( Analysis)

MILESTONE OF MERCY: HOW GOVERNOR UBA SANI SHATTERED RECORDS WITH 289,375 IDPS EMPOWERMENT

In a heartwarming display of compassion and commitment, the Kaduna State Government has embarked on a monumental gesture of distributing palliatives to 289,375 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across 551 communities in 12 local governments. This noble initiative of the governor, spearheaded by the Executive Secretary of KADSEMA, Dr. Usman Mazadu, is a beacon of hope for those ravaged by the scourge of banditry.

This is the biggest empowerment project for IDPs, since the governor was a Senator representing Kaduna Central at the National Assembly.

The sheer scale of the distribution is a testament to the government’s dedication to alleviating the suffering of its citizens. The palliatives will help bridge the gap between despair and resilience, enabling the IDPs to rebuild their lives with dignity. This initiative sends a powerful message that the government is invested in the well-being of its citizens, particularly those in the most vulnerable situations.

The significance of this gesture cannot be overstated. For the IDPs, it’s a lifeline that revives hope and rekindles the possibility of a better tomorrow. The palliatives will provide much-needed support, enabling them to rebuild their lives and communities. Moreover, this initiative demonstrates the government’s proactive approach to addressing the root causes of insecurity. By providing succour to those affected, the administration is creating an environment conducive to peace and stability.

This gesture will go down in history as a testament to the power of empathy and the unwavering resolve to create a better future for all. It’s a shining example of compassionate governance, and a bold statement that the administration is committed to the welfare of its citizens, even in the face of adversity. As the IDPs receive this much-needed support, they are reminded that they are not forgotten, and their lives matter.

The impact of this initiative will be felt far and wide, and will have a lasting impact on the lives of the IDPs. It’s a milestone achievement that will be remembered for years to come, and a testament to the government’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens. The Kaduna State Government’s palliative distribution is a beacon of hope in a time of need, and a shining example of what can be achieved with compassion, empathy, and determination.

Local Government Financial Autonomy: The Right Step in the Right Direction
-Fadojoe

The leader of Rescue Movement for New Nigeria aka Rescue The Vulnerable Initiative and a Presidential Aspirant under Labour Party, Comrade Faduri Oluwadare Joseph popularly called Fadojoe, has hailed both the Judiciary and the Executive on the declaration on the affirmation of local governments’ financial autonomy and the declaration caretaker committees as illegal.

Describing it as “the right step in the right direction”, Fadojoe asserts that “it is long overdue” adding that it will not only make the local government independence, but it will also help “in bringing noticable and far reaching development to the people as the local government is the tier of the government closest to the people and that can directly best impact the masses.

“We give this to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led government. As I have said whenever this administration makes positive impact we will not hesitate to give kudos. Our prayers and agitation is towards a better Nigeria and we will not only commend, but will fully support any initiative, policy or reform that will help make Nigeria great again and a pride among the Comity of Nations

“It’s an undisputable fact, that since the first republic, local governments have been rendered almost crippled and a mere manipulative political tools in the hand of some state governors seize their federal allocations and only release funds to them piecemeal to barely keep them going,’ he concluded.

Looted Funds: Kaduna Fmr. Councilors Vow to Embark on Mass Protest for Recovery

…Tells EFCC,ICPC to Arrest, Prosecute Him immediately

The former Councilors across the 23 local government areas of State converged on Poly Gate Hotel, Kaduna vowed to embark on mass protests to demand for full recovery of alleged N423b looted funds by former Kaduna Governor and his cabinet members.

The Councilors ,who made the demands via the National Forum of Ex-councillors of Nigeria insisted Elrufai and his former commissioners must also be arrested and prosecuted.

The Forum of Councilors disclosed their planned actions against the former Governor through their National Chairman, Hon. Ambassador Awal Kasim who addressed a Press Conference in Kaduna on Thursday, July 11, 2024.

The mass action according to Hon. Ambassador Awal Kasim include: open protests at all known houses of Mallam Nasir El-rufai and his commissioners in Kaduna and Abuja and file judicial litigations compelling the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to immediately swing into to ensure the arrest Mallam Nasir El-rufai and his indicted commissioners for squandering the hard earned resources of the state.

While stating that the Forum will mobilize its members across the Nineteen Northern States to join in the mass actions against Mallam El-rufai and his co-horts asserting that Kaduna as the capital of Northern Nigeria cannot be allowed to be raped to death by unpatriotic elements who after raping the state still shamelessly ran to the courts to seek honour by way of judicial protection.

He wondered why El-rufai has quickly forgotten how he turned the judiciary in the state to a good for nothing institution while he held sway for eight years as Kaduna State Governor in addition to the wanton hardship he unleashed on the people of the state by demolishing their houses, churches, mosques, schools and markets.

Hon.Kasim further disclosed that the mass action in Kaduna against the former governor and his indicted cabinet members will be attended by mobilized members from nineteen northern states while the mass action against the immediate past governor in Abuja will be attended by members drawn from the thirty – six states of the federation.

He however appealed to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission to place the former governor, his family and the indicted Commissioners as well as their families on Interpol’s watch list in Lybia, Morocco, Egypt, Sudan and United Arab Emirates so as to forestall the repeat of the Yahaya Bello Episode in Kaduna State.

Kasim called on all lovers of Democratic dividends in the State to rally round the executive governor of Kaduna state, Mallam Uba Sani and the speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Liman to checkmate all the antics of the former governor of Kaduna State and his indicted commissioners.

2027: Arewa Group Blasts Elrufai’s Son ,Co- travelers Over Attack on Tinubu,Says Northerners’ll Support Him Again

Arewa Progressive Forum for Good Governance (APFGG), said the son of former Kaduna State Governor, Bashir Elrufai and his fellow co- travelers cannot Stop Northerners from re-electing Tinubu come 2027.

Bashir Elrufai via a post on his social media handle did attack President Bola Tinubu and his father’s successor, Governor Uba Sani, predicting that both will be voted out of office in 2027 for ”non-performance”.

But in a reaction to his attack on the President in a statement signed by Mal Ibrahim Musa Bichi, the Chairman , the group which described Bashir Elrufai as ‘disrespectful and mannerless’ alleged, ,”The boy is simply speaking the voice of his couchy father,who is accused of misappropriating 423 billion naira state funds”.

According to the statement, his anger no doubt stemmed from the fact that his father was denied ministerial position.

It explained, “Those who understand politics know that Tinubu has built a political structure over the years that is helping him to move Nigeria forward in the right direction.And we don’t see reasons to fight an administration that is determined to make the country a better place .

“We want the likes of Bashir Elrufai to know that the real voters within the north will support Tinubu, because they are fully aware of the President’s efforts via his Renewed Hope Agenda to tackle the challenges of insecurity and economic hardship caused previous administrations”.

While stating that Bahir and his co-travelers are children,who have history of lack of home training ,the group dared Elrufai to contest the Presidential election in 2027.

“If your father has the capacity and popularity, why hide under former Rivers State Governor ,Mr Rotimi Amaechi and not personally contest the highly coveted seat of President in 2023 .

“We are challenging he, Elrufai to pick presidential ticket and contest against Tinubu and see who the north will vote .” It declared.

Alleged 423 Fraud: Elrufai and His Commissioners are Shameless – Kaduna Group

Coalition of Kaduna based political groups under aegis of Good Governance and Accountability Forum(GGAF) have described former Governor of Kaduna State ,Mal. Nasir Elrufai and His former Commissioners as Shameful individuals for accusing the State Assembly of fabricating figures of the recent probe .

Apparently angry at the recent criticism of the State Assembly’s probe, the group averred that Elrufai must be arrested and compelled to give account of the funds siphoned and misappropriated during his days as Kaduna Governor.

In a press statement signed by the Coordinator of the Forum,Comrade Muhammad Jibrin , ” El-Rufai’s administration embezzled over N423 billion, but Some former Commissioners who served under him, claimed the Assembly’s report was tainted with bias, riddled with inaccuracies with intensions to inflict reputational damage on the former Governor and his government.

However the forum in statement said at this critical period and with the tension stirred up due to the wanton looting of state treasury,it is laughable that Elrufai and his former aides couldn’t provide evidence to counter the allegations of the wanton fraud and misappropriation of funds.

The statement further reads : ” Though the Commissioners who spoke at a press conference in Abuja described the Kaduna State House of Assembly report as tainted by bias, riddled with inaccuracies and intended to inflict reputational damage on the former Governor and his government, but we ask them to counter the allegations with facts and figures.

“It is unfortunate that under Elrufai’s eye ,coordinated looting of the State funds through phoney contracts and looting were done and these aides who know the truth have come out twice now to defend an open truth.

“We can authoritatively say from our findings that the Kaduna State House of Assembly, in line with its constitutional mandate has done a thorough job to unravel the humongous debts incurred by the immediate past administration without commensurate projects.

“On a sad note , it is unfortunate to a historical state such as Kaduna is battling a huge debt burden due to the financial mismanagement by Elrufai’s government.

“The overt corrupt acts by aides and cronies from outside the State cannot be overlooked,thus we asking the anti-graft agencies to swing into action and do the needful with a view to serve as deterrent to public office holders.”It stated.

“We want to announce that the forum has concluded arrangements to formally submitted a petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) ; Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on the allegations of misappropriation of funds by ex-governor Nasir El-Rufai.

The Paradox of Power: A Cautionary Tale of Leadership and Legacy
By
Martins Chiedozie Ugwu
johnmartinsworldonline@gmail.com

One of humanity’s most profound struggles is relinquishing power and understanding its limits. This conundrum has toppled empires, ruined legacies, and humbled even the most formidable leaders. The allure of power, combined with wealth and influence, can be intoxicating, leading to a toxic blend that often spells downfall.

African leaders, particularly in Nigeria, have developed a culture of clinging to power even after leaving office, exemplified by former governors who refuse to surrender power. Like one of the former governors of Rivers State, His rapid rise to power, fueled by circumstance and patronage, created a sense of invincibility. However, his inability to recognize the ephemeral nature of power and cultivate genuine influence has marked him as insensitive leaders who fail to understand the dynamics of power.

Their attempts to exert control after leaving office demonstrate a misunderstanding of true influence, built on humility, wisdom, and recognition of limits. Instead, they rely on authoritarian tendencies and intimidation, alienating them from the people and potential allies.

History teaches us that absolute power or influence without after leaving power is unsustainable. Those who seek to retain power after leaving office are often untaught, failing to recognize the reality of limited influence. In contrast, leaders who understand the value of humility and wisdom in exercising power are those who have earned it through hard work and dedication.

As former governors navigate the treacherous waters of power politics, they would do well to remember that there can be no absolute power after leaving office. Their refusal to acknowledge this reality will only hasten their downfall. The people of Nigeria, weary of authoritarianism and eager for genuine leadership, will not be swayed by their antics.

In the end, it is not power that defines a leader, but their legacy. Their refusal to accept the limits of their influence and failure to cultivate genuine power will relegate them to obscurity.

-Martins Chiedozie Ugwu
Director General, Rescue Movement For New Nigeria (www.rescue.org.ng) and the Secretary General of Africa Thinkers Union

Demonstration:DICON Staff Allege Victimization, Selective Justice, and Favouritism
… Threaten further action

Tensions remain high at the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) as staff allegations of victimization, selective justice, and ethnic bias threaten to escalate into further action.

Following demonstrations in April, DICON employees accuse management of victimizing them for demanding fair treatment and transparent pay practices. The demonstrations highlighted staff grievances, including:

• Lack of access to IPPIS
• Outstanding minimum wage arrears
• Unexplained suspension of allowances

Staff allege these issues have caused financial hardship and demoralization. “We exercised our rights as workers, but now face punishment. We demand an end to this victimization and a fair process.”

DICON management, however, accuses them of being “mischievous” and “economical with the truth.” They claim the demonstrations violated employee regulations and are investigating participants.

Staff counter these claims, asserting their demonstrations were a legitimate expression of worker concerns protected under Nigerian law. They accuse management of intimidation, including denial of promotions, demotion in rank, and threat of sack, with the Director General, Major General Aniedi Edet, allegedly spearheading these actions.

According to DICON staff, as of June 2024, their demands remain unmet, including:

• 2019 minimum wage arrears
• 2022 promotion arrears
• Balance of 2019 promotion arrears (44%)
• Balance of 2020 promotion arrears (51%)
• 2021 promotion arrears (41%)
• President Bola Tinubu’s 2023 N35,000 Wage Award

“We will not be intimidated or silenced,” said a staff member. “We demand fair treatment and transparency, and we will continue with our protestations until our demands are met.”

Staff are seeking intervention from the President, Minister of Defence, and other government agencies to address their concerns and threaten further mass demonstrations if management doesn’t comply.

Chivido2024: Fadojoe chides Nigerian Youths.

The leader of Rescue Movement for New Nigeria aka Rescue The Vulnerable Initiative and a presidential aspirant under Labour Party, Comrade Faduri Oluwadare Joseph popularly called Fadojoe has chided Nigerian youths who major in minor and minor in major, busy turning “@davido Chivido2024 wedding to negative debate on social media of who was invited and who wasn’t when the couples glady jetting out on honeymoon enjoying their lives, grateful to those who attended and happy for themselves”.

In a message on his official Instagram page, he laments what he termed, purposelessness and visionlessness, nothing that “Nigerian youths, especially the so called influencers, celebrities who could have used their platform and their voice to rant and rage about so many abnormalities happening in our nation are busy ranting and raging over a successful wedding for who wasn’t invited as if that is the problem facing the country, as if that will solve youths unemployment, youth brain drain, epileptic power supply in the country, hunger in the land, bad and poor condition of health facilities, kidnapping, and insecurity all across the nation, politicians embezzlement and other striking evidences of bad governance. What a poor mentality, what a wasteful generation who has lost touch with reality and are daily chasing clout”.

Calling Nigerian youths to learn from some African youths that took their fate in their hand and took decisive action, over bad governance in their country. Citing examples of Kenyan youths, Ghanaian youths and South African youths.

“They can’t take a toll from Kenyan youths who took to the street and demanded change in their nation, and they got one.

“They can’t learn from Ghanaian youths who refused bribe from corrupt politicians and demanded accountability in governance for Ghana, and they get one.

“They can’t learn from South African youths who decisively fought against apartheid to free their nation

“Rather Nigerian youths are either busy ranting at good things or hailing bad leaders or been tools for violence in the hands of political gladiators! What a shameful generation of youths, yet we blame older generations for the problems of our country. So sad!” he concluded.

NNAMDI KANU LEADER OF THE OUTLAWED IPOB, HYPOCRITES & HYPOCRISY OF THE NORTHERN LAWMAKERS

By Comrade Musa Mohammed

Releasing Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will be tantamount to rewarding criminality, he should be made to face the law.

That idiot and traitor if release would fuel impunity.

Let me remind those vagabonds law makers who want Nnamdi Kanu to be release, most especially our northern legislators that the federal government of Nigeria has make it clear Why they don’t want to release him, tells Appeal Court, gave reasons why it has not complied with the Court of Appeal judgement that ordered it to release the detained leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.

FG, in an affidavit it filed in support of its application to stay the execution of the judgement, described Kanu as “a flight risk person”, insisting that the case against him borders on national security.

Relying on the decided case law in Federal Republic of Nigeria Vs Asari Dokubo, FG, argued that once a case touched on national security, the right of the individual affected takes secondary place.

“The Respondent is a flight risk person. It is important to appreciate the gamut of depositions in our application.

“One of the ground of our application is that this matter touches on national security of the state.

“We rely on the case of FRN Vs Dokubo, where the Supreme Court held that where national security is threatened or likelihood of it being threatened, human rights take secondary place.

“Once there is a threat to national security, human rights of any individual can be suspended until such threat is taken care of.

“Once security of the nation is in jeopardy, the individual right may not even exist”, FG argued through its lawyer, Mr. David Kaswe, an Assistant State Counsel in the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.

It further told the court that there is intelligence report that releasing Kanu from detention would worsen the security situation in the South East region and Nigeria.

Recall, during EndSars, Nnamdi Kanu was walking free. What did he do? He poured petrol on the flames of EndSars. Now, he has been caught. What of the people who have died? This is a criminal. He should face the law.

Releasing Nnamdi Kanu is rewarding criminality and rewarding gruesome murder of innocent people including our Northern people who were brutally killed, their properties snatched away, others destroyed.

Nnamdi kanu should face the law for the actions and instigations he has carried out.

We are all aware that in the Southeast, the IPOB are waging war against the government of this country and many local governments, many communities are deserted, schools are closed, hospitals are closed because of Nnamdi and his followers, why are this bunches of hypocrites are calling for the release of a terrorist and a traitor.

Therefore, the federal government of Nigeria urgently needs a new definition of treason that will recognise the nature of the threats we face today.

If people like Nnamdi Kanu they had been convicted of treason and imprisoned for life, Nigeria would be considerably safer.

The Nigeria legislators both the red and the green chambers should enact a new offence which would revive the law of treason and recognise that betrayal – treason – is a clear moral wrong.
This would specify that it is an offence to aid a state or organisation that is attacking the nation.

This should apply to the actions of anyone in Nigeria; it should also apply to the actions of nigeria citizens or settled non-citizens anywhere in the world.
In most cases, people convicted of treason should be sentenced to life imprisonment, a sentence which reflects the gravity of the wrong of betrayal, deters others, and incapacitates the offender.

At a minimum, Nigeria legislators should reform our law to follow Australia and New Zealand and thus make it clear that it is unlawful to aid the enemy either in an international armed conflict or in a non-international armed conflict.
In a Foreword, former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales Lord Judge writes:

Most of us have not the slightest doubt that treason is and should be a very serious crime. We need to reconsider whether the current laws against terrorism and disclosure of official secrets are adequate to cover what might be or, arguably, should be treated as treason.

The northern legislators should know that for supporting Nnamdi Kanu, a betrayal, you are the same as undermining your country by helping its enemies, which has been recognised as a terrible crime. It is not just an act of violence but destroys the bonds of trust that hold a community together. That’s why the preparation or use of violence by a Nigerian citizen against our own people is such a serious threat. It undermines our common defence and political order and ought to be punished severely. Betrayal is a breach of the duty each of us owes to our fellow citizens.