Synod: CBCN Organises Conference for Charismatic Bishops in Abuja 

Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) led by Archbishop Prof Leonard Bature Kawas holds largest gathering of Bishops in Abuja, Nigeria

The Synod attended by over five hundred Archbishops, Bishops and very senior Apostles/Church Founders opened with a welcome service, a Visionary Banquet & Special Prayers for Nigeria 

The Synod which is the 10th Edition since the founding of Charismatic Bishop Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) in 2013  by Archbishop Prof Leonard Bature Kawas devoted time on the second day to Seminar, workshops after the Synod had been declared open by the Honourable Minister of Information,Alh Mohammed Idris ,who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the occasion.

The Grand finale of the Synod witnessed presentation of Meritorious Service awards to dignitaries which included Nigeria’s First Lady, wife of the Vice President, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief of Defense Staff, Inspector General of Police (IGP) amongst others.

The Synods also waded into the lingering crisis over minimum wage and high rate of electricity tariff between the Federal Government and the Organised Labour, calling on the warring parties to sheath the sword.

The Charismatic Bishops loudly expressed the view that with fervent prayers by the citizenry, Nigeria would overcome the current socio-economic hardship in the country.

In a statement to newsmen after the Abuja Synod, the President General of CBCN, Archbishop Prof Leonard Bature Kawas and the General Secretary Bishop Dr. Chivir Chianson noted that the Synod calls on the NLC to continue to engage the federal government for negotiation, rather than going on strike or shutting down the country which will only increase  hardship for innocent Nigerians.

At the welcome service and banquet which held at World Harvest Ministries INC Headquarters, Jikwoyi, Abuja on the Charismatic Bishops  hosted by Archbishop Prof Leonard Bature Kawas, the President General, had over 500 Nigerian Bishops from the 36 states of Nigeria, Europe, USA and over 20 other countries  from the first day of the great event, making it the largest number of Bishops present in any single event in Nigeria.

“They sang  praises to God, prayed for Nigeria earnestly before retiring to a Visionary banquet where every Bishop ate together with the President – General, Archbishop Prof Leonard Bature Kawas.

“The second day of the event, saw the Bishops processed into the National Christian Centre,  and settled down for the business of the National Synod of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, with seminars, teachings, workshop, and prayer sessions for the country.

 The high point of the day being June 12, 2024 was the approval stamp of the Federal Government in partnering with the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, signalled by the arrival of the Minister of Information who  addressed the Bishops on behalf of Nigeria’s President/Federal Government. 

He enlightened the Bishops on all aspects of the RENEWED HOPE agenda of this Administration and called on the President General of the Charismatic Bishops to serve on President Tinubu’s initiative on National Orientation in Nigeria”. The statement added.

On the third day of the conference, being the grand finale of the Charismatic Bishops Synod holding at the National Christian Centre, Abuja; “the workshop and training continued and the grand finale of the event was the welcoming of the representatives of H. E Sen. Dr. Mrs Oluremi Tinubu  the wife of Mr. President, Hajia Nana Kashim, wife of the Vice President, Chief of Defence Staff, Senate President, and Inspector General of Police who received meritorious service awards of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria; to encourage them for the work they are doing and to publicly signal a new dawn of partnership for progress between the Charismatic Bishops conference of Nigeria and the federal government of Nigeria under President  Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

“The Awardees thanked the President of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria for finding them worthy for the award.

Responding, the President – General expressed great appreciation to some of the awardees, that supported the Synod with  logistic assistance , especially the wife of the Vice President Hajia Nana Shettima and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation Sen. Dr. George Akume.

Part of the activities that took place at the conference was the elevation of Archbishop  Kawas to the position of President – General instead of National President following the mass participation of Nigerian Charismatic Bishops based in over twenty one nations.

“The conference came to a close after a courtesy call on the Secretary to the Government of the Federation who also received the award in his office from the Charismatic Bishops as a mark of partnership in progress. He called on the Charismatic Bishops to continue to pray for the Tinubu/Shettima government and assured the Bishops that the government meant well for Nigerians, and there are lots of good plans for the country. 

The over 500 Charismatic Bishops that attended the Synod all left with great joy thanking God because many of them were visiting Abuja for the very first time.

Breaking: Forum Calls for Immediate Arrest of MURIC Leader, Man in Controversial Sokoto Video

The Justice Forum, a human rights organization, has called on the Nigeria Police Force to immediately arrest and prosecute the leader of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) Professor Ishaq Akintola and a young man in a viral video, for spreading false information aimed at inciting violence in Sokoto.

The group made the call in a statement signed by its Director of Strategic Communications , Ibrahim Isa, citing “the need to hold accountable those who recklessly spread falsehoods and put lives at risk anywhere in Nigeria”.

The video, which went viral on social media, showed the individual making false claims, denigrating the person of Governor Ahmed Aliyu, hailing some PDP kingpins, including ex-governor Aminu Tambuwal.

The Justice Forum condemned the actions of the MURIC leader and the individual, stating that their actions were “reckless, irresponsible, and dangerous.”

“The spread of false information and attempt at incitement to violence are serious offenses that can lead to loss of lives and destruction of property,” the group said.

“Those responsible must be held accountable for their actions.”

According to sources, the duo were hired by some disgruntled elements to fabricate and spread false information aimed at destabilizing the peaceful state of Sokoto, ” on order to score cheap political goal”.

Their actions are seen as a desperate attempt to cause chaos and unrest in Sokoto state, according to keen watchers of Sokoto’s political history.

The group called on the police to act swiftly and ensure that justice is served.

“We urge the police to arrest and prosecute the MURIC leader and the individual in the video to the fullest extent of the law,” they stressed.

Late Tagwai Sambo: Hon. Shadalafiya Commiserates with Kaduna Governor,Deputy Gov., Assembly Member, Kaura LG, Moroa Chiefdom

As His Royal Highness Late Dr Tagwai Sambo the Chief of Moroa is being buried today, the Chairman , Legislative Service Commission Kaduna State has called on the people Kaura local government area and Moroa Chiefdom to accept his demise as act of God .

Shadalafiya, who described the late Tagwai Sambo as a progressive minded and peace loving traditional ruler commiserated with the Kaduna Governor ;Deputy Governor, Member House of Assembly and good people of Kaura local government area as well as Maroa Chiefdom over the irreparable loss of the traditional ruler .

Shadalafiya ,who stated this in his condolence message personally signed said the late Sambo was not just a traditional ruler, but an exemplary leader ;elder statesman and a force to be reckoned with during his life time .

The former Deputy Speaker however prayed to God for the repose of the monarch’s soul .He also prayed to God to grant the family and people of Morao Chiefdom the fortitude to bear the loss. Noting, ” The consolation of his death is that lived a life worthy of emulation.

Late Tagwai Sambo was the first class traditional ruler.He was 88 years when he died and had spent 58 years on the throne.

Northwest Governors’ Forum and UNDP Set to Host the First ever Peace and Security Summit

Regional Cooperation for Securing Lives and Livelihoods

The Northwest Governors’ Forum Nigeria, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is set to host the inaugural Northwest Peace and Security Summit in Katsina State from June 24th to 25th, 2023.

This landmark event, first of its kind in the region hosted by the Katsina State Government, will bring together governors from across the northwest region and key partners to address the pressing security challenges facing the area.

The Summit arrives at a crucial moment for Northwest Nigeria, as the region faces mounting security challenges. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in incidents of banditry, terrorism, and communal conflicts.

These issues have had devastating consequences for the local population, resulting in significant loss of life, severe disruption to livelihoods and widespread destruction of property.

This underscores the urgent need for coordinated action and solutions to restore peace and stability to the region – Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto and Zamfara States.

Under the theme “Regional Cooperation for Securing Lives and Livelihoods,” the summit aims to explore solutions to ongoing insecurity, focusing on promoting peace and stability while strengthening cooperation among state governments to tackle these complex issues.

H.E. Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD CON, Governor of Katsina State emphasizes the critical nature of the summit:

“This gathering marks a turning point in our fight against insecurity. The challenges we face demand immediate and collective action. By uniting our efforts and resources, we can forge a path towards lasting peace and prosperity for our people.

The time to act is now, and together, we will reclaim the safety and stability that our region deserves”, he said.

UNDP’s journey to address insecurity in the Northwest region began in January 2024 with a peace and security workshop organized in collaboration with the Katsina State Government.

This effort led to the decision to convene this high-level Peace and Security summit for the Northwest State Governments.

“This summit represents a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to build peace in Northwest Nigeria. UNDP’s partnership with regional governments has been instrumental in fostering dialogue and developing sustainable solutions.

Our work in peacebuilding across the Northwest has shown that lasting change is possible when we work together.

This summit will further strengthen our collective resolve to create a safer environment for the people of this region,” said Ms. Elsie Attafuah, the UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria.

By bringing together key stakeholders, this summit is expected to serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue and action, leading to concrete strategies for enhancing peace and security in Northwest Nigeria.

Discussions will explore sustainable approaches to advancing food security and fostering sustainable livelihoods, while examining how different regional actors can support and enhance regional cooperation and integrated solutions for the region’s future development.

A key outcome of the Summit will be an agreement by all participating parties – including the seven Northwest state government, federal government, and the UN – to support the development of the Northwest Peace and Security Development Framework.

This framework will serve as a guiding document for the region, outlining strategies, policies, and actions needed to enhance regional cooperation and interoperability.

For more information and media enquiries, please contact:
Dr. Bala Salisu Zango Hon. Commissioner Information and culture, Katsina State
balasalisuajala@gmail.com

Christabel Chanda-Ginsberg, Public Engagement, Outreach and Partnerships Lead, UNDP Nigeria
christabel.chanda-ginsberg@undp.org

Notes for Editors:
About the Katsina State Government
The Katsina State Government is built on the pillars of service, equity, and justice for all citizens. Embracing a people-oriented approach, the administration collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders to prioritize the needs of its residents. This commitment is reflected in every policy and decision, ensuring that the well-being of the people remains paramount. The government stands firm in its resolve to resist any efforts that might compromise the interests of its citizens, striving to create a more equitable and prosperous society for all.
Learn more: https://katsinastate.gov.ng/
About the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organisation fighting to end the injustices of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with a broad network of experts and partners in over 170 countries, UNDP helps nations to build integrated and lasting solutions for people and the planet.
 In Nigeria, UNDP provides technical and policy development support to the Federal Government of Nigeria and supports the implementation of interventions across various thematic areas to meet the medium to long-term national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Learn more: https://www.undp.org/nigeria

K23 Movement Demands  Elrufai’s Arrest, Prosecution for Looting State Treasury 

… Insists on Refund of Looted Funds

Apparently angry about the outcome of the recent investigation carried out by Kaduna State House of Assembly, group under umbrella of K23 Movement called the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and relevant agencies to arrest of former Kaduna State Governor, Mal Nasir Elrufai without delay. 

The group , which described the revelations  by KDHA as ‘monumental corruption’ insisted  El-Rufai must be Prosecuted for all the Charges Levelled Against his Administration. 

“The corruption perpetrated during his 8-years as the Executive Governor of Kaduna State necessitated our convening this Press Conference to call on the Fourth Estate of the Realm,  anti-corruption agencies, civil society organizations and well-meaning Nigerians to stand up against corruption.”It disclosed. 

Speaking during a press conference held Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) ,Kaduna State Council ,the Coordinator of the K23 Movement Mal Bashir Bello, who stated this said, “Failure to be accountable to the people, who were made to carry the burden of debt  in the past are still carrying and would in future continue to suffer from the burden of debt left behind that has grounded the state to the point bankruptcy.”

While commending the Kaduna State House of Assembly for taking the bull by the horns in rising to the occasion by discharging its legislative responsibility of holding the Executive to account, he further said: “The report  of the House of Assembly Committee has exposed the reckless abuse of power, gargantuan corruption, financial banditry, disregard for due process, and criminal wastage of state resources perpetrated by the erstwhile administration of Mal. Nasir El-Rufai. 

“The voluminous report, which is in public domain has left no stone unturned in revealing the financial scandal that the administration was involved in.

“The report, among others, revealed that between May 2015 when the administration of Mal Nasir El-Rufai came to being to its exit in May 2013, the state incurred a liability of domestic and foreign loans to the tune of N98,912,000,000.00 and $758,141,699 respectively, which were mostly obtained without regard to extant financial rules and due process and were mostly diverted for other uses other than those to which they were Intended.

“These frightening revelations revealed the kleptocracy that characterised the administration. It is sad and pathetic that some of these loans were obtained in the guise of settling the entitlements  tens of thousands of state employees wrongly disengaged by the state governor on the pretext of rationalization. 

“Many of these terminated employees have died out of frustration while awaiting their  settlements. We also hailed the patriotic spirit of the Speaker for ordering the investigation, and the committee saddled with the responsibility, for producing such a detailed and balanced report.”

He however, praised the impartiality of Governor Uba Sani for obeying his conscience and being steadfast by refusing to interfere with the investigation of the Committee despite mounting pressure by elements from within and without.

“At this juncture, we strongly echo our call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC)  and all relevant security agencies concerned to immediately act on the report by arresting and prosecuting  Mal Nasir El-Rufai and all his collaborators indicted by the report. 

“This will ensure justice for the over 14 million people of Kaduna State who had been made to suffer eight years misrule, untold hardship and frustration under a regime that is both vindictive and kleptocratic and virtually converted the State into a private property for the convenience of family and friends.  Kaduna must have justice without delay as justice delayed is justice denied.”

Alh. Aminu Sani Bello Urges Muslim Ummah to Remain Peaceful, Have Hope In Project Nigeria 

…Celebrates Atiku for His Generosity, Passion for Development 

The State Coordinator of Atiku Haske Organization, Niger State Chapter, North-Central,Nigeria , Alhaji Aminu Sani Bello has  called on the Muslim Ummah to use the Eid-el-Kabir festive period to reflect on need to remain peaceful; focused and committed to promoting cause of humanity. 

Hon. Bello, who described the Eid-el-Kabir as a period for self  sacrifice and obedience to the will of Allah, also enjoined Nigerians to consider the current hardship as a phase of life that would be history with fervent prayers. 

The Coordinator of Atiku Haske Organization, who stated this in a Sallah message personally signed, equally enjoined the citizens of Niger State to continue to use the occasion pray for all leaders across the three tiers of government. Adding that “Prayer is the only  key to opening any mode for sustainable peace; progress and development”.

While urging all Muslims to draw strength from the teachings of Prophet Ibrahim amid the economic hardship and suffering going on in the country, he expressed hope that there will be light at the end of the dark tunnel.

The Atiku Haske Organization Coordinator also celebrated the former Vice President and Presidential candidate  of the People’s Democratic Party during the 2023 general elections, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for his constant generosity, passion for progress and development of the country.

He however, used the medium to caution the Muslim brothers and sisters against losing hope in the entity and project called Nigeria .

“I am convinced that the sacrifices made during this year’s Eid-el-Kabir will not go in vain Insha Allah.Nigeria will be great again.”he assured.

Eid-El- Kabir: Fadojoe Urges Muslim Faithfuls To Pray For A Great Nation

Comrade Faduri Oluwadare Joseph popularly known as Fadojoe, a Former Presidential Aspirant under Labour Party and the Leader of Rescue Movement for New Nigeria, has called on Muslim faithfuls to intensify prayers for a great nation as he said there is hope for Nigeria. This is contained in his good will message on the celebration of Eid-El- Kabir.

He stressed that, “it is another year to celebrate God’s faithfulness in our lives, and being alive to celebrate another one is a rear gift. So many things have happened within the last one year. Fasting was done, and now it is celebration time.

“I am using this celebration to call on all our Muslim brethren and people of other religion that we stamp out all forms of hatred among us. To love one another, to show empathy to our fellow men and above all to love our dear Nation”.

Adding that though with the present happenings in our dear nation, people might think all hope is lost. “Things may seem a bit hard now in our nation, but with the help of God and belief in the promises of Allah for a great life, soon we will have a great nation again.

“Happy Eid- Mubarak to all Muslims faithful both in Nigeria and all around the World, he concludes”.