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Nigeria: Bridging the Gulf Between Wealth and Need.

By
Adamu Aminu
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In Nigeria, my beloved nation, a country brimming with riches, a glaring divide persists between abundance and deprivation.

This dichotomy is most pronounced during the holy month of Ramadan, where fasting unveils the stark reality of dependency on government assistance, and palliatives from well meaning individuals, particularly in the North.

Throughout Ramadan, fasting from dawn till dusk is a spiritual obligation for Muslims. However, for many in Nigeria, it also serves as a harsh reminder of their economic plight.

With limited resources and soaring prices, the less fortunate turn to palliatives provided to sustain themselves through the month.

Fortunately, during this month of Ramadan, some politicians have demonstrated the spirit of humanity by helping people with food and various essentials to sustain themselves.

They leverage their political influence to access resources and share them generously, akin to using a Caterpillar shovel to scoop from the pot of democratic dividends and distributing them with teaspoonful alike. Their gesture is commendable and greatly appreciated.

Beyond the confines of Ramadan, Nigeria grapples with the relentless scourge of inflation, exacerbating the hardships faced by its populace. The ever-rising cost of living pushes essential goods out of reach for many, forcing them into a cycle of perpetual struggle. Inflation is not merely a statistic; it’s a tangible force that amplifies the daily challenges of survival for millions across the country.

Meanwhile, in the corridors of power, a different reality unfolds. Here, the elite navigate a world insulated from the harsh realities gripping the nation. Shielded by wealth and privilege, they remain untouched by the economic turmoil faced by their fellow citizens. The disparity between the opulent lifestyles of the powerful and the daily struggles of the masses serves as a poignant reminder of the entrenched inequalities plaguing Nigerian society.

This is a narrative which is as old as time, where the pursuit of power and wealth comes at the expense of societal well-being.

In Nigeria, bridging the gulf between wealth and need is an imperative for societal progress. While the country boasts abundant resources, true prosperity remains elusive for many.

 

Tragic Fire Claims Lives of Two Children in Borno State IDP Camp

By
Adamu Aminu
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At least two children tragically lost their lives as hundreds of tents housing internally displaced persons (IDPs) were engulfed in flames in Mafa Local Government Area of Borno State. The devastating fire broke out at 11:15 am in the Muna Allamdari IDP camp located in Maiduguri.

 

Dr. Barkindo Saidu, the Director General of the State Emergency Management Agency, revealed that his team, alongside firefighters, immediately responded to the blaze, which resulted in the loss of lives and the destruction of numerous tents.

 

“We lost two children to the fire outbreak, and we are making efforts to support the IDPs affected by this tragedy,” stated Dr. Barkindo.

 

Efforts to extinguish the fire were underway, although the exact cause of the inferno remained unknown as of the latest reports.

Troops Neutralize 210 Terrorists, Rescue 46 Hostages, and Recover Stolen Oil in Nationwide Operations

By
Adamu Aminu
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In a recent statement, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) revealed that troops engaged in internal operations across Nigeria have achieved significant successes. Within the week, they neutralized 210 terrorists, apprehended 142 others, and successfully rescued 46 kidnap hostages. These operations signify a crucial victory in the fight against insurgency and terrorism in the country.

Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, reported that the troops also cracked down on illegal activities, arresting 66 suspected oil thieves. Additionally, they seized substantial quantities of stolen crude oil, illegally refined AGO, and DPK. The recovered products, valued at N2,275,451,600.00, represent a significant blow to criminal networks profiting from illicit oil trade.

Furthermore, the troops seized a vast arsenal of weapons and ammunition, including rifles, pistols, grenades, and various ammunition types. Among the seized items were high-caliber rifles, locally fabricated guns, pump action guns, and a variety of ammunition rounds. Additionally, the troops confiscated communication devices, vehicles, motorcycles, and mobile phones, further disrupting criminal operations across the country.

UNICEF Donates $290,000 Worth of Medical Supplies to Yobe State Government Amid Meningitis Outbreak

By
Adamu Aminu
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The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has stepped in to support the Yobe State Government by donating medical supplies valued at $290,000 in response to recent outbreaks of Meningitis in the state. Dr. Clement Adams, the UNICEF Health Manager for the Borno Field Office, made this announcement during the official handover of the medical equipment.

Dr. Adams emphasized UNICEF’s commitment to assisting the Yobe State Government in ensuring the availability of essential healthcare facilities. The donated items included build suction neonatal, Forceps 140mm, Forceps dressing 250mm, stainless steel bowl 600ml, bulb light exam, mobile lIED, scalpel handle, sphygmomanometer adult, surgical instrument delivery, and other critical supplies.

Expressing gratitude, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Muhammed Gana, acknowledged UNICEF’s significant contribution and pledged to establish a robust monitoring team to oversee the proper utilization of the donated items. Dr. Gana commended UNICEF for its consistent support and understanding of the state’s healthcare needs, highlighting the organization’s reliability as a partner.

He assured continued cooperation from the state government and reaffirmed the commitment to maintain a strong relationship with UNICEF to enhance the healthcare system and improve the well-being of the people of Yobe State.

Rarara: A Political Singer Goes Beyond Poetic Licence

By
Muhammad M. Danbatta
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  • Rarara: A Political Singer Goes Beyond Poetic Licence

 

By Adamu Aminu.

 

 

In the realm of political satire and music, one name stands out: Dauda Adamu Kahutu Rarara. Known for his ability to entertain and provoke thought simultaneously, Rarara’s lyrics have often transcended the boundaries of poetic licence, entering the controversial territory of direct criticism, especially aimed at his ex-political masters.

 

This raises the question mark: can Rarara’s biting commentary be considered the mouth that bites the hands that fed it?

 

His journey in the world of political entertainment has been a rollercoaster ride, gaining both adoration and condemnation.

 

Rarara’s talent for composing catchy tunes, often laced with sharp and stinging words, has made him a household name. Yet, it is his willingness to criticise those who were once his patrons that sets him apart—the likes of some ex-Kano governors and the immediate former president.

 

In the world of politics, allegiances can be as fluid as the tides, and Rarara’s career mirrors this fluidity.

 

He has been closely associated with prominent political figures in the past, creating songs that praised and celebrated their leadership. However, with the same fervour he once praised them, he now critiques them.

 

The question of whether Rarara’s approach constitutes a “mouth that bites the hands that fed it” depends on one’s perspective.

 

Some argue that his willingness to criticise former political allies is an essential aspect of freedom of expression and a check on power.

 

Others view it as disloyalty and ingratitude.

 

Regardless of one’s stance on Rarara’s music, it is undeniable that he has become a significant player in the political landscape, using his lyrics to bring attention to issues that matter to the public.

 

In the realm of political satire, he walks a fine line, pushing the boundaries of artistic freedom while raising important questions about accountability in politics.

 

As Rarara continues to produce his politically charged music, he remains a polarising figure, with his songs igniting debates, discussions, and, undoubtedly, a good dose of toe-tapping and head-nodding among his listeners.

 

Whether he is a biting critic or a conscientious observer is a matter of perspective, but his impact on political discourse is undeniable.

Supreme Court Dismisses Atiku, Obi’s Appeals, Affirms Tinubu As President

By
snipers
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The Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the February 25 presidential election.

The apex court in its ruling dismissed the appeals by the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Atiku Abubakar and his Labour Party (LP) counterpart Peter Obi.

A seven-judge panel ruled as without merit the opposition appeals over claims of fraud, electoral law violations, and Tinubu’s ineligibility to run for president.

The apex court thrashed all the grounds of appeal of Atiku and PDP on qualification, non-compliance with the Electoral Act, the 25% votes in FCT, and electoral malpractices.

“On the whole, having resolved all the issues against the appellant, it is my view that there is no merit in the appeal and it is hereby dismissed,” Justice Inyang Okoro said in dismissing Atiku’s appeal.

“The judgment of the court below delivered on September 6th, 2023 affirming the election of the second respondent as the duly elected President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is hereby affirmed.”

It listened to Obi’s appeal for about five minutes. In dealing with the LP’s presidential candidate on the issue of double nomination of Vice-President Kashim Shettima, the court held that the issue had been dealt with in its ruling on May 26.

“As for issue Number 4 which has to do with double nomination which was not in Atiku’s appeal, it is the view of this court that this issue having been dealt with by this court, this court cannot allow the matter to be re-litigated in this very court. There must be an end to litigation,” Justice Okoro held.

“For us to sit down now and talk about when this man resigned or did not resign when they did fresh primaries to replace him which we have done before, we are not going to do this again.

“This matter ought not to have come in. When this matter was pending at the trial court, this court delivered that judgment. If you read the judgment of the lower court, they mentioned that the Supreme Court has settled this matter and that should have been the end.

“You now bring this issue of double nomination for us to sit on it and write another judgment, this is not how it should be. This appeal lacks merit and is hereby dismissed.”

An election appeals court last month already rejected the two main opposition party petitions, including allegations of fraud, violations by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and claims Tinubu did not meet the constitutional requirements.

Along with its original claims, Atiku’s legal team had also sought to introduce new evidence, it claims shows Tinubu submitted a forged certificate from the Chicago State University as a qualification to the election commission when he applied to run for president.

Vowing an agenda of “Renewed Hope”, Tinubu took office in May and has quickly introduced reforms his government says will help grow Africa’s largest economy and attract more foreign investment.

 

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Supreme Court To Deliver Judgement In Atiku, Obi’s Appeal Against Tinubu On Thursday

By
snipers
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The Supreme Court is scheduled to deliver judgement on Thursday, October 26, 2023, in the cases of the Labour Party and its presidential candidate, Peter Obi; the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Atiku Abubakar and the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Bola Tinubu.

The PDP presidential candidate and his LP counterpart have lodged appeals challenging the September 6 ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT) that upheld Tinubu’s electoral victory.

The judgement date was confirmed by all parties involved on Wednesday.

At its last sitting on Monday, the apex court reserved judgement filed by Atiku and the PDP against the verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Court which affirmed Tinubu’s victory in the February 25 presidential poll.

A seven-member panel of the court, led by Justice Inyang Okoro announced this on Monday after counsels to parties adopted their briefs of argument and made final submissions.

The apex court also took arguments from lawyers to parties on the motion filed by Atiku to supply fresh evidence on forged documents.

Counsel to Atiku Abubakar, Mister Chris Uche, urged the court to grant the motion and allow their appeal, grant the prayers sought, and disqualify Tinubu.

Counsel to the Respondents, Abubakar Mahmoud for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),  Wole Olanipekun for President Tinubu, and Akin Olujinmi for the All Progressives Congress (APC) urged the court to dismiss both the motion and appeal for lacking in merit.

 

 

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FG Flags Off HPV Vaccine

By
snipers
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0

The wife of the president, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has flagged off the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine for public use at a ceremony held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

The Papillomavirus is said to be the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract and causes more than 95 per cent of cases of cervical cancer.

The vaccine is designed for use by girls from ages 9-14 years, and it works by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies against the human Papillomavirus.

When a person receives the vaccine, their immune system recognizes the viral proteins in the vaccine and produces a response that provides protection against HPV infections.

At the opening, Senator Oluremi who said the vaccine would be administered to citizens free beginning from today in all medical facilities across the country, urged parents to avail their daughters of the vaccination.

Stressing that the initiative would not end with the introduction of the vaccine into the routine immunization schedule, she said there must be a focus on education and awareness about the virus.

She said regular screenings must be encouraged and there must be improved access to healthcare with behavioral interventions as well.

“For me, I will recommend that girls who are under 18 years of age and sexually active, avail themselves of the opportunity of this vaccine, to avoid a future of ill health and possibly, death.

 

 

“In conclusion, I want to emphasize that the introduction of the HPV vaccine into our routine immunization schedule is a significant step forward in our mission to protect the health and future of our nation’s womenfolk and it will lead to a structured and systematic way of achieving a cervical cancer free generation.”

Noting that the vaccine will also prevent the incidents of cancer and deaths in women, officials explained that the Ministry of Health in partnership with the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency are collaborating to ensure its availability for Nigerian girls.

 

 

In his remarks, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Mohammed Ali-Pate, said the Nigerian government was serious about the wellbeing of its citizens, just as he tasked parents to ensure that their daughters get vaccinated against cervical cancer.

He assured that the vaccine is safe as it has been tested in other parts of the world with tremendous results.

 

DAILY TRUST

Senate To Probe Money Spent On Refineries’ Maintenance Since 2010

By
snipers
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0

The Senate on Tuesday resolved to mandate its Committee on Downstream Petroleum to investigate all contracts awarded for the rehabilitation of all the state-owned refineries between 2010 and 2023.

The lawmakers also plan to ascertain progress on the ongoing works in all refineries in order to forestall waste and corruption and interrogate the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) on the best approach to commercializing and/or ensuring profitability of the state-owned Refineries; and Invite the NNPCL, NUPRC and LNG to explain the nation’s preparation for Green Energy Sources in line with the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.

 

Channels Television reports that the Senate frowned at what they perceive to be sabotage of the Federal Government’s effort to resuscitate the nation’s refineries, in spite of N11.35 trillion spent on maintenance of the moribund refineries.

The Senate has also raised the urgent need for security agencies to probe the circumstances leading to the Otukpo bank robbery attack on Friday, October 20 which claimed the lives of nearly of 8 persons including 4 police personnel. It also called for an unravelling of reasons behind the lack of intelligence and alertness on the part of the police on the day of the attack.

For the motion moved by Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) the Senate also observed a minute silence in honour of the dead victims of the Otukpo bank robbery.

 

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Use Kogi, Imo, Bayelsa Polls To Rebuild Voters’ Confidence, IPAC Tells INEC

By
snipers
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0

 

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take advantage of the forthcoming off-circle governorship elections in Kogi, Bayelsa, and Imo State to restore the voters’ confidence in the electoral process.

Chairman of IPAC, Yabagi Sani, made the call on Tuesday at a stakeholders’ meeting with INEC in Abuja, ahead of the November 11 governorship elections in the three states.

 

Meanwhile, the INEC chairman also expressed concern about some recent court orders and judgments regarding the nomination, and substitution of party candidates, and their effects on the management of sensitive materials for the elections.

 

“On the issue of candidature, the Commission is concerned about the spate of recent judgments and orders of the court in respect of the nomination, substitution, or disqualification of candidates after all the sensitive materials have been printed. The reprinting of the materials in compliance with court orders within a short period of time is not only expensive but the management of the process very challenging,” he said.

 

“Although the Commission has already published the final list of candidates for the three States, four recent court orders have compelled us to review the list. These changes have been reflected in the updated list of parties and candidates on our website. However, this decision is without prejudice to any pending appeal by the affected candidates or their political parties.”

 

Monday’s meeting was to brief the political parties about preparations for the exercise and their roles in the polls.

 

It was also a platform for the political parties to tell the INEC chief about their concerns in regard to the off-cycle polls.

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