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Address Nigeria’s Growing Security Challenges, NGE Urges Govts

The Nigerian Guild of Editors has urged the government at all levels to step up efforts in addressing growing security challenges across the country.

Observing a slide in the security situation in the country, NGE, however, acknowledged efforts by the government to reverse the troubling trend.

This is contained in a communique issued and signed by the NGE President, Mr Eze Anaba, and the General Secretary, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, after its Standing Committee Meeting held in Enugu, over the weekend, a copy of which was made available to The Punch on Wednesday.

It described the recent release of students of LEA Primary School/Government Secondary School in Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, as a good development.

“The Guild congratulated the Office of the National Security Adviser, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State and security agencies for their roles in securing the release of the students – after three weeks in the kidnappers’ captivity,’’ the statement.

According to the statement, the Guild also called on the Federal Government to speak out on the Editor of FirstNews Newspaper, Segun Olatunji, who was abducted from his Lagos home by some men in military uniform.

‘’The Guild, which demanded for the immediate release of the editor, said that any publication by the media, if believed or suspected to be false, should be interrogated and tested through the legal process.’’

‘’The editors condemned the manner in which the editor was abducted, saying such action had no place in a democracy, especially under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government, which has consistently promised to be guided by the rule of law in all his actions, policies and programmes.’’

‘’The media/journalists must be allowed to continue to operate in an atmosphere conducive to the performance of their constitutional duty of holding government accountable to the people.

‘’Government or security agencies must not be perceived to be doing anything to the contrary, or attempting to stifle the media under a democratic government’’, the NGE warned.

The Guild described the recent ambush and killing of 17 military personnel on March 14 in Okuama community, in Delta State, and the aftermath of the alleged military’s revenge as disheartening.

It called on the federal government to dig deep into the killing of soldiers in Okuama, and unravel the ‘’real circumstances’’ in which the incident and its aftermath occurred, with a view to bringing those indicted to book and preventing a recurrence.

While noting the rising cost of living in the country, which saw Nigeria’s headline inflation rate increase from 29.90 per cent in January to 31.70 per cent in February, the editors attributed the current harsh economic space to the worsening security situation, removal of subsidy on petrol, and the devaluation of the Naira, following the unifying of exchange rates.

The communique added, ‘’The Guild observed measures by the Central Bank of Nigeria to reverse the falling value of the Naira, and urged it to ensure the results are long-term and not temporary.

‘’The professional body also acknowledged initiatives by government at various levels to reduce the hardship in the country – through various palliatives and intervention schemes.

‘’And said that such measures should not be beneficial only in the short-term, hoping that government policies, in the long run, will make life easier for the people.’’

The Guild, which commended the mass media for their resilience – amidst the harsh economic realities of the times, called on journalists to continue to perform their responsibilities with a sense of professionalism.

‘’In the face of the nation’s security challenges and tough economic ecosystem, the Guild urged journalists to be circumspect, and not sacrifice truthfulness in their reportage.

‘’The media must continue to carry out their responsibilities with a sense of nationalism, and be careful not to inadvertently give stimulus to terrorists/bandits in their reportage’’, the editors added.

The NGE thanked the government of Enugu State for providing an atmosphere conducive for it to hold its Standing Committee Meeting in the state.

It urged government at all levels to equally step up efforts in fulfilling their electoral promises to the people.

Kwankwaso’s Son, 3 Others Nominated As Commissioners

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The Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has nominated Mustapha Kwankwaso, the son of Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso as commissioner.

Sen. Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano, was the presidential candidate of New Nigeria Peoples Party in the 2023 general election.

The governor has also nominated Adamu Kibiya, a former commissioner for land, who was suspended for making derogatory statements on tribunal judges.

The others nominees for commissionership position are Usman Aliyu and Abduljabbar Garko.

The names of the four nominees have been forwarded to the Kano State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.

Murder: Court Sentences Chinese National To Death By Hanging

The Kano State High Court has sentenced a Chinese national, Frank Geng Quarong to death by hanging for killing his girlfriend, Ummulkhulsum Sani Buhari in Kano.

The Court presided over by Justice Sunusi Ado Maaji on Tuesday rejected all the six witnesses and evidence provided by the accused person.

The Chinese National who is resident in Kano, was convicted on a one count charge of culpable homicide.

Delivering judgment, Justice Sanusi Ado-Ma’aji, stated that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt.

“The defendant’s testimony is inconsistent. I hereby find him guilty”

“I hereby recommend mercy by the Kano State Governor on behalf of the convict.

Recall that during the proceedings that the Prosecution Counsel, the Attorney-General of Kano State, Haruna Dederi, had informed the court that the convict committed the offence on Sept.16, 2022 at Janbulo Quarters Kano metropolis.

He said on the same date at about 9 p.m the convict stabbed the deceased with a knife in her house situated at Janbulo Quarters Kano for undisclosed reason.

“The victim was rushed to the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital Kano where she was confirmed dead by a medical doctor”

At the court, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge.

On the other hand, the prosecution presented six witnesses to prove their case against the defendant along with four exhibits.

The prosecutor also said the offence contravenes the provision of section 221(b) of the Penal Code.

More so, the defence counsel, Muhummad Dan’azumi, presented the defendant to defend himself, one other witness and tendered five exhibits.

He further urged the court to recommend the defendant for prerogative of mercy pursuant to section 313 of ACJL.

Frank had in his testament said he didn’t kill Ummukulsum intentionally but stabbed her in self defence after she grabbed his manhood and pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy in its judgment.

Speaking with newsmen after the judgment, the victims mother, Hajiya Fatima Zubairu, expressed satisfaction with the judge’s decision.

“Iam extremely sad I lost my daughter but Iam satisfied justice has been served,” Hajiya Fatima said.

Reading his Judgement, the Presiding Judge, said the Prosecution Counsels led by the State Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General, Barrister Haruna Isa Dederi, have proved beyond reasonable doubt the case.

He sentenced the accused Person, Frank Geng Quarong to death by hanging, but they have the stipulated time to appeal the case if they are convinced with the Judgement.

Recall that Quangrong allegedly killed his erstwhile girlfriend, Ummulkhulsum Sani Buhari following a misunderstanding.

The prosecution counsel called six witnesses to support the allegations of culpable homicide, as per Section 221(b) of the penal code, against Quangrong.

Foundation Distributes Foodstuffs To Less Privileged In Zamfara, Sokoto

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A Non-Governmental Organization, “I am Change and Humanity & Community Development Foundation has distributed essential food items to the less privileged in Zamfara and Sokoto states respectively.

This is contaminated in a statement issued to newsmen in Gusau, the state capital by the Zamfara State Chairperson of the Foundation, Hajiya Hafsatu Shinkafi

According to the statement, food items were distributed across three local government areas of Shinkafi, Rabah, and Sokoto North respectively.

With a steadfast commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those grappling with food insecurity, the initiative orchestrated by “I am Change” has met with widespread appreciations and gratitudes from beneficiaries and onlookers alike.

She expressed optimism about the impact of the initiative, stating that, its goal is to alleviate the suffering of the citizens especially those affected by the economic challenges.

Shinkafi further explained that through collaborative efforts with Humanity & Community Development Foundation, the foundation had impacted positively in the lives of the needy.

One of the beneficiaries, Aisha Ahamed said the gesture comes at a right time as many residents are leaving from hand to mouth and commended the efforts of the foundation for the gesture.

Items distributed include millet, spaghetti, macaroni and sugar among other foodstuffs.

Dangote Inaugurates N15bn Nationwide Palliatives Distribution In Kano

As part of effort to address the pressing needs of the less privileged during this time of hardship, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the Chairman of Dangote Group, has initiated a nationwide monumental distribution of palliatives across the country, starting with one million beneficiaries of 10kg bags of rice covering the entire nation.

Among the one million beneficiaries in Nigeria, Kano State received 120,000, and from there, the distribution will continue throughout the country.

According to a statement issued on Sunday, in Kano, the disbursement of the rice palliatives will continue in all local governments.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the open theatre of the Kano State Government House, was orchestrated by Alhaji Dangote himself, witnessed by the state Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.

The distribution, according to Alhaji Dangote, aims not only to alleviate hunger but also to invest in long-term solutions for the communities across Nigeria.

We should stand as one community, one nation, extending our hand of friendship and brotherhood,” remarked Alhaji Dangote, emphasizing the importance of unity and compassion during these challenging times. “During this month of Ramadan, we are reminded of the spirit of compassion and generosity. This initiative is not just about addressing hunger; it’s about fostering a sense of communal support.”

Dangote said the gesture is for 774 local governments nationwide, covering one million bags of rice, with Kano State receiving the lion’s share of 120 thousand beneficiaries

“I am confidently informing you today’s distribution is special. Despite the fact that for the past 30 years, we have been extending support to the teaming populace. We decided to come and add this project to relieve our fellow Nigerians in need.

Dangote told the gathering that this initiative was done in addition to the 10 thousand beneficiaries who are being fed daily in Kano, noting that 15 billion Naira was spent for the gesture nationwide.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf lauded Alhaji Dangote’s generosity, noting that the distribution comes at a critical time when many individuals are in dire need of assistance. He urged the distribution committees, including the state’s HISBAH Board, to ensure that the process is carried out with utmost transparency, ensuring that the aid reaches those who need it most.

The gesture by Alhaji Aliko Dangote will alleviate the hardship faced by many people,” Governor Yusuf stated, emphasizing the significance of selecting 120,000 beneficiaries from Kano for the inauguration ceremony.

Zouera Yousoufou, the Managing Director of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, shed light on Alhaji Dangote’s consistent philanthropic efforts, noting that the foundation plays a pivotal role in encouraging and facilitating such benevolent initiatives.

It is we at the Dangote Foundation who encouraged him to publicize the gesture, so others can immulate but he has been doing it for years without the left hand knowing what the right hand was given, ensuring that assistance is provided to those in need without drawing undue attention,” remarked Yousoufou, highlighting the discreet nature of Alhaji Dangote’s philanthropy.

“The distribution of palliatives spearheaded by Alhaji Aliko Dangote signifies a concerted effort to alleviate the suffering of the less fortunate and exemplifies the spirit of compassion and solidarity,” the statement added.

FG Donates 162 Trucks Of Grains To Kano

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The Federal Government has donated 162 trucks of grains to the Kano State Government for onward distribution to the needy across the 44 local government areas of the State.

The grains comprised 100 trucks of rice, 44 trucks of sorghum, 14 trucks of millet and four trucks of maize.

The Director General, Media and Publicity, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, made the disclosure while briefing newsmen on Sunday in Kano.

According to him, Dangote Foundation had also supported the state with a total of 120,000 10kg bags of rice for distribution to people in the state.

“Apart from all these donations, the State Government is giving out 145 trucks of assorted grains for distribution to the 44 Local Government Areas and 484 wards,”he said.

Dawakin Tofa said that the gesture was in collaboration with the Local Government Councils in the state.

According to him, the state government has also commenced an investigation into the ongoing Ramadan feeding programme in the state.

“Gov. Abba Yusuf had expressed dismay over the operation of the programme when he paid a surprise visit to some selected Ramadan Feeding Centres in Kano metropolis on Friday.

”The governor expressed disappointment at what he saw at the centres, asking several questions that had no answers from the operators of the programme.

“He (the governor) said that in the next 24 hours, the government will reorganise the feeding committee handling the exercise.

“Instead of meeting the actual 1,000 targeted people, only 450 registered beneficiaries were being fed at the centers he visited,” Dawakin Tofa said.

Hardship: Dangote Flags Off Distribution Of 1m Bags Of Rice In Kano

The President, Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote on Saturday in Kano flagged off the distribution of one million bags of rice across Nigeria with 120,000 bags to be distributed in Kano state.

The distribution of the food item, which will cost N15 billion, started with Kano on Saturday due to its large population and level of poverty.

Speaking at the occasion which took place at the Kano Government House, Dangote stated that the gesture is in response to the current economic challenges facing the nation, as well as a testament of his support to the communities.

“We are here in Kano to flag off the distribution of over 1 million 10kg bags of rice, targeting over 1 million of the most vulnerable persons across the 774 local government areas in Nigeria at the cost of over N15 billion.

“The allocation that will be given to Kano state because of the large population and level of poverty, we will give 120,000 bags.

“This initiative is part of our response to the current economic challenges facing our nation, and it is a testament to our commitment to supporting our communities in line with our core values.

“We will begin this humble endeavour in Kano state and Lagos state from today, recognizing the urgency in providing immediate relief to those in need,” he said.

According to him, “The goal is to extend our reach across all the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory in ensuring that as many of our fellow Nigerians as possible benefit.

He noted that the distribution of rice is another demonstration of his commitment to upholding the values of compassion and solidarity that are the core of our humanity.

“This initiative is in addition to our other existing and ongoing feeding programs, such as our daily feeding program for 10,000 vulnerable people in Kano state which has been running since 1990,” he stated.

In his remark, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf hailed Dangote for the gesture and called on other well-to-to individuals in the state to emulate him.

“Iam deeply honored today on this occasion where we celebrate the generosity and compassion of our brother, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, a well renowned philanthropist, who is today graciously donating 120,000 bags of 10kg bags of rice to the good people of Kano state.

“This is to help in feeding the vulnerable people during this blessed month of Ramadan.

“Let me say that this is not the first time that he has demonstrated willingness to support the good people of Kano state in times of need as many people are in serious need of support, which government cannot shoulder alone,”he added.

Prove Your N6bn Ramadan Feeding Expenditure Kano APC Challenges Gov Yusuf

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The Kano State chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC), has challenged the State Government to prove the N6 billion it spent on the Ramadan feeding programme.

The challenge is coming after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Friday expressed dismay over the ongoing Ramadan Feeding programme in the Kano metropolis.

The State APC chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas threw the challenge to the State ruling NNPP when he flagged off the distribution of palliatives to APC leaders and supporters in the state on Saturday.

The distribution of the food items was flagged off in Dawkins Kudu local government area of Kano State.

Abbas, who described the programme as a sham, asked the state government to show evidence that the food being provided commensurate with what they spent on the programme.

“We know the Federal Government, Dangote and BUA have provided palliatives, So, let them show evidence that they have spent the said amount on the programme.

“The grains we are distributing to our supporters were purchased through contribution from ourselves as we don’t have a government,” he said.

According to him, those who contributed include the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, two ministers from the State, APC National chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and the State APC chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas.

Other are APC Gubernatorial candidate and his deputy, Dr. Nasiru Gawuna and Murtala Sule-Garo, Chief of Staff to APC National Chairman, Mallam Muhammad Garba and Chairman House of Reps Committee on Appropriation, Engr Abubakar Kabir Bichi.

In his remark, the Chief of Staff to the APC National Chairman, Muhammad Garba who represented his Boss at the occasion, said they purchased 5, 840 50kgs bags of rice, 1,600 bags of Millets, 2, 000 Cartoons of Spaghetti to gives out to their supporters and other Kano People.

Garba explained that the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje coordinated the idea of the party palliative, with Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and others contributed in purchasing the food items.

He said 484 wards of the state’s 44 Local Government areas will benefit from the gesture which will be given to all party supporters, social media influencers as well as other ordinary party staffers.

“Our National Chairman, Dr Umar Ganduje is also planning to ensure that the palliative is sustained to cushion the effect of economic hardship which is temporary with the President Tinubu efforts in tackling the challenges.

*So, we felt it necessary to support our party supporters and leaders across the 484 wards especially during this Ramadan period since we’re in a privileged position,, “he added.

Ramadan Feeding: Gov. Yusuf Expresses Dissatisfaction With Quality Of Food Given To People

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The Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Friday evening expressed dismay over the ongoing Ramadan Feeding programme in the Kano metropolis.

Recall that the State Government budgeted a whopping sum of over N5 billion for the Ramadan feeding programme.

The governor expressed his disappointment with the program during a surprise visit to one of the feeding centres in Gidan Maza, Municipal Local Government area.

Governor Yusuf also conveyed his dissatisfaction with the conduct of the program handlers, whom he believes are depriving the intended beneficiaries of the meals.

“We will not accept dishonesty and mismanagement of public resources. It is imperative to note that the allocated funds for this initiative are meticulously documented at each centre” the Governor cautioned

The Governor conducted the inspection following intelligence reports implying deficiencies in the management of the feeding programme at various centres across the metropolis.

He threatened to deal decisively with any government official found wanting in the misappropriation of the funds earmarked for the programme.

Ramadan: Lawmaker Empowers 1000 Youths, Distributes Grains To Constituents

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A House of Representatives member, representing Ajingi,/Albasu/Gaya Federal Constituency, Dr. Ghali Mustapha Panda has flagged off distribution of 18,600 bags of grains to his constituents in Kano state.

Speaking at the flag off of the distribution in Kano on Friday, Panda said the gesture was aimed at supporting his constituents, especially in the Holy month of Ramadan.

He said considering the current economic challenges in the country, he has no choice as a representative than to share some palliative to his constituents.

He explained that he will distribute 3,600 bags of 25kg of rice and 3,000 bags of 10kg of rice.

He added that 6000 bags of 10kg maize flour and 6000 bags of 10kg of millet would also be shared among the constituents.

Panda further explained that the gesture, alongside disbursement of the sum of N20 million to 1000 youths in the constituency are some of his plans for the constituents in the first quarter of 2024.

“We will continue to support our people. We will be doing this up to the end of this year. This for the first quarter.

“In Q2 we will disburse farming inputs to thousands of farmers. In Q3, we will launch empowerment schemes to over 3,000 youths and women.

“In Q4 we will repair and build classes and schools and roads. We will do what we can with the available budget to us,” he said.

In a remark earlier, Special Adviser to Kano state governor on political matters, Sunusi Kwankwaso, commended Panda for the gesture.

Kwankwaso, who represented the state government said the new set of the lawmakers, especially those from NNPP, is the best in the history of Kano for making efforts to touch the lives of their people.

According to him, the lawmakers are following the footsteps of the leader of Kwankwasiyya Movement, Rabi’u Kwankwaso in putting efforts to help the common man.

While commending the lawmaker for the gesture, Kwankwaso urged his colleagues to follow suit.

“To those that have not gotten this foodstuffs, I assure you that this is the tip of the iceberg as your turn is coming soon. You will be smiling because I believe you have a good representative,” he said.

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