By Ahmed Ilallah

The current battle between the EFCC and the former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello on the allegations of N80B fraud is giving distrust to the youth generation leadership in Nigeria.

Though, it has become an inurement of most Nigerian political leaders to play hide and seek, when they are facing litigations, especially on corruption issues.

The current attitude of Yahaya Bello to answer the court order is a disgrace to the leadership mentality of the youth generation of the day.

Mr. Yahaya who became a governor in his early thirties, should be bold and lead by example to face the allegations and prove his innocence.

In my opinion, the factors of corruption, poor governance and immoral politics hindered the liberation of good democracy in Africa.

When the Black South Africans got freedom and Nelson Mandela became the first black president, he served for only one term and allowed the younger generation to lead on. The story later was sad.

Thabo Mbeki and Zuma who led after Mandela are all accused of corruption, Jacob Zuma is currently jailed.

Even in Nigeria, President Buhari who was elected at the elderly age of seventies, Nigerians faithfully believed in his trustful and intolerance of corruption.

But the people he isolated and trusted to work with them, disgrace his system with corruption. In his eight years of leadership, many of them are alleged with high-level corruption cases.

Putting Yahaya Bello on the watchlist by the Nigerian Immigration Service and declaring him wanted by EFCC and other security agencies, as a result of defaulting the court order is Ignominy.

However, Yahaya Bello claims that the EFCC disobeyed the orders of the Kogi State High Court by seeking to arrest and arraign him before the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.

However, Legal experts like Falana opined that the EFCC had diligently complied with the order of the Kogi State High Court by filing charges of money laundering of over N80 against Bello.

Falana added that the order made by the Federal High Court for the arrest of Bello for his arraignment is equally in line with the order of the Kogi State High Court.

Whatever the case, Yahaya Bello should be a good citizen by facing the law and proof of his innocence, otherwise, he is telling the world of either being guilty or has limited words to prove his innocence.

alhajilallah@gmail.com

The Jigawa State Governor, the number one citizens of Jigawa has clocked 61 years.

Congratulations to His Excellency for attaining this significant time of your life.

A great blessing of Almighty Allah for granting you these years, if you are to recall, many of your friends are now late, some are struggling for illness. Alhamdulillah you are now at sixty one and in good health.

My prayers, Allah should continue giving you the sound health and energy in driving Jigawa State positively.

The 61’s year of your life is momentum in all the years, Allah in his desire shoulders to you the mental leadership of the people of Jigawa State, approximately 7 million people.

You inherited a most difficult tasks at this moment, you can’t do it alone, it’s a stakeholding game, and the success or otherwise are on your shoulder.

My prayers, the people you opt to work with you for fulfilling your oath, shouldn’t act against the run of play.

That, they should be faithful, dedicated and more committed to work with you for the betterment of Jigawa People.

The year is a difficult starting year for the leadership task on you.

You inherited everything in the past administrations, the good and the shortcomings, your actions actualised your honest commitments of progressing, you have not cried and complain.

My prayers, Allah should soften everything for you to achieve you agendas for the growth of Jigawa State.

Your Excellency, happy birthday and prosperous year ahead.

alhajilallah@gmail.com

By Ibrahim Ammani

In a heartwarming turn of events, the abducted school children of Kuriga have been safely released, bringing immense relief and joy to their families and the entire community.

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to the safety and security of Nigerians. The Governor highlighted the President’s personal involvement and round-the-clock efforts that played a pivotal role in ensuring the children’s safe return.

The Governor also lauded the National Security Adviser, Mal. Nuhu Ribadu, for his exceptional leadership and strategic coordination with security agencies, which were instrumental in the successful resolution of this crisis.

The Nigerian Army received special praise for their courage, determination, and commitment, which Governor Sani noted were key factors in degrading criminal elements and restoring security within the community.

The collective prayers and support of Nigerians were acknowledged as a significant force that contributed to this joyous outcome. Governor Sani remarked, “This is indeed a day of joy. We give Almighty Allah all the glory.”

The safe return of the Kuriga school children marks a day of celebration and reaffirms the nation’s resolve against criminal activities, ensuring that the safety of its citizens remains a top priority.

By Ahmed Ilallah

The issue of Budget Padding and marginalisation of some regions on development programmes allegations is not new in this country.

The great arm to develop every society in the democratic government are the politicians leaders, who are occupying government offices through elections, as they are the thinkers, policy makers and executors. If they are competent in their jobs, the country will achieved all her development objectives.

The suspension of Bauchi Central Senator, Senator Ningi on his claims and public comments on the budget padding allegations, that deter the image of the Red Chamber according to the Senate leadership.

The claims of Senator Ningi’s, that 3.7 trillion inserted in the 2024 budget has location and place of spending, their through investigation has not traced any projects of the 3.7 trillions in the Budget.

According to the Senator Ningi who is also the Chairman of Northern Senators Forum, it is a findings of Northern Senators, and they have met with the Senate President on the matter

He clearly stated at plannery sitting of the Senate that the intentions of the Northern Senators was to met with the Senate president with their findings and subsequently met the President Tinubu with their findings concerning the 2024 budget. But he confirmed the interview he made with BBC is his personal.

During the sitting the Senate President has confirmed their meeting with about 30 northern senators on the issue.

Back to my topic, the scenario and actions and reaction of the Senator’s during the sitting that suspends the Senator Ningi, is worrisome to the general political leadership in the country to all patriotic Nigerians. There are a lot of lesson for the northerners on their coordination and collaboration to safeguard the region.

One of Senators from the south south, made the conclusion that, all these allegations are not on national interest, but a plan for an inhouse coup to dethrone the Senate President by the northerners, he reminds the Senate President that, majority of them have not voted for him before.

The worrisome that can scared the future of Nigeria, is how these big politicians are still driving on a divisional lines of regions, religions and ethnicity.

Though, the north is in the dangerous site of the country, as a result of uncoordinated and poor collaboration of the political leaders.

On this case they left Ningi to fight alone at the chamber, unless few of them, they failed to back him, though is their general fight, as it is an observation of the Northern Senators.

The north now is slowly handled by the terrorists across the region and multiple dangerous objectives, kidnapping and destroying the region, as a result of lack of collaboration and coordination of northern governor’s to fight the insurgency.

The education and health systems is deteriorating everyday, the communicable diseases are accelerating as a result of poor collaboration of the northern leaders in attending the problems.

This budget padding saga that engulf the Senator Ningi is clearly that our political leaders have a shortcoming of unity and collaboration to safe themselves and the region.

The Forum of Northern Political Parties Chairmen extends its deepest sympathies and solidarity to the residents of Kuriga community, located in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, in the wake of the tragic abduction of approximately 200 students from a primary school in Kuriga ward. Mal. Mikailu Abubakar National secretary of the forum in a press release today 7th March, 2024 said

The heinous act of kidnapping innocent children from their educational institution has inflicted profound shock and anguish upon the Kuriga community and the wider society. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the abducted students during this distressing time, and we stand firmly united in support of their quest for the safe return of their loved ones.

The abduction of these young students represents a brazen attack on the fundamental right to education and the safety of our children. It is an affront to the values of peace, unity, and progress that we hold dear as a nation. We condemn this cowardly act in the strongest possible terms and call for swift and decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Forum of Northern Political Parties Chairmen urgently appeals to the government of Kaduna State and relevant security agencies to prioritize the rescue efforts and take all necessary measures to ensure the safe return of the abducted students to their families. Every resource and effort must be mobilized to expedite their release and alleviate the suffering of the affected families.

Furthermore, we call upon the government to implement robust security measures across educational institutions in Kaduna State and the wider Northern region, to prevent such heinous acts from recurring in the future. It is imperative that the safety and well-being of our children remain paramount, and that every child has the opportunity to pursue their education in a secure environment.

As representatives of various political parties in the Northern region, we reiterate our unwavering commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to address the root causes of insecurity and restore peace and stability to our communities. We urge all Nigerians to stand together in solidarity against the scourge of kidnapping and violence, and to work towards building a safer and more prosperous future for our nation.

By Ibrahim Ammani

Kogi State born Publisher Malam Jafaru Yakubu has described the reappointment of Dr. Shu’ibu Umar Oricha, DIrector General Administration Government House Lokoja as well-deserved appointment, saying, ‘‘he is a very hardworking person.
Cross section of Well wishers at the grand reception to Dr. Oricha yesterday at his hometown

In a statement issued to journalists In Kaduna Sunday, Jafaru Yakubu, said Dr. Oricha is a man that has displayed a high sense of commitment and while discharging his duties from 2019 to the time that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo reappointed him as Director General Administration Government House Lokoja.

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Malam Jafaru Yakubu who is also the Publisher And Editor In- chief of Nigeria Terms International Magazine, noted that the idea of reappointing him not based on sentiment but simply because of the exemplary leadership he has displayed while discharging his official duties as DG Government House Lokoja.

According to him , Dr. Oricha had always demonstrated an exceptional taste for transparency, accountability and passion for equity.

” We have confident that Dr. Shu’ibu Oricha will remain committed on transparency, accountability and equity while serving his state

” I will use this opportunity to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you as a beacon of hope based on your selfless Service to humanity In Kagi State ” he said

Kogi State born Publisher Malam Jafaru Yakubu has described the reappointment of Dr. Shu’ibu Umar Oricha, DIrector General Administration Government House Lokoja as well-deserved appointment, saying, ‘‘he is a very hardworking person.
Cross section of Well wishers at the grand reception to Dr. Oricha yesterday at his hometown

In a statement issued to journalists In Kaduna Sunday, Jafaru Yakubu, said Dr. Oricha is a man that has displayed a high sense of commitment and while discharging his duties from 2019 to the time that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo reappointed him as Director General Administration Government House Lokoja.

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Malam Jafaru Yakubu who is also the Publisher And Editor In- chief of Nigeria Terms International Magazine, noted that the idea of reappointing him not based on sentiment but simply because of the exemplary leadership he has displayed while discharging his official duties as DG Government House Lokoja.

According to him , Dr. Oricha had always demonstrated an exceptional taste for transparency, accountability and passion for equity.

” We have confident that Dr. Shu’ibu Oricha will remain committed on transparency, accountability and equity while serving his state

” I will use this opportunity to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you as a beacon of hope based on your selfless Service to humanity In Kagi State ” he said

By Aminu Abba

The Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria ( FTAN) has inaugurated new executive members in Kaduna State.

Inaugurating the new Executives members of the association, at the Assa Pyramid Hotel Kaduna, the National Vice president North- West Zone of the association, Dr. Kabiru Aliyu, said the inauguration was another landmark in the history of of FTAN in Kaduna State and the country.

He also charged the new executive members to be good ambassadors of FTAN in the state, country and internationally in the Tourism industry.

Dr. Kabiru, urged the exco members to also use their well of experience in steering the affairs of the branch.

He also called on them to partner with Kaduna State Government to move tourism and hospitality industry forward in the state.

In his acceptance speech, the new Chairman of FTAN kaduna State, Dr. Tobi Bernard Thomas, vowed to collaborate with other professional, public and non- governmental organisation to move tourism and hospitality industry forward in Kaduna state.

” This is a bigger task and i hope other executives with me in the council will leave no stone unturned to reposition tourism in Kaduna state thereby making Kaduna a top notch tourism destination”

” Tourism is a big bussiness in many countries but it is not so yet in Nigeria despite the huge tourism potentials lying fallows in our tourism sites across the country, but we are here as a formidable force to change the narratives” he said.

In his welcome address, Commissioner ministry for Local Government Kaduna State Honourable Sadiq Mamman Lagos, congratulated the newly elected members of FTAN, promised to work with Association to move tourism forward accross the local government areas of the state.

Hon. Sadiq Mamman Lagos, who was represented, by Chief Local government inspector in the ministry, Mr. Emmanuel Ishaya Anche, said the Ministry for Local Government will partner with the Association because Kaduna State has great opportunities for tourism growth and development.

In a paper presentation delivered by Ahmed M. Sharif title ” Re- Awakening Tourism And Hospitality ” he described Tourism as on of the largest and fastest growing industries in the worl.

He said International trips grew from 25 million in 1950 to 940 million in 2010, 1.6 billion in 2020 and projected to hit 37.4 billion by 2030.

Dr. Sharif, noted that in Nigeria the sector is said to contribute an average of 260,000 employment opportunities annually and this is expected to increase to between 2.6 to 5.1 billion new jobs in the next 10 years. Adding that the need to reawaken the sector in Kaduna State.

He explained that the future of Tourism in Kaduna State is dependent on the opportunities and challenges being addressed appropriately while capitalizing on its culture and diversity, friendly disposition of the people and numerous natural heritage.

By Ahmed Hassan

The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation is deeply concerned about the current state of the Nigerian economy. We believe it is our responsibility to address the gravity of the situation and offer our recommendations for a way forward.

The current economic situation in Nigeria is undeniably grim. Inflation has reached an all-time high of 29.9 percent, leading to a severe crisis where citizens are finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities, such as foodstuffs, as prices of essential commodities have become beyond the reach of the ordinary Nigerian, exacerbating the already challenging circumstances. Food inflation is 35. 41 per cent.

The removal of petroleum subsidy has indeed caused hardships for the population, as it has led to an increase in fuel prices and subsequent price hikes in other sectors.

The rise in prices of fuels and transportation costs, coupled with the drop in the supply of electricity, have further compounded the burden on the meagre earnings of Nigerians. It is disheartening to note that the wages of millions of Nigerians have not been increased, leaving them vulnerable to the inflationary pressures that have plagued the nation.

It is crucial to acknowledge the increasing restlessness among citizens, which has manifested in the form of protests in some states. These protests highlight the frustration and dissatisfaction of the Nigerian people with the current economic situation.

Furthermore, the closure of borders has also contributed to the current economic woes in Nigeria. The halt in trans-border economic activities, such as the trade in grains, livestock, and other commodities, has had a negative impact on various sectors of the economy. This has led to a decrease in supply, an increase in prices, and a disruption of the agricultural value chain.

Additionally, the alarming state of insecurity in the country has significantly hampered agricultural activities. Farmers are unable to cultivate their lands, resulting in a decline in agricultural output. This situation not only exacerbates food insecurity but also contributes to the overall economic instability.

In light of these challenges, the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation recommends the following:

1. Targeted Social Safety Nets: Implement short-term measures such as targeted social safety net programs to provide assistance to vulnerable groups directly affected by the removal of subsidies. This can include cash transfers, food subsidies, or other forms of assistance to help alleviate the immediate hardships of the most vulnerable.
2. Urgent Intervention in the form of inflation control through price stabilization mechanisms:
   The government should prioritize implementing measures to curb inflation, such as adopting monetary policies that promote stability and price control mechanisms that ensure affordability for essential commodities. Price Stabilization Mechanisms such as price ceilings or targeted subsidies to ensure that essential commodities remain affordable for low-income households are necessary. This can help mitigate the immediate impact of subsidy removal on the cost of living.
3. Income Increase for Nigerians:
   It is imperative for the government and relevant stakeholders to initiate policies that address the long-standing issue of stagnant wages. Regular salary reviews and adjustments should be implemented to alleviate the financial burden on the citizens.
4. Strengthening of Security:
   The government must take immediate and decisive actions to tackle the prevailing insecurity in the country. This includes intensifying efforts to combat insurgency and banditry, ensuring the safety of farmers and their farms, and restoring peace in affected regions.
5. Support for Agriculture: Special attention should be given to the agricultural sector, as it holds significant potential for economic recovery and food security. The government should provide necessary support to farmers, including access to credit, improved infrastructure, and modern farming techniques.
6. Border Closure: it is crucial for the government to carefully evaluate the effects of border closures on the economy and explore alternative measures to address the concerns that warrant their closures in the first place. It is necessary to mitigate the negative consequences of border closures and foster a more vibrant and resilient economy, especially in the Northern states.
7. Reviews of Nigeria’s Monetary and Fiscal Policies:
   The Central Bank of Nigeria and other regulatory authorities must review and adopt “home – grown” monetary and fiscal policies that take into cognizance our peculiarities as a nation to control inflation, reducing excessive government spending, controlling budget deficits, and increasing revenue generation.
8. Exchange Rate Policies: Governments should adopt policies to lower and maintain a stable exchange rate, which can help manage import costs and reduce inflationary pressures.

The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation stands ready to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including the government, the private sector, and civil society, to implement these recommendations and work towards the economic revitalization of Nigeria

Signed
Engr (Dr) Abubakar Gambo Umar, MNSE, MNIM
Director General/CEO

By Zainab Abdulkadir

The Northern Consensus Movement ( NCM) have resolved to work closely with the Federal Government and other relevant authorities in finding solutions to the incessant Fulani Crisis and killings in the northern part of Nigeria.

The resolution was reached on Sunday after a meeting in Kaduna with Northern groups across the Country.

Fulani herdsmen have been always painted with bad names for the wrong reasons, with several accusing fingers pointed in their direction as being responsible for causing mayhem in different communities across the country we want to be in the forefront to find out why and how its happened and comes out with the lasting solution “

Addressing journalists after the meeting, the National President of NCM Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu noted that the essence of the meeting is to make sure that they assist the government in tackling the menace of Fulani herdsmen Crisis and deadly attacks allegedly perpetrated by cattle herdsmen.

The Northern Consensus Movement ( NCM) An Amalgamation of 593 Community Base, Socio cultural and Economic Inclined Northern Associations from the 19 Northern States and Associations of Northerners residents in the 17 Southern States, said Fulani herdsmen have been in the news for the wrong reasons, with several accusing fingers pointed in their direction as being responsible for causing mayhem in different communities across the country.

Dr. Awwal Abdullahi, said NCM readiness to partner with the government to find a lasting solution to the problem.

The NCM President Applauded Katsina and Zamfara State Governors for the improvement of security situation in their states by engaging the Local security operatives.

He added that there is need to strengthen the Local Security guards in discharging their duties to compliment the efforts of the conventional security agents.

Former House of Representatives member, Hon. Gabriel Saleh has debunked story making rounds in the media about some students, who claimed they were promised scholarships and not paid in the end .

The lawmaker,described the allegations raised by the students in the sponsored write-up as not only frivolous , but also concocted lies to damage his hard earned political image.

In the published story , some Medical Students and others Science Students from Kachia Kagarko Federal Constituency had cried out over ‘Political gimmick’ of the former member and vowed to vote him out.”

Reacting in a press statement personally signed , Hon. Gabriel Saleh, said he never made any promise of sort and failed during the course his stay as House of Rep member and entire political career .

He further explained:”I was popularly voted by the good people of Kachia/Kagarko to represented them in the House of Representatives and I did my very best to do so,while my tenure lasted.

“For the records, they should cross check again in Kaduna State University, (KASU), when my team went to pay scholarships for students that were captured,located and paid accordingly . Anyone in doubt should go to KASU and ask the Student Captured if they got it or not.

“All that I did were documented and there was no time that I promised and failed our people.

“Those that were captured for scholarships by team were shortlisted and paid to KASU . Before going to press, I expected those who carried such frivolous story to confirm whether those captured got it or not .”

The lawmaker,who expressed displeasure over the story noted ,” I have four years tenure, how would I promised to take off tuition fees for medical students who will be in school after my 4 years tenure.

While describing the story as the handiwork of political enemies, who are threatened by his popularity, he said, “It’s a matter of time, God will vindicate me and expose their evil machinations.”

Speaking about the Petition with claim that he supporter Labour Party presidential candidate during the elections , Hon. Saleh simply referred the detractors to Hon. Faleke.”

He however stressed, ” Anyone in doubt about my contributions to Asiwaju’s campaign and election victory should ask my colleague Faleke ,who was then the Secretary of the Presidential Campaign Council of Asiwaju.”

According to him, the public should know that the faceless group,which wrote the petition under guise of ‘Concerned APC Members Kaduna State’ (Kachia/Kagarko Federal constituency) was sponsored to de-campaign him . Adding that If there was a need for a petition, it should come from the party Chairman of the polling unit, ward or even the State office.

He explained further,”There are 22 wards , why is it that there are no signatures from the wards? That is to show that the whole idea is a lie and calculated attempts to reduce my popularity ahead of the by-election.

Meanwhile, he disclosed ,”My campaign is going on and will continue until the D-Day of the by-election.”

On his achievements ,Hon. Saleh said,” We provided 36 major projects ranging from hospitals; schools Boreholes and also sponsored a bill to create a Federal college of agriculture, Kagarko, which has gone through the second reading and ready for public hearing.

He also revealed ,”We touched lives of so many people including widows, orphans, youths,students Traditional and religious leaders.

“We organized an annual programme tagged “Peace Conference” where lectures on peace and conflict resolution are taught while at the end fertilizers and rice were shared to farmers and the less privileged with cash donations to indigent families. Over 110 motorcycles and some vehicles were distributed and good number of our youths employed in critical positions.

“And these good works ,we have promised to continue to do if re-elected.”

In a reaction to the issue of petition against Hon. Saleh via telephone,the Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Kachia local Government, explained: In the first place, most of those who signed the petition are not our party members. How did they arrive at the conclusion that Hon. Gabriel Saleh Har was engaged in anti party activities at any time ,when they not members of the party?

“One name we saw on the so called petition, Junaidu is a suspended member of the party. He was caught red- handed on video working against our lawmaker for the upcoming rerun election.Another person who signed ,was the former party secretary, Mr. Daniel Ibrahim ,who has debunked signing the petition and the other persons is not our members. The Petition does not hold water as far as we are concerned, thus should be disregarded .

“On the the forthcoming rerun election for Kachia/Kagarko Federal Constituency, the Chairman said , ” APC is battle ready for landslide victory.All we know is that Hon Gabriel Saleh Har is a loyal party member, who has always sponsored the party and its activities without looking back.We know him as one who takes care of the party.Of course, if you’re in power, you will have more enemies, more so, that he’s widely known for given to people and helping the less privileged .

“Ahead of the rerun the party,we are more determined and working tirelessly to ensure overwhelming victory God willing.”

Similar, the APC Chairman Kagarko local Government area, Mr. Christopher Mailafiya discredited the petition and described it as a “Fiction of imagination” of the writers.

” We can’t allow such shenanigans to distract us from winning the forthcoming rerun election . Hon. remains the candidate to beat and the party is leaving no stone unturned to make sure Hon. is again returned as our House of Representatives member.”