Hon. Shehu Wadaji Congratulates Gov Bala Mohammed For Victory At Supreme Court

By: Ibrahim Tinja 

The Special Adviser On Pilgrim Affairs, Bauchi State, Hon. Shehu Alhaji Wadaji has congratulated the Executive Governor of Bauchi  state, His Excellency, Bala Mohammed, Kauran Bauchi,  Jagaban Katagum, Turakin Ningi, on his victory in the supreme court as the duly elected governor of the state

Alhaji Wadaji  while congratulating the Governor Mohammed also praised  the Supreme Court justices for doing the right thing by  restoring the confidence of  Nigerians on the judiciary 

On behalf of the good people of Jama'are,I wish to congratulate you on your victory at the Supreme Court today . Indeed this is a great day for democracy and a great day for the people of Bauchi  State 

"Your victory at the Supreme Court has justified the confidence that millions of Bauchi State indigenes and residents have in you .

"They voted you because of the enormous developmental projects that you brought to Bauchi .

"I wish to also commend the justices of the Supreme Court that took the right decision thereby restoring confidence of Bauchi  people and Nigerians back to the judiciary 

According to Shehu Wadaji, Governor Bala Mohammed would surpass his past four years record  by bringing more projects and employment opportunities to the State 

"I know that by this court victory, our amiable Governor would now be free to do more by generating employment opportunities while bring many more developmental projects to the people of the state .

Once again, I extend my heart congratulations to our father, the Kauran Bauchi.

Mariam Gendemeh from Sierra Leone Emerges Star Prize Winner Future Africa Leaders Awards Winner 2023

The Future Africa Leaders Awards (FALA) 2023 Grand Finale which held in Lagos, Nigeria, saw the emergence of 23-year-old Mariam Gendemeh from Sierra Leone as the star prize winner of the year. She came tops out of thousands of entries reviewed from all 54 countries on the continent.

The yearly event recognises and empowers young Africans between the ages of 16 and 23, who have effectively initiated multifaceted projects and initiatives, that have brought about positive change and innovative advancement in their communities throughout the continent.

The top 10 finalists for the year 2023 announced at the grand finale include Katleho Mojakisane Queen from Lesotho, Grace Lamane Fatime from Chad, Alieu Sasay from Liberia, Annick Bado from Burkina Faso, Clinton Arko Agyemang from Ghana, Emma Kwaje from South Sudan, Lyna Bossa Tchydre from Togo, Matilda Kahunde from Uganda, and Wissal Rida from Morocco.

The 10 finalists were awarded a grant of $10,000 each, while the Star Prize Winner, Mariam Gendemeh, was awarded an additional $25,000 for embodying the highest standards of visionary leadership in 2023.

Speaking on her emergence as the Star Prize winner, a thrilled Gendemeh declared that winning the award was not only a personal achievement but a testament to the greatness of her home country, Sierra Leone. "It means so much to me and my country because we have suffered so much", she stated.

Held under the distinguished chairmanship of Nigeria's former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, the event saw the likes of Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba, Speaker of National Legislative Assembly, Republic of South Sudan as a guest and former President Republic of Malawi, Dr Mrs Joyce Banda, as Special Guest of Honour.

At the grand finale, the President and Founder of the Future Africa Leaders Foundation (FALF), Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, D.Sc, D.Sc, D.D asserted that "Every nation has young people and investing in the young people is investing in the future. Every nation must recognise this. Our efforts in this regard have helped train, inspire, and motivate young people worldwide.”

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome also acknowledged the challenges and problems that Africa has faced in the past, stating: "If we will chart a new course for Africa, we must do something about Africa's young people. Our young people have done amazing things throughout the continent, inspiring others and contributing to their countries, communities, and generations. Tonight's award further serves to encourage our young people; we realise that they hold the future in their hands.”

He encouraged young people to intentionally live beyond themselves and make a difference in their world. "You can do a lot about your country, community, and the world. When you look beyond yourself and live a life beyond yourself, you really begin to experience your inner greatness because in each one of you is a seed of greatness.”

In his remarks, Nigeria's former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, emphasized the need for peace, stability, and security of lives in Africa and the world. He opined that Africa's future lies in the people of Africa, particularly the youths of Africa. Speaking on the ongoing wars in the world, he opined that "we must all embrace a world of peace, security, harmony, and love. Without peace, there can be no development; without development, there is no progress.” He charged all the award recipients to view the recognition as a challenge and a call to duty rather than a reason to rest of their oars. He encouraged all African youths to; "not be despondent about the situation on the continent, their countries, communities, or the world at large. Things are getting better. There are leadership qualities in each one of you, bring it out. That's what this award is all about. Inspiring and empowering you to bring out those leadership qualities to make Africa, the great continent God intended it to be – a land flowing with milk and honey".  

Similarly, Rt Hon Jemma Nunu Kumba, Speaker of the National Legislative Assembly, Republic of South Sudan, averred, "Africa has all the resources it needs to position itself positively on the global stage. We have the brains, the resources, and the knowledge of our situation. We need to continue praying, collaborating, and building the capacity of our young people, men and women, to take a lead in that. Only Africans can solve Africa's challenges because we are the only ones with a vested interest in making the continent the best it can be. Any other party claiming concern for Africa may have exploitative agendas. Therefore, we must learn to rely on ourselves and use our resources effectively to provide services to the African people. Thus, this award focuses on young people so they can have a different attitude towards development, providing services to the people and not self-centred leaders focused on lining their pockets.”

Dr. Joyce Banda, former Malawian president, opined that her years of leadership have taught her that "leadership is a love affair. You must love the people you serve, and do things that will make the people fall in love with you; this will make you serve, or work beyond status. Young people in Africa are suffering, and it's the duty of every one of us who finds ourselves in leadership positions to create opportunities for them to thrive. We are failing our children, and that is why this award is a unique programme.”

Addressing the young awardees, she declared, "there is hope for Africa; we need more young people involved in the peace processes." 

The Future Africa Leaders Foundation has been instrumental in identifying, honouring, empowering, and mentoring young Africans from all parts of the continent over the past 11 years. These individuals have voluntarily taken on leadership roles in their local communities and have successfully launched various grassroots initiatives to address some of Africa's most pressing challenges through innovative and indigenous solutions. 

Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded over $1.4 million to 123 youths from 30 African countries. The event, hosted by the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International, underscores the Foundation's unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of African leaders and accelerating Africa's systemic change by fostering a spirit of innovation, responsibility, and service among young leaders. 

ABOUT 2023 STAR PRIZE WINNER MARIAM GENDEMEH ACCOMPLISHMENTS. 

Mariam is a farmer, philanthropist, and the Executive Director of Fresh Veggies Agro Company Limited. A platform she founded when she was 19 years old, to be a powerhouse for her multifaceted initiatives focused on uplifting and enhancing the lives of women, children, and young girls. She secured funds through personal savings, donations, and grants from NGOs to fuel impactful projects spanning Agriculture for food and income, Advocacy, Capacity Building, Food Support to malnourished kids, and Scholarships for vulnerable school girls.

In its inaugural year, her company generated $1,200, created job opportunities for 15 young people, and directed 40% of the funds toward community feeding programmes during the Ebola outbreak. 

She has a 50-hectare rice farm and the largest vegetable farm in Kenema. In 2022 and 2023, Mariama's rice cultivation resulted in a harvest of 850 tons. Her company's Food Systems Resilience Programme  has impacted over 1,300 members, earning her the title of the YOUNGEST MASTER FARMER in her district and the entire country.

 Mariama's "Save the Malnourished Kids" project, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Community Health Centers, has helped over 10,000 malnourished children annually in the Kenema District. She also initiated the Orange Fresh Sweet Potatoes programme, which has benefited 12 women groups in six communities, providing a sustainable food source for school feeding programmes.

Mariama has also spearheaded several outreach programmes in 110 communities, providing essential sanitation materials, soap, and education on protective measures. Through her advocacy, she and other female leaders successfully championed a 30% inclusivity of women in governance in her country, resulting in crucial appointments and wins during the 2023 general elections. She also organized a SHE LEADS Summit in her country that empowered 500 girls with leadership skills and catalyzed mentorship platforms in six schools, reaching 400 girls. Mariama Gendemeh truly deserves her win and serves as a stellar example of the incredible potential of the African youth.

Social Register Scandal:Group Defends Tunji-Ojo , Says He Resigned Before Becoming Minister

Group under aegis of Forum for Transparency and Good Governance (FTGG) has come out strongly to defend the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, over his involvement in an alleged N438.1 million consultancy contract between New Planet Project Limited and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation under the suspended Minister, Betta Edu.

According to the group, since documents revealed that the Interior Minister resigned as a Director of New Planet Project Limited in 2019, it would amount to witch-hunting  to link him to the contract scandal. 

The group, which explained reasons for defending the Minister in a press statement signed by Dr. Mustapha Ahmed Malumfashi said it is unfair and ridiculous to link the Minister to the alleged contact scam, when he resigned from the company on 4th February,2019  after he won election into the House of Representatives  with a Certified True Copy of Corporate Affairs Commission as far back as 2019 to prove this.

The statement further reads : "But Tunji-Ojo, who reacted while appearing on Channels TV Politics Today on Monday night, agreed  he co-founded the company ten years ago, but resigned from directorship. 

 

"The Minister, who described the report as shocking, did say he was not involved in the day-to-day running of New Planet Project Limited and all that is expected is to confirm the veracity of his claim. 

"However, form our investigation, Tunji-Ojo ,who in our estimation has being doing well since appointed as minister by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu didn't benefited from Edu’s alleged fake N3 billion social register contract. 

"We have seen legitimate documents which showed that the interior minister resigned as a director at New Planet Project Limited nearly five years ago.

"Our investigation further revealed that New Planet Project Limited, with registration number 804833, was said to have been registered on March 3, 2009 with a Certified True Copy of the Corporate Affairs Commission documents  obtained ,dated August 8, the minister had alongside four others resigned as directors on February 1, 2019.

"Section A contained names of “directors ceasing to hold office” from February 1, 2019. They included Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Abimbola Tunji-Ojo, Okpanachi George Echiye, Idris Shuaibu, and Hassan Suleiman.

"The document was signed by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and Akinmulewo Amos Oladapo as Director and Director/Secretary/Authorised officer, respectively and it  was further presented for filing at the CAC by one Abu Dennis, on February 6, 2019.

He confirmed during the interview with Channels that he co-founded the New Planet Project with his wife 15 years ago but resigned and  remained a shareholder in the company.

"Of course,  public service rules do not prohibit public officers from being shareholders. What public service rules say is that you cannot be a director of which I had resigned about five years ago." 

Recall that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu suspended Edu over corruption allegations on Monday.

Shortly after Edu’s suspension, reports emerged that the Minister paid a company owned by the Minister of Interior a total amount of N438.1 million for consultancy services. 

"We therefore urge the President to summon  the Minister of Interior, Tunji-Ojo, over his alleged involvement of the controversial N438 million contract scandal involving the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu."

Curious Case of Gov Lawal and Scarcity of US Dollars in Abuja

By Lawal Datti 

In the bustling city of Abuja, a peculiar situation has unfolded at the main forex trading market in Zone 4. Rumors have been circulating that Governor Lawal and his merry band of men are on a quest for hard currency, causing a scarcity of US dollars. The scarcity of US dollars in the forex market has caused chaos and uncertainty among traders and investors. The demand for US dollars has skyrocketed, leading to a significant increase in its value. This scarcity has raised questions about the motives behind Governor Lawal's actions.Governor Lawal's desperate pursuit of hard currency raises eyebrows and sparks curiosity. The reasons behind his fixation on acquiring US dollars need to be examined. One possible explanation could be the anticipation of the final decision of the Supreme Court on the appeal between the Governor and his challenger, Bello Matawalle.The impending decision of the Supreme Court on the appeal between Governor Lawal and Bello Matawalle holds immense significance. It is plausible that Governor Lawal intends to use the acquired hard currency to influence the outcome of the appeal. This raises concerns about the integrity of the judicial process and the potential abuse of power.The scarcity of US dollars and Governor Lawal's quest for hard currency fuel speculations about his motives. One possibility is that he intends to bribe or influence key individuals involved in the appeal process. This would allow him to secure a favorable outcome and maintain his position as Governor. However, these speculations remain conjectures until concrete evidence emerges.The scarcity of US dollars and the potential manipulation of the appeal process have far-reaching implications. It undermines the credibility of the judicial system, erodes public trust, and perpetuates corruption. Such actions can have detrimental effects on the economy, foreign investments, and the overall development of Abuja.The curious situation of Governor Lawal's desperation on acquiring hard currency amidst the scarcity of US dollars in Abuja raises numerous questions and speculations. The impending decision of the Supreme Court on the appeal between Governor Lawal and Bello Matawalle adds further complexity to the situation. The motives behind Governor Lawal's actions remain unclear, but the potential implications and consequences are significant. It is crucial for transparency, accountability, and the rule of law to prevail in order to maintain the integrity of the judicial system and foster a conducive environment for economic growth and development in Abuja.

Yoruba Youths Says President Tinubu to put Zamfara state Governor on the watch

.... Jamie Job

The Yoruba Youth Council has deplored what it described as worrisome underdevelopment of Zamfara State couples with hightened insecurity since the exit of the former Governor Bello Matawalle.

"We observed that since the nullification by appeal court of results from the three local governments that produced Governor of Zamfara State, the state have been going through challenges".

In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the Council, which is an umbrella body of the Yoruba youths noted particularly that the state has been going through challenges since the Court of Appeal on November 27 ordered a rerun by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC,  of the March 18 election which produced the incumbent Governor Dauda Lawal of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the winner.

The statement said that based on its overview, "the Council observed that the current state of underdevelopment in the state is due to alleged fear and uncertainty being entertained by the governor on whether he would win or lose the three Local Government Areas in the incoming rerun." 

Oluwole said: "We called on the Mr President to put Governor Dauda Lawal under watch and checking, there is need for the Governor to concentrate his full energy on delivering meaningful governance to the good people of Zamfara State who are looking up to their leaders full hope, while patiently awaiting the final decision of the Supreme Court on his pending appeal against the nullification of his election by the lower Court and the Appeal Court.

We also observe then that his part of the people that showed much interest in Mr President on Toronto certificate issue.

Yoruba youths also said they learnt that Mr Governor has been financing some groups in other to carry out protest and therefore called on security agencies to be on alert to arrest any person that want to cause problem in the state.

"Already, the current state of underdevelopment in Zamfara State is disturbing enough, Mr Governor should not do anything to further jeopardize the interest and especially the much-needed overall socioeconomic development of the state."

The youth leader then urged Governor Lawal to, pending the verdict of the Supreme Court on his appeal,  he should vigorously follow the footsteps of his predecessor and now Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle "with his brilliant record of achievements as the immediate former Governor of Zamfara State."

It would be recalled that in a unanimous decision by its three-member panel led by Justice Oyebisi Folayemi, including Justice Cordelia Ifeoma Jombo-Ofo, and Justice Sybil Nwaka Gbagi, the appellate court had declared the March 18 Zamfara State Governorship Election as inconclusive and nullified Lawal's return.

It further ordered INEC to conduct a fresh election in three Local Government Areas of the state including Maradun, Birnin-Magaji and Bukkuyum, where elections had not been held previously or where results from various polling units were not counted. 

Also, the court held that it was wrong for INEC to rely on information it obtained from its INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal to collate the final result of the governorship election.

The judgment was on an appeal brought before the court by the immediate former governor of the state, Bello Matawalle, who was the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the March 18 election

Oluwole noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission did not include about 98,000 votes meant for Bello Matawalle in its tally, called on the Supreme Court to simply add it up and decide in Matawalle’s favor without the need for a rerun and declare him winner.

"We advise Mr Governor to wait for the Supreme Court ruling, the state should not geopardize it's efforts, so far, Nigeria belong to all of us, there is need for everyone to obey the Court ruling. The state needs to be stable for development and security.

Supreme Court Ruling: Deal With Trouble Makers, NEN URGES Federal Government.

The Northern Emancipation Network (NEN) has issued a fervent call to the federal government to take proactive measures in dealing with any form of dissent or incitement to misconduct that may arise from the outcome of the expected Supreme Court ruling on the Zamfara Governorship appeal. 

NEN emphasized the importance of ensuring the stability of the country, urging the government to be prepared and steadfast in the face of any desperate attempts to subvert it.

In a statement issued by the Chairman of NEN, Suleiman Abbah, the group appealed to the Supreme Court justices to meticulously consider the facts before them when delivering their verdict.

Notably, the NEN highlighted the fact that the use of Biomodal Voters' Accreditation System (BVAS) in elections is not a mandatory provision of the law. Consequently, the group called on the court to resolve the dispute in favor of Matawalle Bello, recognizing him as the bonafide winner of the election.

The NEN firmly believes that a fair and just ruling in favor of Matawalle Bello will not only promote peace and stability in Zamfara State but will also serve as a remarkable affirmation of the rule of law in Nigeria as a whole. 

The group urges the Supreme Court to prioritize the collective interest of the Nigerian people above any other considerations in its decision-making process.Chairman Suleiman Abbah expressed the importance of upholding the values of democracy, transparency, and justice throughout this legal process. 

He affirmed NEN's commitment to supporting and advocating for the preservation of democracy and the well-being of the Nigerian society.

"As the Supreme Court prepares to deliver its verdict on the Zamfara Governorship appeal, the nation looks to the federal government to ensure the enforcement of law and order while dealing strictly with any attempts to disrupt peace or incite misconduct.

The NEN urges the government to stand firm against troublemakers and protect the stability of the country during this crucial period," he said

NNPP Causes Stir, Says Gov. Abba Yusuf Not Registered NNPP Member

Hafsat Fari : Kano 

... Accuse  Kwankwaso, others of  Ochestrating Riots

The New Nigeria Peoples Party General Assembly has finally dumped the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf saying he is not a registered member of the party as the Election Tribunal and Appeal Court ruled.

 Referring to letters addressed to the Inspector General of Police and Director General of the Directorate of the State Security Services, the NNPP at a press conference addressed by its National Chairman, Dr Agbo Major expressed concern over the escalating issues in Kano State. 

They lamented that the unrest, characterized by press interviews, protests, incitements, attacks on the judiciary, malicious remarks, institutional disruptions, visits to embassies, and road blockades, have reached an alarming level. "Red-capped individuals, both young and vibrant, wielding various weapons, have taken to the streets, disturbing the peace," the Publicity Secretary said.

 He said that upon thorough investigation, the party discovered that the riots were coordinated by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and led by non-Kano indigenes, namely Dipo Johnson, Kawu Alli, and Onu, all of whom are expelled members of our party.

The Chairman said following a three-day retreat after submitting letters to relevant security agencies and embassies, they have reached the following resolutions:"Our party upholds the sanctity of Nigeria and is committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property as guaranteed by the Nigerian constitution.

"Our Great Party, founded by Boniface Anebolum, categorically asserts that Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is not its founder."We advocate for legal redress options and reject the notion of self-help in addressing matters.

"Our party denounces the deliberate mischief of expelled members presenting themselves as the leaders of the protests, specifically Dipo Johnson, Kawu Ali, and Onu. These individuals are not representatives of our party," Major said. 

He said NNPP strongly supports the rule of law and the judiciary, disapproving of any attacks against the judicial system."Our party has won cases at the National Assembly and House of Assembly tribunals and appeals without inciting violence or making disparaging remarks against the judiciary.

"We condemn the threats made by expelled members that forced Election Tribunal judges to leave Kano," he said. He pointed out that the tribunal and appeal court rulings that Governor Abba Yusuf is not a registered member of the NNPP arose from non-compliance with our party's constitution.

"The misfortune of the NNPP is attributed to Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s high-handedness, preventing party members from registering according to the law."The party has been taken over by the red-cap Kwankwasiya faction with no regard for party principles.

"Violence and killing are not part of the NNPP manifesto, and we urge the people of Kano to pursue peace and order," he said. He further explained that Dipo Johnson, the spokesperson of Kwankwaso, and presidential candidate, is not a registered member of NNPP and has been hired for his role in inciting protests.

"We invite security agencies to investigate the activities of Dipo Johnson and his cohorts, clarifying that they do not represent NNPP."NNPP disassociates itself from the incitement of the masses and attacks on the judiciary, calling for a thorough investigation," he said. 

He concluded by saying the party attributes the misfortunes of NNPP to Kwankwaso's high-handed approach, leading to non-compliance with the party's constitution and electoral laws, prompting the withdrawal from the MOU and the resultant legal action.