Monday, March 27, 2023 Edition

FG confirms May 3 for commencement of 2023 Census

The 2023 National Population and Housing Census is to commence on May 3 , the Federal Government has confirmed.

Dr Garba Abari, a member of the Publicity and Advocacy Committee on 2023 National Population and Housing Census, confirmed this on Sunday in Abuja when he appeared on the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum.

He said that the three-day exercise would commence May 3 and end on May 5 across the country.

Abari, who is the DirectorGeneral, National Orientation Agency (NOA), explained that the census exercise would capture every person, household and structure for national planning and project execution purposes.

According to him, the change in the date was due to

the postponement of the 2023 gubernatorial and state houses of assembly elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“That change by INEC made it mandatory for us to also adjust the date for the conduct of the exercise,” he said.

He described the census and the 2023 elections as major national events with significant importance which had earlier

been planned to hold not too far away from each other.

“ The census had to be put forward from the initial date of March 29 to April 2nd , now to May 3rd to 5th.

“There are two things that informed the shift in date. First, in the course of our planning by the National Population Commission, it was so factored that INEC will also tinker with its own electoral timetable.

APC Support Group backs Yari as 10th Senate President

The Amalgamated All Progressives Congress (APC) Support Groups (AASG) has endorsed Sen. Abdulaziz Yari, as President of the 10th Senate.

The Director-General of the group, Dr Kailani Muhammad, made this known while hosting Yari at a meeting in Abuja, on Saturday.

Muhammad called on all to

support the former Governor of Zamfara State to achieve his set goal.

He said that Nigerians should always pray for a better country where development was assured.

The group’s directorgeneral, who is also the National Chairman of the Tinubu/ Shettima Network (TSN), said the group acknowledged Yari’s work and would continue to

mobilise support for him.

Yari, while speaking at the meeting, promised to perform, if given a chance to become the next Senate President.

He said: “I commended this group that supported the APC in the last election.

“I observed the support of the group nationwide and their commitment to the party and to the President-elect and I

believe there are people that have credibility that can take this journey to the promise land.

“The decision that is going to be taken, this group will be of help for better APC in the future.

“I believe that I have versed knowledge of the system and I have the capacity to put everyone together for the purpose of the APC-led government in 2023 to 2027 to succeed.

Reps Deputy Minority leader congratulate Enugu Governor- elect, Mbah

By Christiana Ekpa

The Deputy Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Hon. Toby Okechukwu, has congratulated the governorelect of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, describing his election as a major step by the people of Enugu State at a time of severe national economic challenges. Okechukwu said Mbah’s manifesto had provided a

detailed and promising roadmap for Enugu State, adding that his agenda as enshrined in his manifesto would occasion the radical reforms needed for the socio-economic transformation of the state.

The lawmaker, who represents Aninri/Awgu/Oji River Federal Constituency, Enugu State, stated these in his congratulatory message to the governor-elect on Sunday.

He said: “On behalf of the good people of Aninri/Awgu/ Oji River Federal Constituency, I congratulate the governor-elect of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, and the people of Enugu State on this massive victory.

“It was a hard-won victory, but it is worth it, given the quality that Dr. Mbah is expected to bring to bear on the leadership of the State. He comes with a wealth of proven experience and track

record in the private sector space where he plies his trade.

“With his ambitious vision and programmes, his commitment to transforming Enugu State’s economy from the present $4.4 billion to $30 billion economy in eight years as well as taking the youth off the unemployment market and unleashing their potentials and creativity, I am supremely confident that Enugu people made the right choice”.

L-R: Katsina State Deputy Governor-elect, Hon. Farouk Jobe; Governor-elect, Dr Dikko Umaru Radda; Director General, Dikko/Jobe 2023 Campaign Council, Ahmed Dangiwa and Aide to the Governor-elect, Nura Tela, during Interactive Forum with the Media in Abuja , at the Weekend.

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has started nationwide sensitisation and advocacy to educate Nigerians about the forthcoming National Population and Housing Census. Director-General of the agency, Garba Abari, said this when he appeared on the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja on Sunday. He said that the sensitisation is to enlighten the public about the importance of census toward national planning and development.

Police nab 48 year old herbalist for allegedly murdering patient in Adamawa

From Umar Dankano,Yola

The Adamawa state

Police Cammand has apprehended a 48 year old herbalist,Ezekiel Buba of Gombiyel village in Shelleng local government area for allegedly slaughtering his patient a process of administering treatment.

Confessing to the crime in an interview with peoples Daily at Criminal Investigation Department, CID of the command in Yola weekend, Buba said that the relations of the deceased approached him with the complaint of his mental derailment illness where he obliged to assist.

Buba said the sick deceased was taken to his residence on Monday 20th March 2023 by his family from a neighbouring village,Kambillam.for a traditional medication confirming that after his consultation,he discovered the late to be suffering from mental illness and epilepsy.

Buba stated that while performing some rituals with a robe at his backyard, the demon assisting in the treatment descended in a whirlwind with knives and slit the throat of the late patient who was lying on the ground.

“I usually slaughter chickens for sacrifice to a blood thirsty demon solely to prevent it from harming anybody as failure to make sacrifice to the demon,a patient can not be cured.

“Honestly the demon possessed me at the time in which I acted out my senses and slaughtered the deceased to death with my bear hands which I am regretting now as I inherited this herbalist work from my grand mother for over thirty years (30) now.

“Already the demon has warned me in demanding for chickens to slaughtered and offer it the blood for sacrifice.I waiting for market day to buy these chickens for the sacrifice as demanded”.Buba advanced.

However,spokesman of the command,SP Suleiman Nguroje said the suspect would be taken to court for prosecution as soon as investigation is completed and pronounced guilty as charged.

Census: NOA begins nationwide sensitisation, advocacy

Abari, who is a member of the National Publicity and Advocacy Committee for the census said ‘’the National Population Commission (NPC) has an elaborate publicity in the media advocacy workplan that will definitely saturate the airwaves in the next few weeks starting from today.

‘’The NPC is not unaware of the role of advocacy, enlightenment and sensitisation in creating necessary awareness around the census issue.

‘’Now that we have put the general elections behind us, the next important national event ahead of us is the national census,” he said.

He, therefore, appealed to the media, Civil Society Organisations, religious and traditional leaders, as well as other stakeholders to sensitise the public about the exercise and encourage them to participate

Ramadan Timing Day 5

fully.

‘’The media, community leadership, community ombudsmen, religious leaders, professional groups, everybody will be brought on board through conscious, extensive and expansive process and programmes to ensure necessary knowledge, awareness among Nigerians.

‘’It is not as if Nigerians are not aware of the census, perhaps what they need to see is continuous and consistency in awareness.

‘’There will be consistent messages every minute through the media, radio, social media, town criers, newspaper, television and discussions,’’ he said.

He reiterated the commitment of NOA in carrying out sensitisation programmes across every local government, especially rural areas, on the need to be captured in the exercise. (NAN)

Development expert advises in-coming govt. to leverage on women

Adevelopment expert and researcher, Dr Nkemdilim Ene, has advised the in-coming administration to leverage on women to take development faster to grassroots communities in Nigeria.

Ene gave the advice in Abuja on Sunday while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the expectations of Nigerian women as the country gets set to inaugurate a new government on May 29.

On Feb. 25, Nigeria held a landmark presidential election, to keep democracy going in Africa’s most populous nation, which returned to elective governance in 1999 after years of military rule.

“Research has shown that the inclusion of women in leadership has contributed significantly to socio-economic growth.

“This shows that sustainable national development requires the contributions of women,’’ said Ene, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Preston Associates International Development Ltd., an Abujabased think-thank.

She described womenfolk as the magic wand that could be used by the government to engender development and make Nigeria to rise above its current challenges.

“I appeal to government to be deliberate in encouraging women and girls to partake in digital opportunities available to them because this can change lives of women and that of their immediate communities.’’

The researcher said that government should also find ways to utilise the opportunities offered by technology as a tool in promoting gender equality in Nigeria.

“It can be as simple as increasing access to smart phones, cash transfers and digital financial literacy skills that can strengthen women’s decision-making abilities and enhance bargaining power in their homes,’’ Ene advised.

Commenting on the justconcluded International Women’s Day, Ene said that the lot of women in Nigeria was getting brighter, “although a lot still has to be done.

“The theme for this year’s celebration – `DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality’ underscores the need to equip our women with technological know-how,’’ she stated.

The youthful Ene, who holds a bachelor of medicine and surgery degree also has expansive experience in public health and gender issues. (NAN)

(Source: Society for the Propagation of Islam Kaduna)

TIPS ON HEALTHY ‘IFTAR’

Choose lean proteins to get the benefits with little saturated fats. Include fish, skinless chicken or turkey and low-fat dairy to have as part of your iftar meal. If you’re vegetarian, you can select other protein sources such as legumes, beans and nuts.

(HealthyEating #Alarabiya.net)

Compiled By Al-Amin Ciroma

Osun Appeal Court decision victory for democracy – Arewa Youths

From Ahmad Muhammad, Bauchi

The Chairman Arewa Youths for the sustenance of Democracy and good governance Alhaji Salihu has said the victory of Osun Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, at the Court of Appeal was victory for democracy.

Addressing a Press Conference in Bauchi over the weekend Magaji said the judgment of the appellate court was a resounding affirmation of the expressed will of the people of Osun State in their quest for purposeful leadership and good governance in the State.

“You would recalled that the Court of Appeal on Friday upheld Adeleke’s victory at the July 16, 2022 governorship election after upturning the decision of the tribunal.”

He said the jubilation in Osun State and other States of the Federation is a testament of the fact that Adeleke’s election is not only a reflection of the aspiration of the majority of the people of Osun State but also that of millions of lovers of democracy across the nation.

Ramadan: Kaduna Pastor distributes bags of grains to journalists

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

Few days after the massive distribution of foodstuffs to over 1000 less privileged Muslims in Kaduna state, the General Overseer of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry Pastor Yohanna Buru has again doled out bags of grains to Muslim and Christian journalists in the state with aim of strengthening cordial relationship between both faiths.

Buru revealed that, Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and compassion towards others.

According to him, both Muslims and Christians are fasting at this season, and hence the need to strengthen them with foodstuff in promoting peace building through stories relating to peaceful journalism in the country.

He added that, Christians are also doing their lent at this season, which is going to last for 40 days.

NSCDC affirms commitment to protection of critical infrastructure

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reiterated its commitment towards the protection of all Critical Assets and Infrastructures such as Oil Pipelines, Telecommunication Equipment, Electrical Power Installations, Railways, Roads, Schools amongst others.

A statement issued yesterday by NSCDC spokesperson, Olusola Odumosu, said the Commandant General, Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, affirmed this while reacting to reports about some officers and men of the Rivers State Command allegedly involved in harassment and molestation of some members of staff of

the Port Harcourt Electrical Distribution Company (PHED) at Rumuola in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

He stated that the core mandate of leading in Critical Infrastructures Protection emplaced the responsibility of safeguarding public utilities and keeping the citizens safe at all time.

He expressed displeasure over the incident and ordered a full scale investigation to determine the truth or otherwise of the complaint by PHED with a view to appropriating the right disciplinary actions if the officers are culpable.

The State Commandant, Micheal Besong Ogar, on his part stated that as a stakeholder and provider of essential services

in Rivers Sttate, Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) remains an important partner enjoying focal attention for security coverage by the Command as evident in its deployment of men to guard their premises and facilities over the years.

He expresses regret over the action of his men and promises to get to the root of the matter, reiterating the Command’s commitment to continue working in synergy and harmony with all critical stakeholders in the state for the good of all.

“The officers were sent to PHED for enquiry into the unusual power outage experienced by the Command for days, not to intimidate or assault anyone.

“From the report at my disposal, there must have been a misunderstanding between the two parties, which may not have been properly handled.

“However, a committee had been set up to unravel what transpired and in due course, we will deal with the situation appropriately,” the Commandant said.

He frowns at the act of infringement and infraction on the fundamental human rights of innocent workers of the company, warning officers and men of the Command to desist from any public misconduct by applying the golden rule of the Corps which is “Humility and Integrity in service delivery” in the discharge of their duties at all time.

Senate President: Group canvasses support for Sen. Akpabio

Asocio-political group, Us4Us Movement, has canvassed the support of the national leadership of the All Progressive Congress (APC) for Sen. Godswill Akpabio to be become the 10th Senate President.

Convener of the group, Mr Richard Romanus, made the call during an interaction with newsmen after an extraordinary meeting of the group held on Sunday in Calabar.

Romanus said that Akpabio had made huge political sacrifices for the party; hence he should be rewarded and supported for the position of the 10th President of the Senate.

He explained that the Us4Us Movement is made up of young political enthusiasts across all

political parties in Nigeria.

According to him, the group exist with the sole aim of advancing the socio-political wellbeing of young people and advocating for good governance in Nigeria.

“Bearing in mind the huge sacrifices Sen. Akpabio made in the interest of the party and for stepping down his presidential ambition unconditionally for Sen. Bola Tinubu, he should be compensated.

“His stepping down overwhelmingly helped in midwifing a seamless victory for Sen. Tinubu during the national convention of the APC.

“Also, we are aware that Sen. Akpabio worked assiduously to deliver more than the

constitutionally required 25 per cent vote to the APC in a Peoples Democratic Party controlled state like Akwa Ibom.

“The leadership of Us4Us Movement hereby resolve to support and appeal for Sen. Akpabio to be elected as the Senate President of the incoming 10th Assembly.

“We call on the vast majority of elected Senators to galvanize their support for the Senate Presidential ambition of Akpabio,” he said.

Romanus added that in the interest of fairness and expanding the party in the South South geopolitical zone, the leadership of the APC should zone the office of the Senate President to the South-South region.

He noted that the Us4Us Movement was of strong opinion that the interest of young people, especially within the South-South geopolitical zone, would be best protected by Akpabio as Senate President.

“We the members of Us4Us Movement hereby unanimously adopt and endorse Akpabio for Senate President, on the strength of his unrivalled track record of performance and commitment to the party and the people of Nigeria.

“We urge other elected members of the incoming 10th Senate and the leadership of the APC to overwhelmingly support Akpabio in the spirit of fairness, credibility and competence,” he said. (NAN)

Peace Commission Member, Sa’in Lere, Muhammad Yusuf,- Executive Vice Chairman, Sale Mamale,-during the Press Conference by the 2023 Peaceful Elections Monitoring Committee holds by Peace Commission in kaduna on Friday 24/3/23

NDLEA nab business man, intercepts cocaine, meth going to Vietnam, Brazil, Italy

By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have arrested a businessman, Molokwu Nwachukwu, who frequents China, Dubai, Pakistan, and Vietnam, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja Lagos for concealing thirty-six (36) parcels of cocaine in different parts of his checkin bags, hand luggage and two pairs of slippers, while heading to Southeast Asia. NDLEA in a statement issued on Sunday by Femi Babafemi,

its Director, Media & Advocacy, said Molokwu was arrested at the screening point of the MMIA Terminal 2 while attempting to board his flight to Vietnam on Wednesday 22nd March.

“A total of thirty-six parcels of whitish powdery substance that tested positive to Cocaine with a gross weight of 1.00 kilogram were recovered from the handles of his bags and soles of two pairs of slippers in his luggage.

“The suspect claims he travels frequently to China, Dubai, Pakistan and Vietnam, from where he imports baby wears he distributes from his Onitsha, Anambra state base.”

In the same vein, NDLEA operatives at the Lagos airport have thwarted attempt by a suspect, Chimezie Innocent Nwafor to export 2.10 kilograms of methamphetamine to Brazil.

“Follow up operations led to the arrest of three more suspects linked to the consignment at Oyingbo market, Yaba, Lagos. They include: Ifeanyi Onu; Simon Nwuzor and Omini ThankGod Peter. The meth consignment was molded into 25 bars of local black soup called Dudu Osun and packaged in a carton for export to Brazil.

“A similar attempt to export a cocaine consignment consisting

of 300grams of raw cocaine and 200grams of phenacetin, a chemical agent used to adulterate and increase the volume of cocaine, concealed in packs of air freshener, going to Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, was also foiled by NDLEA operatives attached to the SAHCO export shed at the Lagos airport on Monday 20th March. A suspect, Onyeze Obiora has already been arrested in connection with the seizure.

“Another bid by an intending passenger to Reggio, Italy, Osasere MacDonald, to export 500grams of tramadol 225mg concealed inside a carton of

indomie noodles on Tuesday 21st March was equally frustrated by vigilant officers who seized the drugs and arrested him.

“On the same day, operatives of the Tincan Port command of the Agency also intercepted 107 kilograms of Cannabis Indica popularly known as Colorado hidden in a container bearing four used vehicles imported from Toronto, Canada. Few days later, Friday 24th March, Apapa Command of Customs Service was able to apprehend and hand over to NDLEA two suspects: Ademola Adekunle and Dayo Olatunji linked to the consignment.

“In Edo, operatives on Friday 24th March intercepted in Auchi, Etsako West LGA, a DAF trailer marked ZUR 378 XJ (Kebbi) with 69 bags of Cannabis Sativa weighing 700kg concealed under bags of fertiliser. While the bags of fertiliser were to be delivered in Funtua, Katsina state, the cannabis consignment was to be dropped in Kaduna. Both the driver of the truck, Babangida Mande and his assistant Mandir Abdullahi are already in custody. Another suspect, Ijarekhai Ogbewee was arrested on Thursday 23rd March at Ishokha Quarters, Otuo, Owan East LGA, with 32kg of the same substance.

“A female drug dealer, Mrs. Kudirat Bello was nabbed in Igbesa area of Ogun state on Monday 20th March, with different quantities of methamphetamine, cannabis and rophynol along with N119, 600.00 monetary exhibit.

“In Delta, 96 compressed blocks of cannabis weighing 82kg concealed inside jumbo bags of cassava flour were recovered at Basket Market, Asaba, while a total of 164, 750 pills of opioids mainly tramadol were seized from two suspects: Henry Abuchi and Daniel Ugwoke, in parts of Taraba state. No fewer than 45 blocks of compressed cannabis weighing 23kg were recovered along Okene - Abuja highway from Abubakar Muhammad, in a Toyota Hiace bus coming from Lagos and going to Maiduguri on Tuesday 21st March in Kogi state.”

DSS warns against desperation to ignite violence

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

The Department of State Service (DSS), again, alerts the public of plans to violently disrupt peace in the country.

The Service which Issued the alert in a statement issued on Saturday by Peter Afunanya, its Public Relations Officer, warned those desperate to cause

a breakdown of law and order to desist from that.

It would be recalled that the Service had earlier advised political players to abide by the rules of engagement as well as approach the courts for redress, if and where there are suspicions of infractions on extant electoral laws. “It is evident that some aggrieved politicians are already taking advantage of this legal

process. This, without doubt, is the beauty of democracy. It is strongly believed that this approach enhances peace and security. All and sundry should cherish it.

“Be that as it may, the DSS will not tolerate a situation where persons and/or groups take laws into their hands and champion anarchy. Those peddling fake news, hate speech and all forms of false narratives as basis to

ignite violence or pit the people against the present or incoming administrations, at the Federal, State and Parliamentary levels, should stop forthwith. Those inciting violence have nothing to gain as doing so will not only consume them but also the innocent. It is otherwise disturbing to see respected personalities use their platforms to mislead or incite citizens. This, to say the least,

does not augur well for peaceful coexistence and general order.

“Therefore, the Service will continue to take necessary measures to checkmate these elements who do not wish the country well. This is to ensure that the conducive environment is provided for citizens and residents to pursue their legitimate businesses. A stitch in time, they say, saves nine. Let all be guided”.

General overseer of Christ evangelical and life intervention ministry pastor. Yohanna buru,-(5th L) with Some Muslim and Christian journalists has again dole out bags of grains to them in kaduna on Sunday 26/3/23

Ramadan: Ansarud-deen tasks leaders on equality, welfare of citizens

Ansar-ud-deen Society of Nigeria has urged leaders at all levels to fear Allah and ensure equality of all citizens irrespective of their religious, tribal and political affiliations.

The Chairman, Northern States’ Council Missioners of Ansar-ud-deen, Sheikh Muhydeen Ajani-Bello, made the call at the 28th Annual Ramadan lecture and Special Prayer for the nation held at the society’s Mosque, MaitamaAbuja on Saturday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of of the lecture was: “Ramadan: Islam and Good Governance, the Role of Muslim”.

Ajani-Bello, who was the Guest Lecturer at the event, also emphasised the need for leaders to take the issues bordering on the welfare and well-being of the citizens more seriously.

He said: “As a leader, you have to govern well. Everybody is very important to you either being a Muslim or Christian in as much as you are their leader.

“You must look at their welfare, it is very important and you should allow them to advise you because you should have advisers among them those who can advise you constructively and if you listen to their advice it will guide you.”

Earlier, the Chief Imam of Ansar-ud-deen Abuja Mosque, Dr Musa Olaife, enjoined all the newly elected and reelected leaders to fulfill their campaign promises.

“Our leaders, especially the newly elected ones need to be very upright and sincere in their dealings and fulfill all their promises, because we are tired of promised and fail it too much in this country,” he said.

Also, the Co-Chairperson of the Day and daughter of the President-elect, Mrs Folashade Tinubu, appealed to all Nigerians to intensify prayers for the success of the incoming government of Sen. Bola Tinubu and Vice President-elect, Sen Kashim Shettima.

She said: “I appreciate all Nigerians that supported and voted them and it is not over yet, we need to pray for them to do the needful.

“We also need to pray for them to be able to do things that will satisfy the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.”

Earlier, the Chairman of Abuja branch of the soceity, Alhaji Mohammad Olayiwola implored all Muslims to justify the benevolence of Allah on them by sharing their prosperity

Al-Habibiyyah to feed 2,000 muslims daily during Ramadan

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Al-Habibiyyah

Islamic Society has said it has commenced daily free Ramadan feeding for 2,000 persons to maximize the rewards of the holy month.

The chief imam of the society, Fuad Adeyemi, disclosed this at its 19 National Unity Ramadan Lecture,

yesterday in Abuja.

He also charged Muslims to form their lives based on the teaching of the Holy Quran and Ramadan, adding that this month should serve as a great opportunity.

The Imam said, “Over the years, the first day of Ramadan usually recorded a relatively low turnout and we peaked by the 4th or 5th day of

Ramadan, we were marveled this year, we prepared 1,000 meals and we were surprised that the first-day turnout was over 2000, meaning this is a challenge,but we have a firm belief in Allah, that with you, the challenge will be surmountable.”

Speaking on this year’s theme, Imam explained that, “the lessons of Ramadan will

give us a guide on how we can reform our life If you also look at what becomes a word revolution in the name of Islam, it started in Ramadan and Ramadan has a link with the Quran, so it means we should look at Ramadan this time around with the current challenges we are facing in the area of leadership, economy, and society.”

Groups urge FG to reactivate policies on water

Volunteer groups from civil society organisations have urged the Nigerian government to reactivate policies on water to curb pollution.

They jointly gave the urge in Abuja during a campaign to mark the World Water Day 2023. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Climate and Sustainable Development Network (CSDevNet) led a team from the African Activists for Climate on a clean – up of the Jabi Lake Park.

CSDevNet National Network Coordinator, Mr Abu Steve, called on government to use the opportunity of the World Water Day celebration to reinforce the policies on waterways.

Steve said that if Nigeria must conserve biodiversity and manage her water very well, the issue of plastic wastes must be

taken seriously.

“Should in case these policies are lying dormant, it is time to reactivate them to make them guide us.

“It is time to sensitise the people on how to reuse, recycle some of these plastics instead of dumping them anyhow.

“We have life under water, that this source of pollution of plastic wastes are dangerous to,” he said.

Steve said the World Water Day 2023 is an important day and called on the government to take action on water related issues in the country.

“We call on these companies that produce plastic to enforce a law on how to take back the wastes from the society.

“We are also calling on the public to change their lifestyles of littering the environment with plastics and other wastes,”

he said.

Mr Femi Olubiyo, a volunteer from CSDevNet said that their main objective at the Jabi Lake Park was to create awareness and sensitise the public on how to keep water clean to be healthy for humans and animals.

“In safeguarding our environment, everyone has a role to play, we can’t just leave it for the government alone.

“When we fail to take care of our water, it threatens sustainable development, biodiversity and peoples’ access to good water and sanitation,” Olubiyo warned.

Ms Bilkisu Aliyu, a volunteer decried the lack of waste bins around the Abuja metropolis and called on stakeholders in charge of waste collection to introduce them.

Aliyu urged the management of Jabi Lake Park to ensure that

there are sanitation security officers within the lake, to checkmate the dumping of plastics and other wastes within the park.

Mr Paul Sambo, who is also a volunteer in the clean – up exercise decried the level of indiscriminate dumping of plastics in the water bodies.

NAN report that the World Water Day 2023 is celebrated with the theme: “Accelerating Change”.

NAN further reports that the World Water Day is held annually on March 22, since 1993.

The day celebrates water and raises awareness of the two billion people living without access to safe water.

The World Water Day is about accelerating change to solve the water and sanitation crisis. (NAN)

Peace Commission Member, Sa’in Lere, Muhammad Yusuf,- Executive Vice Chairman, Sale Mamale,-during the Press Conference by the 2023 Peaceful Elections Monitoring Committee holds by Peace Commission in kaduna on Friday 24/3/23

FCT: AMAC Chair promises to reconstruct Tungan Madaki bridge

By Usman Shuaibu

The Executive Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, has promised the residents to reconstruct Tungan Madaki collapsed bridge in the community.

Maikalangu, who made this pledge when he visited the site of the collapsed bridge alongside some of his appointed politicians, saying that he would do everything possible to reconstruct the collapsed bridge.

He told the community leaders as well as the youths that some of his political aides accompanied him to the site of the collapsed bridge in order to ascertain the correct assessment of the work to be carrying out there.

He then assured the people of the community that the work would soon begin at the site, noting that the collapsed bridge would cut-off many people to have access to the community.

Maikalangu, who responded to the questions from the community leaders and residents in Tungan Madaki, expressed with dismay that due to the incident of the collapsed bridge the farmers could no longer transport their farm produce to the neighboring communities, as he said even the students from the FCT College of Education who resident in Tungan Madaki find it difficult to go to school.

Meanwhile, the community leaders and the entire residents of the community where delighted with the Chairman on the inspection tour to the site of the collapsed bridge.

Ramadan: Sultan urges Muslims to pray for stability, peace

rom: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The Sultan of Sokoto and President of Jama’atu

Nasril Islam (JNI) Alhaji

Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar has enjoined Muslim in Nigeria to seriously intensify prayers for stability, economic well being and peace of the country.

This was contained in a statement by Secretary-General, of JNI Dr. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu and made available to the media in Kaduna yesterday.

The statement stated that this year’s Ramadan is unique in many ways; coming on the heels of the just concluded 2023 General Elections, and within the midst of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) currency policy that is still biting too hard on the citizens, despite efforts in

ameliorating its negative impacts.

JNI admonished the faithful to use this year’s Ramadan period to seek Allah’s favours and equally pray fervently for the newly elected leaders at all levels for Allah’s guidance, support and wisdom to steer the country out of its present predicaments to greater heights.

“As we know, Ramadan is a month of the Glorious Qur’an, because it was revealed to Baytel- Izzah within the month of Ramadan, the month of Du’a (supplication) and Dhikr (Allah’s remembrance), the month of Zakah and Sadaqah (giving alms to poor and charity), and the month of Qiyamul-Layl (standing in the night for prayers).

“ In fact, it is the month wherein the night of declaration is witnessed, the night of destiny

I remain APGA Chairman – Oye

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)

Dr Victor Oye says his position as the party’s chairman is not in dispute because the Supreme Court has not delivered a fresh judgement on the matter. Oye said this at a news conference on Friday in Abuja.

He said that the briefing was to make some clarifications on the rumours that the Supreme Court had given fresh judgement on the chairmanship tussle between himself and Mr Edozie Njoku which was settled on Oct.14,2021.

He said that the supreme only sat on Friday to correct a clerical error.

He said that following a judgement which purportedly affirmed the factional National Convention of APGA held in Owerri,Imo, he approached the Court of Appeal in Kano to set aside the judgement.

He said that consequent upon that,the Court of Appeal delivered a judgement on Aug.10 ,2021 which allowed the Appeal Court to set aside the judgment of the Jigawa High Court and the Supreme Court also upheld the Appeal Court’s judgement on Oct.14 ,2021.

He said that it was an act of mischief for people to contemplate that the Supreme Court delivered another judgement on March 24.

“The news have been going around about a purported judgement by the Supreme Court today ; there was no judgement by the Supreme Court. No fresh judgement by the Supreme Court at all.

“The Supreme Court sat today for less than 10 minutes, to correct a clerical error on page 13 of the judgement that they delivered on Oct. 14, 2021.

” What was the clerical error? At the

and majesty which is better than a thousand months.

“By being among the chosen ones to witness this blessed month, we are expected to perform all spiritual acts associated with Ramadan, the very best we could and engage in spiritual introspection to rediscover our relationship with Allah, the Most High, in our respective undertakings.

“We should use the period to ask these soul searching questions; do we really want Allah, the Most High, to be pleased with us?

“ Do we actually believe in the life after death and yet we commit all forms of mindboggling atrocities? Do we seek for Allah’s mercy, forgiveness and apt intervention over the many ills we are presently facing in the

Jigawa Birnin Kudo High Court, Edozie Njoku’s name was mentioned there as having purported suspended by the party,a fact alleged in the summons filed at the Jigawa High Court which was thrown away by the Appeal Court Kano.

“So that clerical error was just on page 13 of the judgment of the Supreme Court, just one name ,Edozie Njoku to replace my name there because my name was not mentioned at the Birnin Kudo High Court.

“This is because I have never been suspended by anybody; I have always been the National Chairman of the party because I was duly elected by a national convention of the party held on May 31, 2019 in Akwa monitored by INEC,” he said.

He reiterated that on Oct. 14 2021, the Supreme Court affirmed the judgement of Court of Appeal Kano after the appeal

country?

“This is the time to remain meditative and diligently work for redemption.

“Ramadan is a retreat where we are drilled on all aspects of Islamic teachings and Muslim life. We are expected to be attentive and practical during this retreat period in order to sharpen our understanding and practice as well as strengthen our relationship with Allah (SWT).

“At the end of the retreat, we come out as better Muslims; spiritually and physically in every aspect of our lives.

“We also urge the Government, to as a matter of national interest and from the point of security threat, arrest and prosecute all perpetrators of heinous crimes against humanity in any part of the country. “

affirmed him as National Chairman, resting on the judgement of an Awka High Court which had not been appealed till date.

He said there was no basis for a fresh case because the Supreme Court had affirmed the judgement of the Court of Appeal and dismissed all applications for joinder.

“It was dismissed ,so there was no way the Supreme Court would have sat in judgement over its own judgement , because as far as we are concerned that judgement is Res judicata ,it has been dealt with and gone forever,so Njoku cannot be Chairman.”

Oye expressed disappointment over some media reports on the issue which were without clarification or balancing, adding that the story indicating fresh judgement was fake news.(NAN)

President Muhammadu Buhari receives in audience the Kebbi State Governor, Sen Abubakar Atiku Bagudu at the State House Anuja.

PHOTO; State House

The Lagos State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has congratulated Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun on his Appeal Court’s victory.

The News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN) reports that the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja on Friday annulled the Osun Governorship Election Tribunal’s decision and upheld Adeleke as the rightful governor of Osun in a unanimous decision by a three-man panel headed by Justice Mohammed Shuaibu.

It would be recalled that the Osun governorship election tribunal annulled the July 16, 2022 election of Adeleke and declared the incumbent, Gov. Gboyega Oyetola the winner.

Osun: Lagos PDP congratulates Gov. Adeleke, wants justice in party’s court cases

Reacting, Lagos PDP Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Hakeem Amode told NAN that the chapter was happy the appellate court affirmed the mandate given to Adeleke at the poll.

“”The entire leadership and members of PDP in Lagos state are elated with this victory. It is heartwarming.

“We are looking forward to getting justice in all our court cases across the country,” Amode

said.

Commending the judiciary, Amode said that the judges were expected to be above board without being intimidated or influenced by corrupt politicians in any matter before them.

“The Judiciary is supposed to be the hope of the people but what happens nowadays in our clime worries so many people.

“Where do people run to if judges and justices meant to stand in the gaps and dispense

justice now allow themselves to be influenced because of money?

“Our society is what it is today because of the compromise in our justice system.

“The only way our society can be saner and compete favourably with the western world is when evil people, no matter their influence and affluence, power and position, can no longer evade justice in the law court.

“We are happy with this judgment and wish justice will

be rightly dispensed in all cases of electoral frauds in the justconcluded general elections,” he said.

According to him, if Nigerian leaders and citizens, have the consciousness that there will be consequences for actions, everyone will sit tight and change negative attitude in the society.

Amode urged the judiciary across levels to rebuild Nigerians’ confidence in the justice system of the country.(NAN)

Wild Africa Fund unveils Nigeria’s first wildlife show for kids

Wild Africa Fund has launched a new wildlifefocused television series, Dr Mark Animal TV Show, for kids between ages seven and 14.

This is contained in a statement by Wild Africa Fund Nigeria’s Representative, Mr Festus Iyorah, on Saturday in Lagos.

“The kiddies show premieres this Saturday and every other Saturday at 8.45 a.m. on Silverbird TV DSTV channel 252, StarTimes Channel 109, and GOTV channel 92/192.

“The show will educate children between ages seven and 14 on Nigeria’s amazing wildlife and the need to protect them,” the statement said.

It said that Nigeria had become a transit hub for the illegal wildlife trade of pangolin scales and ivory in the last few years.

The statement noted that the Nigeria Customs Service had made four major seizures of pangolin scales, ivory, and other wildlife parts in the last 13 months.

It added that there was a growing appetite for bushmeat consumption, especially among urban dwellers in Nigeria.

“Conservationists say illegal wildlife trade and a demand for bushmeat have sharply declined Nigeria’s wildlife and biodiversity.

“They estimate that Nigeria has fewer than 50 lions, 100 gorillas, 500 elephants, and 2,300 chimpanzees left in the wild.

“Generally, ignorance and low awareness about Nigeria’s amazing biodiversity and the importance wild animals play in the environment have contributed to the continuous destruction of Nigeria’s wildlife.

“These existential challenges have inspired the need for public awareness and educational

materials that educate the general public, especially young people who are best equipped to save our environment for future generations,” it said.

The statement quoted Mr Peter Knights, Founder of Wild Africa Fund and the Executive producer of the new TV show as saying that kids would enjoy the show.

“We hope that kids will be

excited to learn about these animals and how we must protect them for their futures,” Knights said.

The statement added that Mark’s Animal TV show would enlighten children on the human and ecological importance of wild animals such as pangolins, lions and African grey parrots, among others.

It said that the children would

also learn fun facts about these animals including domestic animals like dogs.

The statement said that a quiz competition had been scheduled to inspire retentive knowledge in kids at the end of the show.

It said that the animal show comes at a time local content for children, especially on the environment, is nonexistent.

The statement also quoted

Iyorah as saying that Wild African Fund would continue to invest in educational wildlife content.

“We plan to invest in educational wildlife content that will empower children as the next generation of wildlife ambassadors.

“We expect children to impact their cycle of influence with what they learnt from watching the show,” he said. (NAN)

L-R: Ambassador to Republic of Colombia, Ms. Maricel Romero Cantillo; Chief Executive, Medicaid Cancer Foundation, Dr. Zainab Bagudu and Managing Director, Nigeria Health Watch, Vivianne Ihekweazu, during the Celebrating Womanhood Art Gala 2023: Elevating Women’s Voices for Quality Maternal Healthcare on Friday in Abuja

FG signs MoU with NSCC to standardize older persons’ health care

By Albert Akota

The Federal Ministry of Health has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Senior Citizen Center (NSCC) to create action plans for the provision of healthcare services for older persons across the country.

The Director General, NSCC Dr Emem Omokaro, while speaking at the signing of the MoU in Abuja, said the aim of the MoU was to standardize the care of older persons with certified

healthcare agencies.

The DG noted that the challenges facing older persons are intersecting ranging from income, insecurity, health challenges in terms of affordable, accessible, appropriate and acceptable, multi-dimensional poverty, and malnutrition.

She noted different types of care for older persons to include health and social care services, domiciliary care, family care, community care, respite care, and palliative care among others. According to her, NSCC does not have the professional

department to deal with these things which is why a MoU is important to deal with the provisions of such care for older persons.

She said all the professional bodies in the health sector are being brought together such that they can own the process and understand the statutory mandate that they are supposed to play.

Omokaro said there is a need to map out how to finance and provide innovative insurance to assist the older person to have access to health and social care

services.

The Director, Head Gender, adolescent, school health and elderly division Federal Ministry of Health Dr John Ovuoraye in his remarks explained that the MoU is important to the achievement of universal health coverage.

He said with the MoU, ministries will begin to have a line budget to address the needs of older persons adding that with MoU on the ground international partners will be willing to key into supporting older persons and ensure more resources are made available.

Indian envoy urges Nigerians to embrace Yoga for wellbeing

The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Gangandharan Balasubramanian, has called on Nigerians to embrace Yoga practice as a way of improving their physical and mental wellbeing.

The High Commissioner told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja that Yoga should be seen as another form of exercise that helps condition the body and mind for optimum benefit.

“Yoga is a form of exercise that is very good for physical and mental well-being, it can also help enhance vitality, focus and productivity,” Balasubramanian said.

He said in view of the enormous benefits of Yoga, the High Commission in Abuja had opened free Yoga classes for members of the public, which would also help to deepen relations between both countries.

“I am happy to announce to the Nigerian public that we have opened our free yoga classes at the High Commission of India, Abuja, so our Nigerian friends should avail themselves of this opportunity.

“We have an excellent facilitator (Mr Dipitiranjan Mohanty), who has a PhD in Yoga and has been sent by the government of India to the mission.

“The classes are of course free from 4.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. on week days (after registration) and we believe this will help improve our health; also deepen relations between both countries, ” he said.

The High Commissioner assured that plans were underway to further strengthen the cordial bilateral relations between both countries.

NAN reports that Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originates from India.

The word ‘Yoga’ is derived from Sanskrit, meaning to join or to unite, symbolising the union of body and consciousness.

As part of the growing appeal for Yoga, the United Nations on Dec. 11, 2014, proclaimed June 21, as the International Day of Yoga by resolution 69/131. (NAN)

2023 census will be digital- NOA

The 2023 National Population and Housing Census will be conducted digitally to ensure credibility and efficiency, Dr Garba Abari, the Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), says.

He made this known when he featured on the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja on Sunday.

Abari, who is a member of the National Publicity and Advocacy Committee on Census, said the exercise would be facilitated by the use of digital technology, contrary to previous census conducted in the country.

He said ‘’this is one census that is going to be different from

previous ones. To enhance the credibility of the exercise, this census is going to be digital.

‘’In the house listing and numbering, the National Population Commission (NPC) has perfected the space and got the point much beyond what google has done in the mapping.

‘’In terms of specificity and the correctness of the capture of every house and hamlet in Nigeria, NPC has gone far beyond what google had done.

‘’We may not say that we are absolutely 100 per cent correct, but 99 per cent of all houses, structures within the enclave of Nigeria’s territory had been captured digitally, far beyond

what google can provide in terms of specificity.’’

The NOA boss explained that the digitalisation of the exercise would enhance credibility, ensure accurate data and respond to modern technology, in line with global practice.

He said ‘’digitalisation will enhance the credibility because there is a common template for the exercise and that is all will be sent to the cloud.

‘’In our previous census exercises, we allowed perhaps owning to lack of sufficient knowledge about what the entire exercise is about.

‘’It was looked at from the prism of one region is larger

than the other; one state is bigger than another, one local government is bigger than another, one senatorial district is bigger than another.

‘’And in the process, you miss out the most important element of the programme, which is getting sufficient data for planning.

“But the 2023 census is going to be a scientific census; a digital census that responds to the reality of today, responds to the information and technological revolution; it is a census that is aimed at bringing in credible, acceptable, open and transparent force,’’ he said. (NAN)

Guber polls: PDP women wing protest APC winning in Kaduna

From:

Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The women wing of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State has expressed displeasure over the governorship election result announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

INEC had declared Senator Uba Sani of the All Progressives Congress (APC) winner of the election.

The women, who staged a

peaceful protest to Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat on Thursday to register their displeasure, displayed various placards.

Some of the placards read: “A stolen Mandate is Not Acceptable”, “Give Us Who We Voted For”, “No to election rigging”, “Kaduna State has spoken”, “Give us who we voted”, “Kaduna people elected, INEC selected”, “No to Result Manipulation”.

Addressing newsmen in Kaduna, Aisha Maidana

Ibrahim, former Kaduna State women leader and PDP women leader northwest zone, and Maria Dogo, former House of Assembly member representing Chikun constituency and former Commissioner, women affairs, said, “The people of Kaduna State came out Saturday, March 18 to massively voted for Isa Ashiru, the PDP gubernatorial candidate. Everybody heard the result and wondered why INEC should change the result in favour of the APC candidate.”

Ibrahim accused INEC of stealing the mandate of the people of Kaduna State and giving it to the APC, alleging that various results were reduced in most local government areas.

She explained that INEC should be free, fair and objective in dealing with Nigerians to give them what they voted for.

According to Maria Dogo, “INEC should refer it to the server to get the correct result of the election from every polling unit to avoid any controversy.”

Nigerian Navy during the decoration ceremony of Rear Admirals, held at the Naval Headquarters on Thursday in Abuja. Photo: DINFO

UNIBEN wins Africa outstanding varsity award in Rwanda

The University of Benin has won the Africa Outstanding University Award of the Year for 2023 in Rwanda.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Lilian Salami,

was also honoured as Africa Pillar of Education for her impact in education development on the continent.

According to a statement by the institution’s Public Relations Officer,

Dr. Benedicta Ehanire on Saturday in Benin, the awards were presented at the 1st Africa Education Summit, held at the University of Rwanda in Kigali. Ehanire said besides her

leadership role in the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Federal Universities, Prof. Salami was also the Vice President of the Association of African Universities with headquarters in Ghana.

This position, the public relations officer said, the vicechancellor had utilised to project and promote the achievements of many African universities, including the University of Benin. (NAN)

Firm highlights benefits of Canadian Start-Up Visa programme for Nigeria entrepreneurs

Mobility Options, a global immigration consultancy firm, has urged Nigerian entrepreneurs to take advantage of the Canadian Start-Up Visa programme to improve their businesses.

President, Mobility Options, Mrs Ebi Obaro, said this in a statement signed by Mrs Tukeni Obasi, Vice President, Diaspora, Mobility Options, on Saturday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Canadian Government’s StartUp Visa Programme offers a unique opportunity for talented entrepreneurs around the world to establish their innovative businesses in Canada.

According to Obaro, the programme presents a lifeline for entrepreneurs seeking to establish their innovative startups on the stable foundation presented by Canada.

She stated that Canada’s economy experienced one of the fastest recoveries among advanced economies after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

She added that the country, in a bid to address a major labour shortage, announced intentions to drastically expand the number of immigrants with a goal of 500,000 arriving each year by 2025.

“The programme presents a lifeline for Nigerian entrepreneurs seeking to build their companies on a stable and welcoming foundation given the current political climate in Nigeria.

“Only 46 countries currently grant Nigerian citizens visafree or visa-on-arrival access, as opposed to 188 countries, including the Schengen and EU nations, the United States, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, and Hong Kong, for holders of Canadian passports.

“The Canadian StartUp Visa Programme allows foreign entrepreneurs to create innovative businesses in Canada and apply for permanent residency.

“With its leading trade market, the programme aims to provide permanent residence to

entrepreneurs, active company investors, and expanding businesses that seek to establish a presence in Canada.

Obaro added that Mobility Options would continue to provide services for high-networth individuals who desired speedy travel processes for trade, business and personal needs without the laborious processes

of travelling.

Obasi, Mobility Options VP, added that the programme aimed to provide permanent residence to entrepreneurs, active company investors, and expanding businesses that sought to establish a presence in Canada. She said that to get permanent residency in Canada, foreign entrepreneurs must

submit an innovative, scaling start-up business that had been accepted by one of the specified organisations – business incubators, angel investors, or venture capitalists.

“Once approved, the client receives a letter of support, allowing them and their family to apply for permanent residency.

“Canadian citizens enjoy

a high standard of living in multicultural, easy-going, and vibrant cities.

“It is an excellent place to do business, with access to the entire North American market.

“To learn more about mobility options and its citizenship by investment programs, please visit https://www.moptions.org/,” she said. (NAN)

Yoruba, Igbo leader graduate from Open University

By Usman Shuaibu

The Otunba (Yoruba leader) of Yoruba Community in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Dr Wasiu Tunwase as well as the Igbo traditional title holder (Aguiyi Jesu Na Nanka), Chief Chima Francis Umeh have graduated from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).

Both Otunba and Chief Chima Francis Umeh read Entrepreneurship and Business Management in the Faculty of Management Science.

In an interview after the graduation ceremony at the

Headquarters of the University, Jabi, Abuja on Saturday, Otunba said he was delighted being among the students who graduated from the University today.

He commended the staff and the Management of the University for encouraging the students in their studies, pointing out that the staffers were disciplined in terms of time frame.

He also hailed the management of the University for putting in place infrastructural facilities to enhance learning, lamenting that Open University was one of the best universities in the world. Otunba, therefore, thanked

the Almighty God who provided everything for him to overcome his studies in the University, while advising the students to always obey the laid down rules and regulations guiding the University.

On his part, Chief Chima Francis Umeh in an interview, appealed to the Federal Government to deem it necessary to take Open University to the grassroots so as to enable the less privileged to have access to education there.

He said the National Open University of Nigeria was not an institution for lazy students, pointing out he learnt a lot from

the University.

He described the Open University as a Centre for academic excellence, saying that the students must read before passing their examinations.

Umeh, however, disclosed that there was no room for examination malpractice in the University.

Speaking earlier, the ViceChancellor, Prof. Olufemi A. Peters, revealed that a total number of 28,675 students graduated from the institution this year.

Peters advised the outgoing students to be good ambassadors of the University anywhere they found themselves.

AHF urges world leaders to focus on TB prevention to save lives

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

As Nigeria joined the rest of the world to mark World Tuberculosis (TB) Day on March 24, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), has called on world leaders to focus on prevention so as to save lives.

AHF said the day is about honoring the millions of lives lost to TB while renewing the urgency around prevention, treatment, and research for the world’s deadliest infectious disease, which has been a crisis for many decades.

It urged stakeholders to join the NGO in its “Yes! We Can End TB” events globally on World TB Day to support everyone affected by TB and encourage world leaders to do their part in ending this disease that is 100% preventable and treatable.

AHF said in 2021, TB claimed 1.6 million lives, and over 10

million people acquired TB, yet it remained woefully neglected and underfunded in many countries.

“Even though tuberculosis is a global epidemic, over 95% of TB deaths occur in lower-income countries. The World Health Organization currently estimates that finances were less than 40% of what was needed to prevent and treat TB in 2022.”

It said the time is now for heads of state to urgently focus efforts on TB prevention and mitigate millions of avoidable deaths.

“AHF has made TB a top priority with efforts focused on educating our staff and clients, screening for TB in our clinics, and prioritizing, preventing, and treating HIV/TB co-infection, the number one cause of death for people living with HIV. As a preventable and treatable disease, world leaders must do more to end TB, and we’re calling on them to do just that on World TB

Day and beyond,” said Terri Ford, AHF Chief of Global Advocacy and Policy. “With our World TB Day theme ‘Yes! We Can End TB,’ AHF urges all governments and public health institutions to do their part to ensure TB research, prevention, and treatment programs are fully funded and supported. We all must do more to finally stop TB worldwide, particularly in lowerincome countries.”

AHF country teams are using World TB Day to send letters to their respective heads of state, calling on them to attend the United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB this September to show their commitment to ending tuberculosis in their countries.

AHF will also host a “Reviving TB Advocacy Worldwide” panel discussion with public health thought leaders and TB experts at the Consortium of Universities for Global Health conference on April

13.

“Ending TB for us in Nigeria must come with intensified level of case finding and for patients who show up in hospitals to embrace treatment, which is free across health facilities in the country.

“Importantly, we must increase the funding available to TB, improve the level of education and awareness about TB, as well as engage pointedly, the rising incidences of stigma related to TB while not forgetting that TB is curable’’ said Dr. Echey Ijezie, Country Program Director, AHF Nigeria.

He further stated, ‘‘Nigeria’s situation deserves urgent attention as the World Health Organization (WHO) lists the nation among the ten countries accounting for 64% of the global gap in TB case finding, with India, Indonesia and Nigeria accounting for almost half of the total gap’’.

Lagos and the politics of Igbophobia

By Ibrahim Mustapha Pambegua

The president-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has stated that he would not form a government of national unity. Instead, he will make his appointments based on competence and merit. While this is a welcome development, the president-elect should be mindful of the mood of the nation over his victory.

Bayo Onanuga, a spokesperson for the President-elect, Bola Tinubu during the just concluded gubernatorial election conducted on 18 March,2023 warned Igbo in Lagos against “interfering” in politics in the state. Onanuga, who is the director of media and publicity of the All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council, issued the warning in a tweet via his official Twitter account, @aonanuga1956. He said, “Let 2023 be the last time of Igbo interference in Lagos politics. Let there be no repeat in 2027. Lagos is like Anambra, Imo, any Nigerian state. It is not No Man’s Land, not Federal Capital Territory. It is Yoruba land. Mind your business.” The tweet which was not deleted despite hue and cries that trail it from Nigerians, has been described as uncalled for, threat to national unity and cooperate existence. Ononuga tweet came on the heels of his party (APC),losing Lagos to labour party on the 25 February, presidential and National assembly elections. The presidentelect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was defeated by Peter Obi in Lagos which many considered as his strong hold.

The igbos who have been in Lagos for centuries, transacting their businesses, contributing to growth and development of modern lagos are not to blame for the APC’s defeat. The candidate of labour party, Peter Obi,

enjoyed massive support not only from his Igbo kinsmen but Christians community in the country. The 2023 elections has been won and lost on the alter or basis of ethnic and religion sentiments. Peter Obi’s love and popularity spread like bush fire into the heart of many Christians due to his religion affiliation. Among the strong contenders, he was the only Christian. And for the facts, the ruling party opted for same faith ticket to win the election, Obi had to get the sympathy and votes from many Christians communities. In Lagos, it was not only the Igbos’ votes that aided him to defeat Tinubu but other tribes including Yoruba. May be Bayo Onanuga did not witness how the voting pattern changes in presidential polls. Katsina ,Yobe and Osun have been an APC states but fall into the hand of PDP. While Benue and Rivers which are PDP controlled states move to the APC’S kits. Moreover, despite their businesses and other investment, Igbos have never claimed ownership of Lagos. Igbos carry the corpses of their loved ones for burial in their respective states. During festive period, especially Christmas, many Igbos travel to their states to spend the time with their kiths.

While Bayo Onanuga was busy throwing tantrum or fire and brimstone to Igbo, he is not aware that, like any other Nigerians, they have the constitutional right to vote for any candidate of their choice? It is unfortunate that our two decades of democracy has failed to cement or promote mutual coexistence among the diverse ethnic composition of the country. One remembers with nostalgia, in 1952, Alhaji Umaru Altine, married an Igbo women and became the mayor of Enugu. Umaru Altine was a northern business man from sokoto who settled in Enugu. In Sabon Gari Kano, many Igbos were voted to the position of councillors. In

other states, Hausa people are appointed as special advisers to governors. However, this good development has been thrown to the wind. One has expected the momentum to be sustained for national unity and development. Alas, what Nigerians see today, is politics of ethnicity and religion. The igbophobia during the last election in Lagos has stoked the ember of disunity and regurgitate ethnic supremacy.. The country has been battling the menace of ethnic irredentists. The emergency of Sunday Uboho and Nnamdi Kanu are product of ethnic baiting. The incubator of this dangerous trend is hatred and politics of exclusiveness.

The president-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has stated that he would not form a government of national unity. Instead, he will make his appointments based on competence and merit. While this is a welcome development, the presidentelect should be mindful of the mood of the nation over his victory. His appointment should reflect the federal character. He should “belong to everybody and belong to nobody ” to borrow from the speech of president Muhammadu Buhari. Tinubu should hit the ground running by carry every Nigerian along irrespective of his ethnic, regional or religion affiliation. By so doing, the palpable tension his election generated will be doused. The politics of igbophobia which played out in Lagos should not allow to repeat itself in the future. Our constitution has given every Nigerian the right to live everywhere in the country and exercise his civil responsibility, i.e electing leaders who will govern them. Therefore, it is high time Nigerians stopped the politics of ethnicity. It is an ill wind which will blow no one good.

The evils of complacency in politics

By Abiodun Komolafe

Complacency helps in pushing people away. On the other hand, it represents a gateway for renewal because it also causes the people to think. Complacency shrinks the horizon of political parties and spells their doom. When a system becomes unsystematic, aberration steps in and discipline is the first casualty as control becomes problematic.

Oftentimes, intrigues exist in political matrixes. Concepts such as political mass participation, collective demands, group identity and determination, and collateral damages could all mean different things to different people. It only depends on which side of the divide the definer pitches his or her tent. This unrestricted latitude and privilege to operationalize concepts and political ideas (especially in Nigeria) with ‘sidon look’ response from the masses breeds complacency on the part of the political gladiators. The salient issue, however, is that a little divergence from the standard definition or central course gnaws on both the integrity and legitimacy of the political institution.

Complacency comes in a surreptitiously slow-butseamless manner. It doesn’t make noise even as it rubs in on people with definitive exactitude. Political activists become complacent when they are no longer thinking with the people, when they think they know it all, and when they are eventually disconnected from the people. A discernible disconnect between the people and the political party is always in a spiral form, thereby making it problematic to actually curb, or control. The central rule is: never take the people for granted! Political party is about the people, and for the people; not the people for the political party! To this end, the leadership of any party must stop thinking for the people, but with the people. These are the issues!

Once upon a time in Nigeria’s chequered history, the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) was indeed a national party. During the 2nd Republic, NPN was the party to beat while other political parties appeared like Lilliputians. As time went by, Nigerians began to see it as a party of the elite, the powerful and the rich. So, the mass of the people, who obviously constituted the majority, started leaving the ‘One Nation, One Destiny’ arrangement because, to them, they had nothing to show for being committed members of the party. After all, if you’re a politician of the NPN hue, you must be rich; otherwise, you’re just being used as cannon fodder. The perception went through the masses and it was well-received. Since politics is a game of numbers, the mass of the people left NPN – unknown to the party – for other

political parties that showed some empathy towards the masses and the downtrodden.

Whereas Obafemi Awolowo’s Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) was determined to give the people, especially, the children of the poor ‘Free Education’, NPN started talking about ‘qualitative education’, which meaning was lost to the deaf ears of the masses. As far as they were concerned, what’s the meaning of ‘Qualitative Education’ when somebody else was ready to offer ‘Free Education’? In their opinion, that’s one sure way of deviating from the central theme of a political party. Thenceforth, complacency tampered with the destiny of NPN and its life never remained the same again! Sad therefore that the once-national party insisted on losing its vital contents! Ultimately, disintegration became its lot even before the military struck on December 31, 1983 and cleared whatever remained of NPN as a political party.

There was also a time when the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) boasted that it would be in power for the next fifty years. As fate would have it, Nigerians are now witnesses to what have become of its fortunes as a result of complacency, particularly, on the part of its leaders. Take, for instance, time it was in Nigeria when every nook and cranny of the country was overstuffed with the ‘Umbrella’ men: strong in structure and texture, and powerful in shape and size! It was such a rich, national party that it was at a time assumed to be the biggest party in Africa. To its handlers, power was a personal property that could last forever even as they had forgotten that ‘disservice power is like power thrown away.’ For the once-thriving party, the rest is history! Labour Party (LP) came recently, allegedly, from nowhere, only to help put a ‘dying-slowly’ lid on the hope of the hitherto formidable party!

When PDP came, the general thinking was that the party would have learnt a lesson or two from its forebears because, in terms of structure and configuration, PDP and NPN were Siamese twins from the same father, the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) of old; but, unfortunately, they went the same way! Now, and in our very eyes, PDP is disintegrating! Since the focus of its leadership is no longer the people but what each leader and/or handler can covet and convert to personal advantages, is it any wonder that members of the same political family are now fighting over positions? Aren’t they fighting over, even monetising privileges and personalise perks of office?

By the way, while the loss of the National Assembly seats by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the PDP in the just-concluded Osun State House of Assembly election was an expression of what had long happened and crystallized,

the ‘25-1’, winner-takes-all choristers might have forgotten that the Ademola Adeleke swing wasn’t the first in the state’s rich political history. With the benefit of hindsight, Osun has once experienced the Olagunsoye Oyinlola ‘25-1’ swing (in 2003) and Rauf Aregbesola’s ‘26-0’ has also happened to the state (in 2011). Yet, the heavens did not fall! Anyway, this is a story for another day!

Complacency helps in pushing people away. On the other hand, it represents a gateway for renewal because it also causes the people to think. Complacency shrinks the horizon of political parties and spells their doom. When a system becomes unsystematic, aberration steps in and discipline is the first casualty as control becomes problematic. Besides, immediately an institution deviates from serving the purpose for which it was created, its social influence and functional relevance are bound to wane with time! Added to these is that power is functional; but, once it starts malfunctioning, its legitimacy is withdrawn. Needless to repeat that it is the reason men of unproven character who have taken over the control of political parties in Nigeria remain liabilities even as they portend ruination to our political system.

To sum up, there is a way leaders in the political space conveniently forget that performance and competence are key players in party sustainability and that no amount of political inducement or violence can help obliterate a cumulative history of non-performance. The principal reason for voting any government into power is to help bring the people up out of the valley of despair where the future is uncertain to the Next Level of development rooted in equality and the international character of mainstream socialism. Were Nigerians gainfully employed, the pressure wouldn’t have been that much on the politicians, and politicians would not have been taking the electorate for a ride! However, since the preys are seen as bootlickers even as the predators are tragically insensitive, one doubts if pressure can stop from being exerted on the politicians.

Above and beyond, since the politicians have always mistaken the masses for political irritants, it is doubtful if they (the politicians) will stop insulting the electorate’s collective intelligence with brazen ignominy. So, until there is a watershed in the life of each party, the way forward will always remain bleak! Normally, the credible way forward is total overhaul! Thankfully again, the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BIVAS) into Nigeria’s election process has now shown that her future is neither gloomy nor doomed.

*Komolafe wrote in from Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State, Nigeria (ijebujesa@yahoo.co.uk)

Ibrahim Mustapha Pambegua writes in from Kaduna state.

Ethnic profiling: The principle of Nigeria’s political, economic and religious proximity

By Abraham Adonor

The general elections in 2023 offered Nigeria the chance to leave the toxic politics of the past and move toward a future that was more inclusive and egalitarian.

In Nigeria, a nation with over 250 different ethnic groups and a wide range of religious beliefs, ethnic profiling, or the practice of focusing on people solely because of their ethnic or religious origin, is a hotly debated topic. Notwithstanding constitutional protections for equal treatment for all people, politics, and economics frequently depend on a person’s ethnicity or religion, with certain groups enjoying more advantages and opportunities than others.

The British colonizers split Nigeria along ethnic and religious lines for administrative reasons, which is when the practice of ethnic and religious profiling in Nigeria first emerged. With political influence and economic opportunity frequently concentrated in the hands of the main ethnic and religious groups, this heritage has continued to define Nigerian culture.

In terms of politics, ethnic and religious identity have significantly influenced the political climate of the nation. Politicians usually appeal to their base by defending the interests of their own group when they are running for office. Political parties are frequently based on racial and religious distinctions. As a result, a small number of dominating organizations now hold the majority of the political power, with other groups being marginalized and shut out of the political system.

Ethnic and religious identities also have a big impact on Nigeria’s financial situation. Economic prospects are frequently restricted to particular groups, and one’s access to resources or financial support is frequently based on their racial or religious identity. As a result, some groups have been able to amass riches and power while other groups have been left behind.

One indication that the issue of racial and religious profiling would likely play a big role in political debate in the years to come comes from the Nigerian general elections of 2023. Candidates who supported the interests of their own group galvanized their base, and political parties appeal to voters based on their ethnic and religious identity.

Because of the violent battles between followers of various parties and candidates that were motivated by their ethnic and religious identities, this method of politics resulted in conflict and violence. The goal of the 2023 elections was to promote inclusivity and togetherness rather than division and exclusion.

It is important to discuss the problem of ethnic and religious profiling in the broader context of Nigerian society. The government must seek to develop laws and

programs that support greater inclusivity and equality in every sphere of society, including the economy, healthcare, and education.

Political parties and candidates must refrain from utilizing ethnic and religious identities to electorate voters in order to accomplish this. Instead, they ought to put their energy into advocating for measures and concepts that assist all Nigerians, irrespective of their racial or religious heritage.

Furthermore, all candidates and parties must have equal access to resources and opportunities during the elections, which must be ensured by the government and electoral bodies. This will necessitate taking action to combat the problem of vote buying and guarantee an open and accountable democratic process.

In addition, creating a more inclusive and fair voting process requires the support of civil society organizations and the media. In addition to monitoring the election to ensure that it is free and fair, they can seek to inform voters about the value of supporting policies and ideas over ethnic and religious identity.

The general elections in 2023 offered Nigeria the chance to leave the toxic politics of the past and move toward a future that was more inclusive and egalitarian.

Politics and the economy are only a small part of the problem with ethnic and religious profiling in Nigeria. The civil service, which is in charge of carrying out governmental plans and initiatives, is also impacted.

Some ethnic and religious groups are overrepresented in particular sectors and positions within Nigeria’s civil service, which is characterized by a high degree of ethnic and religious tension. As a result, rather than talent and merit, people’s access to government employment and promotions is frequently influenced by their ethnicity or religion.

This has led to situations where some groups are underrepresented or completely excluded from the civil service, in addition to situations where some groups are overrepresented. Prejudice and exclusion, this has led to a lack of diversity in the civil service and the loss of potential ability and knowledge.

The government must endeavor to encourage more diversity and inclusivity in the civil service in order to address this problem. Affirmative action policies, the elimination of barriers to admission and advancement, and the implementation of merit-based hiring and promotion processes are just a few ways to accomplish this.

The government might also try to foster collaboration and interethnic and interreligious communication within the civil service. This could foster greater understanding and cooperation between various groups and assist in tearing down barriers, resulting in a more harmonious and efficient civil service.

ICC arrest warrants for Russia’s putin

By Julia Myron

Although this is still the beginning stage, it is a sign of hope that perpetrators of grave atrocities will be brought to justice. Additionally, this may be the beginning of the end to his reign of terror. We hope that the ICC will investigate crimes in other countries like Belarus whose leadership continues to detain and use excessive force against children.

As we may have heard by now, the pre-trial chamber of The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant against President Vladmir Putin of the Russian Federation and his children’s rights commissioner Ms Maria Alesvega. The warrants were issued for alleged war crimes for the unlawful deportation of children and unlawful transfer of people from the territory of Ukraine to the Russian Federation. For many members of the international and human rights community, this is a welcome turn of events. The warrants were announced March 17 2023, a few weeks past the one year anniversary since Putin sent troops into Ukraine. Since the beginning of this war, there have been allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity being carried out by Putin and Russia. International lawyers and NGOs have been working to document these crimes eagerly awaiting the time that the perpetrators will be brought to justice. The ICC is one of the bodies that is tasked to reduce

impunity and bring justice to victims of the worst crimes. These are crimes against humanity, war crimes, aggravation and genocide.

Although human rights experts hoped that Putin would be brought to justice for his crimes, Many did not anticipate the process to start this soon. Perhaps, the child abuse element of the crimes inspired the ICC to take swift action. International legal and accountability systems have a reputation for being slow, performative and having little to no enforceability powers, one can understand the apprehension for these institutions. Nonetheless, The ICC is one of the very few institutions that have managed to bring perpetrators of crimes to justice in the past. This is not the first time that notorious leaders have been indicted by the ICC. The ICC arrested former Liberian president Charles Taylor and sentenced him to fifty years in prison for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The decision to indict Putin may have come as a shock to many, especially those who are not familiar with international law processes. The war in Ukraine is still ongoing and many have wondered what political ramifications the warrants will have. ICC President Piotr Hofmanski, stated that as a court of law, the ICC will follow its mandate and will not consider ‘political consequences’ when making its decisions. For a long time, Putin has inspired fear which has led people to assume that he is untouchable. One might wonder what the

The promotion of greater inclusivity and diversity within the civil service requires the active participation of civil servants themselves. They can seek to establish a more welcoming and inclusive atmosphere within the civil service and oppose discriminatory behaviors and regulations.

Education is critical in addressing the problem of ethnic and religious profiling in Nigeria. Education can help to break down the barriers that often lead to discrimination and exclusion by promoting greater understanding, empathy, and tolerance among different ethnic and religious groups.

Promoting inter-ethnic and inter-religious dialogue and cooperation is one-way education can promote greater inclusivity and understanding. This can be accomplished through school exchange programs, joint educational projects, and community outreach programs that bring together students and teachers from various ethnic and religious backgrounds.

Furthermore, education can aid in addressing the underlying causes of ethnic and religious profiling by raising awareness and understanding of the historical, cultural, and social factors that have contributed to these issues. This can aid in challenging stereotypes and prejudices, as well as promoting a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of various ethnic and religious groups.

Furthermore, education can aid in the promotion of greater diversity and inclusivity in the labor force, including the civil service. Education can help to ensure that the workforce is more representative and reflective of the broader population by providing equal access to quality education and training opportunities for all Nigerians, regardless of ethnic or religious background.

Finally, education can help to increase political participation and civic engagement among various ethnic and religious groups. Education can help to ensure that all Nigerians, regardless of ethnic or religious background, have a voice in shaping the future of their country by providing citizens with the knowledge and skills needed to participate effectively in the political process.

The principle of Nigeria’s tribal and religious proximity has contributed to the perpetuation of these inequalities. Access to resources and opportunities is frequently dictated by one’s ethnicity or religion, rather than on merit and aptitude. Because of this, some groups are now able to flourish and achieve while others are left behind.

To foster unity and inclusivity in Nigerian politics and society, we will ultimately need the combined efforts of all stakeholders, including citizens, political parties, candidates, the government, civil society, and the media.

Abraham Adonor is a Public Policy Analyst.

warrants by the ICC would accomplish in this situation. The warrants issued by the ICC means that States who are party to the Rome Statute have an obligation to arrest Putin if he is in their borders. Ukraine is a party to the statute, which means that it is irrelevant if Russia is a party to the Statute because the alleged crimes were committed in Ukraine. The warrants certainly do not mean that Putin will be arraigned soon. Former president of Sudan, Omar al-Bashir, has still not appeared before the international court despite the fact that there has been a warrant issued for his arrest since 2009 It seems that if Putin stays put in Russia or travels to the country of his allies, he and his cohort will be able to avoid arrest for an indefinite period.

There are still ongoing investigations into the crimes committed in the Russia-Ukraine war, which means that more indictments may still be added against Putin. Although this is still the beginning stage, it is a sign of hope that perpetrators of grave atrocities will be brought to justice. Additionally, this may be the beginning of the end to his reign of terror. We hope that the ICC will investigate crimes in other countries like Belarus whose leadership continues to detain and use excessive force against children.

Written by Julia Myron- International lawyer and Transitional justice practitioner . 68 Vicarage lane London UK E15 4HQ

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

The All Progressive Congress (APC) at the weekend screened aspirants for Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa governorship election, including Hope Uzodinma, Sanusi Ohiare, Timipre Sylva, among others.

The screening started on Friday, when Hope Uzodinma faced the Committee, and also Friday, when Sylva and Ohiare took their turns.

Speaking with journàlists after facing the committee, immediate past Executive Director, Rural Electrification Agency, Sanusi Ohiare said his mission is to attract unprecedented investment to the Kogi State, adding that he has the experience and contact to do so.

While pointing out that Kogi is ripe for investment, Ohiare said he will make it a logistics and industrial hub of the country if

Peter Obi reacts to death of Anumudu, Imo LP’s guber aspirant

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has reacted to the death of Humphrey Anumudu, one of the party’s governorship aspirants in Imo State.

Obi’s reaction is contained in a statement via his verified Twitter handle on Sunday.

Anumudu was found dead in his house.

He was reported dead in his Lagos home after returning from a meeting at the LP secretariat in Abuja.

Meanwhile, Obi has expressed sadness at Anumudu’s sudden death, describing the death as a huge loss to the deceased family, the Labour Party, and to the good people of Imo State.

He wrote, “I am deeply saddened by the news of the sudden death of Mr Humphrey Anumudu, who was found dead in his home. Mr. Anumudu is one of the strongest supporters of the Labour Party in Imo state and an aspirant in the forthcoming Imo State governorship election.

“He was a very warm and forthright person. His death is a huge loss to his immediate and extended family, the Labour Party, and to the good people of Imo State.

“May the soul of Late Mr. Humphrey Anumudu rest in perfect peace. My sincere condolence to his family.”

APC screens Uzodinma, Ohiare, Sylva, others for Kogi, Bayelsa, Imo guber

elected as its next governor.

According to him, “Running for governor is not a tea party, so it wasn’t a decision that I take lightly.

“I look out at the outcome and what it takes to offer myself to run and continue on the work that the current Gov. Yahaya Bello is doing in the state.

“And I feel that this is the right time for me to go in and consolidate, because different times requires different set of skills and leadership to make progress in the life of a country, community or

state,” he said.

He said Kogi is now ripe for investment since Gov. Bello had stabilised it and ensured its security and peace.

Ohiare said it was time for someone with his kind of skills and experience to come in and consolidate on Gov. Bello’s achievements in the state.

He added that he had the capacity and experience to lead the state to the next level of development, saying he was no match to other aspirants.

“I am not trying to downplay anybody’s efforts, but if you look at our profiles, the kind of leadership we need now is to move the state forward, you will know that none of them can come close to me,” he said.

Ohiare assured that if he emerges as the next Kogi governor, he would transform the state and turn it to a logistics hub.

“Kogi has certain advantages, for instance. with the Rivers Niger and Benue, it used to be a trade zone, we have plans to work with

CSO faults SGF suspension from APC

By Ochiaka Ugwu

ACivil Society Organization, Movement for the Consolidation of Democracy

(MOCODE) on Saturday raised the alarm that Uninformed and overzealous party loyalists were using their opportunistic positions to derail democracy ignorantly.

The group alleged that the purported suspension of the

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, by the Chairman of Gwadawa ward of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was an example of what this category of people were doing across the country to the detriment of Nigeria’s nascent democracy.

The Global Chairman of MOCODE, Charles Edet said this while condemning the actions

taken against the SGF, by some members of the Adamawa APC.

According to Edet, “The actions of the people who purportedly suspended the SGF was an unnecessary witch-hunt and distractions on a committed public officer”.

He noted that not going to canvass for votes for APC at ward level by SGF cannot be said to be an offence, capable of warranting a

the Federal Government and private sector to build an inland port.

“This inland port comes with a lot of other benefits and investments. We have a railway that runs between Itakpe and Warri.

“We want to connect it to Abuja, effectively to Kaduna and Kano and build an airport, the idea is to make Kogi a logistics hub of the country.

“Kogi can serve the Northern part of the country in terms of business and trade,” he said.

suspension.

He alleged that if uninformed and overzealous party loyalists across party lines in the nation were not properly guided, they could destroy democratic principles.

According to him, though the suspension has been reversed by the NWC of APC in the State, there was need for the masterminds of the witch-hunt to be sanctioned, as a deterrent to others.

Okun people not conquered slaves, it’s our turn to rule Kogi - Sen. Smart Adeyemi

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

The Senator representing Kogi West in the National Assembly, and one of the aspirants in the forthcoming Kogi governorship election, Smart Adeyemi, has said that Okun people of Western zone are not conquered slaves in the State, arguing that it is their turn to govern Kogi like other zones.

Speaking yesterday after he was screened by the APC screening Committee, Adeyemi said for thirty years, the Okun people have not produced the governor of the State like others, saying it is time

for Okun people.

He said “Democracy is all about the people. And I want to appeal to Governor Yahaya Bello, who tried to be a statesman in the way he has done his appointment.

“But what will define Yahaya Adoza Bello’s administration is the courage to which he eventually decides who gives his support to. You should not allow people to turn into a tribal leader.

“Okun West in the last 30 years, we have not produced a governor. And we are not conquered, we are not slaves. So we are eminently qualified to govern our state.

“Governance is not just about expenditure. It must be about wealth creation. It is when wealth is created that the security of lives and property are guaranteed. I have been exposed to the world.

“As a journalist, I have travelled to over 35 countries of the world and so structural and human development is not strange to me

“So, what is required is a man who can do the job. When I look at all the other contestants, I want to challenge them to a two-hour radio and television debate. Let them come and tell Nigerians what they can do and I will tell them why I am better than them”, he said.

David Mark mourns Gen Diya, says he was an officer and gentleman

By Musa Baba Adamu

Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has expressed sadness over the death of former Chief of General Staff, (CGS) Lt, General Donaldson Oladipo Diya.

Paying glowing tribute to General Diya following the news of his demise, Senator Mark noted that the fallen General

was one of shinning lights of the Nigerian Army and by extension the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic.

Senator Mark recalled that General Diya was in the forefront for the promotion of professionalism and intellectualism in the Nigerian Armed Forces.

“He (Diya) was an intellectual and a professional soldier who paid attention to details “, the

former Senate helmsman and a former Army General stated.

Senator Mark noted that General Diya was a distinguished Officer who believed and worked for the peace and unity of Nigeria adding “he unarguably worked for the indivisibility of Nigeria”.

He pointed out that In all the formations including as Military Governor of old Ogun state , General Officer Commanding (GOC) as well as Chief of General

Staff (equivalent to today’s Vice President), General Diya gave a good account of himself.

He added that history will be kind to General Diya for his immense contributions to the peace, unity and development of Nigeria.

Senator Mark prayed that God grant him eternal rest just as he prayed that the Almighty give the immediate family the fortitude to bear the loss.

Sen. Smart Adeyemi

By Musa Baba Adamu

Conferencee Of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has called on President Muhammadu Buhari and all relevant security agencies to immediately investigate and make public their findings the rumoured visit of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Olukayode Ariwoola to the United Kingdom for medical reasons and the allegation that it was in disguise to meet with President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu in London.

The CNPP, in a statement signed by its Secretary General, Willy Ezugwu, said this has become necessary to preserve the integrity of the Nigerian judiciary.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola was reported to have been sighted in London, United Kingdom, pretending to be a physically-challenged old man, for a secret meeting with the President-elect.

According to an online news medium, Supreme Court sources said Ariwoola’s disguising was a clandestine preparation for a meeting with Tinubu.

The CNPP noted that despite the denials of the plans to hold such meetings by the two personalities, “the integrity of both the chief judicial personality in Nigeria and that of the President-Elect have been called to question, especially in view of the widespread criticisms of the Supreme Court of Nigeria’s rulings on political matters since the 2023 general elections.

“The Supreme Court under the current leadership has given several verdicts on political litigations in recent times which put the integrity of the apex court to question before this very damaging report by an online news portal on the alleged planned meeting between the CJN and the President-elect in London.

“Allowing the matter to slide without a public inquiry will be a recipe for breach of national security in the event that the Supreme Court rulings fail to favour some parties in election

CNPP urges Buhari, security agencies to probe alleged CJN’s London trip to Tinubu

litigations currently before various election petition tribunals, especially the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal under the direct jurisdiction of the CJN.

“The CNPP therefore calls on President Muhammadu Buhari, Security Agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to institute open investigation into the reported

planned meeting between CJN Ariwoola and Presidentelect Tinubu to lay to rest the controversy in the interest of justice and national security.

“This is imperative as the level of distrust, religious and tribal colourations permeating topics among supporters of different political camps in the

country, especially now that the most damaging allegation on the integrity of the Nigerian judiciary became a media affair, should be taken very seriously to avoid a national catastrophy.

“It is also of national importance to ensure that the matter is openly investigated and the report made public as

most Nigerian politicians and citizens who are aggrieved by the outcome of the 2023 general elections as conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) may resort to self-help in the event of perceived biases in the judicial pronouncements on the outcome by the tribunals.

Kogi East APC leaders accuse Gov Bello of political witch-hunting, anti-party

By Christiana Ekpa

The All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders under the auspices of Kogi East APC Leaders Forum, have accused governor Yahaya Bello of a political witchhunting and blackmailing of top APC leaders from Kogi East.

Yahaya Bello was also accused of antiparty activities, by empowering some individuals from the opposition party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to take charge of critical positions in the state.

Leader of the group, Akwu Umar Goodma, during a press briefing, at the APC Media Center in Abuja on Saturday, said that, Kogi state governor is trying to impose another Ebira to continue ruling the state.

“Here we are, Governor Yahaya Bello selected Hon. Simon Achuba, the former

majority leader of the State House of Assembly under Governor Ibrahim Idris, a full-fledged PDP member as his Deputy Governor, until the cookies crumbled and they remain at logger head till this moment.

“He followed the sequence by appointing PDP members as Commissioners, Special Advisers and Caretaker Chairmen of LGAs. Up till this moment about 80% of his cabinet members are PDP extraction”, Akwu claimed.

The group also said that after the 2015 Kogi state APC gubernatorial primary election that produced late Prince Abubakar Audu, Bello left to support the opposition (PDP) against APC in the state.

Akwu further condemned the statement made by governor Bello, referring to the newly elected State House of Assembly as terrorist.

“The declaration of the Honorable

Members of the State Assembly as Terrorist to persecute them and the suspension of Chairmen and a party stalwart and a leading Governorship aspirant for that matter, was hastily done without recourse to due process, better still party constitution.

“It is like the case of given dog a bad name just to cut-off the head.

“The whole exercise was borne out of envy, jealousy and hatred for the rising political profile of Alhaji Muritala Yakubu Ajaka, the kid on the block.”

The group however urged Abdullahi Adamu, APC chairman to intervene and rescue the party from collapsing, adding that, they belief Adamu will use his vast experience to proffer solution to the lingering issue and halt the suspension of some party stalwarts, chairmen of the party and a leading gubernatorial candidates.

Why Imolites should re-elect Uzodinma in 2023 – APC

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State on Sunday, enumerated reasons residents of the state should cast their votes for Governor Hope Uzodimma during the November 11 2023 governorship poll.

Speaking on behalf of the ruling APC to a cross-section of newsmen in Owerri, the state Publicity Secretary of Imo APC, Cajetan Duke, thanked Imolites who spoke through their votes for the candidates of APC.

The APC spokesman maintained that the victory of the party was nothing but an implicit vote of confidence in Senator

Hope Uzodimma, whom he described as a rare statesman and uncommon democrat who has restored the confidence of the people in the business of governance in the state.

The party maintained that the victory of the party was nothing but an implicit vote of confidence in Senator Hope Uzodimma, whom he described as a rare statesman and uncommon democrat who has restored the confidence of the people in the business of governance in the state.

According to the spokesman, “The overwhelming victory of our party in the just concluded state assembly election is a reflection of our people’s opinion and confidence in the shared prosperity

administration of our performing governor, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma”.

He added, “There’s no other way to appreciate a governor who has kept his covenant with the people, particularly in the area of quality infrastructural development, recovery of stolen critical public assets as well as civil service reforms among others.

“There is no doubt that the governor has distinguished himself within the short stay in office as a leader that can be trusted. A governor who has refused to follow the unpopular trend of his predecessors’ leadership of my family, my family but chose to return governance to

the people”.

According to Duke,” the victory of the party is a revelation of what to come as the state approaches the much anticipated November 11, 2023 governorship election.

“What happened on March 18, is a peep into the mindset of our people as we navigate towards the 2023 governorship election in the state later this year. Our people have seen the evidence of shared prosperity and we believe that the people are committed to consolidating the gains of this administration through the reelection of our governor. Imo electorate will certainly re-elect Governor Uzodimma and return APC to power in Imo State this November”, Duke enthused.”

L-R: Katsina State Deputy Governor-elect, Hon. Farouk Jobe;Governor-elect, Dr Dikko Umaru Radda and Director General Campaign Organisation, Ahmed Dangiwa,during Interactive Forum with the Media , on Saturday in Abuja

By Christiana Ekpa

Some Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives members-elect have said that competence, efficiency and suitability of aspirants and not zone will determine the leadership of the lower chambers in the 10th National Assembly.

The members-elect also cautioned all political parties to be sensitive to the needs of the nation by ensuring that the 10th National Assembly does not become a lame duck in the hands of the executive arm of government.

Rising from a strategic meeting of the Northern Caucus of the PDP MembersElect in Abuja at the weekend, the newly elected federal legislators observed that the legislature is the engine room of democracy, hence the quality of its input will drive the process of policy initiation and execution, which only capable and experienced legislative leadership can guarantee.

In a communique signed by the seven members, two from from each of the North Central, North East and North West under the leadership of Hon Ali JC Isa, (Balanga/ Billiri Federal Constituency of Gombe State), the memberselect said with all eyes on the legislature, it will be unfair to compromise efficiency and competence on the altar of zoning just for political reasons.

They agreed to work together to ensure that competent persons are elected or appointed to occupy the leadership positions of the lower chamber of the apex legislature.

According to them, “it is the quality of the legislature that provides effective oversight for good legislation and effective implementation of government policies. We are therefore poised to make an additional difference to what

POLITICS

Competence, not zoning will determine 10th Assembly leadership - PDP Reps-elect

is on ground to ensure smooth progress from where the 9th National assembly will stop and return Nigeria to proper socio- economic footing and development.

“A sound and effective legislative leadership is what is needed in a democracy to sustain or midwife positive change and therefore we

cannot be talking about the traditional issues of zoning, which has often retarded growth and development of democratic ideas because of weak and imposed legislative leadership”.

They urged themselves to keep the vision and work towards recruiting vibrant leadership when the National

Assembly is inaugurated.

Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Senator Usman Bayero Nafada, who chaired the event, congratulated the memberselect and informed them that the secret to legislative success and performance is unity.

He charged them to familiarise themselves with

one another as they prepare towards inauguration and ensure that they think together all the time for the progress of the nation.

The meeting was well attended by almost all the PDP Northern Caucus members who were in high spirits to make a difference in the 10th assembly.

Leave Ugwuanyi out of your predicament – Ohanaeze cautions ex Gov Nnamani

By Musa Baba Adamu

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has urged former Enugu Governor, Senator Chimaroke Nnamani to stop further verbal attacks on incumbent Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

Since Nnamani lost his bid to return to the Senate, he has not spared Ugwuanyi, blaming him for his electoral loss.

But in a statement made

available to journalists on Sunday, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike said Nnamani should stop blaming Ugwuanyi for his predicament.

Okwu, who said the former governor was displaying ingratitude, said it was shocking that the same Nnamani who praised Ugwuanyi to high heavens for bringing him back into limelight, was now attacking him (Ugwuanyi) without restraint.

He said, “We find no justification to the current verbal

attack on Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi by Senator Chimaroke Nnamani. Enugu people have not forgotten how then governor, Sullivan Chime made him politically irrelevant.

“It was this same Ugwuanyi that resurrected him. Ugwuanyi bought Senate form for Nnamani while he was in the US. The forms were sent to him there for his signature. That was how he returned to the country and returned to the Senate.

“He said it severally times that it was Ugwuanyi that revived him. Today, Ugwuanyi has become a

devil simply because he did not make it back to the Senate.

“When he started doing antiparty, did he consult Ugwuanyi who he said is now the leader? He took his personal decisions and should take responsibility for that.”

Okwu urged the former governor to accept the outcome of the National Assembly election in good faith, stressing that “former Governor Nnamani is a statesman and he should act as one. We urge him to stop making statements that are creating unnecessary divisions in Enugu State.”

Members of civil rights movement, addressing journalist during their solidarity March for the Abia State Labour party Governor- elect, Alex Otti, recently at the INEC headquaters, in Àbuja.

Probe Adebutu, Ogun PDP’s electoral infractions – Group tells security agencies

By Christiana Ekpa

Agroup, Ogun Integrity Vanguard, has tasked the leadership of security agencies in the country, particularly the Nigeria Police, to ensure comprehensive probe of the electoral infractions allegedly perpetrated by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship candidate in Ogun State, Oladipupo Adebutu, during the March 18 governorship and state assembly elections in the state.

The group made this call in a statement signed by its secretary, Duro Thomas, and made available to newsmen in Abeokuta,

the Ogun State capital, on Saturday.

Making reference to the incidents that happened during the polls, the group noted that PDP agents were arrested in the Agbado area of the state by Agbado Police officers with cash, more than 300 PVCs and Verve prepaid ATM cards with the name Caroline Oladunni Adebutu Memorial Endowment Scheme written boldly on them, pointing out that the action was a clear contravention of the Electoral Act.

It said: “It was not only the police that arrested agents of the PDP and other parties carrying out such devious acts.

“As amply documented by the

spokesman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Femi Babafemi, operatives of the agency on election duty stopped and searched four party agents with hundreds of money credit cards meant to buy votes at Ibara Housing Estate, Abeokuta.

“Each card contained N10,000 and was meant to be activated with a code.

“The suspects, who were PDP agents, were subsequently handed over to the police. It is clear that Adebutu’s bloated image is underpinned by corrupt tendencies.

“If we want this election to be a litmus

test for future elections where Nigerians say no to manipulation and corruption of the electoral space, there is a need for the police to not only investigate but to also invite the PDP governorship candidate to explain why he carried out such infractions.”

The group added that a situation where some people believed that they could have their way through manipulation and corruption of the electoral process must stop.

“If INEC is sincere, this is the time to prosecute and make some people scapegoats,” it said.

Fake news: We didn’t suspends OPAY, PALMPAY — CBN

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has described as fake, the news making the rounds that it suspended accounts of Fintech companies like OPAY and PALMPAY.

CBN’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Isa AbdulMumin, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Friday that the viral news “is simply fake’’.

The viral news credited to Mr AbdulMumin stated that the CBN was about to suspend accounts of the Fintech companies because they were being used to perpetrate fraud.

“Please if you are using OPAY, PALMPAY or any of these CHINA APPs or their POS, stop keeping much money in the account or stop using it.

“The CBN is about suspending their accounts because these apps are being used to perpetrate fraud,’’ the viral news read in parts.

OPAY and PALMPAY had in separate social media messages denied being under the radar of the CBN.

OPAY had stated that: “the post mentioning the CBN shutting down our operations is false and misleading to the general public.’’

PALMPAY also posted a similar disclaimer, saying: “we are aware of news currently being spread on social media about CBN shutting down the operations of PALMPAY.

“Please ignore all such misleading news of this nature,’’ it stated.

OPAY and PALMPAY are licensed under the CBN mobile payment regulatory framework.

They are to provide mobile money services including mobile payment services to both the banked and unbanked and to drive financial inclusion.

Amid cash crunch,food prices surge across Nigeria in February —Report

By Abubakar Yunusa ABUJA

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Friday said the prices of some food items in Nigeria increased in February.

The increase in food prices came amid the uncertainties faced by Nigerians due to the scarcity of the redesigned Naira notes.

The inflation rate rose to 21.91 per cent in February compared to 21.82 per cent in January. The February inflation rate showed an increase of 0.09 per cent points when compared to January’s headline inflation rate, NBS said in its inflation report.

In recent months, Nigerians have faced an unprecedented cash crunch as a result of the naira redesign policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The crisis has plunged many citizens into hardship, with numerous others finding it extremely difficult to meet their daily needs.

Food prices

In its ‘Selected Food Price Watch’ data for February 2023, published on Friday, the bureau said the average price of 1kg beef boneless increased year-onyear by 27.43 per cent from the value recorded in February 2022 (N1,922.2), and 1.12 per cent on a month-on-month basis from N2,418.91 in January 2023.

It said the average price of 1kg of Tomato increased on a year-onyear basis by 19.08 per cent from N393.08 in February 2022 to N468.09 in February 2023.

“On a month-on-month basis, the average price of this item increased by 0.22 per cent in February 2023,” the statistical office said.

The average price of 1kg of Rice (locally sold loose) on a year-onyear basis rose by 19.30 per cent from N436.58 in February 2022 to N520.84 in February 2023. Also, on a month-on-month basis, it increased by 1.17 per cent from

N514.83 in January 2023.

Similarly, the report said the average price of 1kg of Onion bulb rose by 18.99 per cent on a year-on-year basis from N378.26 in February 2022 to N450.07 in February 2023. While on a month-on-month basis, the price rose by 0.81 per cent.

According to the report, the average price of 1kg Yam tuber on a year-on-year basis rose by 28.45 per cent from N339.76 in February 2022 to N436.41 in February 2023. On a month-onmonth basis, it increased by 1.17 per cent from N431.36 in January 2023.

It noted that the average price of Vegetable oil (1 bottle, specify bottle) stood at N1,196.68 in February 2023, showing an increase of 25.91 per cent from N950.46 in February 2022.

On a month-on-month basis, it rose by 1.10 per cent from N1,183.67 in January 2023. States

At the state level, the highest average price of 1kg Beef boneless was recorded in Anambra at N3,103.26, while the lowest was recorded in Kogi at N1,770.00.

It added that Cross River recorded the highest average price of 1kg onion bulb at N1,058.61, while the lowest was reported in Adamawa at N194.44.

Abia recorded the highest price of vegetable oil (1 bottle) at N1,615.24, while Benue recorded the lowest at N710.00.

Data on a regional basis showed that the average price of 1kg of tomato was higher in the Southsouth and South-east at N812.55 and N649.03 respectively, while the lowest was recorded in the North-east at N232.78.

The South-south recorded the highest average price of 1kg rice (locally sold loose) at N599.29, followed by the South-west at N599.12, while the lowest was recorded in the North-west at N451.70.

L-R: Deputy Director and Head of corporate communications Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria, SMEDAN, Ibrahim kaula Mohammed, Director general ,SMEDAN, Olawale Fasanya and Minister of Industry,trade and investment, Niyi Adebayo during the Minister’s visit to the new SMEDAN corporate Headquarters and the Furniture Cluster at Idu industrial estate, at the Weekend in Abuja.

Rate hikes ineffective against inflation, LCCI tells CBN

The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry has called on the Central Bank of Nigeria to explore viable options to tackle the country’s surging inflation as the frequent interest rate hikes were not producing the desired result.

The chamber made this known in a statement signed by its Director-General, Chinyere

Almona.

According to the statement, since April 2022, inflation has increased from 16.82 per cent to 21.91 per cent in February 2023, despite a 6.5 per cent increase in the key rate over the same period.

The chamber said it expected the CBN to hold off an increase or at best moderate, the key rate has given the weak relationship between it and inflation, especially after manufacturers and other businesses were groaning under

high borrowing costs and the cash crisis.

The statement read in part, “While the CBN has the overarching mandate of ensuring price stability, we suggest it should not be done in a manner that compromises growth, more especially in the face of high unemployment.

“Inflation chips away at purchasing power leads to inventory stockpiles, undermines growth, and creates a lot of

economic uncertainties. Taming it, however, should not be done at the expense of growth and the most vulnerable sectors.”

It further said that the instrumentality of monetary policy alone appears insufficient to guarantee the desired results of low, stable, and predictable prices.

The chamber advocated that the structural rigidities around infrastructure and agriculture should be looked into and tackled to rein in inflation.

From Abubakar Yunusa

Abuja

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Abubakar Yunusa ABUJA

APort Harcourt-based philanthropist, David Ateke Sikpa, has condemned recent moves by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to embark on a nation-wide strike on Wednesday, following the inaccessibility of naira notes in the banks.

Sikpa, in a statement made shared with journalists yesterday, described the decision of the Joe Ajaero-led NLC as “as anti-people, provocative, counter productive and self-serving.”

He stated that Nigerians have grown through economic hardship lately to be thrown further into NLC inflicted hardship as a result of the strike action.

Naira Scarcity: Philanthropist Kicks Against NLC’s Planned Nation-wide Strike

The philanthropist further stated that the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Godwin Emefiele, apologied to Nigerians over the hardship experience as a result of its policy.

Sikpa, who is also a comedian and public affairs analyst advised commercial banks to dispense simultaneously, both old and new currency in obedience with the judgement of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

He said: “It is unfortunate that

the NLC intends to embark on this strike, crying more than the bereaved, when the Governor of the apex bank, Godwin Emefiele has tendered unreserved apology to Nigerians and has further given directives to deposit money banks to implement order of the Supreme Court.

“Where was NLC when ASUU was on eight months strike and Nigerian students were so helpless? Where was NLC when Nigerians were killed for voting

candidates of their choice? Where was NLC when Nigerians were kidnapped and killed randomly by bandits among other insecurity challenges?

“Where was NLC over hike in food stuff, growing inflation among other economic challenges? Where was NLC over various anti-people policies?

“Where was NLC when it’s members were perpetually denied promotion, non- payment of salaries and gratituity to

pensioners who died every day inability to access their benefits from state governors who are unwilling to pay their entitlement?

“It’s reallly a shame that leadership of NLC rather than be on the side of the people is more anti -people than the institution it set out to antagonise.”

The philanthropist advised the leadership of NLC to rescind its decision and allow the Central Bank of Nigeria to execute the rulings of the Supreme Court.

Gender equality will improve GDP by 50% – NITDA

From

Abubakar Yunusa ABUJA

The National Information Technology Development Agency said that gender equality in the digital space could increase the Gross Domestic Product of the country by over 50 per cent.

The Director-General NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa said this at the closing ceremony of its ‘Fasaha Gina Mata, Gina AlUmma’ digital skills programme in Abuja, in collaboration with World Bank and Natview Technology.

According to the NITDA boss, Fasaha Gina Mata Gina Al-Umma is a digital skills training programme to equip young women with the relevant skills they need to succeed in the digital world.

The four-day programme was held as part of the activities of the agency to celebrate International Women’s Day.

Speaking further, Inuwa recalled research by Mckinsey Global Institute which stated that placing women together with their male counterparts would increase the global GDP to about $18tn in 2025.

“If Nigeria can position itself, we can be part of this, we can have Nigeria be part of the Gig economy and working remotely.

“We can be part of the global value chain working remotely from Nigeria for European countries, the US companies, Asian companies and

programmes like this will help us achieve that,’’ Inuwa said.

In addition, the DG stated that they were initiating womenbased programme to encourage

more female participation in tech.

He, however, disclosed that from November 2022 to date, the NITDA had trained

226,000 young Nigerians on various digital skills with women representing only 28 per cent of the figure, stressing that the idea was to achieve 95

per cent digital literacy by 2030, which was kick-started with the Gina Mata programme to train 800 young women in the pilot programme.

Electricity union expels ex-president over refusal to vacate office

From Abubakar Yunusa ABUJA

The Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) has expelled its immediate past National President, Chris Okonkwo, from the union.

The union’s President General, Chika

Ben; and General Secretary, Comrade Nnamdi Ajibo, in a statement on Friday, accused Okonkwo of refusing to fully hand over union property in his possession after the expiration of his tenure in April 2022.

The SSAEAC added that rather than vacate office, Okonkwo arrogated to himself the powers of the president of the

union by directing and issuing orders.

“The Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Company has expelled the immediate-past President General, Engr Chris Okonkwo, from the union over his refusal to fully hand over the unions property in his possession after his tenure and threat to the resolution of

the Union.

“After the expiration of his tenure in April 2022, a new President General, Engr. Chika Ben, was elected during a national delegate conference.

Okonkwo, the Immediate past president General, but he want to still direct and give order as the president General.

L-R: Minister of State, Finance, Budget and National Planning, Clem Agba; Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed; Permanent Secretary, State House, Tijjani Umar and Director of Maintenance, State House, Joshua Apagu, at the pre-commissioning inspection of the new Presidential (VIP) Wing of the State House Medical Centre, in Abuja, recently.

PDP National Chairman, Ayu suspended for anti-party activities

By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, festered on Sunday as the National Chairman of the party, Dr Iyorchia Ayu was suspended by his Igyorov ward in Gboko local government area of Benue State.

Ayu was accused of anti-party activities.

The suspension of Ayu came few days after the National Working Committee, NWC, of PDP dragged the Benue State Governor, Dr Samuel Ortom before the national disciplinary committee of the party and suspended former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose

and erstwhile Senate President, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim among others.

Ayu’s suspension on Sunday followed a vote of no confidence passed on him by his ward.

A resolution passed at the end of their meeting and read by the Secretary of Igyorov council ward, Mr Banger Dooyum, reads, “The Peoples Democratic Party Executive Committee of Igyorov council ward of Gboko local government area in Benue state has passed a vote of no confidence on the PDP National Chairman, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu and suspended him from the party”.

Mr Dooyum, while reading

the resolution of the ward Exco, said “He (Ayu) was involved in amti- party activities making the PDP to lose at his ward and local government along with his allies who also didn’t vote at the Governorship Election”

He was also accused of not paying his annual dues as enshrined by the party’s constitution.

It will be recalled that shortly after the Benue State Governor was referred to the National Disciplinary Committee of the PDP for anti-party activities by the National Working Committee, NWC, of PDP chaired by Ayu, the Rivers State

governor, Mr Nyesom Wike had dared the national leadership of the PDP, declaring that his Benue State counterpart will not appear before the Committee.

Wike equally described the suspension of former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose and others for anti-party activities by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP as a nullity.

Wike, in the statement, said, “I want to state clearly and let members of the party and Nigerians hear it clearly, the National Working Committee made up of Dr Iyorchia Ayu, who they say is the Chairman of the party; Sam Anyanwu, the

national secretary and other members of NWC, cannot suspend Ayo Fayose, not to talk about referring governor Ortom to national disciplinary committee.”

Governor Wike explained that the decision of the NWC to refer governor Ortom to the party’s National Disciplinary Committee is the height of all insult.

He said, “Referring a governor to your so called national disciplinary committee is the height of all insult, and we will not take it. Therefore, be ready for whatever you see as far as this our party is concern.”

Governor Wike stated emphatically that the Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom will not appear before the PDP National Disciplinary Committee.

NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Yusha’u Dogara Ahmed presenting a cheque of the insurance benefit on Corps Member, Omale Victor EB/21A/1487, who went missing in 2021 during his service year in Ebonyi State to his father, Mr Omale Samuel at his residence in Lokoja, Kogi State. Photo: NYSC

INEC presents certificates of returns to Governors-elect, Dep-Govs-elect, Houses of Assembly members-elect

By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has scheduled Wednesday, March 29 to Friday March 31 for the issuance of Certificates of Return to governors-elect, deputy governors-elect and states Houses of Assembly memberselect.

This was disclosed in a statement by an INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Barrister Festus Okoye in Abuja.

This, the Professor Mahmood Yakubu-led INEC said, was in line with the provisions of Section 72(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.

According to Okoye, “By

the provisions of Section 72(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, the Commission is mandated to issue a certificate of return within 14 days to every candidate who has been returned elected under the law.

“Pursuant to the provision, the Commission has fixed Wednesday March 29, Thursday, March 30 and Friday, March 31 for the issuance of Certificates of

Return to those elected on March 18.

“The presentation will take place in INEC offices in each state of the federation,’’ Okoye stated. He ecplained that specific dates for the issuance of the certificates would be communicated to those elected by the Resident Electoral Commissioners and Administrative Secretaries of the various states.

According to him, “Governor Ortom, who has stood firm for the unity of this country, governor Ortom who has come out openly to say that Nigeria must be one is not the type you will say you’ll refer to that your kangaroo committee.”

The Rivers State governor said if anyone deserves to be suspended from the party, that person is Dr Iyorchia Ayu, who he accused of contravening the PDP constitution on the zoning of elective and appointive offices.

He added, “If there is any person deserving suspension, it should be you (Ayu), who played anti party by refusing to obey the constitution of the party on zoning of political offices as is required. “So, whoever tells you that you can suspend people, please tell the person that he is not serious.”

Continuing , Ayu said, “if you are talking of anti-party, it is you who could not even deliver your unit, deliver your ward that is involved.

“Because of the fraudulent activities you are involved in, people have lost hope in you. That is why you cannot win your unit, win your ward”, he stressed.

Governor Wike cautioned Ayu and the NWC to desist from threatening the G-5 governors and members of the Integrity Group with suspension.

According to him, Ayu has, by his recent action, opened up a new chapter of political war in the party.

“You cannot cage any of us. Ortom will not appear before any of your so called disciplinary committee. Ayodele Fayose will also never appear before any disciplinary committee”, he vowed.

•His ward passes vote of no confidence on him

Interview

Rampaging land grabbers major threat to Abuja’s dev’t - Galadima

Town Planer, MUKHTAR GALADIMA, the Director, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Department of Development Control, in this interview expressed alarming proliferation of illegal estate development propelled by rampaging land grabbers, now posing serious negative implication on the Abuja’s development. He spoke to our correspondent, STANLEY ONYEKWERE. Excerpts:

Recently, your office revealed planned massive demolition in Apo Tapi and two others, what’s the status of this threat?

We have started already, and there is no going back, and we are doing it with human face. We even sit down and tried to engage them, and explained to them why we are doing what the thing. And some of them understand with us. But, I know it is painful, because somebody may have invested so much. All the same, we are doing what is humanly possible in the line of duty.

Could you provide a background to what is happening in Lugbe, Apo Tapi areas?

The whole thing started when the FCT Administration directed all the zona officers to return back to their respective head offices, that is the department of Urban and regional planning. So with that development, issues arising from Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) layout started coming up. I thing the beginning was when Lugbe axis was considered as phase 5 of the city. So places like Gosa and Lugbe district were considered as part of phase 5 of the city. Then, people started coming up with document, claiming that AMAC had allocated land around this axis, and they want to develop property, but when you discuss with rural and regional planning, and they you that they have not any detailed designed around this axis. Therefore, for anybody to now come up with document claiming that there was allocations from AMAC or it zonal planning office is not tenable.

That’s why we have some problems in Kiyami, where some of these developments were sited on other people’s plots, so the same thing that applies to Gosa-Kiyami area started springing up in Apo axis. You know, initially before the Apo resettlement scheme, there was Apo Layout, which was allocated to individuals, but during the time of Malam El’rufai, the allocations were withdrawn, the affected people were relocated to somewhere else. And people are still holding some of these old document, claiming that they have title over the land there. The question is, even if you have to develop your land, you have to obtain building plan approval, and most of the times, you go, and you see that developers don’t have approvals. So, by the time we visit such sites, at different stage we make sure we give

you relevant notices to stop.

What’s the exact timeline when the the policy to make Lugbe and Gosa Districts part of the phase V of the Federal Capital City?

I recall that in 2007, when the whole idea of replanning of Phase V came up, there was adequate information. In fact, there was wild publicity as regards to annexing that axis into the city’s development geometry as it was considered as Phase V of the city.

That is starting from 2007 to 2011 and down to this time now.

So, what if the situation were to be left unchecked, of what implication will it be to the city development ?

If we leave it (the illegal developments), what is the essence of the city plan? We have a master plan for the city, and original plan for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). So, if we allow anybody to just go and get

a parcel of land and start developing without recourse to the plan, then what is the essence of it, this has a serious negative implication on the Abuja’s development. That is why we are doing our modest effort to check at this budding stage.

What are the action plans to ensure that infractions on the policy are corrected?

The action plan is really to determine who does what, and what action are we going to take- whether kinetic or non-kinetic action; and are we going to remove structures or integrating them into the city. But, the issue of integration has not arisen here. First and foremost, let us see what is on ground and aim of the development, what is the plan for that area, as regards the master plan provisions, and from there we move on. We have already informed the general public, and we will continue to inform further on the activities of these land grabbers. The public should be aware that now, land grabbers are on the rampage, so the people should know this fact. Nobody should just go and say I want to buy property in an estate without knowing where the estate is located, and to do this, you need to have a written confirmation that the estate is authentic, it has past all due diligence, duly allocated, approved and even the development has been properly supervised. We are calling on the general public to know that not every estate that they should go and subscribe, as you have to do your due diligence. The public should know that ignorance of law is not a subject to be entertain, because as citizens, you are expected to do a due diligence on anything you intend to do. When you want to develop or purchase a property in the FCT, you have to make sure that the land is validly allocated, planned and approved for that development. And for you to be certain at what you are doing, if it is an estate, you should go to the department of Urban and Regional Planning to confirm that it was duly approved, then go to the lands department, to check if it is a authentic land allocated by the relevant authority. Even if you are going to purchase or do transaction with another (third) party, you have to go to the lands department for confirmation through what they call legal search. Then, if the building is on ground, and you want to purchase or rent a property there, you can come to Development Control to confirm its building approval. Whatever you are going for confirmation, insist that it should be given in writing, so that tomorrow, nobody will turn back and deny confirming anything.

Mukhtar Galadima

We are calling on the general public to know that not every estate that they should go and subscribe, as you have to do your due diligence.

“

Nato condemns ‘dangerous’ Russian nuclear rhetoric

Nato has condemned Russia’s “dangerous” and “irresponsible” rhetoric after Vladimir Putin’s decision to station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus.

The organisation is “closely monitoring” the situation and said the move would not lead it to change its own nuclear strategy.

The US said it did not believe Russia was preparing to use nuclear weapons.

Belarus shares a long border with Ukraine, as well as with Nato members Poland, Lithuania and Latvia.

Ukraine has called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council to address the potential threat of President Putin’s announcement on Saturday.

President Putin said Moscow would not be transferring control of its arms to Minsk and that Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko - a firm ally of the Kremlin and supporter of its invasion of Ukraine - had long raised the issue with him.

Ukraine says the move violates nuclear non-proliferation agreements - an accusation President Putin has denied, instead comparing it to the US stationing its weapons in Europe.

But Nato on Sunday described Russia’s reference to nuclear sharing as “misleading”.

“Nato allies act with full respect of their international commitments,” Nato spokesperson Oana Lungescu said.

The military alliance also accused Russia of consistently breaking its own arms control commitments, including the country’s decision to suspend the new START treaty - a deal signed in 2010 which limits the number of US and Russian nuclear warheads and gives each the power to inspect the other’s weapons.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell urged Belarus to opt out of the deal with

Putin, warning the country could face further sanctions if it went through with it.

“Belarus can still stop it, it is their choice,” he wrote on Twitter.

On Sunday, a top security adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of making Belarus a “nuclear hostage”.

Oleksiy Danilov wrote on Twitter that Russia’s plans were a “step towards internal destabilisation” in Belarus and predicted anti-Russian sentiment in the country would grow.

Exiled Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said Russia’s deployment of nuclear weapons in her country “grossly contradicts the will of the Belarusian people” and would make it a potential target for retaliatory strikes.

But Yuriy Sak, an adviser to Ukraine’s ministry of defence, told the BBC that Ukraine was used to nuclear threats from Russia, adding that the deployment in Belarus would not change the outcome of the war.

“They cannot win this war because it is for them unsustainable, it is unwinnable, [and] they cannot defeat Ukraine because we have been living with the hypothetical threat of a possible nuclear strike from day one of the large-scale invasion,” he said.

Mr Sak said there was nothing new in Russia’s behaviour, as it had been stationing military equipment in Belarus since the start of the war in 2022.

Mykhailo Podolyak, another senior adviser to President Zelensky, characterised the move as “scare tactics” and said the Russian leader was “too predictable”.

Analysts at the US think tank Institute for War said the risk of escalation to nuclear war following the announcement remained “extremely low”.

A small number of Iskander tactical missile systems, which can be used to launch nuclear weapons, have already been transferred to Belarus, President Putin said in his address on Saturday.

This will be the first time since the mid1990s that Moscow will have based nuclear arms outside the country.

The Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991 meant weapons became based in four newly-independent states - Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and Kazakhstan - with the transfer of all warheads to Russia completed in 1996.

Russia will start training crews to operate the weapons from next week. The construction of a storage facility for tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus will be completed by 1 July, President Putin said. The announcement comes only days after Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Moscow, during which Russia and China issued a joint statement saying “all nuclear powers must not deploy their nuclear weapons beyond their national territories, and they must withdraw all nuclear weapons deployed abroad”.

Mississippi: Rescue efforts begin after tornado destruction

Rescue efforts are under way in Mississippi and Alabama after a tornado tore through the two states on Friday night killing 26 people, including a baby and her father.

Emergency services will have to dig through the debris left behind by the tornado, which flattened one town and obliterated homes and businesses.

A state of emergency was declared in Mississippi on Sunday.

President Joe Biden ordered federal assistance for the affected areas.

As Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) staff arrived in Mississippi to tour the damage, senator Roger Wicker tweeted: “Today recovery efforts across our state began in earnest”.

Friday’s tornado has been classified as “violent” and given a preliminary EF-4 rating - the second-highest rating possible.

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for large sections of both Alabama and Georgia for Sunday, ending at 13:00 ET (18:00 BST).

In Rolling Fork, crushed cars, bricks and glass litter the streets - the town has been almost entirely wiped out.

One resident told the BBC he was lucky to survive after seeking shelter in his bath tub.

Approaching the neighbourhood in western Sharkey County, there is little indication of anything unusual.

The lush farmland that surrounds it is completely untouched, the trees aren’t even

bent out of shape by wind.

Then, suddenly, you see the houses that were in the tornado’s path.

They have been totally obliterated.

In this rural town of only 2,000 people, where one fifth of residents live below the poverty line, dozens of buildings have been flattened by the fury of the tornado.

Homes where family and friends had gathered less than 24 hours before, ready for the weekend, have been reduced to rubble.

Timber frames have been snapped into pieces. There are upturned washing machines, but it is impossible to identify anything that might have been a kitchen.

Amongst the rubble, there are vehicles that have been tossed around. There is the occasional children’s toy and other signs of the lives that were lived here just hours earlier.

The tornado hit in the middle of the night - people had been sleeping and had not heard the alerts. For many the first indication that something terrible was happening was the noise.

Francisco McKnight told the BBC it was a miracle that he is alive. The only warning he had was the sound, he said - he had never heard anything like the noise of the wind on Friday night and never wants to again.

He took one look outside and then ran into his bathroom and got into the bath tub. He said that was what saved him.

The only part of his home that is still standing are parts of two of the bathroom

walls.

The tornado lasted just five to 10 minutes he said, and he sat in the tub as the rest of his home was ripped away. For now, he is staying in one of the shelters that have been set up in the area.

He does not know what he will do next, but he says somehow he will rebuild his life.

Mississippi state governor Tate Reeves visited Silver City and Winona on Saturday to meet affected residents who had been hit by the tornado’s fury.

Sharing an update on Twitter, Mr Reeves described the situation as a “tragedy”, writing: “We are blessed with brave, capable responders and loving neighbours. Please continue to pray.”

Mr Reeves requested an expedited disaster declaration for the region and said: “We’re going to fight like hell to make sure that we get as many resources to this area as possible.”

Source: BBC

President Putin announced he would station nuclear weapons in neighbouring Belarus on Saturday

One Rolling Fork local tries to salvage items from a car

Kamala Harris Africa trip: Can US charm offensive woo continent from China?

First it was the US secretary of state who went on a trip to Africa, now it is the vicepresident and later in the year the president himself is expected to come.

This flurry of visits by top figures in the US administration reflects a growing awareness that the US needs to deepen its engagement with the continent.

This all comes in the face of growing competition from other global powers, especially China and Russia.

Vice-President Kamala

Harris started her nine-day trip in Ghana on Sunday, where she was greeted by drummers and dancers at Kotoko International Airport. She will later go to Tanzania and Zambia.

Ghana, with its focus on strengthening ties with the African diaspora as well as a record of several peaceful democratic transfers of power, provides an ideal launchpad for Ms Harris.

Her trip, according to an official statement, is intended to “build on” December’s US-Africa summit in Washington where President Joe Biden said the US was “all in on Africa’s future”.

But it is that future, boosted by a youthful and growing population as well as the continent’s immense natural resources, that have attracted a lot of other powerful nations vying for influence.

While Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s recent visit to Ethiopia and Niger focused on these countries’ security challenges, the vice-president’s tour will take her to nations facing serious economic problems.

Ghana’s once-thriving economy is going through its most difficult financial crisis in

decades.

The country is seeking to restructure its debt amid surging inflation of over 50%. Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has just been in Beijing leading negotiations with the Chinese government.

“So far, very positive and encouraging meetings in China,” the finance minister tweeted as he expressed optimism that it would secure external assurances “very soon”.

It needs the assurances to unlock financial support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

It is not clear what, if any help, Ms Harris can offer, but it will be under pressure to act like a willing partner in the wake of Mr Ofori-Atta’s China visit.

‘US a friend - like China and Russia’

Economist and professor of finance at the University of Ghana, Godfred Alufar Bokpin, does not think the visit will deliver “an immediate dividend” to help alleviate the country’s financial woes.

“Having China on board is complicated,” he said, while noting that Ms Harris’ visit was “a very important” one for Ghana as it “elevates our relationship with the US to another level”.

He told the BBC the interest the US is showing in the country and its debt crisis “is good” but he is worried about what he described as “unfavourable terms of trade” with creditor nations.

First Lady Jill Biden, seen here in Namibia in February, was another US dignitary to have recently visited the continent Zambia finds itself in a similar position to Ghana.

The copper-rich nation

became the first African country to default on its debt when the Covid pandemic hit.

It is in prolonged discussions with China to restructure its debt and has also sought financial support from the IMF.

The Reuters news agency quotes a senior US official as saying Ms Harris “would discuss the best ways for the international community to address debt challenges faced by Ghana and Zambia”.

Like Prof Bokpin, Zambian analyst Dr Sishuwa Sishuwa thinks China holds more influence when it comes to restructuring debt. But the US wants to be seen as the more reliable partner.

There is a growing sentiment on the continent that Africa should have a free choice in its relationships with the rest of the world.

“Zambia sees the United States in the same way as it sees China and Russia - a friend,” Dr Sishuwa told the BBC.

“When a country turns to China, or Russia, or the US for

support, this should not be seen as snubbing one major power bloc or the other.”

He said attempts to seek exclusive relationships with African countries may be counterproductive and unsustainable.

This echoed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s comments during a visit to Washington last year when he said: “We should not be told by anyone who we associate with.”

Senior US officials have told the BBC it is not their intention to tell African countries who they can be friends with.

The US has however been keen to emphasise its focus on democracy in its relationships with African countries, something the vice-president is also expected to discuss during her visit.

President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia is due to co-host a virtual Summit for Democracy, along with four other heads of state including President Biden, shortly before receiving Ms Harris in the country.

Tunisia migrants: At least 29 die off coast

At least 29 migrants have died after at least two boats sank off Tunisia’s coast within hours of each other, officials say.

The sub-Saharan migrants were trying to cross the Mediterranean to reach Italy.

It is the latest in a string of migrant boat capsizes off Tunisia’s coast in the last few days, with five others sinking in the past four days.

This comes after Tunisia launched a campaign against undocumented African migrants.

Meanwhile, Italian officials on the island of Lampedusa say they are overwhelmed, after a record 2,500 migrants arrived in the last 24 hours.

The Italian far-right Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, has warned Europe risks seeing a huge wave of refugees arriving on its shores.

Tunisia has become a hub for migrants who wish to make it to Europe, with UN figures showing at least 12,000 migrants who landed on Italy’s shores this year left from Tunisia. That figure was just 1,300 in the

same time period last year.

However, the Tunisia coast guard say they are taking steps to stop the migrant crossings, having halted around 80 vessels headed for Europe in the past four days, according to the Reuters news agency. It also says it has detained more than 3,000 migrants, the same agency reports.

In a controversial speech last month, Tunisia’s president accused sub-Saharan African migrants living in the country of causing a crime wave and described them as a demographic threat.

Kais Saied’s comments were widely criticised by the African Union and denounced as “racist hate speech” by human rights groups.

These comments have left some subSaharan Africans in Tunisia living in fear, with some saying they have seen an increase in racist incidents.

This has led some countries, like Ivory Coast and Guinea, to repatriate their citizens due to an increased climate of intolerance in Tunisia.

Tunisia’s economy is in a poor state, and

It is one of the values, along with human rights and good governance, that the US government says underpins its relationships with the continentand sets it apart from China and Russia.

Scepticism in Africa

China has a non-interference policy in countries’ internal political affairs - something that has smoothed its engagement with autocratic leaders.

And Russia’s presence in African countries that have experienced coups recentlyBurkina Faso and Mali - has led to a souring of relations between them and the West, especially France, the former colonial power which had maintained close ties to both countries. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has no doubt given Western nations an added sense of urgency in winning over more African countries. UN votes to condemn it divided African nations which accounted for half of all abstentions, including Tanzania which is also on Ms Harris’ itinerary.

is facing crisis after negotiations with the the International Monetary Fund (IMF) stalled. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken

has also warned that Tunisia urgently needs to reach a bailout deal with the IMF Source: BBC.

In February this boat of migrants was rescued some 31 miles (50km) from Tunisia’s coast

US Vice-President Kamala Harris hosted sessions at December’s US- Africa summit in Washington

FROM ASIA

UAE pardons Israeli woman who faced life in prison

The United Arab Emirates has released an Israeli woman a year after she was convicted on drug charges.

Fidaa Kiwan flew home on Sunday. Israel called her pardon a “special gesture” to President Isaac Herzog, who had requested her release.

Ms Kiwan was arrested on April 2021 for possessing cannabis and cocaine. Her initial death sentence was reduced to life in prison on appeal.

Israel and the UAE normalised relations under a US-brokered deal in 2020.

Ms Kiwan, an Arab-Israeli photographer, was visiting Dubai for work when she was arrested.

According to prosecutors, she was found with 50g of cocaine and 500g of cannabis. She said the

cocaine was not hers.

President Herzog urged his UAE counterpart, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, to pardon her.

After the release, Mr Herzog thanked the UAE president and wished him “a month of kindness and peace” for Ramadan.

Under the US-brokered agreement, known as the Abraham Accords, Israel normalised relations with several Arab countries.

Ties between UAE and Israel have flourished since, with trade growing and Israeli tourists flocking to Dubai.

The UAE, a popular holiday destination, has a strict anti-drugs policy. The UK Foreign Office warns that even possession of small amounts of drugs can result in hefty fines or prison sentences.

Lebanon time zones: Partial clock change causes confusion

People in Lebanon have woken up in two rival time zones, amid a row between political and religious authorities over when clocks should go forward.

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced that daylight saving would begin at the end of Ramadan next month, allowing Muslims to break their daily fast earlier.

But Christian authorities said they would change the clocks on the last Sunday in March, as happens most years.

Many businesses have followed suit.

The dispute illustrates deep divisions in a country where Christian and Muslim factions waged a civil war in the late 1970s and 1980s, and where political positions are shared between religious groups.

On Thursday Mr Mikati, a Sunni Muslim, announced his decision to delay the start of daylight saving until midnight on

20 April.

He did not give a reason for the move, but many commentators regard it as a way to boost his popularity during Ramadan. The Muslim holy month began on 22 March and ends on 21 April.

If the time remains unchanged, Muslims will be able to break their fast an hour earlier, at around 18:00 instead of 19:00, the time the sun sets.

But Lebanon’s influential Christian Maronite Church said it would disregard the decision, calling it “surprising”.

Several major Lebanese organisations have also decided to ignore it. Two news channels, LBCI and MTV, moved their clocks forward early on Sunday.

Middle East Airlines, the national carrier, decided on a compromise. It said its clocks and other devices would stay in winter time but its flight times would be adjusted to avoid disrupting international schedules.

There was also confusion

Over

for users of mobile phones and other electronic devices that automatically switch to daylight saving time, as many operators

were not notified of the delay in time.

Beirut-based author and regional expert Kim Ghattas

Halt Israel legal reform, urges defence minister

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt controversial plans for an overhaul of the justice system. His intervention came as Israelis opposed to the changes held mass rallies across the country for the twelfth week in a row.

Mr Gallant added his voice to warnings the crisis is causing social upheaval and could harm Israel’s security.

So far, however, Mr Netanyahu has defied calls to scrap the shakeup.

In a brief televised statement, Mr Gallant described the reform plan as a “clear, immediate and tangible danger to the security of the State”.

He said members of the Israeli Defence Forces were angry and disappointed, with an intensity he had never encountered before.

The law is part of the rightwing government’s contentious plan to limit the powers of the judiciary, which has led to months of protests.

It includes enabling parliament to overrule decisions made by the Supreme Court - a move that critics say will undermine the independence of the judiciary and could be used for political ends.

But Mr Netanyahu says the reforms are designed to stop the courts overreaching their powers and that they were voted for by the public at the last election.

Mr Gallant’s remarks were welcomed by opposition leader Yair Lapid, who praised the minister’s “brave step”.

But far-right police minister Itamar Ben-Gvir urged Mr Netanyahu to sack the defence minister, saying he had caved in to opposition pressure.

Over

Separately, a new Incapacitation Law, which passed by 61 votes to 47 in the 120-seat Knesset on Thursday following a heated all-night debate, prevents a prime minister from being

declared unfit to hold office by the attorney general.

It stipulates that only the prime minister or three-quarters of their cabinet can declare them unfit to hold office on physical or

tweeted that the government’s abrupt move “throws travel plans, zoom calls and automatic phone times updates into utter disarray”.

psychological grounds.

Mr Netanyahu is standing trial on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in three cases. He denies any wrongdoing and says he is the victim of a “witch hunt”BBC

Education UNICEF begins new five year programme to protect Nigerian children

By Maryam Abeeb

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has began a new programme that will last for five years, panning from 2023 to 2027; to ensure the development and protection of vulnerable Nigerian children.

UNICEF communication specialist, Geoffrey Njoku disclosed this during a twoday Training of Trainers (TOT) on Child Rights Reporting Curriculum (CRRC) and media dialogue organised by the Child Rights Information Bureau (CRIB) of the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture in collaboration with UNICEF in Enugu.

Njoku, explained that the country programme of the UNICEF will cover four

major component to include child survival in terms of health, nutrition, water and sanitation; basic education; child protection; social policy and gender equality.

He decried that Nigeria is still home to the highest number of out-of-school children, as an estimated 26. 5 percent of primary school age children are not in formal school of which 60 percent are girls.

He added that in Nigeria, infant and under five mortality are among the highest in the world, which is likely to increase with the country’s population expected to reach 401 million by 2050.

He equally noted that the government-funded social protection systems is limited, reaching only a fraction of the poor and vulnerable, an

estimated 10.4 percent of the population.

The Communication Officer further explained that UNICEF aims at changing persistent gender inequalities, insufficient government expenditure that leads to out-of-pocket expenditure and limitations in state and local government human resource capacity.

He added that the UNICEF will strengthen systems at national and sub-national levels to eliminate poverty, malnutrition, ensure education, protect children; support the timely delivery of humanitarian assistance; engage with the private sector, among others.

Also speaking during the event, Juliet Chiluwe, Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Enugu, noted that a broad range of abuses against children

emanates from ignorance of what constitutes child’s right.

She stated that the workshop will broaden the scope of knowledge and exposure of the communication students and practitioners of Mass Communication by way of infusion of the Child Rights concerns, which are also topical concerns for human development.

She commended the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka Anambra State for taking the first step to further mainstream child rights curriculum by electing the CRRC as a general studies course and urged other partnering universities and communication institutions to emulate the feat as recorded by NAU in the interest of fostering child rights reportage in Nigeria.

Speaking on Child Rights

Reporting, Director Special Programme, Nigeria Union of Journalism(NIJ), Dr. Jide Johnson explained that a child is entitled to the right to justice and peace in terms of good governance, protection against exploitation and harmful traditional practices such as early marriage and female genital mutilation.

Jide, who decry the many challenges Nigerian children face, lamented that children constitute half of the population in most developing nation are more vulnerable to poverty and abuse which leaves an indelible marks on their development and potentials.

He therefore call on the media to draw attention of duty bearers to pay on issues relating to children as what they become will shape the system.

teachers

NOUN graduates 28,740 students

Maryam Abeeb

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) on Saturday graduated 28,740 students, comprising 21,339 undergraduates and 7,401 post graduates, from all the institution’s study centres across the country.

The Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Olufemi Peters, at the 12th convocation ceremony in Abuja, said 58 of the graduates

are inmates of various Correctional Centres in the country.

Olufemi, while congratulating the students, also charged them to diligently apply themselves in whatever capacity with integrity as true ambassadors of NOUN.

According to him, every graduate should look forward with great expectation to the future, a future that holds the potential for the realisation of their dreams.

“I am delighted to inform you that it

is now 20 years since the resuscitation of the National Open University of Nigeria and commencement of academic activities therein.

“This convocation therefore marks the commencement of activities to commemorate the resuscitation of the University.

“At the undergraduate level, we are presenting a total of 21,339 students, 6 students made First-Class degree; 2,306

students had Second Class Upper Division; 11,075 had Second Class Lower Division.

“Also, 5,558 had Third Class Degree, we also recorded 279 students’ Passes. We are graduating a total of 2,057 students in the Bachelor of Nursing Science Programme.

“85 of these are graduating with distinction; 1,231 are graduating with credit; while 75 are graduating with Pass degrees in the new classification system,” he said.

L-R Commissioner of Education and Human Capital Development, Hajiya Saa’datu Modibbo-Kawu,5th-L the Chairperson, National Senior Secondary Education Commission Amb Dr.Nimota Akanbi,4th-L the Executive Secretary NSSEC, Prof. Benjamin Abakpa, 3rd-L, ANCOSS President Kwara State,Com U.U Abdullahi, 2nd-L NUT State Chairman, Com Oyewo Bashir and Board Member NSSEC Hajiya,at the Opening ceremony of the Capacity Building Workshop for selected

in English-language and Mathematics for North Central zone recently Organise by NSSEC

Feature

Have we found the ‘animal origin’ of Covid?

We now have “the best evidence” we are ever likely to find of how the virus that causes Covid-19 was first transmitted to a human, a team of scientists has claimed.

It is the latest scientific twist in the troubled, highly politicised search for the cause of the worst pandemic in a century, one which has produced several competing theories which have neither been proved nor disproved conclusively.

The most recent analysis points to a particular species as the likely animal origin of the virus. That analysis is based on evidence that was gathered three years ago from the Huanan Wildlife Market in Wuhan, which has always been a focal point of the initial outbreak.

During the early days of 2020, when Covid was still a mystery disease, the Chinese Centers for Disease Control (CDC) took samples from the market. The genetic information contained in those samples has only recently been made, briefly, public, and that enabled a team of researchers to decode them and point to racoon dogs as a possible “intermediate host” from which the disease spilled over into people.

The crux of this analysis is that DNA from racoon dogs, wild mammals that were being sold live in the market for meat, was found in the same locations as swabs from the market that tested positive for SARS CoV-2, according to an analysis that was published online on 20 March.

But in the messy search for the outbreak’s origin, where the market has long since closed and any animals on sale killed, we still do not have definitive proof. And the threeyear delay in releasing this critical data has been described by some scientists as “scandalous”.

The findings are published amid signals that the lab leak theory is gaining ground among authorities in the US.

The Chinese government has strenuously denied suggestions that the virus originated in a scientific facility, but the FBI now believe that scenario is the “most likely”, as does the US Department of Energy.

Various US departments and agencies have investigated the mystery and produced differing

conclusions, but on 1 March the bureau’s director accused Beijing of “doing its best to try to thwart and obfuscate”, and disclosed the FBI had been convinced of the lab leak theory “for quite some time now”. The bureau has not made their findings public, which has frustrated some scientists.

The BBC has spoken to some of the scientists involved in the three-year mission to investigate Covid’s origin. They believe this new analysis might be the closest we will get to understanding how the outbreak started, and that the divisions between China and the West are hampering the scientific effort to solve that mystery.

What does the new research show?

The full genetic sequences from these crucial swabs from the market were spotted by Dr Florence Debarre, a senior researcher at the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Sciences in Paris. She told the BBC World Service’s Science in Action programme that she had been “obsessed” with finding this data since she first found out it existed.

Having found and downloaded the codes on a genetic database called GISAID, where scientists share this kind of information, she and her colleagues set out to find out which species matched the samples that were found in the same locations as the virus. “We saw the results appear on our screens, and it was: racoon dog, racoon dog, racoon dog, racoon dog,” she recalled.

“So we found animals and virus [together],” explained Dr Debarre. “That does not prove that the animals were infected, but that is the most plausible interpretation of what we’ve seen.”

According to Prof Eddie Holmes from the University of Sydney, who was also involved in the study, this is the “best evidence we will get” of an animal origin of the virus.

“We will never find that intermediate [animal] host - it’s gone,” Prof Holmes told the BBC.

“But it’s extraordinary that the genetic data has found these ghosts - and it absolutely tells us not just what species were there, but exactly where they were in the market,”

Prof Holmes told the BBC.

This is not definitive proof. That is something we might never have. The search for that proof has itself become heavily politicised and often toxic. While this lends weight to the theory that the virus emerged in wild animals and spread to humans at the market, another theory has focused on the possible “lab leak” of a virus from the Wuhan Institute of Virology

What can scientists do now to find Covid’s origin?

This new data could provide more leads for further investigation into the source of the outbreak, but following those leads will be complicated.

Prof Marion Koopmans from Erasmus University in Rotterdam was part of the World Health Organization investigative team that went to Wuhan in 2020. She explained that the new analysis “pinned their presence down to specific stalls, so you could check where animals sold there came from”.

“Of course if that is part of illegal sales, the question is if you would ever find that out.”

There could also still be biological evidence present in farms where these animals are raised for the trade. If researchers could find farmed animals with antibodies that show they had been infected with SARS Cov-2, that could provide another clue. This genetic information could at least narrow down where to look.

But finding the actual virus in an animal, says Prof Holmes, will be very hard.

Does this answer the question of how the pandemic started?

This is not definitive proof. That is something we might never have.

The search for that proof has itself become heavily politicised and often toxic. While this lends weight to the theory that the virus emerged in wild animals and spread to humans at the market, another theory has focused on the possible “lab leak” of a virus from the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

That theory gained headlines once again recently after the FBI’s intervention, weeks after an intelligence assessment from the US energy department and Republicanled hearings into the pandemic’s origins.

In his interview with BBC Science in Action, Prof Holmes

pointed to a previous study of the earliest known cases of Covid in Wuhan. “The outbreak started around the market,” he said. “And now we can see why - the key animals are there.

“It didn’t start around the lab, which is 30km away. And there is not a single piece of data showing any early cases around the laboratory.”

The years’ long delay in releasing this valuable data has led to frustration and anger with the China Centre for Disease Control (CDC).

“The data are three years old - it’s an absolute scandal that it’s taken this long for it to see the light of day,” said Prof Holmes.

The information had actually been posted on to the GISAID genetic database back in January. But it was left there unnoticed. It’s assumed that this was done to provide supporting evidence for a research paper based on the data that was being prepared by Chinese researchers from the CDC. (Sharing

such background data is considered a requirement for scientific publication).

But shortly after the Chinese researchers learned that others had seen the information, it became hidden again.

In a press conference on 17 March, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organization, said that “every piece of data” was important in moving us closer to that answer. “And every piece of data relating to studying the origins of Covid-19 needs to be shared with the international community immediately.”

“We have to get beyond the politics and back to the pure science,” said Prof Holmes.

He added: “Humans get viruses from wildlife - it’s been true throughout our entire evolutionary history. The best thing we can do is separate ourselves from this wildlife and have better surveillance.

“Because this will happen again.”

Source: BBC

There is a “strong association” between the early outbreak and the sale of live animals in a market, scientists say

Analysis of three-year-old data from the wildlife market at the centre of the outbreak points to racoon dogs as a possible ‘intermediate host’

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SPACE FOR SALE

MONDAY, MARCH 27, 2023

wearing Nigeria’s colours, Gusau says

By Albert Akota

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa

Gusau announced on Saturday that visible total commitment implying patriotic fervour will now be a key factor, apart from competence and current form, for any football player who wishes to wear the nation’s green-white-green jersey at any level.

Gusau’s words, spoken to players of the Super Eagles on Saturday morning, was a direct reference to Friday’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying defeat to Guinea Bissau at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, which pushed the Eagles down to

second place in their qualification group.

Mama Balde’s 29th minute goal was the only strike in the encounter, condemning the Eagles to defeat in front of fervent home fans. The Eagles created a dozen chances in the second half but failed to get the ball into the Wild Dogs’ net.

“Let us be very clear about one thing: no player will ever be encouraged against his wish to wear Nigeria’s colours at any time. If an invitation is extended to you at any time but you are not physically, psychologically or mentally up to it, you are free to decline.

“Nigeria demands good performances and positive results from any of the teams going forward. I was sorely disappointed

by your performance against Guinea Bissau and I know that Nigerians at home and in the diaspora are more than disappointed. Things must change starting with the return match in Guinea Bissau on Monday. Our country is too big to be getting these poor results at international level.”

Recalling that the U23 Men Team, Olympic Eagles, also failed to score against Guinea in a Africa U23 Cup of Nations qualifier at the same venue on Wednesday, Gusau said the message is for all the teams, down to the U15 side known as Future Eagles.

“Total commitment that we can see in your body language and output will now be

a key factor in who wears Nigeria’s jerseys. If some players are not ready to give their all at a particular time, others will be and will deliver for our country.”

Team captain Ahmed Musa apologized to the NFF and Nigerians for the defeat and assured that the players are ready to redeem themselves in the return match on Monday.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria delegation to Monday’s match in Bissau will depart from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at 7am on Sunday aboard a chartered flight. The match comes up at the Estadio 24 de Setembro starting from 5pm Guinea Bissau time (6pm Nigeria time) on Monday.

FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Trophy now in Nigeria

The original FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Trophy, to be competed for by 32 teams from across the globe from 20th July to 20th August this year, landed in Nigeria’s federal capital, Abuja on Saturday afternoon.

Already, the coveted prize has been taken to the three other African countries that will participate in the finals: Morocco, South Africa and Zambia.

Nigeria is the fourth leg of the 32-leg journey that the Trophy will undertake, before heading to Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand – the two countries that are the joint hosts of the biggest FIFA Women’s World Cup™ in history.

The Trophy will be on display at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja from 12 noon on Sunday, with a photo session planned for a number of invited guests.

Only four countries have won the glittering trophy: USA, Germany, Norway and Japan. USA have been victorious on four occasions and Germany have lifted it twice. Japan and Norway were champions once each.

This year’s finals will be staged in 10 venues across two countries in two different confederations – the first time a FIFA World Cup™ championship will be staged

across two confederations. There are six venues in five different cities in Australia and four venues in Aotearoa New Zealand, with only Sydney in Australia having two venues. These are the Sydney Football Stadium and the Stadium Australia, which is the venue for the Final match.

More information regarding the FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy Tour is available at FIFA.com/TrophyTour.

NFF will focus on total commitment now pre-requisite for

Gusau, with NFF GS Mohammed Sanusi, addressing the Super Eagles on Saturday morning.

NFF apologizes to Nigerians for U23, Super Eagles’ poor outings

The Nigeria Football Federation has apologized to the generality of Nigerians over the poor outings of the U23 Men National Team (Olympic Eagles) and the Senior Men National Team (Super Eagles) in crucial international matches this week.

The Super Eagles fell 0-1 to Guinea Bissau’s Djurtus in a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, two days after the U23

boys failed to beat Guinea in a first leg, final qualifying fixture for the U23 Africa Cup of Nations.

President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, stated that the Federation was nonplussed by the below-par outings, but would immediately work hard to ensure the teams turn their qualifying games around in a positive way.

“We tender an unreserved apology to Nigerians for the poor results. We worked and planned hard for good results

but things turned out differently on the pitch. Our focus now is on redeeming the situation in the return matches early next week.”

Gusau expressed confidence the U23 boys will take their chances in Rabat on Tuesday against Guinea to qualify for the U23 AFCON, and that the Super Eagles will win in Bissau on Monday to return to the top of their qualifying group for the 2023 AFCON.

Super Falcons will be ready for FIFA Women’s World Cup™ challenge –NFF

President of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau has assured that nine-time African champions Nigeria will be ready to put up an excellent show when the 9th FIFA Women’s World Cup™ finals commence in Australia and New Zealand on 20th July.

“Nigeria is very excited to be amongst the 32 finalist countries for the FIFA Women’s World Cup; the first to be co-hosted and the first ever for 32 teams. It is indeed a historic moment for us at the NFF and the Super Falcons and indeed for all the other teams that qualified.

“Indeed, the Government and people of Nigeria have high expectations for this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup competition. Our Super Falcons have been preparing hard and still preparing to make an excellent run in Australia and New Zealand…we want to assure you that our Super Falcons will not be coming to Australia and New Zealand just to make up the number,” Gusau said at the Nigeria leg of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Trophy Tour at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja on Sunday morning.

The day’s programme started at the Anglican Girls Secondary School, Apo where the school’s fascinated 115 students took turns to take photographs with the original Trophy, alongside the five-member FIFA team and a number of NFF Management officials.

The main event at the Transcorp Hilton also had the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Her Excellency Leann Johnston, as well as Madam Aisha Falode and Rt. Hon. Margaret Icheen, members of the NFF Executive Committee; NFF Management officials; the five-member FIFA team of Giulia Türkyilmaz, Alexa Sunderland, Felipe Chevita, Jot

Jakher and Aurelien Fougere; Super Falcons’ captain Onome Ebi and; players and officials of NWFL Premier League side Naija Ratels led by the proprietor, Barr. Paul Edeh.

Her Excellency Johnston said: “We are excited to welcome Nigeria to Australia for the tournament and we’re looking forward to the group match between them on 27 July

in Brisbane. Australia is rightly proud of the achievements of our women’s national team, the Matildas, who are currently ranked 12th in the world.

“Australians know that the Super Falcons have a long reputation and are not to be taken lightly. The Super Falcons have played in every FIFA Women’s World Cup tournament and are by far Africa’s most successful

women’s football team.”

Dignitaries and guests took turns to take photos with the most coveted prize in women’s football as some players of the FIFA U17 World Cup bronze medallists Flamingos of Nigeria regaled the auditorium with their humble beginnings and challenges on the way to the top.

Nigeria is one of only seven countries to have featured

in every edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ since the competition was launched in 1991. The others are the USA, Brazil, Germany, Japan, Norway and Sweden. This year’s finals will be the first finals to be held in the Southern Hemisphere, the first to welcome 32 teams and the first to be played across two countries in two different confederations.

NFF President Gusau (left) being presented with a replica of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy by lead of the FIFA team, Giulia Türkyilmaz.

S P R T

FIFA Women’s World Cup: Waldrum invites Ebi, Oshoala, Ajibade, 20 others for Haiti & New Zealand

By Albert Akota

Head Coach Randy Waldrum has called up team captain Onome Ebi, and forwards Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade to the camp of Super Falcons ahead of next month’s couple of international friendly matches in Turkey.

The nine-time African champions have a date against World Cup-bound Haiti women’s national team at the Emir Sports Complex in Antalya, Turkey on Friday, 7th April, before taking on World Cup co-hosts New Zealand at the

Mardan Sports Complex also in Antalya on Tuesday, 11th April.

It would be recalled that last month, the Super Falcons were at the FourNation Revelation Cup in the city of Leon, Mexico where they played three matches, two of which were against World Cupbound Costa Rica and Colombia.

The clashes in April are to further test the strength of the African representatives against other World Cup-bound teams, with this year’s edition being the biggest FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in history. It welcomes 32 teams – same number as featured at the men’s finals in

Qatar late last year.

ALL THE INVITED PLAYERS:

Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC, France); Yewande Balogun (AS Saint-Etienne, France); Inyene Etim (Abia Angels)

Defenders: Onome Ebi (Abia Angels); Osinachi Ohale (Deportivo Alaves, Spain); Ashleigh Plumptre (Leicester City, England); Glory Ogbonna (Besiktas JK, Turkey); Rofiat Imuran (Stade de Reims, France); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Oluwatosin Demehin (Stade de Reims, France)

Midfielders: Halimatu Ayinde (FC

Rosengard, Sweden); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal); Ngozi OkobiOkeoghene (FC Levante Las Planas, Spain); Deborah Abiodun (Rivers Angels); Toni Payne (Sevilla FC, Spain); Regina Otu (AS Saint-Etienne, France)

Forwards: Asisat Oshoala (Barcelona Femenin, Spain); Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid, Spain); Esther Okoronkwo (AS Saint-Etienne, France); Ifeoma Onumonu (NY/NJ Gotham FC, USA); Uchenna Kanu (Racing Louisville, Kentucky, USA); Desire Oparanozie (Wuhan Chegu Jianghan, China); Gift Monday (UDG Tenerife, Spain)

PEOPLES DAILY

LATEST SPORTS LATEST Kane and Saka on target as England beat Ukraine

Boundaries of political extremism

The general elections of February 25 and March 18 have come and gone, leaving behind some uneasy dust taking time to settle. For the Presidential election of February 25 specifically, a president-elect has emerged but not without disputation. Already, the legal fireworks have begun in earnest by candidates who lost out. They are determined to challenge the legitimacy of the process and the outcome at the tribunal. It is within their right to do so, since the law provides for it, as long as the approach is also within the allowance of the law. All candidates and parties ought to be treated justly and fairly so as to give more credibility and legitimacy to the elected leaders after the post election litigation would have been dealt with and resolved.

Monday Column

By Hameed M. Bello, PhD

hamdbelo@yahoo.co.uk

the Department of State Services, DSS raises an alarm, it cannot be treated lightly because they have the intelligence network to know the political goings on. At least that we can tell from their antecedents.

the successful administration of the country for two terms of eight years.

“He, for his part, is eager to return home to enjoy his retirement.”

Recall that earlier last week, a member of the All Progressives Congress, APC Presidential Campaign Team, Barrister Festus Keyamo had petitioned the DSS, accusing the presidential candidate and running mate of the Labour Party in the February 25 contest, Peter Obi and Datti Baba Ahmed respectively of alleged incitement and treasonable felony.

England maintained their winning start to Euro 2024 qualifying with a comfortable victory over Ukraine at Wembley.

Gareth Southgate’s side built on the foundation of their first away win against Italy since 1961 with an efficient performance that was more than enough to see off the visitors.

England struggled to build any momentum until record scorer Harry Kane made it 55 international goals when he bundled in Bukayo Saka’s cross at the far post eight minutes before half-time.

The second arrived three minutes later and was all Saka’s own work, the Arsenal winger turning away from his man on the edge of the area and curling a superb effort beyond the reach of Anatoliy Trubin and into the top corner.

Leicester City’s James Maddison made a good impression on his first England start while Brentford’s Ivan Toney won his first cap as a late substitute, captain Kane making way once there was never any serious danger of a Ukrainian comeback.

Saka is part of England’s young generation that Southgate hopes will form a key component of their Euro 2024 campaign and the quest to finally claim a major trophyand what a talent he is.

Saka has been outstanding as Arsenal lead the Premier League table and after a fine World Cup in Qatar he has simply carried on the form he has been showing all season.

He was a constant danger down England’s right flank and the 21-year-old merely confirmed what he is showing on an almost weekly basis, namely that he has a golden future ahead of him.

Taye Taiwo and Oduamadi

Nigeria operates a constitutional democracy on the basis of the rule of law. Accordingly, a democratic government is given legitimacy only by the processes laid down by the law. The law also prescribes how a government can either be enthroned, legitimized or delegitimized, and this does not include through violent means, mass action, social upheaval or acts of hooliganism or mayhem. It is only by established legal processes that an aggrieved party(ies) can seek redress from perceived infraction, injustice or disagreeable electoral conduct. Anything short of that could expose an individual(s) to the wrath of the state. This is the reason the election tribunal is in place to hear petitions, disagreements and malpractices that might have reflected on the result. The tribunal will in turn hear both parties or their counsels and deliver judgment on the merit of the submissions and defence by the litigants. Parties could also appeal the tribunal judgment at a higher court if they are still unsatisfied. These legal windows provided to seek relief are enough to address all post election grievances without further resort to extra judicial means or seek self help which can set up the individual(s) against the state or its agents.

Already, the first and second runners up in the presidential election, the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and that of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi have made their submissions to the tribunal praying for the cancellation of the results, conduct of fresh poll or urging the tribunal to declare them winners as the case may be. This is normal. The defence team will in turn make its own submission in reply to the allegations while the tribunal will examine the merits and demerits of both arguments and take a position.

It becomes worrisome when these laid down procedures are set aside in preference for extra legal means of seeking for power. Whenever

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The DSS had in a statement on Saturday, March 25 warned those it described as “desperate politicians” planning to cause violence in the country and advised them to desist forthwith in their own best interest. The Service said such politicians and their footsoldiers will regret such action if they defy the warning.

In the statement, DSS spokesman, Dr. Peter Afunanya said that information available to the Service showed that desperate political leaders were planning to violently disrupt peace in the country.

“The Service hereby warns those desperate to cause a breakdown of law and order to desist from that,” and that the Service will not tolerate a situation where persons and/or groups take laws into their hands and champion anarchy.

“Those peddling fake news, hate speech and all forms of false narratives as basis to ignite violence or pit the people against the present or incoming administrations, at the Federal, State and Parliamentary levels, should stop forthwith.

“Those inciting violence have nothing to gain as doing so will not only consume them but also the innocent.

“It is otherwise disturbing to see respected personalities use their platforms to mislead or incite citizens.This, to say the least, does not augur well for peaceful coexistence and general order.

“Therefore, the Service will continue to take necessary measures to checkmate these elements who do not wish the country well.

“This is to ensure that the conducive environment is provided for citizens and residents to pursue their legitimate businesses.”

Dr. Afunanya recalled that the Service had earlier advised political players to abide by the rules of engagement as well as approach the courts for redress, if and where there are suspicions of infractions on extant electoral laws.

“It is evident that some aggrieved politicians are already taking advantage of this legal process. This, without doubt, is the beauty

of democracy. It is strongly believed that this approach enhances peace and security.”

The DSS alarm is coming whent he Presidency has said that the preparation for handover of power to the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Vice Presidentelect, Kashim Ibrahim Shettima is currently in top gear with all the handover committees working round the clock for the programme.

“The Transition Committee, made up of representatives of the outgoing administration and the incoming one, is meeting on an almost daily basis planning the handover to the Tinubu/Shettima administration.”

In a statement on March 24 reacting to news that President Muhammadu Buhari will not hand over to Tinubu on May 29, a Presidential spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu dismissed the news as fake.

Garba Shehu asked: “how can you vigorously campaign for somebody, vote for him and then say you won’t hand over to him? This beggars belief.”

According to him, thirteen committees as offshoots of the main committee, some, to arrange military drills and pulling out of President Buhari, are either all at work or soon to be.

“So far, everything is going very well and there is no indication of any hitches.”

Garba Shehu hinted that already the Daura community has begun their preparations to receive their son, President Buhari back, after

In a petition dated Thursday, March 23, 2023, addressed to the Director General of the DSS, Keyamo had accused the duo of Obi and Datti of making incendiary comments and claims capable of causing an insurrection and rebellion against the government of Nigeria and the duly elected President-elect. In his petition submitted in his personal capacity as a Nigerian, Keyamo urged the DSS to invite, interrogate and after investigation, if necessary, charge both individuals to court for their conducts, allegedly, which amount to incitement and treasonable felony.

The President-elect himself had reportedly expressed fears of alleged plans to truncate his swearing in on May 29. These series of allegations on the same subject is worrisome. This is the reason former President Goodluck Jonathan remains a political hero to a lot of people. His often repeated refrain that no politician’s ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian is memorable. Politicians should not conduct themselves in a manner that will endanger the lives of the same people they want to rule. Democracy is necessarily about majority rule - the minority will have their say while the majority will have their way. We have to tread cautiously to avoid actions that will put the society on fire. The contestatnts should remember the peace accord they had all assented to, to be peaceful and law abiding. The courts still remain the legal means for dispute resolution in a democracy.

PDP National Chairman, Ayu suspended for antiparty activities —News Campaign after election!

DSS DG Bichi