Petralon: Community Partnership as Recipe for Business Success

Peter Uzoho narrates how Indigenous oil producer, Petralon Energy host community partnership is driving business success In a significant step towards fostering sustainable development in its host communities, Petralon Energy…

Group petitions EFCC, demands probe of lawmakers for approving of N300bn loan for Makinde

A group championing good governance in Oyo State, Concerned Youths Movement, CYM, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to, without wasting more time, probe members of the Oyo State House of Assembly. CYM noted that this is necessary in order to unravel the circumstances surrounding the approval of a N300bn loan
Group petitions EFCC, demands probe of lawmakers for approving of N300bn loan for Makinde

A group championing good governance in Oyo State, Concerned Youths Movement, CYM, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to, without wasting more time, probe members of the Oyo State House of Assembly.

CYM noted that this is necessary in order to unravel the circumstances surrounding the approval of a N300bn loan for Governor Seyi Makinde of the state.

Our correspondent reports that news surfaced last week that the House of Assembly had approved the N300bn loan for Makinde.

A member of the State House of Assembly, Ibraheem Shittu, who represents Saki West State Constituency, made this declaration via a statement.

The approval of the loan has generated controversies.

CYM, via a statement signed by its Chairman, Pastor Tayo Adigun, and Secretary, Alhaji Olaide Kobomoje, noted that the House did not form a quorum when the loan was approved.

It explained that only 13 members out of 32 lawmakers approved the loan.

The group, while speaking, described the approval as illegal, null, and void.

It added that the approval does not represent the wish of the majority of the Assembly.

It hereby called on the EFCC to investigate the lawmakers.

CYM, while speaking further, enjoined the EFCC to beam its searchlight into the approval of the loan.

“We are hereby calling the attention of the EFCC to investigate the alleged approval given to the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, to obtain N300 billion by the 13 members of the State House of Assembly.

“We gathered that only 13 members of the 32-member House of Assembly approved the loan. That is illegal. Thirteen members do not form a quorum in a 32-member House.

“This illegality must not be allowed to stand. There is the need for due investigation on the purported emergency approval.”

Group petitions EFCC, demands probe of lawmakers for approving of N300bn loan for Makinde

Ember months: FRSC warns motorists against dangerous driving

With the new month, September “ember months,” the Federal Road Safety Corps, Ogun Command, has advised motorists to reduce speed to curb unnecessary road crashes leading to loss of lives and property. Nasir Mohammed, the FRSC Commander in charge of the Sagamu-Ore-Benin Expressway, stated that speed is sweet but kills faster than deadly diseases in
Ember months: FRSC warns motorists against dangerous driving

With the new month, September “ember months,” the Federal Road Safety Corps, Ogun Command, has advised motorists to reduce speed to curb unnecessary road crashes leading to loss of lives and property.

Nasir Mohammed, the FRSC Commander in charge of the Sagamu-Ore-Benin Expressway, stated that speed is sweet but kills faster than deadly diseases in the world.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mohammed also enjoined motorists to avoid high speed that could lead to the loss of lives through crashes.

He urged motorists to obey road signs and adhere to the average speed limit as one of the means to prevent avoidable crashes during the ember months and other times in the future.

He also advised against night travel, reckless driving, and wrongful overtaking of other vehicles that could be dangerous and may lead to accidents.

The route commander stressed the need for motorists to desist from drunk driving, saying that it could affect their sense of reasoning, pointing out that such behaviour results in road accidents.

He assured of the FRSC’s determination to embark on aggressive public enlightenment and patrols to educate the public on the dangers of flouting traffic rules and regulations that have led many to untimely death.

Ember months: FRSC warns motorists against dangerous driving

BREAKING: Finland Court sentences Simon Ekpa to six years in prison for terrorism

A District Court in Finland has sentenced the self-proclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra Government in Exile, Simon Ekpa, to six years in prison for terrorism-related crimes. DAILY POST recalls that Ekpa was arrested by Finnish authorities on 21 November 2024, following an investigation by the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) into
BREAKING: Finland Court sentences Simon Ekpa to six years in prison for terrorism

A District Court in Finland has sentenced the self-proclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra Government in Exile, Simon Ekpa, to six years in prison for terrorism-related crimes.

DAILY POST recalls that Ekpa was arrested by Finnish authorities on 21 November 2024, following an investigation by the Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) into allegations of inciting terrorism and promoting violence through social media, activity that was believed to have contributed to unrest in southeastern Nigeria.

Following his arrest, Ekpa was remanded in custody by the Päijät-Häme District Court, which determined that the charge was based on “public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent”, alleged offenses dating from August 2021 to November 2024.

During this period, the NBI also froze Ekpa’s assets, as well as those of his associates and related companies

BREAKING: Finland Court sentences Simon Ekpa to six years in prison for terrorism

El-Rufai lied, NSA didn’t pay bandits ransom – Nuhu Ribadu

The National Security Adviser, NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, on Monday accused former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, of propagating falsehood. Ribadu said El-Rufai’s claim on national television that the NSA coordinated payment of ransom and incentives to bandits was false. This was contained in a statement signed by Zakari Mijinyawa, Adviser in the Office of the
El-Rufai lied, NSA didn’t pay bandits ransom – Nuhu Ribadu

The National Security Adviser, NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, on Monday accused former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, of propagating falsehood.

Ribadu said El-Rufai’s claim on national television that the NSA coordinated payment of ransom and incentives to bandits was false.

This was contained in a statement signed by Zakari Mijinyawa, Adviser in the Office of the National Security Adviser.

The NSA insisted that El-Rufai’s claim was contrary to verifiable facts.

The statement described the former governor’s claim as baseless.

The statement reads: “The attention of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has been drawn to comments made by the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, in a television interview on Sunday. In that interview, he alleged, falsely, that the ONSA coordinates a policy of payments and offers incentives to bandits.

“This claim is baseless. At no time has the ONSA, or any arm of government under this administration, engaged in ransom payments or inducements to criminals.”

The statement said contrary to El-Rufai’s comment, ONSA warns against payment of ransom.

He added: “On the contrary, we have consistently warned Nigerians against paying ransom. El-Rufai’s allegations are not only false but also contradict verifiable facts on the ground.

“From inception, this government adopted a dual strategy: decisive kinetic operations alongside community engagements aimed at addressing local grievances. The result is evident in areas such as Igabi, Birnin Gwari, Giwa, and other parts of Kaduna that once suffered untold terror but are now experiencing relative peace.

“The efforts of our gallant military and security agencies in capturing or eliminating notorious bandits have been widely reported in the media. In Kaduna alone, known kingpins who once terrorised residents such as Boderi, Baleri, Sani Yellow Janburos, Buhari, and Boka, among others, were eliminated. Only recently, leaders of Ansaru who previously established bases in Kaduna were apprehended.

“These successes came at a cost; some of our brave officers paid the supreme price. For a former governor of a state, in the person of El-Rufai, to deny these sacrifices on national television is both unfair and deeply insulting to the memories of our security personnel.

“We urge El-Rufai and all political actors to desist from dragging national security institutions into partisan battles.

“The fight against banditry is a collective struggle, not a platform for political point-scoring.”

El-Rufai lied, NSA didn’t pay bandits ransom – Nuhu Ribadu

Dangote, Shekarau, Ganduje, Others to Address Kano’s Socio-economic Problems

Dangote, Shekarau, Ganduje, Others to Address Kano’s Socio-economic Problems

Kano elders and leading personalities across socio, economic, religious and political spheres have formed a united front to address socio-economic challenges confronting the state.

The elders and leaders, who met under the aegis of Kano State Elders Advisory Council with coordination from the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Kano State Chapter, decried the ugly trend of social vices within the state and around the north and called for collective efforts to rid the state of crimes.

They called for concerted efforts by all stakeholders to rebuild values of honesty, respect, tolerance, hard work and decency within the society, noting that the menace of drug abuse, robberies and indecent behaviours was due to collapse of family values.

In order to  find solutions to the identified  challenges, a 34-member committee was formed  at the meeting to brainstorm on the objectives, galvanise members of the elders’ council and other stakeholders, and interface with relevant state and national governments’ officials.

The committee, which comprised  experts across various fields, has Prof. Shehu Galadanchi as chairman and Dr Faruk Umar, Chairman of Kano ACF, as Secretary. Other members included:  Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, General Halliru Akilu, Alhaji Salihu Abubakar Tanko Yakasai, Alhaji Mahe Bashir Wali, Prof. Sani Zahraddeen, former governors of Kano- Senator Kabiru Gaya, 

Senator Rabi’u Kwankwaso, Dr. AbdulLahi Ganduje and Senator Ibrahim Shekarau.

Other members are: Alhaji Isyaku Tofa, Prof. Tijjani Isma’il, Prof. Auwalu Yadudu, Sheikh AbdulWahab AbdulLahi, Sheikh KaribulLah Nasiru Kabara, Khalifa Sani Shehu Maihula, Prof. Umar Sani Fagge, Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar, Alhaji A A Rano, Alhaji Tajuddeen Aminu Dantata, Prof. Ruqayya Ahmad, Prof. Fatima Mukhtar and Hajiya Mariya Waziri.

Also included were Alhaji Shehu Mohammed S/Shanu, Alhaji Muntaka Tijjani Usman, Prof. Musa Muhammad Borodo, Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima, Alhaji Sabi’u Bako, Alhaji Yusuf Garba Ali, General Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd) and Chief Imam of Kano, Professor Sani Zahraddeen.

In his welcome address, ACF Kano Chairman, Dr. Faruk Umar, said the elders’ council would serve as an unbiased, non-partisan advisory body by making useful contributions to the running of the affairs of the state.

According to him, the elders’ council would look into challenges and problems and suggest solutions to the policy makers. 

He explained that  problems like drug abuse, phone snatching, human rights abuses, and child trafficking would receive urgent attention.

“The council comprises of people with different expertise and it is thus qualified as a technical committee on various issues. It is like guiding council for the state and governance,” he  said. 

He noted that initiatives such as AKHUWAT Initiatives by the ACF were meant to address root causes of many problems, while commending key contributors for the AKHUWAT project funds.

Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, commended ACF Kano and the elders for forging a common front irrespective of socio-political differences.

He pledged to support the efforts of the committee in addressing pressing issues of poverty, unemployment and other socio-economic problems confronting the state.

He pointed out that despite the economic challenges, the federal government is doing everything possible to address macroeconomic problems, which will set strong basis for sustainable developments across the country. 

He called on all northern elders to unite and work together for regional development.

President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, in a letter of endorsement, expressed his “full endorsement” and confidence in the ability of the elders’ council to strengthen governance within the state by providing wise counsel to stakeholders in Kano and beyond.

He commended the profound leadership and commitment of the Dr  Umar-led ACF Kano, noting that such leadership and commitment have continued to inspire progress and unity across the nation.

According to him, the visionary resolutions of the elders were not only timely but also essential to restoring principled leadership and moral guardianship in the affairs of the society.

Dangote, Africa’s richest man, said he was ready to “collaborate as applicable to advance the elders’ council objectives.

“I look forward to positive updates on the council’s progress and stand ready to assist in any way possible,” Dangote stated.

Former Governor of Kano State, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, said it was the absence of an initiative like the elders’ council that contributed to the menace of hooliganism and robbery.

He said he had had discussions with other political leaders to work for Kano and put Kano first above any political interest.

He noted that with the careful selection of the advisory council and committee members, the root causes of the problems would be addressed, urging community leaders to show care and support for all members of the society.

Former Governor of Kano State and immediate past chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje stressed the importance of cooperation, urging all elders to join hands in moving Kano forward.

Ganduje, who was represented by former Secretary to the Government, Alhaji Usman Alhaji, promised to support the council in achieving its objectives.

Chairman and Chief Executive, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA,) Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), emphasised the importance of cooperation in the fight against drug abuse.

According to him, the fight against societal vices such as drug abuse cannot be done alone, but through joint efforts by stakeholders like ACF, government and traditional rulers among others.

Marwa, who was represented at the meeting by the NDLEA Director of Administration and Establishment , Alhaji Lawan Hamisu , decried the high level of drug abuse in Kano and underscored the need for immediate efforts to address this ugly trend.

Prof. Galadanchi said the diverse problems confronting Kano such as social fragmentation, drugs abuse, unemployment, political instability, poverty, especially in the middle and lower classes and security challenges could only be addressed by restoring long-held values and ethical reorientation.

He cited various Qur’anic verses and prophetic traditions that encouraging unity and helping each other as a way to stay strong in daily life. 

He said virtues as love for one another, willingness to support others, forgiveness and due respect to all individuals irrespective of status help to build social cohesion.

He stressed that unity of purpose would help to catalyse the much-needed human and material resources needed to confront any problem.   

National Chairman, Board of Trustees, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF),             Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, commended the elders for their contributions to the development and growth of the Arewa community.

He pointed out that the serious issue of insecurity in the North-West can only be resolved by unity and collective commitment by all stakeholders.

He also noted the need for family reorientation as many crimes were as results of breakdown in family values and home training.  

Alhaji A A Rano welcomed the elders’ council initiative noting the need for traditional elders that could mobilise people to address common problems. 

He expressed his readiness to support all efforts by ACF Kano and the elders’ council in eliminating social vices bedeviling the state, especially in the area of poverty alleviation and employment generation.

Rano, who had earlier donated N30 million to the AKHUWAT Initiatives, made additional donation of N20 million to help small business owners improve productivity.

In his comments, Mukhtar Gashash said the cause of many problems was the disintegration of community bond, especially with people placing money as the sole object of importance rather than cultural values of honesty, brotherliness and hardwork.

The post Dangote, Shekarau, Ganduje, Others to Address Kano’s Socio-economic Problems appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

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Kano elders and leading personalities across socio, economic, religious and political spheres have formed a united front to address socio-economic challenges confronting the state. The elders and leaders, who met
The post Dangote, Shekarau, Ganduje, Others to Address Kano’s Socio-economic Problems appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Onuachu Disappointed With Trabzonspor’s Draw With Samsunspor

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El-Rufai heads gang of desperados plotting to remove Tinubu – Presidency

The Presidency has disclosed that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is at the forefront of a gang of political desperados plotting to remove President Bola Tinubu from office. Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, was reacting to El-Rufai’s claim that four years is not enough to make any “meaningful changes.” El-Rufai
El-Rufai heads gang of desperados plotting to remove Tinubu – Presidency

The Presidency has disclosed that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is at the forefront of a gang of political desperados plotting to remove President Bola Tinubu from office.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, was reacting to El-Rufai’s claim that four years is not enough to make any “meaningful changes.”

El-Rufai had made the remark while cautioning former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, to stop making one-term presidency commitments.

However, Onanuga said Tinubu has implemented more policies within two years in office than when El-Rufai, Obi, and Amaechi were governors.

Posting on X, Onanuga wrote: “Nasir El-Rufai confesses here that four years is not enough for a political office holder to make ‘meaningful changes.’

“Yet he is at the forefront of the gang of political desperados plotting President Tinubu’s ouster, just two years into his tenure. What a contradiction!

“In contrast to the political laggards and underachievers who were once governors in Anambra, Rivers, and Kaduna, President Tinubu and his team have implemented meaningful changes in our country over the past two years, positioning us on the path of prosperity.

“Please save the video. We shall confront Nasir with it when electioneering starts.”

El-Rufai heads gang of desperados plotting to remove Tinubu – Presidency

BoG brings digital credit under tight watch, classifies as non-bank financial service

The Bank of Ghana has officially placed digital credit services under the non-bank financial services category, moving to tighten regulation of the fast-expanding sector. In a notice issued on Friday,…

COP Lydia Donkor joins Interpol Africa Committee

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