came together to form the Tinubu Support Group.

“After ensuring that the Tinubu brand emerged victorious during the APC Presidential Primaries, the TSG under his leadership took its assignment to the next level by campaigning vigorously for the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign which by God’s Grace, led to the victory we are all celebrating today.

“We are not asking for the office for Falake only as compensation for his hard work which is obvious, but because of his consistency, loyalty and above all competence.

“He has been a member of the House of Representatives and a committed party member and has remained a student of the Asiwaju Tinubu school of politics from the very beginning. We want our President to succeed, to put enemies of Nigeria to shame and to do this, our President in waiting will need strong hands who share his vision and commitment to the

Nigeria project. One of such men is Hon. James Faleke.

“With Faleke, our President can rest assured that the engine room of his administration in terms of staff is in safe hands. The candidate knows every nook and cranny, he knows those who worked hard and contributed to our President’s victory from all across Nigeria and can under the guidance of Mr. President-Elect, ensure that hard work is not only rewarded but that Nigeria ultimately benefits”, the group said in the statement.

Admitting that Tinubu’s victory and his election, like most elections before it, generated a lot of interest within and outside Nigeria, the support group said Nigerians looked beyond partisan, ethnic and religious biases to vote for the APC and the Tinubu/ Shettima ticket.

The statement also said “What all Nigerians irrespective of party and political preferences expect now more than ever before is good governance which we are confident Tinubu who has demonstrated this at a smaller scale in Lagos will do better on a larger scale as a president for all Nigerians.

‘We thank our party’s leadership, especially members of

the National Executive Council and the National Working Committee led by Senator Abdullahi Adamu, for leading the party to victory.

“We also thank members of the Tinubu/ Shettima Presidential Campaign Council who worked tirelessly to ensure that APC won.”

APC disowns purported removal of Giadom, Udosen

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the purported removal of Chief Victor Giadom and Chief Ita Udosen from their positions as Chairman and Secretary of the South South Zonal Executive Committee as unlawful, unconstitutional.

The APC, in a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said the action, which was taken by individuals who have no legal authority should be disregarded.

He said Giadom and Udosen remain the South-South Zonal Vice Chairman and Secretary of the party.

The party in the statement warned the persons behind the statement issued in the name of South-South Zonal Executive Committee to be ready to face disciplinary actions.

Meanwhile, the leadership

of the South South Zone of the APC has denied that the Zonal Executives met to suspend any of its Exco.

The South South Zonal APC noted it was a wellchoreographed misinformation on social media and surprisingly

mainstream media.

According to a statement by the South South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Dave Okumgba, “The

constitution of the APC 2022 as amended is an instrument powerful enough to deal with all internal party matters.”

Group congratulates Iwuanyanwu on his ratification as Ohanaeze PG

By Musa Baba Adamu

Pan-Igbo sociopolitical pressure group, the South East Revival Group (SERG) has congratulated elder statesman, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu on his ratification as the PresidentGeneral of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide by the highest decision-making organ of the apex Igbo organisation, the Imeobi.

The SERG in a statement issued by its President and National Coordinator, Chief Willy Ezugwu, said that “the affirmation of the emergence

of the Chairman of the Elders’ Council of Ohanaeze Ndigbo as the new PresidentGeneral of the socio-cultural organisation by the Imeobi is a clear testimony of his general acceptance, unifying ability, and rare leadership qualities.”

He emerged following the death of the former President-General of the Igbo group, Prof. George Obiozor. The business mogul was nominated to complete the tenure of the late Igbo leader by Ohanaeze elders in Imo State where late Prof. Obiozor hailed from.

According to the SERG,

Iwuanyanwu “is a leader who has distinguished himself and an elder statesman who has at many occasions stood for Ndigbo as a result of his unwavering love for Igbos at home and in the diaspora.

“We join all Igbo speaking communities globally to congratulate this exceptional leader and lover of the culture and traditions of Ndigbo.

“We’re confident in his leadership qualities and love for Igbos.

“We believe that he will defend Ndigbo amid the incitements and embers of hatred being fanned in certain

quarters against Igbos in the country.

“We urge the new PresidentGeneral of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide to deploy his experience, goodwill and contacts to reintegrate Ndigbo in the national affairs despite deliberate exclusion of Igbo speaking natives of Nigeria”.

“The years of exclusion, hatred and abandonment by the Federal Government of Nigeria has culminated in the ongoing youth restiveness and agitations in the old South East region to call global attention to the anomalies in Igbo land”, the SERG noted.

Hon. Abiodun Faleke

POLITICS

By Musa Baba Adamu

Kenneth Okonkwo of the Labour Party, LP, has questioned the handling of the evacuation of Nigerians in the war torn Sudan by the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC. Okonkwo, a veteran Nollywood actor, wondered if the party must fail in everything, including saving lives of people.

APC fails in everything, understands only power, money – LP’s Kenneth Okonkwo

He also alleged that the only language APC understands is power and money.

Taking to his Twitter handle on Monday, Okonkwo claimed that corruption and

incompetence are responsible for the party’s failure, insisting that it must be removed for a new Nigeria.

He said, “Must APC fail in everything, including saving the lives of their people in

Sudan? The only language APC understands is power and money. At the heart of this failure is corruption and incompetence. This old order of corruption and incompetence must be

removed for a new Nigeria.”

Recall that evacuation of Nigerians from Sudan, especially students, has been characterized with hitches, gulping $1.2m according to the government.

LP crisis: Apapa insists on planned Bauchi NEC meeting, asks police to arrest Abure

By Christiana Ekpa

The Lamidi Apapa faction of the Labour Party on Monday said its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting scheduled to hold in Bauchi State on May 3 is “to right the wrongs and illegality of the contempt of court orders perpetrated by Julius Abure whom the FCT High Court restrained from parading himself as National Officers of the Labour Party.”

Recall that the embattled Julius Abure faction of the party on Sunday described the proposed NEC by Apapa as “illegal, fake and unauthourised.”

A statement by the spokesman, Obiorah Ifoh, asked members of the party to ignore the invitations extended to them by Apapa, saying he did not have the powers to summon a NEC meeting, being a suspended Deputy National Chairman.

But, Apapa in a swift response said the NWC of the LP under his watch has invited all the labour party stakeholders to the NEC meeting, including the party’s presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, and the Abia State Governor-elect, Alex Otti.

Apapa stated that elected state and National Assembly members from the party, NWC & NEC members, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) and others have all been invited too.

According to a statement signed by the spokesman of the faction, Abayomi Arabambi, and made available to journàlists, Apapa recalled that the “NWC had given the Inspector-General of Police and Director General, Department of State Security Service, a leave to

arrest and prosecute one Obiora Ifoh an impostor impersonating as the Acting National Publicity Secretary of Labour Party, LP.”

Apapa stressed that Abure and three others have been restrained by the court from parading themselves as National Officers of the Labour Party LP.

Their restrainment, he said, followed police investigation and forensic audit report “that indicted Abure and others for forgery, perjury and criminal conspiracy with financial malfeasance to the sum of over four hundred million naira (N400,000,000.00).”

He said that Abure deliberately committed contempt against the FCT High Court over the restraining orders reportedly issued on April 5, 17 and 20, 2023, by “illegally conducting a Labour Party NEC meeting in Asaba, Delta State on 18th April, 2023 and issuance of illegal appointment letters to states executives etc.”

While tagging the Asaba NEC meeting as illegal, Apapa disclosed that “warrants of arrest have been procured for the arrest

of Julius Abure and others” over their indictment for alleged “forgery, perjury and criminal conspiracy.”

He spoke further that: “The NWC has declared as illegal, null and void and of no consequence, the charade conducted by Julius Abure and his criminal gang on 15th April, 2023 during the gubernatorial primaries conducted in Bayelsa, Kogi and Imo states in the 2023 off season elections for November, 2023.

“Abure wittingly and surreptitiously tricked Mr. Peter Obi, Governor-elect Alex Otti of Abia State, Senators, members House of Representatives and states Assembly members elected on the platform of the Labour Party 2023 to commit contempt against the FCT High Court Restraining Order on them.

“The authentic National Executive Council, NEC meeting of the Labour Party has been scheduled for 3rd May, 2023 in Bauchi, Bauchi State by the Alhaji Lamidi Bashiru Apapa led National Working Committee, NWC and there is no going back.

“Obiora Ifoh should be disregarded as his press release is useless and of no

consequence amounting to the antics of a buffone.

“The Labour Party under the leadership of Alhaji Lamidi Bashiru Apapa shall continue to operate within the limit of the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as it affects the FCT High Court Restraining Order on Julius Abure and others from parading themselves as National Officers of the Labour Party and in accordance with the Labour Party constitution 2019 as amended.

“The Labour Party NWC led by Alhaji Lamidi Bashiru Apapa has committed itself to reclaiming the stolen mandate of Labour Party, using the Election Manager Situation Room Mobile Application to recover all

the missing Forms EC8A littered across the polling units in Nigeria for which Julius Abure couldn’t provide over 42,000 polling units Agents for the 2023 presidential and national elections.

“The matter in FCT High Court bothers on criminality of Forgery, perjury and criminal conspiracy against Abure while the matter in Benin High Court bothers on Abure’s suspension from the ward.

“The resolution from the illegal NEC meeting conducted by Julius Abure on 18th April, 2023 in Asaba Delta State is null and void and all those purported suspended and expelled are voided.”

Like Buhari, Ebonyi Gov, Umahi begs for forgiveness

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

Less than 29 days to the end of his administration, the Ebonyi State Governor, Dave Umahi has pleaded with the people of the state to pardon him for the shortcomings of his government.

The governor who stated this on Monday while addressing workers in the state to mark the 2023 Workers’ Day, admitted that he must

have stepped on people’s toes while discharging his duty for the past eight years.

The governor also begged the people of the state to support the incoming administration of the governor-elect, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, saying the former Speaker would continue from where he stopped.

He said, “In less than four weeks now, we shall have a new government in place. The

new governor-elect Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru is a man who has been around and will continue the duty of governance from where we shall stop. I plead you give him peace and time to settle down.

“Let me formally thank our dear workers for their partnership, love, prayers and cooperation these being eight years of my service in Ebonyi state.

“There is no doubt I

stepped on toes and offended some. It was never intentional it was the best I knew and for the good of our people, please forgive.

“As I bow out, I have forgiven all those who thought they offended me. May God bless our state, our workers and our people”.

This is coming a week after President Muhammadu Buhari appealed to Nigerians to pardon him for his inability to meet their expectations.

Lamidi Apapa

May Day: NLC in Anambra tasks Soludo on pension for retirees

By Christiana Ekpa

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Anambra State Chapter, has tasked the state governor to regularly pay the pensions of retirees in the state.

The state’s chairman of

2023 election: What Obidients did for Peter Obi should be respected –Omokri

By Christiana Ekpa

Reno Omokri, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has said that what the Obidients, supporters of Peter Obi, did for the Labour Party (LP) Presidential candidate during the February 25 Presidential election should be respected.

Omokri, a former media aide to former President Goodluck Jonathan, also hailed the Obidients for their efforts in galvanizing a movement that gave Obi over six million votes during the Presidential election.

In an interview with Arise News on Sunday, Omokri said if the Obidients had joined with the PDP and if Obi had not left the party, they would have won the Presidential election even with rigging.

“If the Obidients had joined with the PDP, if Peter Obi had not left the PDP, we would have won the election even with rigging hands down,” Omokri said.

“In eight months, he was able to galvanize a movement that gave him over 6 million votes. What the Obidients did for Peter Obi should be respected.”

NLC, Emeka Nwafor made the call during the workers’ Day celebration on Monday at the Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, the Anambra State capital.

Nwafor decried the condition of pensioners in the state, saying that many of them were dying without being paid their retirement benefits.

This is coming as the governor refused to observe the march past by the various groups consisting of the state workforce, before leaving the arena.

Nwafor in his address said: “It is on record that since 2014 the contributory pension scheme started in the state, it seems that the scheme was designed not to

succeed as monies deducted from workers’ salaries were not remitted regularly to the appropriate quarters.

“The non-adherence to the pension scheme laws has made the organized labour take a stand that the scheme be scrapped and monies deducted from workers refunded to them.

“We remind you, Mr Governor sir, that this decision is yet to see the light of the day. Congress, therefore, requests our dear Governor’s pronouncement stopping further deductions from workers’ salaries in the name of the pension scheme.

“Congress passionately appeals to you. Governor sir to graciously increase

the fund meant for the settlement of these gratuities to be substantial enough.

“This is to enable the retirees start off something that will help them take care of their old age and families. It is painful to report that some of these retirees are dying of hunger and, most times, they find it difficult to take care of their families and dependents.”

The NLC also claimed the state had not maintained full payment of the new minimum wage that was passed into law in 2019.

It said, “Congress desires to bring to your kind attention that the new minimum wage of N30,000 and its consequential

adjustment has not been fully implemented in the state.

Meanwhile, the Governor was said to have abandoned the workers and left the arena after his speech.

Soludo had responded to the address by the NLC chairman, and while the various groups consisting of the state workforce were getting prepared for the march past, the Governor’s exit was announced.

A leader of one of the unions said: “That was very degrading to the workers. All the practice that was geared at impressing the governor, he just abandoned everyone and left,” the union leader complained.

We’ll retrieve our stolen guber mandate at tribunal – Bauchi APC candidate Saddique

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

The Bauchi State gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the March 18 governorship election, Air Marshal Abubakar Baba Saddique (retd), on Monday, vowed to retrieve what he termed the mandate freely given to him by the people of the state at the tribunal, even as he urged his party supporters not to lose hope over the outcome of the governorship election in the state.

Saddique, Nigeria’s

immediate past ambassador to the Niger Republic, made the vow while speaking with journalists at the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport in Bauchi, shortly after landing from a trip outside the state. He said that he has confidence in the judiciary to retrieve the stolen mandate. According to Saddique, who is also the immediate past Chief of Air Staff, the Nigeria judiciary is reliable and as such it would not only do justice to the petition before the state’s election petition tribunal but also ensure that the mandate stolen by the

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is returned to him.

He said: “We have hope in God and the judiciary to retrieve our stolen mandate, Insha Allah. I want to believe that the judicial system of Nigeria is reliable and I am sure that at the end of the day, we will get back our mandate. Once we retrieve the mandate, we promise the people what we will do immediately.

“The APC will continue to remain the political party to beat not only in Bauchi State but across the country.”

Saddique came second, behind incumbent Governor

Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of the PDP, in the March 18 election.

While urging APC faithful in the state to continue to be patient and hopeful, the governorship candidate told them to remain committed to the cause of the party.

“I want to urge them to continue to be patient and hopeful. I am ready to legally pursue to fight to reclaim this mandate because we won the gubernatorial election and we are ever ready to prove that at the tribunal,” he said.

Emir Sanusi: We pray evil does not destroy Kano emirates – Ganduje

By Musa Baba Adamu

The outgoing Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, has insisted that the emirates created by his administration have come to stay.

Ganduje said he would keep praying that the emirates are not destroyed by evil after

leaving office.

The governor’s statement came days after the New Nigerian Peoples Party, NNPP, Presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, said the incoming government of Abba Yusuf would review the balkanisation of the Kano emirate.

Ganduje had split the Kano emirates into five after he

dethroned the then Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi.

The governor had said the four new emirates are a symbol of unity, progress, and wellbeing.

However, speaking during Monday’s Workers’ Day celebrations in Kano, Ganduje said the emirates were created for the people.

According to Ganduje: “Any of you that visits the headquarters of these new emirates will believe me that we have brought development to these places.

“Even if we are not in government, we are praying and we will keep praying for God to protect these emirates from all evils. I thank you all.

10th NASS: S’East should produce Senate President – Asari Dokubo

By Musa Baba Adamu

Aformer Niger Delta militant, Asari Dokubo has said the South East geopolitical zone should produce the next Senate President.

Dokubo said the All Progressives Congress, APC, should zone the 10th

Senate Presidency to the South East.

The former militant leader said it would be politically correct to zone the Senate Presidency to the South East because it would mend wounds and bring about unity.

In a Facebook Live video broadcast, Dokubo said the President-elect, Bola

Tinubu, might be set up to fail if the South East is not allowed to produce the Senate President.

According to Dokubo, ignoring the South East might spell doom for his administration. He said: “But for me, President and my senior brother, give the Senate

President to the South East. All of this country must come together as we mend the wounds.

“Any claims that the Igbo are underrepresented will be disproved by giving them that position. For the position of Senate President, I have no favourite.”

No plan to withdraw redesigned naira notes from circulation –CBN

From Abubakar Yunusa ABUJA

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has denied reports that it plans to withdraw the recently redesigned N1000, N500, and N200 currency banknotes from circulation.

The bank described the speculation as unfounded and an attempt by some interests to cause panic among the public.

A statement released by the bank stated that the new and old currency notes have been circulating side by side, and the bank has been taking delivery of a good quantity of the redesigned bank notes from the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company (NSPMC) Limited.

The CBN further reaffirmed its commitment to supplying the approved notes for the smooth running of the economy and urged members of the public to disregard any report suggesting a phase-out of the redesigned currency.

The statement said that the redesigned notes and the old notes will continue to be accepted as legal tender and will circulate side-by-side for transactions ahead of the 31 December deadline, when the old N1000, N500, and N200 banknotes will eventually be phased out.

The CBN urged members of the public to be guided accordingly and ignore any fake news circulating on social media.

The bank had on 6 December announced its plans

to redesign the naira notes as part of efforts to check inflation, counterfeiting and corruption.

The bank initially set 31 January as the deadline for the use of old naira notes across

Nigeria, but the deadline was later shifted to 10 February.

Many Nigerians still face difficulties in accessing the redesigned notes, with riots and protests breaking out in parts of the country.

Banks and ATMs were vandalized by angry Nigerians who had no access to their cash, and the policy had a negative impact on Nigerian businesses and households.

Subsequently, following

a Supreme Court ruling, the CBN on 13 March directed commercial banks to dispense and receive the old N200, N500, and N1000 bank notes adding that the notes remain legal tender until 31 December.

NSE commission solar-powered borehole in Abuja community

From Abubakar Yunusa ABUJA

In efforts to give to its host community, not more than N6m solar-powered borehole has been inaugurated in the Maraba Takunshara community in Waru,Abuja by the the Nigerian Society pf Engineers (NSE) FCT chapter.

Speaking during launch of the project yesterday, the Chairman of the chapter, Engr. Ben Osy Okoh, said the project is part of target to ease challenges communities in the FCT are facing.

Okoh stated that the borehole was provided for the community after an assessment was done on the needs of the community which they identified potable water as the critical social amenity they lack.

“Water projects have been sited in the community but the four of them are no longer working. We have assured the community this one will be different as we will constitute a committee to visit here from time to time to look after it.”

while urging the community to protect the project from theft and vandalism, je said the project cost over N6m sourced from its

members with technical support.

The National President of NSE, Engr. Tasiu Wudil said the project its part of the mandate given to all the 84 branches of NSE to make their communities feel their impact.

He said such projects

would enable its members to have technical knowledge of engineering while solving problems communities face in the country.

On his part, the Makama of Takunshara community, Ahmed Tanko, commend the NSE for the

project, adding that it would bring great succour to the community. He said is a direct labour actually but if you want to do project like through federal and State government,it would be amount to twenty millions but with do this Les than 6, millions.

Contractor misses Lagos-Ibadan Expressway April completion date

From Abubakar Yunusa ABUJA

The Federal Government has again postponed the reopening of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, saying the April 30 date earlier stated will no longer be feasible.

The Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, who dropped the hint, said the development was due to heavy traffic being experienced from toll gate to the Kara Bridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

Fashola made the appeal in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Communications, Mr Hakeem Bello, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria NAN .

He said the reconstruction work on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway had entered its final phase with work within OPIC area between Kara Bridge and Long Bridge completed.

He lauded the patience of the motoring public for enduring longer than usual traffic as the reconstruction work in the heavily built-up stretch progresses towards the finish line.

He said the earlier envisaged April 30 date for conclusion of the final stretch could not be achieved due to a combination of factors.

“This means that the main carriageway, both bounds, from Berger (New Garage) and Sagamu Interchange on Section 1 of the Project has been

completed,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government on Sunday revealed that road work between Kara Bridge and the Long Bridge has been completed.

He said, “Work within the OPIC area between Kara Bridge and the Long Bridge has been completed and will be opened to traffic today, Sunday, April 30. This means that the main carriageway, both bounds, from Berger (New Garage) and Sagamu Inter-change on Section 1 of the Project has been completed.”

While empathising with the general public over the heavy traffic, Fashola noted that, “the intensity of work and the high volume of traffic which had to be accommodated at the same time have

been complicated by impatience on the part of some motorists who drive against the planned traffic flow and breakdown of vehicles.”

Giving an update on the situation, The Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Umar Bakare, said all concrete barriers causing obstructions had been removed, allowing commuters to move freely and significantly reducing traffic.

He said, “Yes, we have opened the bridge to traffic and we have been monitoring the situation since morning. We have removed the concrete barriers. The situation now is that traffic is moving freely right from Jaja to Kara Bridge toward Shagamu and the long bridge.

L-R: The Chairman of the chapter, Engr. Ben Osy Okoh, The National President of NSE, Engr. Tasiu Wudil during the commissioning of solar-powered borehole has been inaugurated in the Maraba Takunshara community in Waru,Abuja yesterday.

From Abubakar Yunusa Abuja

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has blacklisted six online trading platforms in its latest crackdown on illegal and unregistered firms purporting to offer investment and finance services and products.

In a circular, the Commission stated “The Commission’s attention has been drawn to the under listed e-commerce Companies and their websites offering online trading platforms to the investing public. They are not registered by the SEC Nigeria and the financial services offered

SEC blacklists six online trading platforms

by them are also not authorized.

The blacklisted firms include Prime Invest and “Primeinv.co, FXBoxed, New Finance LLC and New Fx Limited, Axi24, Evolve Consulting LCC and Trust FundMining Global Pty Limited.

“Members of the public are advised to adopt the greatest diligence in making investment

choices. In view of the above, the general public is hereby warned that any person dealing with the above mentioned e-commerce websites is doing so at his or her own risk,” the SEC stated.

The SEC had earlier warned the public against patronising a set of firms blacklisted by Italy’s securities regulator,

Commissione Nazionale per le Soecieta’ e la Borsa (CONSOB).

CONSOB had blacklisted five additional e-commerce websites for offering unauthorised and fraudulent financial services. The blacklisted websites included CMS or capmarketstrategy.io, Bitsterzio, Invest Atlas, EtherArena Limited and Ether-Arena

Limited operating under veneab. co.

CONSOB had ordered Internet Service Providers (ISP) operating in Italy to block public access to the blacklisted websites and called on prospective investors to adopt the greatest diligence in making investment choices.

Contractor misses Lagos-Ibadan Expressway April completion date

The Federal Government has again postponed the reopening of the LagosIbadan Expressway, saying the April 30 date earlier stated will no longer be feasible.

The Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, who dropped the hint, said the development was due to heavy traffic being experienced from toll gate to the Kara Bridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

Fashola made the appeal in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Communications, Mr Hakeem Bello, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria NAN .He said the reconstruction work on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway had entered its final phase with work within OPIC area between Kara Bridge and Long Bridge completed.

He lauded the patience of the motoring public for enduring longer than usual traffic as the reconstruction work in the heavily built-up stretch progresses towards the finish line.

He said the earlier envisaged April 30 date for conclusion of the final stretch could not be achieved due to a combination of factors.

“This means that the main carriageway, both bounds, from Berger (New Garage) and Sagamu Interchange on Section 1 of the Project has been completed,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government on Sunday revealed that road work between Kara Bridge and the Long Bridge has been completed.

He said, “Work within the OPIC area between Kara Bridge and the Long Bridge has been completed and will be opened to traffic today, Sunday, April 30. This means that the main carriageway, both bounds, from Berger (New Garage) and Sagamu Inter-change on Section 1 of the Project has been completed.”

While empathising with the general public over the heavy traffic, Fashola noted that, “the intensity of work and the high volume of traffic which had to be accommodated at the same time have been complicated by impatience on the part of some motorists who drive against the planned traffic flow and

breakdown of vehicles.”

Giving an update on the situation, The Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Umar Bakare,

said all concrete barriers causing obstructions had been removed, allowing commuters to move freely and significantly reducing traffic.

He said, “Yes, we have opened the bridge to traffic and we have been monitoring the situation since morning. We have removed the

concrete barriers. The situation now is that traffic is moving freely right from Jaja to Kara Bridge toward Shagamu and the long bridge.

President Buhari to inaugurate Zuba Estate today

From

Abubakar Yunusa Abuja

The Federal Government is set to formally inaugurate the Zuba Housing Estate on Tuesday.

The estate built by the Federal Housing Authority consists of 746 housing units. According to an invitation card

sent to our correspondent , the President,Muhammadu Buhari will perform the official opening by 10 am while the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola is the chief host.

The Zuba Mass Housing Estate is a pilot project of the Federal Housing Authority, which would be replicated across

the country.

The project sits on 18 hectares of land, housing 764 units of various house types giving a total of 16 blocks of 3-bedroom flats in a block of 8 flats; 32 blocks of 2-bedroom flats in a block of 8 flats; 14 blocks of 1-bedroom flats in a block of 16 flats and 5 blocks of terrace duplexes in 4 rows.

The estate is already serviced with completed standard infrastructure such as roads and drains, external water distribution network, electricity external reticulation, perimeter fence work, 3 water stations, injector transformers, civil works and servicing of blocks with underground cables.

Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

Africa’s foremost entrepreneur and President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote has urged African countries to dismantle all economic barriers hindering free trade among the nations, in order to achieve sustainable growth and development across the continent.

The leading private sector player also expressed the irrevocable commitment of his Pan-African conglomerate, Dangote Industries Limited to solving some of the economic challenges faced by the African continent and her people.

To realise this goal, the organisation has committed over 20 billion dollars on investments in several key sectors of the African economy.

Dangote who made this disclosure said the massive investments were meant to turn around Africa’s economic fortunes in the quest for sustained economic growth of the continent through free trade and economic integration.

Speaking in Lagos at the launch of a Special publication “The World Ahead 2023” by the renowned media outfit, The Economist, Dangote, who was represented by the Group Executive Director/ Group Chief Risk Officer, Dangote Industries Limited, Dr Adenike Fajemirokun, noted that the crucial task of building a sustainable future that guarantees equitable growth and prosperity for all, should not be the exclusive role of the public sector alone, but should also involve the private sector.

“Our massive investments of over 20 billion dollars across key industries, including Energy, Agriculture, and Infrastructure. Our recently commissioned 3Million Metric Tonnes’ Fertiliser Plant, expansions in cement production, and our soon-to-be commissioned 650,000 barrels per day world’s largest single-train refinery, are all set to empower farmers, foster backward integration, create thousands of jobs, eliminate our dependence on imported products, and improve our nation’s foreign exchange earnings significantly.

“We are also confronting environmental issues through our investment in alternative fuels, as well as unlocking enormous opportunities in the communities where we have our footprints, while ultimately ensuring that we keep delivering huge value to our shareholders.

“The multilayered issues that we face globally and across regions today, ranging from rising energy costs, food insecurity, supply-chain disruptions, access to quality healthcare, cybersecurity, inflation amongst others

Dismantle trade barriers to sustain growth, Dangote urges African countries

brought about by the pandemic or other human factors like the Russia-Ukraine war, call for an objective rethink of geopolitics and geo-economics, especially as they vastly affect policy execution and the ease of doing business in more vulnerable economies,” he stated.

Drawing the attention of the international audience to the need for all hands to be on deck towards lifting Africa above the various socio-economic challenges facing the membercountries, Dangote pointed out that the African population has been growing exponentially.

“Nigeria, for instance, is projected to be the world’s third largest population by 2050 surpassing the United States, only behind India and China, so the question of sustained economic growth has become increasingly critical and isn’t one for a single sector to tackle

AfDB: We’ll

alone. To secure the future of our country and our continent we must forge strong public-private partnerships and dismantle regional barriers with vehicles like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).”

Dangote advised that “going forward, the overarching conversations, whether at global or regional levels, in emerging markets or in OECD countries, must be refocused towards exploring the specifics of our fastchanging world, in order to align public-private perspectives and identify areas for collaboration for the collective good of people, planet, and profit.”

He commended ‘The Economist’ for putting together the publication that was being launched, describing it as a rich body of work that offers useful data for all sectors to draw insights from and synthesize the same towards arriving at

cutting-edge action points.

In his remarks, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat described the publication as a valuable document for policymakers and strategic planners, and noted that its contents reaffirm part of the strategies the Lagos State government has executed to make Lagos assume its status as the preferred destination of choice for investors.

According to him, Lagos has just 0.4 per cent of the land mass of Nigeria but has 11 per cent of the country’s population, which explains why some of the challenges in Lagos are peculiar to the metropolis, disclosing that some of the strategies adopted by the state government are geared toward solving the challenges.

He said Lagos is Africa’s fastest growing economy and added that a key policy of the state government is to improve its

investment profile by providing an enabling environment.

Hamzat also noted that the state has invested billions of Naira in infrastructure and technology, citing the Lekki Deep Seaport as one of the enablers which has made Lagos to attract 60 per cent of the Foreign Direct Investment into Nigeria. Also speaking, the Regional Executive and Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria Limited, Mr. Mobolaji Lawal hailed the Economist special launch, as it provides an opportunity for knowledge sharing for the government and private sector to explore emerging opportunities in the digital space.

“If we get it right, it will stimulate growth and drive transformation and ensure economic growth”, the Ecobank boss said.

Members of the Nigerians workers, in a march pass during the 2023 international Workers Day celebration, at eagle square, yesterday Abuja.

leverage private sector to address financial gaps in Africa

From Abubakar Yunusa Abuja

African Development Bank (AfDB) says it would leverage the private sector to address the various financial gaps on the continent.

Kelvin Urama, vice-president of economic governance and knowledge management complex at AfDB, spoke on the bank’s plans to improve financing in Africa at a virtual preannual meetings news conference on Thursday.

The bank’s annual meetings is scheduled to hold from May 22 to May 27, 2023, in Sham El Sheikh, Egypt.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Mobilising Private Sector Financing for Climate and Green Growth in Africa’, Urama said the need for financing in the region was very humongous for the public sector financing to meet.

“This year, the bank will focus

on how to leverage the private sector to address the financial gaps for achieving the paramount actions and bring good transitions on the continent,” he said.

“To do this, we have structured five different and very interesting knowledge events for the meeting, one of them is the presidential dialogue.

“This will feature our heads of state having a dialogue with the bank’s president on the changing global financial architecture and the role of the multilateral development banks.

“How do we position multilateral development banks (MDBs) and the MDB reforms within the era of trying to mobilise financing more for Africa to reach all the financing gaps we had already highlighted?”

Urama also said there would be an inauguration of the African economic outlook 2023, which

would focus on mobilising private sector financing for climate change and green growth in Africa.

“Here, the report will have key areas on looking at the macroeconomic performance and outlook on the continent,” the bank’s vicepresident said.

“It will also examine youth innovative financing mechanisms to mobilise private sector financing in Africa for climate and green growth.

“Also, we will talk about how to harness micro capital to address the gap on the continent and innovative financing instruments for crowding in private sector investment in Africa.

“The next is on harnessing micro capital to finance climate change and green growth in Africa, and then we have a study on key actions to achieve inclusive growth and sustainable development in Africa.”

This, Urama said, would identify

the blueprint for the continent’s development for the next 40 years.

He said it would put Africa on sustained growth of 7 percent to 10 percent gross domestic product (GDP) annually and consistently for the rest of this incubation period of the agenda 2063.

“And ultimately, it will be able to address poverty and all the other development challenges that Africa faces,’’ Urama added.

On his part, Quaynor Solomon, AfDB’s vice-president, private sector, infrastructure and industrialisation complex, called for innovative and creative thinking to address challenges in Africa.

Solomon said the meeting would allow the continent to deliberate on avenues to address all the climate change challenges on the continent.

He noted that it was important for the continent to leverage innovation measures to tackle the issue of climate change in Africa.

Photo; Mahmud Isa

FCTA moves to surpass revenue generation in 2023

By Stanley Onyekwere

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has restated its commitment towards generating more revenue into Government coffers that will meet its targeted revenue projection for the 2023 fiscal year.

FCT Permanent Secretary, Olusade Adesola, made this assertion, during the first quarter Internally Generated Revenue Review meeting of Secretariats, Departments and Agencies (SDAs) of the FCT Administration at the FCDA Conference Hall, Central Business District, Abuja.

Adesola, who chaired the meeting directed that all revenue generating SDAs must sit up, saying the Administration has lots of responsibilities that must be undertaken, and it is not prepared to accept excuses from critical revenue Agencies.

He noted that though, the general performance in the first quarter of the 2023 which rose to 97.27 percent is encouraging, more efforts need to be done and those agencies that have maintained persistently low performance must wake up to their respective responsibilities.

In a statement from Director, Information and Communication, FCT, Muhammad Hazat Sule, the Permanent Secretary hinted that the Administration would review some its interventions in the Satellite Towns to boost its revenue and enable the government sustain sanitation and cleaning exercises in such areas.

According to him, it will not be tenable to use monies

realized in other areas to fund refuse collections in the Satellite Towns.

He said the FCT Administration proposed the sum N213,848,939,058.81 as Internally Generated Revenue for the 2023 fiscal year, and that no effort should be spared to realize the projected revenue, which the government needs to provide the required infrastructure and services to make Abuja the city of our dream.

His words: “There should be more aggression on the part

of the revenue officers because they are the livewire of every system, if the system would survive and progress”.

The Permanent Secretary enjoined the SDAs to embrace the slogan of: “Do not tell me why you failed but tell me how you managed to succeed”; adding, there is no room for failure.

Adesola directed that henceforth, there should be massive sensitization on how to pay for revenue, thereby, improving on the revenue performance.

While commending the SDAs that have worked very hard to surpass their revenue targets, he urged them to sustain the tempo; stressing that hard work pays.

The Permanent Secretary said that SDAs should streamline the revenue activities to minimize unwanted distractions that often rear its ugly heads with other tiers of government.

“To address grey areas, expand the nets and improve collectable revenue, the FCT Administration will hold a stakeholders Restoration retreat

as culmination of all prior efforts towards the harmonization of revenue and Ease of Doing Business in the FCT at Akure, Ondo State.

“We have to up our game, money must be generated, people have to pay for services being rendered to them, that is the way a modern city is run,” the Permanent Secretary reiterated.

The meeting witnessed a presentation by the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) on the update of Ground Rent portal.

Relief as FEC approves 184.3bn Maitama 2 infrastructure projects

There was sigh of relief and excitement among residents of the Federal Capital Territory ( FCT), following the Federal Executive Council’s (FEC) approval for infrastructure projects at the newly created Maitama II District, estimated to cost over N180 billion naira.

The approval for the projects, followed a presentation made before FEC recently by the FCT Minister, Mallam Muhammad Musa Bello who was accompanied by the management of the

Federal Capital Development Authority ( FCDA).

It was gathered that infrastructure development in the new district, had long been expected by both allottees and the neighbouring original inhabitants villages.

It was gathered the construction works in the Maitama II, was important, as it would bring improved livelihood to Mpape community and environs, while opening up access roads to rural farmers in the area.

The memo presented by the Federal capital development Authority revealed that the contract for the project has been awarded to Dantata and Sawoe Company.

Also, was also revealed that the project is expected to be completed with 4 years period.

According to the document, titled “ Brief on the Final Engineering Design and Development of Maitama II District, Cadastral Zone A10, Abuja”, the Bureau of Public Procurement had given its nod

for the project.

It added hat, “ accordingly, BPP has granted No Objection to FCTA to proceed with Restrictive / Selective tendering method for the procurement.

“At conclusion of the evaluation exercise, the Bid of Messrs Dantata and Sawoe Construction Company Nigeria Limited with a total tender sum of N180, 990, 976, 836.60 only , inclusive of 5% VAT with a completion period of 48 months was recommended as the lowest responsive”.

Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi (middle), with other members of the Nigerians Labour Congress (NLC), at the 2023 International Workers Day celebration at eagle square, yesterday in Abuja, Photo: Mahmud Isa

France protests: More than 100 police hurt in May Day demonstrations

At least 108 police officers have been injured in clashes across France with protesters angry at pension reforms, the interior minister has said.

Gerald Darmanin said such a large number of police wounded was extremely rare, adding that 291 people had been arrested during the unrest.

Hundreds of thousands have been taking part in May Day demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron’s reforms.

Most were peaceful but radical groups threw petrol bombs and fireworks.

Police responded with tear gas and water cannon.

It is not clear how many protesters

have been injured.

This is the latest day of mass action against changes that raise the state pension age from 62 to 64. The unions want the measures withdrawn.

The Interior Ministry put the overall number of demonstrators at 782,000, including 112,000 in the capital Paris, but the CGT union say the figure is three times that number.

In Paris, one police officer suffered serious burns to his hands and face when struck by the petrol bomb.

Violence also broke out in Lyons and Nantes, and there were reports that protesters briefly occupied a luxury hotel in the southern city of Marseille.

Ukraine war: Russia launches second pre-dawn missile attack in three days

Russia has launched a series of missiles at Ukrainian cities in the second predawn attack in three days.

Pavlohrad, a logistics hub near the central city of Dnipro, was hit ahead of a much-anticipated counter-offensive by Ukraine.

The strike sparked a major fire, destroyed dozens of houses, and wounded 34 people.

Hours later, the air raid alert sounded across the country, with the capital Kyiv among the targets.

Across the country, the Ukrainian army said it shot down 15 of the 18 cruise missiles that had been fired.

The most significant damage was in Pavlohrad, a city in Ukrainian-held territory around 70 miles (110km) from the frontline. Pictures posted on social media showed a massive blaze.

One resident, Olha Lytvynenko, said she was getting dressed to leave their house when “both doors were smashed out by the explosion wave”.

“I ran outside and saw that the garage was destroyed. Everything was on fire, glass shards everywhere. Had we been outside, we would have been killed,” she said.

Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk military administration described it as a “tragic night and morning”, saying an industrial site had been hit.

Nineteen high-rise apartment blocks, 25 private houses, six schools and kindergartens and five shops were also damaged, it added.

Vladimir Rogov, a Russian-installed official, said the strike targeted railway infrastructure and fuel depots, in a message on Telegram with a thumbs-up gesture.

At around 04:00 local time (02:00 GMT) the air raid alert sounded in Kyiv and lasted for about three hours.

The military administration said all missiles and drones directed at the capital were destroyed.

In the Kherson region - which is still partly controlled by Russia - Ukrainian regional authorities said Russia had carried out 39 shellings.

They came from ground-based weapons, as well as drones and planes, the authorities said, adding that one person was killed.

Recent days have seen an increase in attacks in Ukraine, with places away from the front lines being targeted. On Friday, 23 people were killed in the central city of Uman.

Ukraine says it is finishing plans for a long-awaited offensive against Russian forces, supported by Western-supplied weapons and military equipment.

Russia, meanwhile, is also preparing for a Ukrainian push, and has fortified its positions in occupied territory.

In the latest change at the country’s military leadership, Cl Gen Mikhail Mizintsev - the Russian deputy defence minister who oversaw armed forces logistics - has been sacked, after being appointed to the role only last September.

There have been longstanding

complaints that front line troops are not getting sufficient military equipment, and suffer shortages of food and uniforms.

Meanwhile, a Ukrainian official on Monday said the army had ousted Russian forces from some positions in Bakhmut, an eastern city that has been under siege for

months.

General

said on Telegram the situation remained “quite difficult” - but “the enemy is unable to take control of the city”.

Trump mistrial request denied in E Jean Carroll rape lawsuit

ANew York judge has denied a request from Donald Trump’s legal team for a mistrial in a civil rape and defamation trial.

Writer E Jean Carroll is suing Mr Trump, alleging he raped her in a Manhattan department store in the mid1990s.

Mr Trump has consistently denied her accusation, calling it “fiction”.

The trial began last week in a federal court in New York City.

The mistrial request was denied moments before Ms Carroll resumed testimony. She spent much of last week giving her account of the alleged assault and later being cross-examined by Mr

Trump’s lawyers.

She faced further questioning from Mr Trump’s attorneys on Monday.

During the cross-examination, Mr Trump’s attorney, Joe Tacopina, continued to press Ms Carroll on why she did not report the assault to the police.

She responded that she was a “member of the silent generation”.

“I was born in 1943,” she said. “Women like me were taught and trained to keep our chins up and to not complain.”

Ms Carroll added that she was ashamed of the alleged assault and had believed it to be her fault.

In an 18-page letter filed filed early this week in the New York City federal

court, Mr Tacopina accused US District Judge Lewis Kaplan of making “pervasive unfair and prejudicial” rulings in the trial.

He claimed there had been “numerous examples” of “unfair treatment by the Court, most of which has been witnessed by the Jury”.

The filing argued the judge had “shut down” a line of questioning where Ms Carroll was asked why she did not seek to retrieve security camera footage from the store or scream during the alleged assault.

It asked the judge to allow Mr Trump’s lawyers more “latitude to cross-examine [Ms Carroll] and her witnesses”.

Ms Carroll, 79, says the attack occurred at a Bergdorf Goodman store in late 1995

or early 1996.

She says she and Mr Trump bumped into each other while shopping and alleges he later assaulted her in one of the store’s changing rooms.

Mr Trump, who is running in the 2024 presidential election, has repeatedly denied Ms Carroll’s allegations.

A former columnist for Elle magazine, Ms Carroll was able to bring the civil case against Mr Trump after New York passed the Adult Survivors Act in 2022.

The act allowed a one-year period for victims to file sexual assault lawsuits in the state over claims that would have normally exceeded statute limitations.

Source: BBC

Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander of ground forces,

Most of the protests were peaceful but police clashed with radical groups throwing projectiles

A photo shared online on Monday, verified by the BBC as being in Pavlohrad, showed a fiery skyline

Sudan crisis: Fighter jets are roaring over my home in Omdurman

With temperatures soaring to more than 40C at this time of the year, I normally sleep outside in my garden, but I am too scared to do that now, as fighter jets roar over my home in Sudan’s Omdurman city - despite the latest ceasefire.

I live with my mother and siblings in the centre of Omdurman, just over the River Nile from the capital, Khartoum.

The fighter jets are a constant reminder that Sudan is now in a state of war. I cannot get used to their terrifying sound.

The fighting between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is all around us - to our north, south, east and west.

It came close to our home on Monday afternoon, when a bullet ripped through the roof of my neighbour’s house, hitting her leg while she was asleep. Fortunately, she was not seriously wounded.

We heard loud noises - boom, boom, boom - a short while earlier. We think it was anti-artillery fire, but are not sure. We hid in our homes, as it is too dangerous to even look out of our windows.

From morning to evening, ceasefire or no ceasefire, fighter jets fly past our neighbourhood, coming from the same military airport from where foreign nationals have been evacuated, and heading towards Khartoum to strike at positions of the RSF.

From all the reports I have received, most of Khartoum is controlled by RSF fighters, with hardly any army soldiers - or police officers - on the streets.

The RSF fires anti-aircraft artillery to try and bring down the fighter jets, but I am not aware of any aircraft that has been shot down.

Three days ago, some of the projectiles

landed in an open field in my neighbourhood. Luckily, they missed a nearby mosque and homes.

The RSF has its origins in the war that broke out in Darfur two decades ago, and is made up of the Janjaweed militiamen who helped the government crush a rebellion there.

It had around 20,000 men before the fall of long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir in 2019, but has since turned into a force with an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 fighters.

It built a strong presence in cities and towns across Sudan, but many of its fighters have now been deployed to Khartoum as RSF commander Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, better known as Hemedti, fights army commander Gen Abdel Fattah alBurhan for power.

The city is dotted with checkpoints, manned by RSF fighters in pick-up trucks.

Hamid Khalafallah, from the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy, told the BBC’s Newsday programme that people risk their lives every time they have to negotiate their way past.

“It’s basically a gamble. Sometimes they let you through, sometimes they don’t. Sometimes they shoot at you, sometimes they steal your things and it’s very random,” he said.

The fighting has been most intense around the international airport, presidential palace, and the military headquarters.

All my friends who lived in these areas have fled - some of them making a long and arduous road journey to Egypt, not lucky enough to be evacuated, like foreign nationals, in specially chartered planes.

I have decided to stay, as my

neighbourhood is one of the safest, but I do not know for how long.

A relative of mine, in her early 30s, has died of dengue fever. She was supposed to have got married this month, but died because she could not get treatment as hospitals were either shut or treating only those with gunshot wounds.

The Omdurman Teaching Hospital is one of the biggest in Sudan, but it is operating at minimal capacity.

Many doctors are unable to get to the hospital, as it is too dangerous for them to

travel.

Along with the breakdown in health services, there is a water and electricity crisis.

Some residents have not had water in their homes since fighting broke out on 15 April, forcing them to rely on the wells of neighbours for their supply.

We are all hoping that the war ends soon, but our biggest fear is that former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok could be proven right, with Sudan descending into a civil war worse than those in Syria and Libya.

Stranded in Sudan with passports locked in Western embassies

Anumber of Sudanese citizens are unable to escape fighting in their country because their passports are locked inside European embassies.

The BBC has spoken to several people whose passports were being processed for European visas when war broke out.

Western diplomats evacuated without giving the passports back and now the embassies are closed.

Spain’s foreign ministry urged people to obtain travel documents from the Sudanese authorities.

Rami Badawi, 29, told the BBC he was stranded in Khartoum because the French embassy refused to return his passport. Mr Badawi works at the Sudan offices of a French technology company. His passport was at the embassy because he was applying for a visa for a business trip to France.

“I want to leave but I can’t,” he said.

Mr Badawi contacted the French embassy after the fighting broke out, asking if he could come and collect his passport. But he says they did not reply to his emails.

The French embassy has not responded to the BBC’s request for comment.

“They started their evacuation and left without any communication.”

Speaking to the BBC on Sunday evening, he said he was angry and afraid: “I can hear the sound of guns from morning till night”.

His mother, father, and siblings have

their passports and they planned to travel by bus to Egypt. They faced the agonising decision of whether to leave without him, but the whole family decided to stay in Khartoum rather than leave him there alone.

The main available routes out of Sudan are currently to take a bus to the northern border and cross into Egypt, or to travel to the coastal city of Port Sudan and take a boat across the Red Sea to Saudi Arabia. Thousands of people have also fled to neighbouring Chad, which is struggling to provide people with food, water or accommodation.

Mohamed Elfadil, 30, told the BBC he had been planning a holiday to Spain and was waiting for his visa when the war broke out.

He says when he phoned the emergency number for the Spanish embassy in Khartoum to ask for his passport back, “the woman who answered asked me ‘are you Sudanese or Spanish?’ When I told her I was Sudanese she hung up immediately”.

Mr Elfadil has left Khartoum and reached northern Sudan but says he will be separated from his family, who plan to cross the border to Egypt without him. “I am the only one of my family who cannot travel.”

“We are praying for the passport office to open, but the main passport centre is in Khartoum, and it is not functioning due to the war,” he says.

“I had no response, no feedback, nothing from the Spanish embassy. My passport is very valuable, I need it to escape from this war. And what hurts the most is that I never got any replies.”

Another man, who asked not to be named, said he felt “less of a human” after the Spanish diplomats evacuated themselves and their citizens without replying to his requests to return his passport. He told the BBC he managed to cross the border into Ethiopia using an old passport that had expired two years ago - but that was just luck.

The Spanish foreign ministry told the

BBC: “The Embassy closed its attention to the public and, since the evacuation, there is no longer a possibility to access it, among other reasons because of the huge security risk.”

The ministry said that warnings about this were posted on social media.

“People who left their passport there have been urged to obtain another travel document from the Sudanese authorities,” the ministry said.

The Embassy of Sweden in Khartoum is also accused of failing to return passports before they evacuated their staff.

Source; BBC

Tens of thousands of people have fled Sudan following the outbreak of conflict more than two weeks ago

Rami Badawi and his siblings are stuck in Khartoum

N ews F rom A si A

Jock Zonfrillo: MasterChef Australia host dies suddenly, aged 46

Award-winning chef and MasterChef Australia host Jock Zonfrillo has died suddenly, aged 46.

The Scotsman worked in renowned restaurants around the world before opening his own in Australia.

His death was confirmed by broadcaster Network 10 on the day the 2023 season premiere of MasterChef was set to air.

Zonfrillo is survived by his wife Lauren Fried and four children, who said in a statement their hearts were “shattered”.

“For those who crossed his path, became his mate, or were lucky enough to be his family, keep this proud Scot in your hearts when you have your next whisky,” the family said.

Zonfrillo was found dead at a house in Melbourne when police conducted a welfare check in the early hours of Monday morning. Victoria Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious.

His death has sparked an outpouring of grief from figures in the culinary and entertainment world.

Celebrity chefs Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay, as well as a host of former Masterchef contestants led the tributes.

Oliver, who had been due to appear in the season opener posted a picture to Instagram of him with Zonfrillo and the two other judges, Melissa Leong and Andy Allen, on set.

“I’m in total shock to wake up to the sudden death of [Jock].. we had the best time working together for this year’s MasterChef,” he wrote.

Ramsay wrote on Twitter: “Saddened by the devastating news... I truly enjoyed the time we spent together on MasterChef in Australia”.

Network 10 also paid tribute to the star, saying Zonfrillo’s charisma, passion and wicked sense of humour had inspired a nation of home cooks. MasterChef - which is pre-recorded - will not air this week as planned, it said.

Born in Glasgow in 1976, Zonfrillo began working in kitchens at 12. At 15, he became one of the youngest-ever apprentices to work at luxury Scottish resort,

The Turnberry Hotel.

Two years later he started working for Michelin-starred British chef Marco Pierre White at his famous Hyde Park Hotel.

But despite his burgeoning career, Zonfrillo said he became broke, homeless and addicted to heroin in his teenage years. He wrote at length about his struggles

with drug addiction in his 2021 memoir, Last Shot.

He said he turned a new leaf with a move to Australia in 2000, and went on to open several restaurants. His most successful was Adelaide’s award-winning Restaurant Orana, which opened in 2013.

In 2019, the presenter was

announced as part of an all new host line-up for MasterChef Australia.

But Zonfrillo’s career was not without controversy. Orana closed in 2020 with debts of millions of dollars, and Last Shot was criticised as inaccurate by former colleagues, including Marco Pierre White.

Explosion in Russian border region derails freight train -

An explosion in the Russian border region of Bryansk derailed a freight train on Monday, authorities said.

Local governor Alexander Bogomaz said an explosive device went off along the BryanskUnecha line, 60km from Ukraine.

The incident, which occurred at 10:17 Moscow time (07:17 GMT), saw the locomotive catch fire and seven freight wagons derailed, Russian Railways said.

The region - which borders Ukraine and Belarus - has seen acts of sabotage since Russia invaded Ukraine.

The train was reportedly carrying oil products and timber. No injuries were reported.

“An unidentified explosive device went off at the 136-kilometre mark on the Bryansk-Unecha railway line, derailing a freight train,” Mr Bogomaz said in a post on Telegram.

Images on social media showed tank carriages turned on their side with plumes of grey smoke billowing into the air.

On Saturday, Mr Bogomaz said four people died after Ukraine shelled the village of Suzemka, around seven miles (12km) north of Russia’s border with Ukraine.

Meanwhile, power lines were destroyed early on Monday by a suspected explosive device in Leningrad Region, in north-

governor

west Russia, according to local governor Alexander Drozdenko.

The incident took place near the village of Susanino, some 60km (37 miles) south of St Petersburg, he wrote on Telegram, adding that the power supply to nearby settlements were not interrupted.

A second suspected device was defused, Mr Drozdenko said.

The sabotage occurred as Russia fired missiles across

Ukraine in its second pre-dawn strike in three days.

The attacks caused widespread damage at a logistics hub in Pavlohrad, near the central city of Dnipro.

Dozen of houses were destroyed and 34 people were wounded.

Overall, the Ukrainian military said it shot down 15 of the 18 cruise missiles that had been fired.

Maurizio Cattelan: Banana artwork eaten by Seoul museum visitor

ASouth Korean art student ate a banana that was part of an installation by artist Maurizio Cattelan, saying he was “hungry” after skipping breakfast.

The artwork called “Comedian”, part of Cattelan’s exhibition “WE”, consisted of a ripe banana ducttaped to a wall at Seoul’s Leeum Musuem of Art.

After eating the banana, the student, Noh Huyn-soo, taped the peel to the wall.

The museum later placed a new banana at the same spot, reported local media.

The incident, which lasted more than a minute, was recorded by Mr Noh’s friend.

The Leeum Musuem of Art did not respond to an email inquiry by the BBC. However, it told media that it will not claim damages against the student.

The banana on display is reportedly replaced every two or three days.

In videos posted online, shouts

of “excuse me” can be heard as Mr Noh takes the banana off the wall. He does not respond and starts eating as the room goes quiet.

He then tapes the peel to the wall and poses for a moment before walking off.

Mr Noh later told local media that he saw Cattelan’s work as a rebellion against a certain authority. “There could be another rebellion against the rebellion,” the Seoul National University student told KBS.

“Damaging an artwork could also be seen as an artwork, I thought that would be interesting... Isn’t it taped there to be eaten?”

When told about the incident, Mr Cattelan said, “No problem at all”.

This is not the first time bananas used for Mr Cattelan’s work have been eaten by a visitor.

In 2019, performance artist David Datuna pulled the banana from the wall after the artwork was sold for $120,000 (£91,000) at Art

Basel in Miami.

The banana was swiftly replaced and no further action was taken.

Officials in the Indian state of Assam are asking about 300 police officers who they deem to have an alcohol problem to quit the force.

State Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said heavy drinking had affected their health and they were being asked to retire early.

Mr Sarma had earlier vowed to “cut the deadwood out of the police force”.

Several Assam officers have been suspended for drunken outbursts while on duty, the Times of India reports.

Similar programmes were being implemented in other states, Mr Sarma said.

“It is an old rule, but we had not implemented it earlier,” he said.

On Thursday, the chief minister stated that “obese” officers and those who have corruption cases hanging over them should also be asked to take voluntary

redundancy.

He also instructed police chiefs to make sure their officers were staying fit.

A wild elephant who sparked a massive debate and a legal battle in the southern Indian state of Kerala has been relocated to a tiger reserve.

Officials claim Arikomban (“rice tusker” in the Malayalam language) - named for his raids on local shops for rice - has killed seven people.

Locals near his original habitat had demanded his relocation for months.

On Saturday, he was tranquillised and shifted to Periyar Tiger Reserve, around 80km (50 miles) away.

Government authorities have called the mission a successthey say they are monitoring Arikomban’s movements, and have received the first set of signals from a radio collar attached to him.

But activists say the debate points to a larger issue of human-

wildlife conflict and cannot be solved by displacing one animal.

According to the last elephant census in 2017, India has close to 30,000 wild elephants - around 60% of all wild Asian elephants. Loss of habitat and fragmentation often force them to enter human habitats and raid crops, leading to conflicts.

Arikomban, believed to be more than 30 years old, was a familiar sight for people who lived near the Devikulam forest range in Idukki district for decades.

Locals told The New Indian Express newspaper that earlier, when huts in the area were made of bamboo and grass, the elephant caused little damage when he came foraging for food. But as the population grew and houses made of concrete became common, the elephant started damaging buildings and having run-ins with humans, leading to protests from locals.

Source: BBC

Jock Zonfrillo (centre) with his fellow MasterChef Australia hosts

Most populous nation: Should India rejoice or panic?

India’s population has reached 1,425,775,850 people, surpassing the number of people in mainland China, according to the UN’s estimates.

India’s decennial censusscheduled to be held in 2021 - has been delayed, so there’s no official population data. China’s most recent - and seventh census - was conducted in 2020.

To estimate and project populations of both India and China, the UN relies on information about levels and trends in fertility, mortality and migration acquired from records, surveys and administrative data.

What is clear is that both India and China have more than 1.4 billion people each, and for over 70 years have accounted for more than a third of the global population.

China’s population is likely to begin shrinking next year. Last year, 10.6 million people were born, a little more than the number of deaths, thanks to a rapid drop in fertility rate. According to the UN, the Chinese population will continue to fall and could drop to below a billion before the end of the century.

India’s fertility rate has also fallen substantially in recent decades - from 5.7 births per woman in 1950 to two births per woman today - but the rate of decline has been slower. India’s population is virtually certain to continue to grow for several decades - the UN expects the population to peak around 2064, and then decline gradually.

So what does India overtaking China as the most populous country in the world mean?

China reduced its population faster than India

China reduced its population growth rate by about half from 2% in 1973 to 1.1% in 1983.

Demographers say much of this was achieved by riding roughshod over human rights - two separate campaigns promoting just one child and then later marriages, longer gaps between children and fewer of them - in what was a predominantly rural and overwhelmingly uneducated and poor country.

Investments in public health and increased education for women and their participation in the workforce, among other things, also contributed to the decline in fertility.

India’s population more than trebled in the six decades after independence - from 361 million people in 1951 to more than 1.2 billion in 2011.

India saw rapid population growth - almost 2% annually - for much of the second half of the last century. Over time, death rates fell, life expectancy rose and incomes went up. More people - especially those living in cities - accessed clean drinking water and modern sewerage. “Yet the birth rate remained high,” says Tim Dyson, a demographer at the London School of Economics.

India launched a family planning programme in 1952 and laid out a national population policy for the first time only in 1976, about the time China was busy reducing its birth rate.

But forced sterilisations of millions of poor people in an overzealous family planning programme during the 1975 Emergency - when civil liberties were suspended - led to a social backlash against family planning. “Fertility decline would have been faster for India if the Emergency hadn’t happened and if politicians had been more proactive. It also meant that all subsequent governments treaded cautiously when it came to family planning,” Prof Dyson says.

East Asian countries such as South Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan and Thailand, which launched population programmes much later than India, achieved lower fertility levels, cut infant and maternal mortality rates, raised incomes and improved human development earlier than India.

India no longer fears a population explosion

India has added more than a billion people since independence in 1947, and its population is expected to grow for another 40 years.

But its population growth rate has been declining for decades now,

and the country has defied dire predictions about a “demographic disaster”.

So India having more people than China is no longer significant in a “concerning” way, say demographers.

Rising incomes and improved access to health and education have helped Indian women have fewer children than before, effectively flattening the growth curve.

Fertility rates have dipped below replacement levels - two births per woman - in 17 out of 22 states and federally administered territories. (A replacement level is one at which new births are sufficient to maintain a steady population.)

According to Pew Research Center, all religious groups in India have shown major declines in fertility rates, based on data available in India’s decennial census and the National Family Health Survey (NFHS).

As a result there have been only “modest changes” in the religious make-up of the people since 1951.

Fertility rates among all religious groups have declined, according to official data.

The decline in birth rates has been faster in southern India than in the more populous north. “It is a pity that more of India could not have been like south India,” says Prof Dyson. “All things being equal, rapid population growth in parts of north India have depressed living standards”.

However, overtaking China could be significant

It could, for example, strengthen India’s claim to a permanent seat in the UN Security Council, which has five permanent members, including China.

India is a founding member of the UN and has always insisted that its claim to a permanent seat is just. “I think you have certain claims on things [by being the

country with largest population],” says John Wilmoth, director of the Population Division of the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

The way India’s demography is changing is also significant, according to KS James, director of the Mumbai-based International Institute for Population Sciences. Despite drawbacks, India deserves some credit for managing a “healthy demographic transition”, by using family planning in a democracy which was both poor and largely uneducated, says Prof James. “Most countries did this after they had achieved higher literacy and living standards.”

More good news: one in five people below 25 years in the world is from India and 47% of Indians are below the age of 25. Two-thirds of Indians were born after India liberalised its economy in the early 1990s.

Source: BBC

The decline in birth rates has been faster in southern India than in the more populous north. “It is a pity that more of India could not have been like south India,” says Prof Dyson. “All things being equal, rapid population growth in parts of north India have depressed living

Students at a yoga training exercise in Chennai - India’s population is projected to grow for several decades

The southern state of Kerala has an ageing population

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SIGNED : AGBO BLESSING (MRS.).

AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020).

THE TRUSTEES ARE :

1.BIRA RIFKATU NYINI

2.OPUSUNJU CHARLZ JESTUS

3.AKWANI MBA EMENIKE

4.SAMEGBUCHIRI CHETACHI CONSTANCI

5.PEDDLER KOFI ALEXANDER

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE :

(1) TO PREACH AND SPREAD THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.

(2) TO ADMINISTER HEALING, DELIVERANCE, SALVATION, RESTORATION AND PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS ON BOTH THE SAVED AND LOST SOULS.

(3) TO INCULCATE GOOD MORAL VALUE TO PEOPLE AND TO TURN AROUND LIVES OF PEOPLE FROM NEGATIVE TO POSITIVE THROUGH PRAYER AND COUNSELING.

(4) TO SPREAD THE WORD OF GOD TO THE WHOLE WORLD THROUGH THE VARIOUS MEDIA

PUBLIC NOTICE

GATE OF FREEDOM HEBREW ASSEMBLY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020).

THE TRUSTEES ARE :

1.JOHN IFEANYI

2.NMOUNEKE IFEANYI HANNAH

3.SAMUEL KATE

4.AJAMAWU FELICIA ODAZE

5.IROBI CHISOM MOSES

6.OGUH RITA

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : TO TEACH ALL MANKIND TO KNOW THE WAY AND THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY.

PUBLIC NOTICE

YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TARAUNI

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO

THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020).

THE TRUSTEES ARE :

1. OLAJIDE KAZEEM ABDULAZIZ (CHAIRMAN)

2. ADEBAYO OLUWASEUN CHRISTY (SECRETRAY )

3. ABDULRASHEED TAOFEEK (MEMBER)

4. HUSSAIN JAMIU ADEKUNLE (MEMBER)

5. ADELABU ABDULMOJEED ADEOYE (MEMBER)

6. IBRAHIM HALIMA DAMILOLA (MEMBER)

7. ADEBAYO BUKKI RISIKATU (MEMBER)

8. ISA BASIRA (MEMBER

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE :

1.TO PROMOTE PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE IN YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

2. TO PROMOTE SYNERGY FOR SAFE YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

3. TO ENSURE A CLEAN YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

4. TO SEEK/CONVASS FOR EMPOWERMENT OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUTH/WOMEN IN YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

5. TO SEEK TO HAVE ONE VOICE FOR YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

6. TO DO AND PERFORM ALL OF THE ACTIVITIES RELATED TO SAID PUR.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED : SECRETARY.

PUBLIC NOTICE

YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TARAUNI

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020).

THE TRUSTEES ARE :

1. OLAJIDE KAZEEM ABDULAZIZ (CHAIRMAN)

2. ADEBAYO OLUWASEUN CHRISTY (SECRETRAY )

3. ABDULRASHEED TAOFEEK (MEMBER)

4. HUSSAIN JAMIU ADEKUNLE (MEMBER)

5. ADELABU ABDULMOJEED ADEOYE (MEMBER)

6. IBRAHIM HALIMA DAMILOLA (MEMBER)

7. ADEBAYO BUKKI RISIKATU (MEMBER)

8. ISA BASIRA (MEMBER

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE :

1.TO PROMOTE PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE IN YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

2. TO PROMOTE SYNERGY FOR SAFE YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

3. TO ENSURE A CLEAN YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

4. TO SEEK/CONVASS FOR EMPOWERMENT OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUTH/WOMEN IN YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

5. TO SEEK TO HAVE ONE VOICE FOR YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

6. TO DO AND PERFORM ALL OF THE ACTIVITIES RELATED TO SAID PUR.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED : SECRETARY.

PUBLIC NOTICE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020).

THE TRUSTEES ARE :

1. OLAJIDE KAZEEM ABDULAZIZ (CHAIRMAN)

2. ADEBAYO OLUWASEUN CHRISTY (SECRETRAY )

3. ABDULRASHEED TAOFEEK (MEMBER)

4. HUSSAIN JAMIU ADEKUNLE (MEMBER)

5. ADELABU ABDULMOJEED ADEOYE (MEMBER)

6. IBRAHIM HALIMA DAMILOLA (MEMBER)

7. ADEBAYO BUKKI RISIKATU (MEMBER)

8. ISA BASIRA (MEMBER

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE :

1.TO PROMOTE PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE IN YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

2. TO PROMOTE SYNERGY FOR SAFE YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

3. TO ENSURE A CLEAN YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

4. TO SEEK/CONVASS FOR EMPOWERMENT OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUTH/WOMEN IN YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

5. TO SEEK TO HAVE ONE VOICE FOR YORUBA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.

6. TO DO AND PERFORM ALL OF THE ACTIVITIES RELATED

PUBLIC NOTICE

JENNY SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020).

THE TRUSTEES ARE :

1.JENNIFER HEMAN KUDAYO-TRUSTEE /CHAIRMAN

2.SATMAK DAPAR- TRUSTEE /SECRETARY

3.ENGR. EMMANUEL NICHOLAS- TRUSTEE

4.ALOKO AMODU- TRUSTEE

5.FRANKLIN KWANSAI- TRUSTEE

6.DR. JOY JOHNSON AGBO- TRUSTEE

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES : TO WORK FOR THE SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT OF UNDERPRIVILEGED INDIVIDUALS, GROUPS AND COMMUNITIES IN NIGERIA. TO PROVIDE HELP UNDER HEALTH AND NUTRITION SERVICES FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED : SECRETARY.

PUBLIC NOTICE

MARZIEH RETSAT JAMEEL FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020).

THE TRUSTEES ARE :

1 ALIYU FATIMA JAMILU - CHAIRMAN

2 IBRAHIM SADIQ ABUBAKAR

3 GLENN SAKAMANHA KIBIKIWA

4 USMAN MARYAM DANLADI

5 FWANGJE NAOMI LIKITA

6 USMAN MARYAM DANLADI - SECRETARY

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : TOUCHING LIVES IN DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE/ASPECTS

TO PROVIDE PROVISION OF FOOD, CLOTHS AND CLEAN WATER FOR THE NEEDY OFFER RESOURCES, SUPPORTIVE COUNSELING, BUSINESS INITIATIVES AND A SENSE OF COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT TO THE YOUTHS ADVOCATE FOR LAWS AND POLICIES THAT WILL REDUCE MALNUTRITION AMONG CHILDREN TO PROVIDE A PREVENTATIVE SOLUTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE TO RESTORE HOPE AMONG VULNERABLE CHILDREN AND COMMUNITIES THAT HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY PROVERTY, ABUSE, VIOLENCE, DISEASE AND OTHER NATURAL DISASTERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY.

PUBLIC NOTICE

MARZIEH RETSAT JAMEEL FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020).

THE TRUSTEES ARE :

1 ALIYU FATIMA JAMILU - CHAIRMAN

2 IBRAHIM SADIQ ABUBAKAR

3 GLENN SAKAMANHA KIBIKIWA

4 USMAN MARYAM DANLADI

5 FWANGJE NAOMI LIKITA

6 USMAN MARYAM DANLADI - SECRETARY

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : TOUCHING LIVES IN DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE/ASPECTS

TO PROVIDE PROVISION OF FOOD, CLOTHS AND CLEAN WATER FOR THE NEEDY OFFER RESOURCES, SUPPORTIVE COUNSELING, BUSINESS INITIATIVES AND A SENSE OF COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT TO THE YOUTHS ADVOCATE FOR LAWS AND POLICIES THAT WILL REDUCE MALNUTRITION AMONG CHILDREN TO PROVIDE A PREVENTATIVE SOLUTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE TO RESTORE HOPE AMONG VULNERABLE CHILDREN AND COMMUNITIES THAT HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY PROVERTY, ABUSE, VIOLENCE, DISEASE AND OTHER NATURAL DISASTERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY.

PUBLIC NOTICE

MARZIEH RETSAT JAMEEL FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020). THE TRUSTEES ARE :

1 ALIYU FATIMA JAMILU - CHAIRMAN

2 IBRAHIM SADIQ ABUBAKAR

3 GLENN SAKAMANHA KIBIKIWA

4 USMAN MARYAM DANLADI

5 FWANGJE NAOMI LIKITA

6 USMAN MARYAM DANLADI - SECRETARY

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : TOUCHING LIVES IN DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE/ASPECTS

TO PROVIDE PROVISION OF FOOD, CLOTHS AND CLEAN WATER FOR THE NEEDY OFFER RESOURCES, SUPPORTIVE COUNSELING, BUSINESS INITIATIVES AND A SENSE OF COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT TO THE YOUTHS ADVOCATE FOR LAWS AND POLICIES THAT WILL REDUCE MALNUTRITION AMONG CHILDREN

TO PROVIDE A PREVENTATIVE SOLUTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE TO RESTORE HOPE AMONG VULNERABLE CHILDREN AND COMMUNITIES THAT HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY PROVERTY, ABUSE, VIOLENCE, DISEASE AND OTHER NATURAL DISASTERS.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY.

PUBLIC NOTICE

DOMAIN OF LIGHT CHURCH

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020).

THE TRUSTEES ARE :

1.OREMU STEPHEN OGHENEVWARE -TRUSTEE /CHAIRMAN

2.UKOMEH KELVIN TORITSEJU - TRUSTEE /SECRETARY

3.OREMU BERNICE ENITE - TRUSTEE

4.OSUO EBIERE WENDY - TRUSTEE

5.AVWARORO ONORIODE DORIS - TRUSTEE

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE :

1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO ALL NATIONS WORLD WILD.

2.TO ESTABLISH LOCAL BRANCHES FOR THE PROPAGATION OF THE GOSPEL WORLDWIDE.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY.

ADAMU

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS ADAMU MUSA. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS ADAMU MUSA UMAR ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

SULEIMAN

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS SULEIMAN ABDULKABIR NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS SULEIMAN ABDULKABIR ABDULLAHI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

THE AMINU CHRISTOPHER TERHEMBA MOHAMMED (ACT-M) FOUNDATION

TRAININGS TO YOUNG PEOPLE TO ENHANCE SOCIO- ECONOMIC GROWTH AND WELFARE TO PROVIDE AWARENESS OF FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT, TRAININGS AND WORKSHOPS THAT IMPACTS POSITIVELY ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE TO ORGANIZE AWARD CEREMONIES TO ENCOURAGE HARDWORKING, INTELLECTUAL, INTELLIGENT AND SUCCESSFUL WOMEN AND YOUTH TO UNDERTAKE ACTIVITIES THAT PROMOTE QUALITY HEALTH CARE AND FEEDING FOR CHILDREN TO PARTNER WITH NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NGOS AND GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES FOR THE ATTAINMENT OF SPECIFIC GOALS THAT PROMOTES THE WELFARE OF CHILDREN, WOMEN AND YOUTHS TO EDUCATE YOUNG PEOPLE AGAINST DRUGS AND ALCOHOL ABUSE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY.

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE AMINU CHRISTOPHER TERHEMBA MOHAMMED (ACT-M) FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘F’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, ( CAMA 2020).

THE TRUSTEES ARE :

JEKELLE HELEN ELENA - CHARIMAN

BANDI SAM KWENDO

VERR BERNARD BEEIOR AMASETIMIN

JIWUNDE PRISCILLA DEVAAN - SECRETARY ADEBAYO CYNTHIA NNENA

YUWA MTSOR AHMADU MUSA DANJUMA

OJOWU GEORGINA SEEMBER

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE :

TO PROVIDE EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT THROUGH SCHOLARSHIPS AND DONATION OF EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS FOR ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE YOUTHS TO PROVIDE SKILL ACQUISITION AND CAPACITY BUILDING TRAININGS TO YOUNG PEOPLE TO ENHANCE SOCIO- ECONOMIC GROWTH AND WELFARE TO PROVIDE AWARENESS OF FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT, TRAININGS AND WORKSHOPS THAT IMPACTS POSITIVELY ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE TO ORGANIZE AWARD CEREMONIES TO ENCOURAGE HARDWORKING, INTELLECTUAL, INTELLIGENT AND SUCCESSFUL

U-17 AFCON: How Nigeria defeated

Zambia

By Amaechi Agbo

Two-time champions Nigeria picked all three points in a 1-0 win over Zambia to commence their Africa U-17 Cup of Nations campaign in Algeria on a promising note on Sunday.

Favour Daniel struck powerfully past the Zambian goal-tender from a goalmouth melee 14 minutes to the end in Algeria’s second city, giving Nigeria all the honours in a largely average encounter that opened the campaign in Group B.

Nigeria dominated for large swatches of the evening at the Stade Mohamed Hamlaoui but ineffective short passes and poor shooting in front of goal denied them an avalanche of goals against a Zambian team that failed to bite.

Both teams hit the woodwork in the first period and Abubakar Abdullahi saw his efforts saved twice as Nigeria piled on the pressure.

The five-time world champions were set to take a two-goal win into their clash with Morocco on Wednesday but substitute Light Eke made light

1-0

to place 2nd in Group B

work of a penalty kick awarded two minutes into additional time and gave the goalkeeper no worries.

Nigeria defender Yahaya

Lawali was named Man of the Match.

The Golden Eaglets bare now second in Group B after Morocco defeat South Africa 2-0 in the

second group match

After their encounter with Morocco on Wednesday evening, the Eaglets will play South Africa in their final match of Group B on

Saturday.

The four top-placed teams at the 12-nation finals will represent Africa at this year’s FIFA U17 World Cup.

NPFL MD16: Enugu Rangers escape relegation after thrashing Wikki Tourists in Awka

By Amaechi Agbo

Rangers International FC of Enugu on Sunday

were assured of keeping their Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL league status following a comprehensive 3-0 spanking of Wikki Tourists of Bauchi in Akwa.

The “Flying Antelopes” who have been struggling throughout the abridged league, found their mojo against Wikki after drawing their last two games.

The win takes them to 7th in Group B with 19 points from 16 matches. It’s Rangers’ only 4th victory in sixteen matches in the league.

The 19 points put them 7 ahead of 9th placed Dakkada FC and 10 points above Bottom

placed Wikki Tourists who have 9 points with two matches left to play in the league.

Saturday match was a must win for both teams but it was Rangers who showed grit as they scored two goals in the second half and consolidated it with the 3rd in the restart.

The coach Abdul Maikaba tutored side left nobody in doubt of its intention in the game as the attacking trio of Godwin Obaje, Chidiebere Nwobodo, who grabbed a brace in the encounter, and Austin Onyemaechi went on the offensive as soon as the referee signaled the start of hostilities.

As early as the 6th minute of play, fans had risen to celebrate Obaje’s connecting header off Esor Achibong’s corner kick but his effort crashed on the cross-

bar and bounced safely for the Wikki short stopper to make an easy catch.

Despite dominating proceedings, the home side waited for nearly half an hour to break the resistance of the visiting ‘Big Elephants’ when Chidiebere Nwobodo jumped the highest to connect home an Esor Achibong’ well-struck corner kick on 27 minutes.

On 52 minutes, Nwobodo scored his second of the day as he was supplied the ammunition by Auwalu Naziru who had dispossessed an opponent of the ball while substitute, Samuel Pam stabbed home the third goal on 86 minutes just as Obaje missed a seater on 65 and the assistant referee chalked off what would have been a third goal for Nwobodo on 72

minutes for a possible offside.

At the tail end of the fixture, Detan Ogundare produced two quick saves in the added time to ensure his side kept a clean slate.

Coach Abdul Maikaba said after the encounter, “It was a good game and a good result that we worked for even as we can’t take away the effect of the promise of cash reward by the Youth & Sports Commissioner on the players. Our opponent showed resistance but we wanted the result more and pushed for it and got it. I am happy even when the result will not help us challenge for the top three positions, it will give us the boost to go very far in the Federation Cup 2023.”

Two-goal hero, Chidiebere Nwobodo said, “I am happy

for the two goals I scored and I thank my teammates for their support. Before the match I had promised to score and to God be the glory, I scored twice and hope to continue in coming matches.”

Rangers will next travel to the Pantami Stadium, Gombe for a match day 17 fixture against Doma United on May 7, 2023.

Rangers International FC of Enugu are the only club in the history of the Nigeria Premier Football League since 1972 never to have gone on relegation.

The safety of the club in the league is a relief for the gaffer, Abdul Maikaba who has come under severe criticism following the unimpressive performances of the club in the current season.

Nigeria’s U-17 Golden Eaglets team before their match against Zambia on Sunday

NPFL MD16: Niger Tornadoes slips in Jos but super Six Ticket within reach

By Amaechi Agbo

Niger Tornadoes failed to get the crucial results they needed on Sunday to consolidate their Nigeria Premier Football League Super 6 aspiration after they suffered a one-nil defeat in a North-Central Derby against Lobi Stars in Jos.

However, the defeat, though painful, but the Minna based side’s Super 6 qualification hopes have not faded.

Francis Odinaka’s early second half goal won the game for hosts Lobi Stars in an NPFL matchday16 encounter decided at the New Jos Stadium.

The two teams sized each other up in the first half a handful of chaches created but wrapped it with out hitting the net.

Hostilities resumed for the second half and the hosts found their rythm early enough as Francis Odinaka powered home a bullet shot that sailed into the net in the 48th minute to put the hosts ahead.

Most part of the second half was played under the rain and Tornadoes siezed control of the game after going behind as they began to throw everything into the game all in a bid to find the leveler but Lobi Stars stood firm and guided their lead until the blast of the whistle in what was an entertaining display of football as fans applauded Tornadoes off for their unique pattern of play which caught the eyes and left the fans happy for a time well spent.

The result means Niger Tornadoes moved a place down on the log with Abia Warriors jumping above after snatching a home win as the battle for Super 6 intensifies.

In the Group B standings, Niger Tornadoes are 5th, one point behind 3rd placed Abia Warriors

Niger Tornadoes will be home in Kaduna for their matchday17 game against Sunshine Stars on Saturday, May 7

FC Bayern Youth Cup: Offering Nigerian players a window to professional football career

By Amaechi Agbo

The FC Bayern Youth Cup Nigeria 2023 came to an end in Enugu on Saturday with 10 players selected for the World Youth Championship later in October this year.

The 3rd edition of the competition in Nigeria saw talented players aged 15 years or below showcase their football talents as Bayern Munich legend and 1990 World Cup winner, Johannes Christian “Hans” Pflügler, who is the Chief Scouter, watched with keen interest to select the best players from the pool.

In a media interaction on Friday prior to the final, Johannes”Hans” Pflügler explained the rational behind the tournament. He noted that apart from football dimension which offers the players an opportunity to prove themselves and go to Europe to enhance their careers, the tournament offers cultural exchange between Nigeria and Germany

“The tournament is an opportunity to first of all give them an opportunity here to prove themselves here in Nigeria and those chosen will go to Europe. It is a once in life opportunity to experience European football first hand, the training conditions, the staff we have over there and ultimately that they improve themselves.

“This is a cultural exchange through football which is very important for us not only from sporting perspective but also from human angle,” he said.

Explain on how the competition is organized, the, the FC Bayern International Manager, Francisco Quinones, said the competition bis simultaneously held in seven countries across the world.

Adding that after national championship, a pool of ten best players are selected to represent Nigeria at the World Youth Tournament in Germany.

“For us it is alot of work because the same match you watch here

is also taking place in seven other countries across the world. Players we identify within our project we keep them, we do a follow up with them, the coaches, club.

“We have staff dedicated to giving a call every couple of weeks, to know how the players are evolving, what the situation is and preparing everything in Germany so that we can get everyone the best experience as possible and the best learning that they can get from us.

“The countries vary and one way of selecting them is sporting consideration and in the other hand, we chose countries where we can have solid partners that are capable of organising and setting up not only the tournament but the follow up in actually bringing the boys to Germany. We support and contact embassies.

“This year we are going to have Team USA, Mexico, Argentina, Morocco (is a new addition to the tournament), South Africa and Team Germany. We are going to have Team China this year and then of course, Nigeria,” hé stated

Ayiba, Gombo score As Bayelsa

Bayelsa United all but confirmed their league status for next season after edging Sunshine Stars 2-1 in matchday 16 of the Nigeria Premier Football League in Yenogoa with Edwin Ayiba and Gomo Onduku scoring the two crucial goals to douse tenting at the Samson Stadia Stadium.

The sun failed to shine in Yenagoa as host Bayelsa United beat Sunshine Stars of Akure 2-1 in matchday sixteen fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League decided at the Samson Siasia Stadium.

Experienced technical adviser of Bayelsa United, Diepreye Teibowei made two changes from the starting eleven against Lobi

United

Stars and Doma United of Gombe with Loveday Saro coming in for Captain Gabriel Biriduba and Taiwo Abdulrafiu for Yazid Adamu.

The Prosperity Boys took the lead on 61 minute from midfielder Edwin Ayiba’s well placed effort and a Robert Mizo well delivery that immediately responded in less than a minute from Achi Nnaemeka deflected shot.

Despite the soggy nature of the pitch the host did not relent in their pursuit for three points as they continued to put pressure on the Akure based side defence line but the Owena waves defence line was solid.

Apparently not pleased with the scoreline and the performance

The Youth Cup is the oldest Youth tournament run by a club in the world. No other club is running such a competition, with sporting perspective and not just being a commercial tournament.

There are three Africa teams that are showing up. Last year Togo and Nigeria participated whereas Nigeria, South Africa and Morocco are participating in this year’s.

A lot of players have been nurtured and they have gone on to sign professional football careers in England and across Europe.

Once the organisers identify the best player, they have a four-year plan to support them academically, in mentorship and on the pitch.

Daniel Francis is testament to this. The organisers found him in 2019, played at Abuja qualifiers, played National Finals in Lagos, come November, he played for the U-17 World Cups.

“He moved on to the Bayern World Squad which is another project for the best 16-19 years old. He captained the World Squad and eventually got a contract from

all

but

Bayern Munich. He is the first Nigeria kid who signed directly from the street of Nigeria.

“This how much influence and impact that this project can bring about. We have over 25 players, since we started, who have become professional players in Europe. That is how the collaboration is helping kids in Nigeria, Africa and around the world. It is a fantastic project.

“The plan is to select ten players who will be playing in a 7v7 format but we also select a backup ten. The World Finals is in October, a of lot things can happen between now and October - Visa, injuries (we don’t hope for that) we hope that the best ten players will attend, but when these things happen, we hope to be able to replace the players,” Victor Edeh, the COUNTRY Director of VOE Foundation which partners of FC Bayern in organising the competition, said.”

In the final, Lagos Select defeated R&K Football Academy of Kano to win the FC Bayern Youth Cup Nigeria 2023.

avoid relegation

of the players, coach Diepreye introduced Fabby Clark for Okorie Ekeson and Eric Dufegha came in for Alex Jerry but Edith Agoye side were able to absorb the pressure.

When it seems the game was going to end 1-1 Coach Diepreye Teibowei pulled off newly introduced Eric Dufegha for experienced Gomo Onduku who headed home Loveday Saro’s cross on 89 minute to give Bayelsa United the victory, a goal that sent fans in raptures celebration.

The victory leaves Bayelsa United on 6th place with 21 points same with Sunshine Stars who have a game at hand while Enugu Rangers, Dakkada Fc and Wikki Tourist occupied 8th to 10th.

from

NPFL

A relieved technical adviser of Bayelsa United, Diepreye Teibowei, said the victory has defined the season for the Prosperity Boys despite the tension, saying that both sides gave their best.

Sunshine Stars technical adviser, Edith Agoye attributed the defeat to the rain that the weather did not allow the free flow of the ball describing the result as unfortunate.

He noted that he is hopeful of a super six place at the end of Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL. Bayelsa United are 7th in Group B with 18 points, 6poibts more than 9th placed Dakkada and 9bpoibts above bottom placed Wikki Tourists of Bauchi.

members of FC Bayern Youth Cup Nigeria in a group photo with some journalists in Enugu on Friday

By Amaechi Agbo

Arsenal fans in Gombe State, Northeast Nigeria, have suspended one Ibrahim Terrror after accusing him of publicly insulting its players and discouraging supporters.

The Dawaki West branch of the Arsenal Supporters made this known in a statement directed at the suspended member on Friday.

In football fans are rated the most critical stakeholders by any serious league across the globe and these supporters do everything possible not just to show support to their clubs but to remain important in the business of the football game. The place of football fans/ supporters in a football match cannot be sidelined.

For instance, in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic that engulfed the world in 2020 and killed millions, players across leagues cried for lack of fans on the stands following stadium closures against fans in order to minimize the spread of the virus.

Mourinho rejects Chelsea

Jose Mourinho reportedly rejected an approach from Chelsea as he waits to define his future with Roma.

The future of the 60-yearold Portuguese coach has been the topic of much discussion in recent months, with his current contract set to expire with the club in June of next year. He’s been linked with multiple jobs, including the Brazilian national team and Paris Saint-Germain.

Mourinho has reminded many of his quality in the dugout during his time with Roma, guiding them to their first ever major European title last season in the Europa Conference League. Things have been a little more difficult this campaign, but the Giallorossi are still in the Europa League semi-finals.

As reported by Corriere dello Sport, Mourinho was contacted by a Chelsea director, who wanted to discuss the possibility of him taking on the job in West London, adding him to the list of potential candidates.

The Portuguese coach made it clear that he had no interest in this, wanting to meet with owner Dan Friedkin and stay with Roma.

Arsenal supporters suspend fan in Gombe State for insulting players after Man City defeat

Teams are banned from allowing fans into their home stadium as a punishment for breaching the rule of the game. Such clubs are not only affected mentally psychologically, they also suffer “abandonment”

Consequently, fans hold the club’s they support very dear and close to their hearts and will do everything possible to “defend” the club and show solidarity from an opposing fans.

Fans bantering are common among the Nigeria football fans particularly the English Premier League followers. The EPL has a large fan-base in Nigeria more than any other League in Europe

Arsenal’s fan-base in Nigeria increased more this season following the club’s leadership of the EPL table

for a larger part of the league.

However, their leadership came “under attack” following their 4-1 loss against Manchester City on Wednesday last week. The defeat reduced the point gap between both teams to just two points and the defending champions finally overtook Arsenal on the log on Sunday following their hard-earned 2-1 win over Fulham.

Although Arsenal can regain their position with victory against Chelsea on Tuesday, but far away in Gombe State, North-East, Nigeria, an Arsenal fan has been “suspended” for insulting the club players following their humiliation against City.

The Gombe State branch of the Arsenal Supporters in a letter dated April 28 and signed by its Acting

Chairman, Vice Chairman and the Secretary, announced the suspension of one Ibrahim Terror from supporting the club for Insulting Arsenal players.

The letter noted that the suspension will last till end of the season and Mr Terror is expected to write an apology letter as his comment were capable of making other Arsenal fans fear that their club could lose the Premier League title.

The letter as obtained by our Correspondent reads:

“Peace be upon you,

“From today, Friday 28″April, 2023, after sitting with this club fans, we are suspending you from the fans of this club from now to 28 May,2023 which is towards the end of the season.

“The club has made this decision based on how you are insulting players and making other fans fear that Arsenal will not win (the league), we hope those with such attitude will avoid (it)

“Lastly, this group urges you to quickly write Apology Letter from the end of the Premier League.”

The letter was signed by the Acting Chairman, Mozey Dataz; Acting Vice Chairman, Sani Rolex and the Acting Secretary, Umar Henry.

Arsenal will take on Chelsea on Tuesday night and they are under immense pressure to beat the “struggling Londoners” in order to reclaim their top position on the Premier League echelon.

ex wife breaks silence after failed move to get

Hakimi’s

Estranged wife of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defender’s Achraf Hakimi, Hiba Abouk has broken the silence over her divorce from the Moroccan footballer.

The pair were in the news for days after the former wife filed for divorce with intent to get Hakimi’s 50% wealth

Abouk claimed that she was calm despite the rape allegation leveled against Hakimi, stressing that she needs time to recover from the shock.

Recall that the PSG player

50% wealth

was accused of rape in February which eventually led to the divorce despite the case being under investigation.

Abouk was shocked when she filed for fifty per cent of Hakimi’s property, only for her lawyer to discover that his wealth was in his mother’s name.

Abouk and Hakimi have two children, Amín, 3, and Naim, 1, together after the pair married in 2020, two years after meeting in 2018.

Speaking to ELLE on Wednesday, Abouk said, “I am

in divorce

fine. There are days when it is like this, and others in which you’ve to know how to take blows and make decisions, sometimes complicated, and get used to new situations.

“Who would’ve imagined that in addition to facing the usual pain that separation entails and accepting the grief that the failure of a family project to which I had given myself body and soul entails, I would’ve to face this ignominy? I needed time to digest this shock.

She further said “When you

separate, you restructure your life, but it’s not anything special either: you’ve to take iron out of the matter.

“It’s true that, with two children, it is emotionally complicated, but I’m not the first and I will not be the last. The important thing is that I have the peace of mind of having tried and done everything I had to do.

“There are decisions that cannot be made overnight. For me, it’s a premise not to rush in moments of crisis.”

Nigerian Arsenal supporters praying before a match