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Nasir El-Rufai’s Ministerial Nomination A Tragedy – Shehu Sani

Nasir El-Rufai’s Ministerial Nomination A Tragedy – Shehu Sani

President of the Civil Rights Congress and human rights activist, Shehu Sani, has said the nomination of the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, among the ministerial nominees by President Bola Tinubu is a “tragedy”.

The activist said this in an interview on Arise TV News which is making the rounds on social media on Friday.

The Senate unveiled Tinubu’s 28 ministerial nominees list on Thursday, July 26 and the former governor of Kaduna State made the list.

Sani noted that it is not the time for the President to please and appease former governors but instead is time to appease Nigerians and bring in competent hands.

He said, “In the nomination which I have seen, the one that represented Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, is a tragedy.

“That such a man is given an opportunity again to serve this country with all he has done and said in the office, I don’t think President Tinubu means well.

“It is not the best time to please and appease former governors but the best time to appease Nigerians and bring in competent hands.

“The list to some large extent is a big disappointment or meet expectations taking the time it took for it to be released.

Credit: Instagram | AriseNews

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House Committee Chair: Leke/Omede Women Campaign Team Congratulates Hon. Abejide 

House Committee Chair: Leke/Omede Women Campaign Team Congratulates Hon. Abejide 

Leke/Omede Women Campaign Team has congratulated Hon. Leke Abebije on his appointment as Chairman House Committee On Customs and Excise.

According  to the group, the appointment is not only well deserved, but also an evidence of capacity and hardwork . 

In a congratulatory Message made available to newsmen today , the State Women Coordinator, Leke/Omede Campaign Group,Chief Mrs Ebun Joel extolled  the rare leadership qualities of  Hon. Leke Abebije and congratulated him for the  appointment as Chairman House Committee on Customs and Excise in the 10th Assembly. 

In her congratulatory message to Hon. Abebije, Chief Mrs Joel thanked God for the life of Hon. Leke while appreciating the leadership and philanthropic roles he has variously played in Kogi West and kogi State in general. 

However,she  prayed God to continue to bless him with more wisdom; good health, long life and prosperity, for a bigger service to his father land and Kogi State in Particular.

Elder Leke Abebije is a second term Member, House of Representatives, and Kogi State Gubernatorial Candidate for  African Democratic Congress, ADC.

Signed : 

Mrs Joy Onu, 

State  PRO/East Zonal Coordinator,Leke/Omede Women Campaign Team. 

Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo: A Visionary Leader Paving the way for Gombe’s Prosperity

Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo: A Visionary Leader Paving the way for Gombe’s Prosperity.

By Sakina Nasir Sade

In the realm of Nigerian politics, certain leaders stand out for their dedication, vision, and commitment for the betterment of their communities. One of such prominent figure is Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, OON,FCA,FCIT,FNIM,FCIB,(Tolban Gombe). A visionary leader with a passion for politics, He is a dedicated and experienced politician with a proven track records of successes. Throughout his career, he worked tirelessly and improved the living conditions of his fellow citizens. His pronounced achievements are a testament to his commitment to excellence.

This article delves into his inspiring biography, remarkable achievements and praises that he has earned throughout his career. In this light, I will explore how Dankwambo’s continued efforts and services as a senator can further elevate Gombe state to a new heights.

Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo is a Nigerian politician and public servant. He was born on the 4th of April, 1962 in Gombe State, Nigeria. Dankwambo holds a degree in Accounting and also has a Doctorate in Accounting from Igbinedion University.
Dankwambo’s political career began when he joined the Nigerian public service as an accountant and rose through the ranks to become the Accountant General of Gombe State. He demonstrated high level of financial management skills and serious commitment to service transparently.

In 2011, Ibrahim Dankwambo joined the political arena by contesting and winning the gubernatorial election in Gombe State. He was elected as a Governor and assumed office in May, 2011. During his two term tenure as Governor, Dankwambo focused on infrastructural development, education, healthcare, and agriculture, among other sectors.

His administration received accolades for its efforts in transforming and modernizing Gombe State by attracting investments, and improving the overall welfare of the people. Dankwambo’s leadership style and achievements earned him popularity among his constituents and garnered attention on the national political stage.

Dankwambo has established himself as a rising star in the Democratic Party. In 2023, he was elected to represent the good people of his senatorial zone.

PRAISES AND ACHIEVEMENTS

As a Senator, Ibrahim Dankwambo stands as an illustrious embodiment of visionary leadership, unyielding dedication, and indomitable perseverance. Throughout his exemplary career, he has consistently displayed an unwavering commitment to public service and the amelioration of his community, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals. With an unyielding passion for progress, Senator Dankwambo has consistently championed initiatives that foster inclusive growth and development. His visionary policies and tireless efforts have led to significant advancements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, lifting communities out of poverty and paving the way for a brighter future. As a paragon of leadership, senator Dankwambo demonstrates the virtues of integrity, transparency, and humility, endearing himself to the hearts of his constituents and populace at large, transcending political boundaries and garnering widespread respect and admiration. He is an adept bridge-builder, a consummate unifier, and a beacon of hope for those yearning for positive transformation in the world. Senator Dankwambo’s journey to success is an inspiration in itself. From humble beginnings, he rose to prominence through hard work, determination, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference. His story reminds us that regardless of our backgrounds, we can achieve greatness if we remain steadfast in out pursuit of excellence and never lose sight of our values.

In times of adversity, Senator Dankwambo’s unwavering optimism and resilience have served as a guiding light. His ability to turn challenges into opportunities and setbacks into stepping stones is a testament to his indomitable spirit. As we look to the future, let us draw inspiration from Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo’s remarkable journey. Let us be reminded that leadership is not about titles or accolades, but about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Let us strive to emulate his unwavering commitment and belief in the potential of humanity to create a better world.

AN APPEAL TO PROGRESS

Believing in the spirit of his visionary leadership, Dankwambo as a Senator has the opportunity and capacity to build upon his previous achievements and contribute even more significantly to the welfare of his constituents.
His expertise and experience could be used to a make a real difference in the lives of the people he serves.

Here are some ways in which he can continue to make a difference:

  • By advocating for policies that will promote economic growth.
  • Work on how to improve public safety.
  • Legislative Advocacy.
  • Infrastructural Development.
  • Constituency projects.
  • Oversight and Accountability.
  • Resource Mobilization.
  • Education and skills Development.
  • Health care and social welfare.
  • Youth Empowerment.

His influence could also help to build bridges between different community groups and find common ground on divisive issues. By leveraging his skills and experience Dankwambo can help sustain the future for all residents of his state.

To wrap up, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo has proven himself to be a visionary leader whose passion for development and service to his people has earned him praise and respect through his laud achievements as a Governor and his continued dedication as a senator. Dankwambo has the potential to leave a lasting legacy of progress and prosperity for Gombe state. As he forges ahead in his political journey, Nigerians are keenly anticipating the positive impact he will undoubtedly make on Gombe’s future.

In senator Dankwambo’s remarkable saga, we discover not only a paragon but also a clarion call to action-a summons to be the vanguards of change we envision, to uplift and empower others, and to etch a lasting legacy of compassion and progress. Together as we traverse the annals of time, let us continue to draw from the wellspring of his example, steadfastly endeavoring towards a future that is brimming with inclusivity, prosperity, and the promise of a better tomorrow.

Sakina Nasir Sade writes from Gombe and can be reached via: sakeenasade65@gmail.com

Governor Uba Sani’s appointments are not lopsided – Comrade Musa Mohammed replies PDP

Governor Uba Sani’s appointments are not lopsided – Comrade Musa Mohammed replies PDP

A chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), in Kaduna State Comrade Musa Mohammed, has berated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), over  criticisms that Senator Uba Sani recent appointments are lopsided and  promoting a Muslim agenda. 

He said the choice of appointees was based on merit and track record of such appointees to serve.

In a statement issued on Thursday , Comrade Musa Mohammed  argued that PDP lacks the moral authority to attack governor Uba Sani over the appointments of Commissioners and close aides in view of the fact that he has carried out more inequitable appointments since his return to the Government House.

While wondering why PDP failed to remove the speck in its eyes before removing the log in the eyes of somebody else, the APC chieftain said that “the PDP previous administration is guilty of worse insensitivity to his fellow kaduna people in the appointments they have made in the last 16 years of maladministration.

“Uba Sani’s appointments of his personal aides were based mainly on merit and conviction that they would deliver good services to lift kaduna state out of the woods”.  

” He considered competence, merit and track records of sound morality in public conduct in the appointments of his personal aides, self-preservation is the major criterion for appointments in his government”.

Comrade Mohammed said, Uba Sani saw hard-working and honest citizens of Kaduna as having equal rights to political appointments to render their services to the state.

“Those talking about balancing should stop focusing on one aspect, et them go back and cross-check the political appointees list both Special Adviser, Senior Special Assistant including the newly appointed commissioners, there are almost 20 Christians appointed in governor Uba Sani cabinet”. 

“Let us see how many permanent secretaries, directors and heads of parastatals we have in Kaduna state today and where they come from”.

“This will give us a more insight to the fact that this administration is not lopsided in appointments”.

“We should stop looking at only one side to make our judgment and anywhere if there’s any lopsidedness government will correct it.” he added.

Durbar Hotel: Kaduna State government loses at Appeal Court

Durbar hotel: Kaduna State government loses at Appeal Court

Efforts by the Kaduna State government to set aside the ruling of the High Court of justice of Kaduna State delivered by Hon. Justice H. A. L. Balogun over the ownership of Durbar Hotel Plc failed as the Court of Appeal has dismissed an Appeal brought before it against the ruling of the lower court.

The lead Counsel to the family of the late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, the owners of the Durbar hotel, Dr. Reuben O Atabo (SAN) had joined the State Governor as 1st defendant, the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice as 2nd defendant, Kaduna State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KASUPDA) as 3rd defendant, Kaduna State Geographic Information Service (KADGIS) as the 4th defendant.

However, the lead Counsel to the Kaduna State government, Mr. AU. Mustapha (SAN) had pointed out that the Respondent had earlier addressed 3rd defendant as Kaduna State Urban Planning and Development Agency, saying that the defendant is a non Juristic entity and thus same cannot be cured by name correction or amendment.

On April 4, 2022, Justice H.A.L Balogun of the High Court of Justice of Kaduna State had ruled that the mistake in the name of the 3rd Appellant was a misnomer that can be cured by a simple order of the court to correct same, hence it did not mislead anyone as to who was sued and therefore it did not occasion any miscarriage of justice.

But, not satisfied with the ruling of the lower court, the Appellants through their Counsel sought and obtained the leave of the Court of Appeal to file a notice of Appeal on May 19, 2022.

The Appellants in their brief of argument, urged the Court of Appeal to resolve the issues in their favour on grounds that, “The Respondent did not serve the 3rd and 4th Appellants with the requisite pre-action notice.”Pre-action notice served during the pendency of an action before a party is joined is not proper in the eyes of the law.

“The 3rd and 4th Appellants timeously raised the issue of the non-service of the requisite notice and did not waive same.

“The 3rd Appellant as sued is not a legal personality and same is not a misnomer that can be cured by name correction”.

Also, the Respondent in a brief of argument urged the Court of Appeal to dismiss the Appeal of the Appellants and affirm the ruling of the lower court on grounds, “That the Respondent had served the 3rd and 4th Appellants with the requisite pre-action notice before joining them as parties to the action leading to this instant Appeal.

“That the mistake in the name of the 3rd Appellant is a misnomer that can be corrected by an order of amendment and does not have the potency of rendering the Respondent’s action at the lower court incompetent.

“That the mistake in the name of the 3rd Appellant has not occasioned any miscarriage of justice and did not mislead the Appellants as to the party who was sued”.

Consequently, the three Justices of the Court of Appeal, while delivering their Judgement, dismissed the Appeal brought before them by the Appellants, saying the days of technical justice are over, and wondered why the Appellants have failed to file their defence to the Respondent’s claim for a period of over three years.

Alleged Anti-Poor Policies: Group Cautions NLC Against Strike Threat 

Alleged Anti-Poor Policies: Group Cautions NLC Against Strike Threat 

… Speaks on need for Negotiation with FG on harsh Policies 

Northern based Coalition of Civil Society Organisations today cautioned Nigeria Labour Congress against  planned indefinite nationwide strike action in view of the long term gains of fuel subsidy removal by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led administration. 

In a recent development, NLC gave the Federal Government a seven-day ultimatum to reverse all perceived anti-poor policies, including the recent hike in the pump price of petrol, or face an indefinite nationwide strike from August 2.

Consequently, NLC directed all affiliates   to commence mobilisation of workers and civil society allies for a mass protest across Nigeria . 

But the  Coalition disagree with NLC’s decision  , saying that any form of nationwide strike by the labour unions now, will not only compound  current economic hardship faced by the masses ,but also counter productive and  catalyst for impending chaos. 

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in a statement jointly signed by the Chairman  and Secretary, Comrade Muhammad Usman  Ali and Comrade Markus Bulus appealed to Nigeria Labour Congress to rather call for an emergency meeting with the Federal Government to discuss and resolve areas of concerns on the issues of fuel subsidy removal and other perceived harsh government policies affecting the Nigeria workers. 

The statement further reads : “We believe the Tinubu led government has demonstrated that it can listen to plights of labour unions and should he government fail to meet demands after the meeting, NLC is free to embark on planned long-lasting strike and mass protest. 

“But we  want to remind NLC that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is just 57 days in office as President. And with the collosal damages done to economy by previous leaders ,which are beyond imagination , he needs some time correct them . 

“On the hand ,we urge NLC to work together with the FG to ensure that monies saved from subsidy removal are monitored and judiciously used to better lots of workers and Nigerians instead threats of strike.”

While defending  the removal of subsidy , the Coalition asked  NLC to  consider that removal of subsidy has stopped smuggling of petroleum products; stopped payment of homongous amount money to fraudulent business men  and made products  available at filling stations . 

It also said removal of subsidy will ensure private sector participation in the importation of petroleum products; ensure the ready availability of petrol at all times for all Nigerians with no diversion by marketers and  curb the greed for higher profits and sabotage by a few players in the oil industry which will positively affect the economy. 

“We hope that soon the competition in the industry and market forces will drive down the price of petrol in the long run as witnessed in the telecoms sector for the benefit of Nigerians;  permanently banish queues from petrol stations.” It added . 

However ,the Coalition Commended  President Tinubu for bolds steps taken  so far  to change course of governance in the country .

Don’t Overheat Polity over Appointment Tussle,Comrade Mohammed Tells Kaduna APC Chieftains

By Comrade Musa Mohammed

Kaduna based public commentator and media consultant, Comrade Musa Mohammed has urged aggrieved All Progressives Congress Chieftains in Kaduna to avoid overheating the polity over issues of appointments .

According to him , the recent allegations of ‘recycling’ political appointees; lack of reward, and thought abandonment by Governor Uba Sani led administration is not only wrong ,but also too early .

In statement personally signed and made available to journalists , Comrade Musa Mohammed averred that those saying appointments are being delayed because of some party leaders, who are either signifying interest to be appointed themselves or vying for their cronies, it’s not true.

He explained ,” Kaduna is a very complex state, so you need to consult and carry everybody along. You cannot just sit down somewhere and make up a list so that you don’t have the kind of flares we are seeing now.

If those complaining know the kind of pressure people who are looking for positions in the government are piling on ordinary politicians, not to talk of the governor.”

While noting that the governor should expect such feelings and agitations,he said those complaining should know that not everyone will be given a political appointment. Adding that Uba Sani is taking his time to make sure only the right persons make it.

Mohammed who acknowledged that Governor Uba Sani is a very careful man, who wants to be sure of the kind of people to appoint, said he’s currently conducting a thorough check on the background of the people he would appoint as commissioners and other positions. That’s why he traveled out just to avoid pressure and distraction.

On hitting the ground running, Comrade Musa Mohammed revealed that Governor Uba Sani has since built and nurtured relationships with other arms of government; to effectively navigate the turbulent waters of governance.

“The new governor has a strong working relationship with civil servants, legislatures, the press, and the public relations experts.He has been doing that since, through meetings.

On appointments, governor Uba Sani immediately after taking oath of office, he started selecting individuals to staff his office, central management agencies, and executive council. Apart from individuals, he make a ‘team’ that will drive and coordinate the day-to-day running of the state.

He also observed that issues of Competence, character and commitment is the paramount in engaging people to work with’

The statement further reads: Governor Uba Sani follow the rules of the game, and look at the processes of his administration as important tools to accomplish his key objectives.

“He always communicate his goals to the team members to ensure his target; milestones, and results that will be very clear to all.

“As a newly elected governor, he made sure he kept his priorities firmly focused as someone who belongs to everybody and to nobody.

“The good people of Kaduna state should be patient with the governor who does not want to make avoidable mistakes.”

GANDUJE, A CATALYST FOR A PROGRESSIVE NIGERIA UNDER PRESIDENT TINUBU

GANDUJE, A CATALYST FOR A PROGRESSIVE NIGERIA UNDER PRESIDENT TINUBU

By Hon. Abubakar Sadiq Saadu Fakai ,APC chieftain

A group, Coalition of Progressive APC Stakeholders, has called for support for the emergence of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as the substantive Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC), saying he is the catalyst to deliver a comprehensive and progressive leadership to the party and Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In the tumultuous world of Nigerian politics, the leadership of a political party can often make or break a government’s performance. One individual who has consistently stood out for his exceptional contributions to the national politics and integration landscape of the party and Nigeria at large is, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

A man whose intellect and leadership qualities were evident in every word he spoke. 

Amidst the heated political atmosphere, where negative campaigning had become the norm, Umar Ganduje is a catalyst to stem the turbulent challenges facing our great party.However, this is the man for the moment.

We therefore call on leadership of the party to look beyond personal interest and throw their weight behind Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, for the chairmanship position of the party.

We also call on Mr President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his full support saying, Ganduje is the best candidate for the chairmanship position of the party, (APC)

IF GANDUJE EMERGE AS THE APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, THE PARTY WILL QUICKLY SLEEPWALK CLOSER TO COLLAPSE.

IF GANDUJE EMERGE AS THE APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, THE PARTY WILL QUICKLY SLEEPWALK CLOSER TO COLLAPSE.

BY COMRADE MUSA MOHAMMED
COORDINATOR APC NEW-MEDIA FORUM

‘Ganduje are kano’s worst Governor, so far!

‘Ganduje Eight Disastrous Years’. “Good Riddance To Bad Rubbish”.

President Bola Tinubu will make a great mistake for trying to impose the former governor of Kano State Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, following the resignation of Senator Abdullahi Adamu as National Chairman of the party.

If Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje the ex-Kano governor emerge as the National Chairman of All Progressive Congress (APC), could hurt the party now and later, ‘the party will quickly sleepwalk closer to collapse’.

I saw Ganduje’s tipped for the APC National chairman from distinct perspectives that further underscored how polarised the consideration would be if allowed to stand.

Ganduje is not suitable for the position (National APC Chairman), according to the rules and regulations of the party because there are stages that should be followed to become the chairman of the party.

The position was to get the person who would complete the term of the former chairman, Sen. Abdullahi Adamu who had resigned from the position.

So the term is for the North Central zone.

Iam among those strongly opposing Ganduje’s tipped for APC national chairman.

Series of videos showed GANDUJE collecting bribes from a public works contractor while governor of Kano, the videos, published October 2018 by the online outlet Daily Nigerian, Mr Ganduje pocketed over $230,000, which he pleated all over his babanriga.

How could such a corrupt person be our party leader?.

Abdullahi Ganduje’s eight years administration have been an unmitigated failure; a monumental waste of time, of resources, and of the hopes and aspirations of kano state and the citizenry.

Ganduje gloated: got all what he want for himself, (have unexplained and inexplicable wealth), his family, and his cronies in his eight years as governor of kano state.

If President Tinubu want to favour his personal resolve for making Ganduje APC national chairman, it will still hurt the party structure overall.

I don’t know why president Tinubu insisted for Ganduje to be the APC National chairman,despite his abysmal failure in Kano state.

The president should know that APC need a good leader who will gives the worth and strengths of his great experience.

Yes, APC needs good leaders to move the party forward; leaders, not rulers, who are good by nature, attitude, and are sincere about the country’s development; who have the interest of the people at heart all the time; who have conscience; who have passion for bettering lives; whose action is service first and himself last, or even none at all, not people like Ganduje.

Gov. Radda Orders Prompt Compensation For Multi-billion Naira Katsina Int’l Airport Expansion Project

Gov. Radda Orders Prompt Compensation For Multi-billion Naira Katsina Int’l Airport Expansion Project

The Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, has ordered the immediate payment of compensation to land owners for the kick-off of the massive expansion of the Umaru Musa Yar’adua International Airport in Katsina by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

This was disclosed when the Governor paid an official visit to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, on Friday, 21st July 2023, at the Ministry in Abuja.

Radda, during his remarks, heartily thanked the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace for locating the project in Katsina State and described it as a dream come true for those who have been waiting for so long to witness this landmark achievement.
He further disclosed that he has already directed the release of payment for compensation of land owners with immediate effect for the project to kick off in no-distance time and to enable the contractors to be on site for the taking off of the project.

Likewise, he expressed his profound gratitude and unalloyed appreciation to the immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari; and former Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika for their support towards the desired objective of upgrading the Umaru Musa Yaradua Airport to International Standard.

On his part, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, congratulated the Governor on his success in the last concluded election and expressed his satisfaction with the quick policy directive carried out by the Governor aimed at compensating the affected people for the project to kick off.

It would be recalled that the previous administration of Aminu Bello Masari allocated the land for the expansion of the Yar’adua International Airport.

The multi-billion naira project, which has about four departments, consisting of the fire truck maintenance, terminal building, cargo centre and pavement would be completed in 12 months. If completed, the project would create about 1,500 jobs for the residents of the state.

Signed: Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State