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UMAR AJIYA’S NNPC LEGACIES

UMAR AJIYA’S NNPC LEGACIES

By Ibrahim Abdullahi

In a country often plagued by leadership inertia and institutional opacity, Umar Ajiya Isa stands tall as a symbol of transformational leadership, financial discipline, and patriotic commitment. A native of Isa Local Government in Sokoto State, his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a central figure in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry is nothing short of inspirational. Today, he is not just a former NNPC executive, but the Ajiyan Sokoto—a revered title that reflects both his professional accomplishments and his service to the community.

Ajiya’s remarkable journey began with a solid academic foundation and matured through a stellar 22-year career at Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), where he developed the strategic and financial acumen that would later power his transformational work in the public energy sector. His deep understanding of the global gas economy and project financing made him a valuable asset as he transitioned into higher responsibilities at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

As Group General Manager of Corporate Planning and Strategy at NNPC, he introduced robust business models for Autonomous Business Units and revived the long-dormant Price Review Committee. These reforms became the foundation for NNPC’s dramatic turnaround—culminating in the first profit declaration in its history: ₦287 billion in 2020, ₦674 billion in 2021, ₦2.52 trillion in 2022, and a record ₦3.30 trillion in 2023.

As Managing Director of Pipelines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC), Ajiya engineered an unprecedented revival. He reversed decades of losses by introducing the PMS ex-coastal price correction policy, saving Nigeria ₦72 billion annually. He championed digital transformation, led SAP implementation, and fostered critical stakeholder synergy. PPMC, for the first time in its 28-year history, declared profit under his watch in 2018.

Appointed NNPC’s Chief Financial Officer in 2019, Ajiya unlocked monumental financing opportunities. He secured $1 billion for NPDC to settle outstanding Petroleum Profits Tax (PPT), helping shield the Federation Account during the 2020 COVID-19 downturn. He also coordinated $1 billion in equity financing for Nigeria’s stake in the Dangote Refinery—ensuring national participation in Africa’s largest refinery project. Even more critical was his role in facilitating a $3 billion crude-backed financing arrangement for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to stabilize the Naira during forex volatility.

Notably, Ajiya’s reforms elevated NNPC to the rank of Nigeria’s highest taxpayer, a feat reflecting unmatched fiscal transparency and revenue optimization. He also drove upstream and midstream project financing models and successfully restructured NNPC’s balance sheet in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), steering the Corporation into a new commercial era.

Beyond the boardroom, Ajiya’s philanthropy and community leadership speak volumes. From supporting educational initiatives to youth empowerment in Isa Local Government, he has given back meaningfully. His recent appointment as Co-Chair of the Sokoto State Economic Advisory Council underscores his continued commitment to public service and regional development.

Umar Ajiya Isa is more than a technocrat—he is a nation-builder whose legacy will echo for generations. As Ajiyan Sokoto, he carries not just a title, but the trust of a people and the credibility of a life defined by service, excellence, and vision.

Alleged Starvation, Sodomization of Inmates At Kano Correctional Facility: NCS Swiftly Denied The Allegations.

Alleged Starvation, Sodomization of Inmates At Kano orrectional Facility: NCS Swiftly Denied The Allegations.

BY COMRADE MUSA MOHAMMED

A viral interview conducted by an ex-inmate named Shehu Adamu, who claims to be detained at Goron-dutse Correctional Facility for 9 years and has made serious allegations regarding the conditions within the facility. According to his account, inmates are subjected to hunger and starvation, which he asserts have led younger inmates to succumb to acts of sodomy as a desperate means of survival, which he further urges the relevant authorities to verify these claims.

Adamu who was arrested in 2015 over a robbery case linked to a stolen mobile phone, he was acquitted by the Federal High Court on April 29, 2025.

A team of journalists visited the Goron Dutse correctional centre in kano state for confirmation and investigation.

The team of journalists interacted with the Area Controller of Nigeria Correctional Service Kano State command Ado Inuwa,
CC Kafilu Abdullahi, who is in charge of the Goron Dutse correctional centre, some inmates that interviewed which includes Sadiq Dauda popularly known as’General Liman’ who is the Imam of the inmates, Head of the Christians Chaplain Francis Nathaniel, which they all denied the allegations in the entirety.

The inmates that spoke with journalists said is entirely false, baseless, the viral claims made by Shehu Adamu, a recently released inmate, who alleged widespread abuse, rape, and inhumane conditions at the Goron Dutse Correctional Centre in the State.

The Controller also described Adamu’s allegations as a calculated attempt to malign the state, Islam, and the practice of Shariah in Kano State.

“Nothing he said is true, because there’s was no evidence of rape, hunger, or abuse. His story was concocted to generate controversy and damage the reputation of islam”.

The Controller lamented that some journalists are always spreading unverified claims on social media, calling on media to remain cautious and responsible.

The Controller refuted the claims of sodomy, rape, and deaths due to hunger as baseless and unsupported by evidence.

Adding that the Kano Command strictly adheres to the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019.

ACC Kafilu Abdullahi in charge of the Goron Dutse correctional centre described Adamu’s claims as false.
Adding that Adamu was never held at Goron Dutse, he was remanded at Kurmawa custodial centre.

“Contrary to the claim that Shehu Adamu spent nine years awaiting trial, official records show he was remanded for only four months on charges of conspiracy and criminal breach of trust before his release”.

“Adamu was ever held at Goron Dutse, he was remanded at the Kurmawa Custodial Centre, as documented in the official registers.” Kafilu added.

Katsina Deputy Governor Projects State’s Solid Mineral Vision at Nairobi Forum

GOVE

Katsina Deputy Governor Projects State’s Solid Mineral Vision at Nairobi Forum

Calls for Public-private Partnership to integrate Mining, Agriculture

Katsina State Deputy Governor, Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe has spotlighted the state’s vast potential in the solid minerals sector.

Deputy Governor Jobe made this known while delivering a keynote lecture in Nairobi, Kenya, at a high-level international forum on harnessing solid minerals for socioeconomic development.

Malam Jobe’s presentation, themed “Exploiting Solid Minerals as a Catalyst to Socio-Economic Development Focus on Infrastructure,” explained the roadmap for unlocking the State’s solid mineral wealth while ensuring sustainability, transparency, and community benefit.

“Katsina State understands the enormous potential of the solid minerals sector–not just as an economic driver, but as a tool to transform infrastructure, create jobs, and drive inclusive growth,” Malam Jobe stated.

The Deputy Governor also emphasized the importance of clear regulations, public accountability, and robust governance frameworks in transforming mineral wealth into sustainable development.

Deputy Governor Jobe further shared global case studies on the successes and pitfalls of countries like Chile, Botswana, and Zambia, to advocate for a smarter, transparent and community-focused approach to mining governance.

“Zambia’s copper experience shows both the potential and the pitfalls. For Nigeria and Katsina in particular, we must prioritize value addition, local content, and environmental sustainability while avoiding the resource curse,” the Deputy Governor advised.

Similarly, he stressed the need for a multi sectorial strategy that integrates mining with agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy, alongside infrastructure development financed through innovative models such as Public-Private Partnerships, Sovereign Wealth Funds, and Green Bonds.

The delegation of Katsina State Government at event include, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Malik Anas; the Accountant General of the State, Nura Tela; and the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Saulawa.

The participation of Katsina state’s delegation in this global dialogue is part of the Government’s resolve to attract investment, straighten institutions and ensure solid minerals truly benefit the people of Katsina.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State

8th April, 2025

Democracy Under Threat: Why Tinubu Must Defend the Freedoms He Once Fought – Faduri Oluwadare Joseph

Democracy Under Threat: Why Tinubu Must Defend the Freedoms He Once Fought For By Faduri Oluwadare Joseph

In a recent address on Faduri Oluwadare Joseph YouTube channel, , Faduri Oluwadare Joseph — also known as FADOJOE, a presidential aspirant under the Labour Party and founder of the Rescue Movement and the F-Planet — shared deep concerns about the state of governance, law, and democracy in Nigeria.

This message is directed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leader of our nation. As someone who once stood for freedom, justice, and the rule of law, it is troubling to see Nigeria now drifting away from the very principles you once fought for.

From the top to the grassroots, lawlessness is creeping into the fabric of our society. Ministers and political office holders, instead of leading by example, are beginning to act without regard for due process or the constitution. A democracy is meant to be a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. It thrives on transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law — not intimidation or abuse of power.

The recent actions by David Umahi, the Minister of Works, are a case in point. Property owners and investors are now living in fear, as projects and investments are being destroyed under the guise of development, often without proper legal backing or consultation. This not only erodes public trust but also discourages investment in our economy.

Even more disturbing is the unjust arrest of Nigerian activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan by Economic and Financial Crimes and Commision(EFCC). He was picked up and held for 72 hours without any clear charge or due process. If indeed he broke any law, the proper approach should have been an invitation to respond to allegations. Arresting him like a criminal, without explanation, is not just a violation of his rights — it is a blow to the democracy we claim to uphold.

Contrast this with the case of Yahaya Bello, former Governor of Kogi State, who is alleged to have looted over 80 billion naira. Till today, there has been no similar urgency in pursuing justice. This selective application of the law raises serious questions about fairness and credibility.

Why is it that youth voices are being silenced while powerful politicians operate above the law? Is this the democracy we fought for? It is becoming increasingly difficult for Nigerians to speak freely without fear of retaliation. Arresting citizens for expressing dissent or criticism is not governance — it is tyranny in disguise.

Mr. President, this is not the Nigeria we dreamed of. As someone who once led battles for free speech, for freedom of movement, and for the rule of law, we urge you to reflect on the direction your administration is heading. Power is fleeting. History will remember what leaders do in times like this.

All over the world, especially in democracies like the United States, presidents face public criticism daily. That does not justify unlawful arrests. Freedom of speech is a pillar of any functioning democracy. Silencing voices today only endangers the peace of tomorrow.

It is time for a reset. Government appointees and ministers must be held accountable. The rule of law must not be optional — it must be sacred. As a nation, we are walking a dangerous path. If unchecked, this descent into authoritarianism may lead to consequences that future generations might find impossible to fix.

We are not enemies of the state — we are patriots who want Nigeria to work. We believe in a country where laws are obeyed, where voices are heard, and where justice is blind to status or power. Let us remember that power comes and goes. Let our leaders strive to leave a legacy built on justice, not fear.

Nigeria deserves better — and together, we can make it better. But it starts with obeying the law, respecting the people, and protecting our democracy.

I am Faduri Oluwadare Joseph, founder of the Rescue Movement for a New Nigeria. Let us rise together to build a Nigeria that respects the rule of law — a country that future generations can be proud of.

Kaduna’s Roads: A Tale of Three Governors

Kaduna’s Roads: A Tale of Three Governors

By Maxwell Bako Dogara

Kaduna State is witnessing a quiet but powerful transformation in its road infrastructure—one that does more than connect people and places. Under Governor Uba Sani, road construction is rewriting the political narrative of performance, equity, and quality in governance. For the first time in over a decade, Kaduna’s rural communities and farming hubs are finally at the centre of a strategic infrastructure vision that prioritizes both food security and inclusivity.

What makes this change even more telling is the historical contrast it draws. For instance, roads built under the late Governor Patrick Yakowa—such as Yakowa Way in Millennium City and the Yan Karfe to Emanto Junction Road in Zaria—still stand strong more than a decade later. Constructed around 2010, these roads have withstood the test of time, weather, and usage. They are physical testaments to Yakowa’s principled commitment to quality, functionality, and sustainability. In a state where infrastructure is often politicized, Yakowa’s legacy remains quietly unshaken, in contrast to El-Rufai’s.

By comparison, the road projects under Governor Nasir El-Rufai, completed just a few years ago, have failed to demonstrate the same resilience. Roads like Rafin Guza and FRCN Road—once flagged as part of a grand “urban renewal” agenda—have become early casualties of poor durability. Governor Uba Sani is now not only reconstructing these roads but expanding them. The Rafin Guza project, for example, is being extended to Hayin Naiya, Malalin Gabas, and Kukumake, ultimately linking to the KASU Permanent Site—a move that reflects deeper planning and inclusive connectivity.

It doesn’t stop there. Several other roads built under El-Rufai—Lugard Roundabout to Kawo, College Road in Unguwan Dosa, Rigasa to Railway Station Road, Mando to Rigasa Road, and Sabon Birni Road in Kawo—have all required urgent maintenance under Uba Sani’s administration, despite being only a few years old. These are not isolated failures; they are symptomatic of a governance model that emphasized optics over durability, urban showpieces over rural necessities.

Governor Uba Sani’s approach marks a radical departure. His road transformation is not just about fixing inherited decay—it’s about building a people-first roadmap that reconnects Kaduna’s economy to its agricultural heartbeat. His government is focusing on roads that matter to the majority: rural roads that open up farmer markets, connect villages to processing centres, and reduce post-harvest losses. This strategy, rooted in economic pragmatism, is already playing a vital role in Kaduna’s growing push for food security.

Under the so-called “Urban Renewal Programme,” the El-Rufai administration focused on road development in just seven LGAs, leaving vast swaths of the state underdeveloped. Even more damning, 76% of these projects were concentrated in just one local government area—Kaduna North—revealing a deeply skewed development pattern that alienated rural dwellers and undermined the potential of the agricultural economy. Governor Uba Sani has responded with a statewide rural road inclusion policy, distributing development more evenly and rebuilding trust between government and the governed.

This is not mere road construction—it is a philosophical reset. While El-Rufai’s infrastructure legacy is beginning to unravel just two years after he left office, Uba Sani’s roads are being laid with vision, purpose, and rural empowerment at their core. The rural farmer in Giwa or the market woman in Kauru now has just as much right to smooth roads as the civil servant in Barnawa. That is what inclusive governance looks like.

As one political analyst aptly puts it, “Inclusive governance is not when everyone claps in the city, but when development reaches the quiet corners where voices are seldom heard.”

The contrast is now impossible to ignore: while El-Rufai built for applause, Uba Sani is building for impact. While Yakowa built for posterity, Sani is building for prosperity.

If the roads of a state can tell a story, Kaduna’s roads are today telling one of truth, equity, and overdue correction. Governor Uba Sani’s quiet revolution is not only correcting the wrongs of the past—it is setting the pace for what infrastructure should mean in a democratic society: service to all, not a few.

Dogara, a public commentator, wrote from Kaduna

Rising Up for a New Nigeria: Flag of Rescue Movement Hosted in Rivers State

Rising Up for a New Nigeria: Flag of Rescue Movement Hosted in Rivers State

In a bold and inspiring move, Rescue The Vulnerable Initiative otherwise known as Rescue Movement For New Nigeria is sweeping across the nation, driven by the unyielding passion and determination of the younger generation to revolutionize party politics. Hosted in the vibrant city of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, this socio-political organization is on a mission to bring hope and empower the vulnerable and marginalized with the right skill and information needed to build a new Nigeria while giving them a voice and a platform to shape their own destiny.

According to the Director-General, Martins Chiedozie Ugwu, the movement is committed to doing things differently. With a groundbreaking ideology centered on wealth distribution among the most vulnerable members of society, Rescue Movement is poised to redefine the political landscape of Nigeria.

“We believe that collective action can achieve what individual efforts cannot,” the Director-General declared. “Our mission is to unite young people, vulnerable Nigerians, and like-minded individuals to join forces and drive transformative change in our country. We invite all well-meaning Nigerians to join us on this journey towards a brighter future, where young people can shape their destiny and build a better tomorrow for themselves and for generations to come.”

The movement’s impact is already being felt, with Comrade Asito Asito, Rivers State Coordinator, expressing gratitude to the organization for entrusting him with leadership responsibilities in the state. He pledged to propel the movement to new heights, ensuring its message resonates with the masses and inspiring a new wave of leadership and activism among young Rivers.

As a movement championed by young and patriotic Nigerians, Rescue The Vulnerable Initiative has already made a significant impact in the political landscape. The organization has sponsored many young people in recent elections, including their presidential aspirant, Faduri Joseph, popularly known as Fadojoe whom they believe is equipped with the right leadership to transform the country. This commitment to nurturing and empowering young leaders is a testament to the movement’s dedication to building a brighter future for Nigeria.

Special Needs Educator Plans Big for Disabled Children

Special Needs Educator Plans Big for Disabled Children

In a bold and compassionate move, special needs educator Aisha Ibrahim Ahmad is championing a unique Children’s Day celebration that centers children often left out—those living with neurological and psychosocial disabilities.

Slated for May 27, 2025, at JPEC Chiemel Academy in Zaria’s GRA, the event is themed “Play Therapy for Holistic Development” and is set to offer therapeutic and inclusive play experiences for children with conditions such as Autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, and anxiety disorders.

Ahmad, who also coordinates the Centre for Assessment and Educational Rehabilitation at the Federal University of Education, Zaria, says the initiative is designed to promote emotional healing, social interaction, and confidence-building through structured play activities.

“We’re using play not just for fun, but as a form of therapy and inclusion,” she explained. “Every child deserves joy, support, and visibility—especially on a day meant to celebrate them.”

The programme, spearheaded by her non-profit, Nurture Special Education Needs Foundation (NSENF), will include sensory zones, creative arts, music and movement therapy, storytelling, and group games. Caregivers and therapists will also receive training and tools to extend the benefits beyond the day.

Backed by a strong publicity drive and an open call for sponsorship, the event is already gaining traction among educators, advocacy groups, and disability rights organizations.

With this effort, Aisha Ahmad is not just organizing an event—she’s making a statement: that inclusion is not optional, and that every child, regardless of ability, deserves to be celebrated.

CSA To Bauchi State Government Accused Of Betraying His Closed Aide

CSA To Bauchi State Government Accused Of Betraying His Closed Aide

The personal Assistant and loyalist to AIG Ahmad AbdurRahman, the Chief Security Adviser to the Bauchi State Government has decried unfairness, injustice and betrayal from his boss after appointing him as his aide perhaps sought for an interview with our paper. Abdullahi Ishaq a trained Intelligence expert and seasoned Investigator who started his career with the EFCC eighteen years had undergone training with both the Police, DSS, EFCC and the FBI which made him to be very professional in the Intelligence Service.

Soon after his Boss appointment he was requested to relocate to Bauchi to serve him as PA precisely in December 2024. That upon arriving in Bauchi his boss introduced him into two different offices and asked him to one in the Deputy Governor’s former office. That after spending three days he was made to return back to Kaduna and to resume full work after the Christmas and new year Break but to his surprise after the break he call his boss to inform him of his intention to return work as agreed but to his surprise his Boss didn’t pick it return his call until after a month. Even though before his Boss could return his calls in over one month he was reliably informed that two other officers were employed in his boss office as PA and SA but he pretended he didn’t know and decided to play along with his boss.

After a few weeks Ahmad AbdurRahman asked Abdullahi to report to Bauchi for the second time precisely four days to this year fasting. Upon arriving in Bauchi his boss requested another office to be allocated to him because the first office given was slated to used for a different purpose. His boss still requested him to return back to Kaduna to commence the Ramadan and after the Sallah break they will resume office.

That after the sallah break his boss Ahmad AbdurRahman called to tell him that he is returning to Bauchi for an urgent assignment in Abuja which the Governor has directed him and go with one Commissioner for about a week. He further said that after a week I would return to Bauchi along with his Orderly Inspector Abubakar Haruna but two days later he called the Orderly to tell him to pick his Bauchi State Government staff car and meet him Abuja without telling me. Still after the assignment in Abuja his boss refused to call or pick his calls to tell him the next line of action. They returned to Kaduna from Abuja and proceeded back to Bauchi.

When Abdullahi Ishaq discovered there was a lot of uncertainty surrounding appointing him as PA and his possible resumption in office he proceeded to Bauchi the third time without notifying his boss he was coming. Upon arriving he called to tell the CSA, he had arrived in Bauchi. CSA Ahmad AbdurRahman responded through his Orderly Inspector Abubakar Haruna that on no account the PA should resume work in the government house and why would he even follow him to Bauchi even. In the circumstances PA Abdullahi Ishaq requested to see the CSA one on one to be sure if the message the Orderly conveyed to him emanated from Ahmad AbdurRahman and what was the rationale behind conveying such an insulting message to him. Upon reaching out to AbdurRahman in person, he requested Abdullahi Ishaq to relinquish his role as PA and that there are serious allegations against him of investigating the Executive Governor and he didn’t give him a free and fair hearing nor provide evidence either documents, video or audio to claim the purported allegations against his PA. He only insisted that he had dropped him as his PA to avoid problems with the Executive Governor. Following the provoking and counter productive statements from his boss he now reasoned why it took his boss all this long wasting his time without telling him the truth. That he is not surprised by his boss utterances he has already used body language to communicate the message to him but thank God since he had made it clear to him now. But he would ensure he met the Executive Governor personally to report the purported allegations leveled against his and seek for a free and fair hearing on the matter. He further averred that over time he has tried as much as possible to maintain his loyalty to Ahmad AbdurRahman despite his boss shortcomings and inconsistency but since it has taken that dimension everything is over.

That his boss is a greedy and self centered person who doesn’t help his boys to rise up, who looks down on others. He has pride as well as underrating anybody that works with him. Over the years he has been with he contributed immensely in destroying his career but he still managed to work with him. After his boss appointment as CSA in Bauchi he has had so many problems with other appointees. He slanders and undermines his colleagues by persuading the Governor to relieve them of their appointments. Despite his appointment as Chief Security Adviser he often lobbied the Governor to remove the Commissioner of Internal Security, the Chairman Bauchi State Anyi Corruption Commission or the Chief of Staff and gave it to him. AbdurRahman has not been contented with his appointment as CSA he still lobbied to be appointed Commissioner of Internal Security in Kaduna State, he lobbied the position using the Chief Imam of Sultan Bello and his so called friend Baballe Na Abba.

Ahmad AbdurRahman a serial betrayal is well known slandering, destroying people’s images even the Governor that appointed him is not left behind. He pretend to be a Godly person which is not true. He pretended to be an incorruptible officer but silently made millions in many areas as CP in many states Commandant Polac etc. While in Polac he denied his aides all their entitlements rather using the money to paying media outlets to boost his images as well as covering dirty deals among other things.

Report on Arrest of Nura Usman , Says it’s False Narrative to blackmail Government,Says Group;

Report on Arrest of Nura Usman , Says it’s False Narrative to blackmail Government,Says Group;

The Kaduna Youths for Peace and Development (KYPD) group has denied reports of the arrest of Nura Usman, a self acclaimed youth activist and advocate for good governance, by the Kaduna government.

According to the group ,Usman was invited by the police to explain a malicious Facebook post, but he evaded arrest and switched off his phone to create a false narrative.

Sahara Reporters claimed Usman was abducted and tortured by security operatives over his Facebook posts criticizing government policies.

But in a reaction, KYPD denies Usman’s arrest and torture, calling the report false and a cheap blackmail.The group claimed Usman posted a false and inciting statement capable of breaching public peace in the state.

In a Statement jointly signed by the Chairman,Comrade Musa Lere and Secretary,Comrade Joseph Maigari the group which expressed sadness over

the Sahara Reporters’ story on Kaduna Government Critic, Nura Usman Abducted, Tortured Over Facebook Post As Wife reported is nothing but false.

It stated further, “He was never arrested and still on the run.He is running away from the law. He posted a false and inciting statement capable of breaching public peace in the state. He couldn’t substantiate his claim. His invitation by the security operatives has nothing to do with Kaduna State Government as reported.”

Nura Usman had posted on Facebook handle:”Information reaching my desk just now has revealed that some aides of a governor from Kaduna State have met with some selected student leaders of the state-owned university.

“These aides have commissioned the student leaders to hold a press conference and publicly condemn the ongoing strike by lecturers, who are urging the state government to fulfill outstanding demands after multiple unmet promises.

“Sources indicate that the student leaders have received the sum of N20,000 from the aides in question to facilitate this press conference. We shall see”.

On those behind Nura Usman inciting post ,the group averred,” We see him as someone allegedly being sponsored by former Kaduna State Governor,Mal. Nasiru Elrufai against Governor Uba Sani.

However, the Sahara Reporters quoted , a petition dated May 2, 2025,where he stated that ” a law firm alleged that Mr. Usman was abducted on the night of April 30 by heavily armed operatives of Operation Fushin Kada, a joint security task force comprising personnel from the Nigerian Army, Navy, DSS, Police, and other agencies.

“The law firm in the petition claimed the arrest was ordered by powerful officials within the Kaduna State Government, allegedly in retaliation for Facebook posts made by Mr. Usman on April 28 and 29 that criticized certain government policies.

“This is untrue and should be disregard by the public.”it stressed.