Year: 2025

NANS mourns Kano athletes killed in auto crash

 

The National Association of Nigerian Students has expressed condolences to the government of Kano State and the families of the 21 athletes who lost their lives in an auto crash at Gadar Yankifi in the Garun Malam Local Government Area of the state.

 

PUNCH Online reports that the athletes were returning from the just concluded National Sports Festival held in Ogun State before the unfortunate accident on Saturday.

 

The Federal Road Safety Corps in the state confirmed that 21 members of the contingent lost their lives while 11 others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

 

Following the incident, President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Nigerian Governors Forum, among others, have expressed their condolences to the family, friends and the Kano State Government over the incident.

 

NANS, in a statement by its National Public Relations Officer, Samson Adeyemi, on Saturday, described the incident as devastating and a loss to the student community.

 

He said, “This heartbreaking incident has cast a shadow of grief over the entire nation, particularly the youth and sports communities, as we mourn the untimely demise of these talented individuals who dedicated their lives to representing their state and uplifting the spirit of unity through sports.

“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to His Excellency, the Governor of Kano State, the Kano State Sports Council, and the entire people of Kano at this difficult time.

 

“The loss of these bright stars is not only a loss to their immediate families but to the nation as a whole.”

 

He concluded by urging the Federal and state governments to put measures in place to prevent future occurrences of such incidents.

 

“Furthermore, we urge both state and federal governments to prioritise the safety and welfare of athletes and citizens during travel to and from national events.

 

“A thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this accident must be carried out to prevent future occurrences,” Adeyemi concluded.

Coastal Highway: Landmark infrastructure intact – Umahi

 

 

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has stated that the Federal Government did not destroy any property belonging to Landmark Africa during the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

 

The minister disclosed this during the inauguration of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Phase 1 in Lagos on Saturday.

 

The management of Landmark, operators of Landmark Beach, sought compensation for the alleged demolition of its property worth billions of naira by the Federal Government during the road construction.

 

However, on Saturday, Umahi told President Bola Tinubu, who inaugurated phase 1 of the project, that no property of Landmark was touched. According to him, what was touched was Landmark’s encroachment on the front shoreline.

 

“Mr President, I want to state that we did not harm Landmark Property. As you are going, sir, you will see where this dual carriageway is divided into two. It is by your order that we should save as much infrastructure as possible, even though they violated the gazetted route, we did that, Mr President.

“The Landmark infrastructure is intact; what went off was their encroachment on our front shoreline. And the Supreme Court ruled that 250 metres from the shoreline belong to the Federal Government, and so we didn’t do that,” Umahi said.

 

The minister announced that the President has ordered the governors where major Federal Government projects pass through their states to give a minimum of 500 metres from the edge of the carriageway, which will be part of the tolling arrangement.

 

He said that by law, the federal government is not supposed to pay compensation for shanties along the road, but the President directed that compensation should be paid.

 

Umahi disclosed that a total of N18bn has been paid in compensation for Phase 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

Kano bans offensive tricycle art

 

 

The Kano State Censorship Board has announced a ban on vulgar content displayed on tricycles, popularly known as Adaidaita Sahu, in a renewed effort to safeguard public morality and enforce state regulations.

 

A statement issued on Saturday by the Board’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Sani Sulaiman, said the decision followed widespread complaints from residents over indecent pictures, offensive messages, and nonsensical phrases plastered on tricycles plying various routes across the city.

 

Executive Secretary of the Board, Abba El-Mustapha, who led an awareness campaign on Maiduguri Road, Zaria Road, and Sani Marshall Road, emphasised the importance of preserving Kano’s cultural and moral heritage.

 

“El-Mustapha warned that anyone found violating the directive, irrespective of their status, will face serious consequences,” the statement said.

 

He further explained that the law mandates all literary and artistic materials to be screened and approved by the Board before public display or distribution.

“This is about protecting the values we hold dear in Kano. No tricycle should be used as a platform to corrupt minds with vulgar or meaningless content,” El-Mustapha added.

 

As part of the sensitisation drive, tricycle operators and the general public were educated on the importance of compliance with the new directive.

 

The Board recalled a similar campaign in February, during which over 20 tricycles were apprehended for displaying offensive content. Their owners were later released after pledging to adhere to the rules.

 

The Board reiterated its commitment to promoting decency and warned that enforcement would be sustained across the state.

Okpebholo presents SUVs to Edo LG chairmen 31st

 

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Saturday, announced that new 2025 SUVs have been given to council chairmen to aid effective service delivery, noting that the narrative has changed and chairmen are now recognised by his administration.

 

The governor also clarified that it does not interfere with local government funds, a decision he said will enable the third tier of government to bring development to the grassroots.

 

He said, “I want to thank God for making today possible as chairmen now have the privilege to drive brand new vehicles in the State.

 

“New things are beginning to happen in Edo State under the watch of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 

“Edo will experience more development even as we compete with Lagos, Abuja, and other states of the Federation.

 

“The vehicles commissioned today are not for the private use of the local government chairmen but for the development of the people at the grassroots. I will monitor you to ensure the right thing is done.

 

“I know how much you are receiving in the councils, and we will measure your success rate if it is commensurate with what you are receiving. My administration has not interfered with your funds and resources.”

The Commissioner for Local Government, Community and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lucky Eseigbe commended the Governor for not interfering with local government funds.

 

He noted that the freedom given to the chairmen has resulted in positive developments across the 18 Local Government Areas of Edo State.

 

“This is the first time in the history of the State that 2025 models of SUV vehicles are purchased for local government chairmen.

 

“These brand new vehicles presented to local government chairmen are to enable them to carry out their responsibilities

 

“The 18 local government chairmen are developing the State as blocks of classrooms, healthcare centres, and roads are being built along other infrastructural development in the council areas,” he said.

 

Governor Okpebholo was accompanied by his Deputy, Dennis Idahosa and other top government officials to commission the vehicles at the State Secretariat in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Adhere to Quran’s teachings for Nigeria’s prosperity, Tinubu urges Muslims

 

President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerian Muslims Ummah to strictly adhere to the teachings, values, and noble objectives of the Holy Qur’an, for Nigeria to witness and achieve greatness.

 

Speaking during the grand finale of his late Mother, Abibatu Mogaji’s Qur’anic Recitation Competition in Kano on Saturday, organised by Senator Bashir Lado, the President insisted that the holy book is a complete guide for humanity, source of lights, wisdom and solace.

 

Represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Political and Other Matters, Ibrahim Masari, President Tinubu said, “This Quranic Recitation Competition is more than just a contest of vocal prowess, but it is a spiritual journey, a testament to dedication, discipline and devotion

 

“The Quran is the divine word of Allah, a complete guide for humanity, a source of light, wisdom and solace, as such the need for strictly adhering to its teaching is required for all the Muslims Ummah to change the narrative.

 

“I urge you all to strictly adhere to the teachings of this noble book as that will for sure lead us to a peaceful coexistence where a prosperous society devoid of hatred and blood shed will be achieved”.

President Tinubu continues, “As we witness this beautiful Recitation today let us all be reminded of the Quranic message of peace, unity, Justice and compassion let us strive to continue love by its teachings.

 

In his remark, the organiser of the events, Lado, said, “This assignment, Mr President, was not a mere administrative duty, it was a deeply personal mission that spoke to the values you embody, respect for legacy, fidelity to memory and everlasting power of maternal love”.

 

He continues, “When a man loses a father he loses an anchor, but when he loses a mother he loses the sky, the shade of unconditional love the whisper of midnight prayers the lap that comforted even the strongest man all gone save in memory.

 

Lado explained that the President Mother, Hajiya Mogaji left behind the richness of her spirit and the legacy of her values and that legacy stands us today in her son, a President who is a builder, a protector and a custodian of hopes in an era when many nations tremble in the wind.

 

In the same vein, Lado prayed for the mother of former President Buhari, Hajiya Zulaihat Buhari, saying she raised in the former President a man of discipline and honour.

Tinubu boosts maritime security with new ships, helicopters

 

President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated three Nigerian Navy Ships – NNS SHERE, NNS FARO, and NNS IKOGOSI, and three AW109 Trekker helicopters: 501, 502, and 503 into the Nigerian Navy fleet.

 

Tinubu, speaking at the inauguration on Saturday in Lagos, said that the addition of the three Fast Patrol Boats and three maritime surveillance helicopters affirmed the country’s commitment to securing its maritime domain.

 

The president was represented by the Minister of State for Defence, Mr Bello Matawalle.

 

“The sea has remained a pillar of our nation’s economic prosperity, and for the past 69 years, the Nigerian Navy has stood as the guardian of this blue territory.

 

“These patrol ships and helicopters are force multipliers in our fight against piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes.

 

“This inauguration is therefore a reflection of our determination to empower our institutions and protect our resources,” he said.

 

Tinubu assured the navy that his government would continue to prioritise its needs, saying, ”As a strong navy is the cornerstone of a secure and prosperous economy”.

 

He commended the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, for his leadership in ensuring that the Nigerian Navy had pursued fleet modernisation with vigour, bridging capability gaps, and restoring pride to the force.

“Today’s induction is a fruit of your strategic foresight, and I commend you, your team, and all partners who turned this vision into reality.

 

“I also commend the National Assembly for its partisan commitment to funding and oversight, which are instrumental to achieving this feat.

 

“Let us sustain this unity of purpose, for the sea does not distinguish between political lines; it demands our collective vigilance,” the president said.

 

Tinubu also appreciated the international allies and technical partners for their collaboration, which underscored a shared truth that maritime security “knows no borders.”

 

“Together, we are proving that the Gulf of Guinea’s safety is not Nigeria’s burden alone but a global imperative.

 

“To the officers and ratings who will crew the ships and operate the helicopters, as you operate these assets, remember that the weight of Nigeria’s aspirations rests on your shoulders.

“Let us envision the future they herald: a future where our waters are impervious to criminality; where fishermen cast their nets in peace; where global trade flows unhindered through our ports,” he said.

 

The president said that the Nigerian Navy remained the guardian of the blue economy and urged them to sail forth with courage and know that a grateful nation stood behind them. (NAN)

Take-It-Back Movement slams FG for summoning Amnesty over insecurity report

 

Pro-democracy group, the Take It Back Movement, on Saturday, criticised the Federal Government over its invitation to Amnesty International Nigeria following the release of the human rights group’s report on insecurity in the country.

 

The PUNCH reports that the Office of the National Security Adviser, led by Nuhu Ribadu, invited Amnesty International for a meeting after it published a report alleging widespread violence and government inaction.

 

In the report released on Wednesday, AI raised the alarm over the government’s alleged failure to protect citizens from ongoing attacks by armed groups and bandits.

 

The organisation stated that at least 10,217 people had been killed and 672 villages destroyed over the past two years under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

 

According to AI, Benue State reportedly recorded the highest death toll with 6,896 fatalities, followed by Plateau State with 2,630.

 

In response, the FG, through a statement by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, rejected the report, calling it “an empty attempt at sensationalism and scare-mongering.”

 

A letter from the NSA’s Counter-Terrorism Centre, dated Wednesday, also advised Amnesty to withhold the report from publication pending a comprehensive engagement to address what it called “evident gaps and potential misinformation.”

The CTU, led by Maj. Gen. Adamu Laka, in the letter, described Amnesty’s report as “misleading,” stating that “several of the figures and assertions contained therein are inconsistent with verified data available to the government.”

 

But in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Juwon Sanyaolu, the TIB Movement described the government’s action as “an attempt to intimidate civil society organisations exposing government failures.”

 

“The Tinubu administration should focus on rescuing terror-ravaged communities rather than attacking civil society organisations like Amnesty International.

 

“Benue and Plateau states continue to suffer mass killings and forced displacement while critical infrastructure is destroyed. With all these overwhelming facts before us, it is appalling that the NSA would dare to label such a critical report as ‘misleading.’ This only underscores the administration’s blatant disregard for ending the rampant insecurity plaguing our nation,” Sanyaolu said.

 

The TIB called on the government to prioritise the safety of Nigerian citizens over public image, insisting that critics and human rights groups must not be silenced.

 

“The government of Tinubu should prioritise rescuing terror-ravaged communities, rather than attacking critics and organisations calling for an end to the bloodshed,” the statement concluded.

 

Zamfara making progress in security, peace efforts -Gov

 

The Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has disclosed that there has been significant improvement in the state, as his administration has invested heavily in security to ensure lasting peace.

 

According to a statement issued to journalists on Saturday by the governor’s media aide, Sulaiman Idris, Lawal made the remarks during a “Walk for Peace” held to mark the second anniversary of his administration.

 

It was noted that the peace walk commenced at the Government House and proceeded to Freedom Square, located in Gusau city centre, the state capital.

 

The event was organised to promote peace and encourage the people to unite against all forms of criminality throughout the state.

 

Lawal, while addressing citizens, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eradicating all forms of criminal activity in the state, with particular focus on banditry.

 

He said, “Today, we have all come out in thousands to march for peace, to let the world know that Zamfara has significantly improved in terms of security.

“My administration has invested significant efforts and resources into empowering troops, gathering intelligence, and collaborating and partnering to restore peace.”

 

The governor noted that considerable progress has been made in restoring peace to previously troubled areas, with once dangerous roads now safe and accessible, allowing residents to move freely and confidently.

 

“We have recorded tremendous success in the fight against banditry; most of the volatile areas previously flashpoints of concern are now peaceful. Roads that were once impassable and off-limits places are now open for travellers to move about freely.

 

“You can see how freely people move about their daily activities and how joyfully they have come together in large numbers to walk for peace. This clearly indicates that our people are peaceful and desire peace.

 

“It also demonstrates that the people understand and appreciate what the state government is doing to promote peace,” Lawal said.

APC chief Afegbua blames Nigeria’s woes on citizens’ attitude

 

A member of the All Progressives Congress, Kassim Afegbua, has declared that Nigeria’s challenges stem from an “attitudinal deficit” among its citizens, rather than a fundamental failure of the nation itself.

 

He disclosed this while criticising the opposition, accusing them of grandstanding without offering tangible alternative solutions to national issues.

 

Speaking on the Arise TV Morning Show on Saturday, Afegbua did not mince words when discussing the current political landscape.

 

He expressed little surprise at the opposition’s perceived lack of constructive engagement, stating that “typical of Nigerian opposition, they know how to grandstand, but address the critical issue based on alternative viewpoints, it becomes a problem for them.

 

“Still searching for their alternative policy formation, in terms of even suggestions or ideas that can help deepen the conversation around governance in this country.”

 

Afegbua also took the opportunity to commend President Bola Tinubu for his “bold decision” to immediately remove the fuel subsidy upon assuming office.

 

He drew a sharp contrast with opposition figures like Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, who, he claimed, campaigned on the promise of subsidy removal but “never meant it.”

 

According to Afegbua, Tinubu’s swift action to confront the subsidy issue head-on was a strategic move to tackle difficult decisions upfront.

He argued that any delay would have allowed “economic predators and buccaneers who were feasting on the subsidy” to derail the entire process.

 

The APC chieftain then challenged politicians and aspiring leaders to diligently scrutinise how increased allocations are being utilised by state governments following the subsidy removal.

 

“I want a position, you know, politicians and those who are prepared to think that they want to come and preside over the country, to be interrogating the resources that are coming to the states, because we now have more allocation being given to the state,” Afegbua stated.

 

He emphasised the need for transparency and collaboration between federal, state, and local governments to ensure these funds translate into improved lives for ordinary citizens.

 

Highlighting the broader societal responsibility, Afegbua dismissed the notion of national failure, instead pointing to a deeper internal issue.

 

“You know, the problem that somebody was discussing with me today and said Nigeria has failed. I said, No, it is not the country that has failed. It is Nigerians who are in the country, because there is, see, we need a serious attitudinal reorientation of minds amongst us.”

He urged the opposition and other stakeholders to engage in “constructive criticism, constructive engagement, and collective bargaining” rather than blanket condemnation, asserting that such positive contributions would “add value to what the government is doing.”

 

Afegbua also pointed to the emergence of CNG and electric vehicles, as well as deepening infrastructure in road and rail transportation, as positive outcomes of the subsidy removal, envisioning a better future for Nigerians as these initiatives materialise.

Niger flood: 151 dead, over 3,000 displaced – Govt

 

The number of corpses recovered so far from the flood that ravaged Niger State communities in Mokwa Local Government Area has risen to 151 with 3,018 persons displaced.

 

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency, made this known on Saturday morning in a terse statement in which it said three communities were affected and two bridges washed away.

 

Director General of the agency, Abdullahi Baba-Arah, revealed that 503 households were affected while 265 homes were washed away. Two roads were also washed away, while 11 people were injured in the flooding disaster.

 

“The latest update from the Mokwa communities flood shows that 151 corpses have so far been recovered, while 11 persons were injured.

“Also, 3,018 persons have been displaced, while 503 households were affected, and 265 homes washed away. Three communities in Mokwa LG were also affected, while two roads and two bridges were affected by the flood,” Baba-Arah said.

 

NSEMA had stated on Thursday that a deadly flood disaster ravaged two communities of Tiffin maza and Anguwan hausawa in Mokwa town of Mokwa LG in Niger State.

 

Açording to the agency, the incident occurred on Wednesday night during a downpour that lasted hours.

 

It said the surging flood water submerged and washed away over 50 residential houses with their occupants.

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