Category: Northern Reports

  • Come out for higher political offices, group tells North-Central leaders

    Come out for higher political offices, group tells North-Central leaders

    Ahead of the 2027 elections, the North-Central Renaissance Movement (NCRM) has urged political leaders from the North-Central geopolitical zone to seek higher political offices, citing long-standing marginalization since the inception of the current political system in 1999.

    In a press conference held on Thursday in Abuja, the group’s Chairman, Prof. Nghargbu K’tso, emphasized that the zone has been largely excluded from high-level political appointments.

    The group, which advocates for equity, good governance, fairness, and justice in Nigeria, expressed concerns over the socio-economic and political challenges facing the region and committed to addressing these issues.

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    Prof. K’tso, a Professor of Medical Geology, added that the group would support competent and qualified citizens from the zone to fully exercise their constitutional rights and seek leadership roles in the upcoming elections.

    “This mindset whether real or imagined, is one which the present generation must stop before it infects and affects coming generations in the zone.

    “And there is no better time than the current political dispensation to terminate this unwholesome trajectory.

    “We do this by proving that we have the same aspirational liberties as any of our fellow citizens from any part of Nigeria.

    “In this regard, we implore our leaders to aim higher as we are not second class citizens in this country.”

  • Nasara Foundation celebrates third anniversary, launches official journal

    Nasara Foundation celebrates third anniversary, launches official journal

    The Nasara Women Development Foundation, also known as Nasara Foundation, will celebrate its third anniversary on Sunday, April 6, 2025, in Kebbi State.

    As part of the milestone event, the foundation will also unveil its official journal, The Nasara Chronicle.

    Since its establishment three years ago, Nasara Foundation has been dedicated to community development, empowerment initiatives, and supporting youth, women, and the girl-child. This anniversary marks a significant step in its ongoing mission.

    The launch of The Nasara Chronicle will serve as a platform to document the foundation’s activities, share insights, and provide stakeholders with updates on its impact and advocacy efforts.

    Edited by veteran broadcast journalist and public relations expert Segun Adebowale, the inaugural edition of the journal will be presented during the anniversary event at the Convocation Arena, Polytechnic, Kebbi State.

    Commenting on the occasion, the foundation’s founder and First Lady of Kebbi State, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Nasir Idris, emphasized the importance of both the anniversary and the journal launch.

    “Reaching our third anniversary reflects the sustained effort of our team and the invaluable support of our partners and the communities we engage with. 

    The launch of ‘The Nasara Chronicle’ is a deliberate step towards enhancing our communication and accountability. 

    This journal will serve as a formal platform to chronicle our journey, share evidence of our impact, and contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable development and social empowerment.”

    Adding to this, the Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Hajiya Bilkisu Muhammad Nasir commented on the operational significance:

    “Marking three years provides a moment to reflect on the tangible impact of our initiatives. ‘The Nasara Chronicle’ emerges from this, offering a structured platform to share not only our successes but also the valuable lessons learned through our programs. We believe this transparency is necessary for continuous improvement and deeper engagement with our stakeholders.”

    Nasara Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 2022. Through Nasara Foundation, a number of impactful programs have been designed and implemented to enhance the lives of the girl-child, women and youths in Kebbi State, encompassing skill development programs, medical outreach efforts ensuring access to essential healthcare services, educational support programs offering opportunities for quality education, and empowerment projects that foster personal and financial growth.

  • ‘Stakeholders’ agitation for power shift to Kwara North healthy for us’

    ‘Stakeholders’ agitation for power shift to Kwara North healthy for us’

    All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State says agitation from stakeholders for the concession of governorship seat to Kwara North in 2027 is healthy for the party.

    APC, the ruling party in the state, said it was not opposed to the clamour for power shift to Kwara North in 2027.

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    In an exclusive interview with our correspondent, the state Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, said: “The agitation means we have something that is worthy of people wanting to have.”

    Recently, a lecturer at the Department of Islamic Studies, Al-Hikma University, Ilorin, Kwara State, Dr. Sanusi Lafiagi, joined his voice on the clamour for governorship seat of Kwara State to shift to Kwara North Senatorial District in 2027.

    He appealed to the people of Kwara Central and Kwara South to support Kwara North’s quest.

  • Idoma Diaspora demands actions over Benue south killings

    Idoma Diaspora demands actions over Benue south killings

    The Idoma community in the diaspora, comprising concerned citizens in the USA, UK, Australia, Canada and Vietnam, has called on political leaders and security agencies to take decisive actions to address the ongoing violence in Otukpo and other parts of Benue South.

    In the past four days, several lives have been killed and others abducted in the Olena and Asa communities of Otukpo, leaving residents in fear and despair.

    Expressing concerns over the situation, the group urged Governor Hyacinth Alia and Deputy Governor Sam Odeh to prioritise the safety of citizens, noting that as leaders, their responsibility is to protect lives and property.

    Speaking on behalf of the group, its president, Edwin Ochia, emphasised that leadership requires actions, not just words. 

    He warned that continued silence on the issue could be seen as a failure to uphold the trust placed in them by the people.

    “The Idoma Diaspora community is deeply troubled by the persistent attacks in Benue South and the slow response from those in positions of authority. While innocent citizens live in fear, we expect our leaders to act swiftly to restore peace and security,” Ochia stated.

    The group also urged the Federal Government to intervene urgently, stressing that every Nigerian life matters, regardless of region. They called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that security forces are adequately deployed to affected areas to prevent further bloodshed.

    It appealed to security agencies to intensify efforts in tracking down the perpetrators of the attacks and ensuring justice for the victims.

    “We can no longer stand by while our communities suffer. We demand immediate action to protect our people and restore peace in Benue South,” the statement concluded.

  • Rainstorm destroys schools, mosques, others in Kwara community

    Rainstorm destroys schools, mosques, others in Kwara community

    Rainstorm has destroyed some public and residential buildings in Ogele, Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State.

    The storm also rendered scores of residents homeless

    The incident, which occurred in the night of Eid- el- Fitr celebration, affected schools, mosques and other buildings.They included the Ansarul Islam Primary School,  Community Secondary School, health centre and Mosques

    Other were concrete poles and high tension wires supplying electricity to Ogele, Afon and other communities.

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    Some victims of the rainstorm said they were still counting their losses.

    They appealed to the government, individuals and organisations for help.

    Aare Ogele, Alhaji Abubakar Akanbi, whose residence was also affected, called for government’s aid for the victims, including the Mufti of the community.

    Chairman, Ogele Descendants Progressive Union (ODPU), Alhaji Issa Akanbi-Oniyo, said the   incident had left many residents homeless.

  • Soldier cuts off shoe seller’s fingers in Minna over payment dispute

    Soldier cuts off shoe seller’s fingers in Minna over payment dispute

    A soldier identified as Sudik on Sallah day cut off the fingers of a shoe seller, Abdulrahman Salisu, at his shop near Jolly Bread in Minna, the Niger State capital.

    According to Abdulrahman, Sudik had approached his shop to buy a pair of shoes, and after attending to him, the soldier claimed to have made payment via a bank transfer. But Abdulrahman told him that he had not yet received the alert.

    The situation took a violent turn when Sudik suddenly pulled out a cutlass and swung it at Abdulrahman’s head when he insisted that his money must be paid. In an attempt to defend himself, Abdulrahman raised his left hand, resulting in three of his fingers being severed.

    As he cried out for help, Sudik and two others who had accompanied him fled. Abdulrahman later reported the attack at the nearest police station.

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    It was learnt that Sudik has been arrested by the security authorities, while Abdulrahman is receiving medical treatment at the IBB Specialist Hospital in Minna.

    Meanwhile, traders and shop owners from Mobil roundabout, Jolly Bread and Obasanjo Shopping Complex have raised concerns over increasing cases of attacks and armed robbery in the area.

    They have called on the state government to improve security measures, saying they live in fear.

  • Kano commends FG, Edo swift response to Uromi killings

    Kano commends FG, Edo swift response to Uromi killings

    The Kano State Government has commended the Federal Government and the Edo State Government for their swift response in managing the aftermath of the gruesome killing of 16 Kano  indigenes in Uromi, Edo State.

    Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, expressing deep sorrow over the tragic incident, lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Edo Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for their prompt intervention, which included dispatching delegations to Kano in a show of solidarity and concern.

    “We extend profound appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and His Excellency, Governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, for the visit of Federal Government delegation and that of the Governor of Edo State in a show of solidarity and concern over this tragic incident,” Yusuf stated.

    In a statement on Tuesday by Kano Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, Yusuf reiterated his demand for justice and stressed the importance of transparency in the legal proceedings against those responsible. 

    “Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done. The people of Kano, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve to see those responsible for this massacre brought to justice publicly,” he said.

    Yusuf also commended Okpebholo’s engagement with the Hausa community in Edo State to prevent further escalation of tensions. 

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    He particularly acknowledged the Edo State Government’s commitment to compensating the bereaved families, urging that the compensation be executed without delay.

    “The compensation which the delegation promised is a commendable step, but it must be executed without delay to support the grieving families who have lost their breadwinners,” he noted.

    The swift intervention by the Federal Government, according to Yusuf, underscores its commitment to the security and protection of all Nigerians, irrespective of their state of origin.

    Residents of Torankawa, the hometown of most of the victims, also voiced appreciation for the concerted efforts of the Federal and Edo State Governments in addressing the matter. 

    Both Governors pledged to ensure a thorough and transparent justice process to prevent such an unfortunate incident from recurring anywhere in the country.

    The Kano State Government reaffirmed unwavering commitment to justice, vowing to closely monitor the situation to ensure that the victims’ families receive the compensation and support they deserve.

  • Ramadan: Stanel World breaks fast with Muslims in Niger community with over 10,000 bread

    Ramadan: Stanel World breaks fast with Muslims in Niger community with over 10,000 bread

    As part of its annual events, Stanel World Suleja has identified with Muslim community in Suleja, Niger State with the distribution of over 10,000 loaves of bread to break Ramadan fast.

    The household brand in Nigeria States, Stanel World, is a subsidiary of Stanel Group of companies that has replicated its brands across the country.

    The week-long distribution of one of the best breads in Nigeria through selected Mosques to Muslims in Suleja ended on Saturday at the Emir of Suleja’s Palace.

    In his remarks, the Chief Imam of Kaduna Road Central Mosque, Bakin Iku in Suleja, Mallam Jubril Shuaibu who spoke through the Secretary, Central Mosque Committee, Mallam Bala Muhammad, expressed appreciation and gratitude to Dr Stanley Uzochukwu and his team for the remarkable gesture.

    He prayed that Allah in His infinite mercy will reward the company and its owner, wishing that Ramadan blessings will not elude the philanthropist as he fed the Muslims within the 10 days to the end of the Ramadan.

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    The Chief Imam of Masjid Mainasara Unguwa Shagayya Mosque, Suleiman Umar Faruk, who received the bread loaded in a Toyota Sienna also expressed satisfaction and joy for a non-muslim Nigerian to constantly identify and feed Muslim fateful during Ramadan every year.

    Mallam Faruk prayed that Allah would bless the Stanel World owner and his team for the gesture. He called on other well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the Stanel World Chairman/CEO’s philanthropy.

  • Care for the needy, ex- govs admonish Nigerians

    Care for the needy, ex- govs admonish Nigerians

    The Former Governors Forum has urged Nigerians to embrace the fundamental principles of humanitarianism by caring for the poor and the needy.

    The forum gave the admonishion in an Eid-el-Fitr! message signed by its Chairman and former governor of Niger State, Dr. Babangida Aliyu on Sunday in Abuja.

    The statement reads: “Former Governors Forum warmly felicitate with muslims all over the country on the occasion of the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

    “The sanctity and tradition of gathering together in fasting and prayers, is one of the cardinal templates of love and commitment to the principles of Islam. Therefore, the fasting, where muslim uma are in the country, reminds us of our oneness and togetherness as a nation.

    “The nation’s journey in togetherness appropriates the fundamentals of nationhood with the varied opinions, positions and appropriations in national discourse.

    “The Eid-el-Fitr celebrations offer a unique opportunity for harmonisation of positions in national interest. It is equally a moment to appreciate and celebrate with one another, as a people bounded in love and unity.

    “We equally use this opportunity to call on all Nigerians to continue to embrace fundamental principles of humanitarianism: care for the poor and the needy, that the celebrations symbolize, and continue to pray for a great future for our nation.

    “May the blessing of the moment fill the life of Nigerians with peace, joy and good health.”

  • Senator Echocho’s lauded for people-centric leadership

    Senator Echocho’s lauded for people-centric leadership

    A media practitioner in Kogi State, Ogani Victor, has commended the leadership of Senator Isah Jibril Echocho, describing him as a leader deeply committed to grassroots development and human capital advancement in Kogi East Senatorial District.

    In a statement titled “Sen. Isah Jibril Echocho and His People-Centric Leadership Acumen,” Victor emphasized that the senator embodies the essence of leadership as defined by global icons such as Mahatma Gandhi and Bill Bradley, who linked leadership to service and unlocking people’s potential.

    He noted that before joining the 9th National Assembly in 2019, Senator Echocho had built a distinguished career in the banking sector, working with Chase Merchant Bank Plc, Afribank International Limited, and AIL Securities Limited, where he rose to the position of Managing Director/Chief Executive. According to Victor, Echocho used his influence in the banking industry to create employment opportunities, particularly for youths in Kogi East, even before entering politics.

    Describing him as a leader with a deep connection to his people, Victor stated that Senator Echocho’s election to the Senate provided him with a larger platform to actualize his vision of making life more meaningful for his constituents. He asserted that the senator has made the dividends of democracy felt across the nine local government areas of Kogi East through various empowerment and development programs.

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    “In no particular chronology, Distinguished Senator Isah Jibril Echocho stands towering as the individual with the highest employment opportunities for the people of Kogi State, especially the Eastern region, where he represents. This, undoubtedly, has endeared him to the people and paved the way for his success in politics,” Victor stated.

    He further highlighted Echocho’s empowerment programs, which have provided graduate entrepreneurs with start-up funds, tricycles, tractors, sewing machines, motorcycles, and other equipment to help them become self-reliant. Women and youths, he noted, have also benefited from these interventions, which have had a far-reaching impact on the local economy.

    Victor also commended the senator for reviving the over 35-year-old abandoned Acharu Palm Oil Mill and facilitating the establishment of cashew processing plants at different locations in the senatorial district. He praised Echocho’s contributions to rural electrification, which he said has lit up almost every part of Kogi East, and his provision of motorized boreholes to ensure access to clean water.

    The media practitioner further acknowledged Echocho’s dedication to boosting agriculture, citing his construction of a rice mill in Abejukolo, Omala Local Government Area, the revamping of the Ibaji Rice Mill, and the installation of a cassava processing plant at Eti-Afoh in Ankpa Local Government Area as significant strides toward food sufficiency.

    “What more can be said about a man, an educational giant, and one who prides himself in meeting the health needs of his people?” Victor asked, noting that Echocho has facilitated the construction of classroom blocks and primary healthcare centers across the senatorial district. He added that the senator has consistently supported orphaned children and provided medical relief to patients in need.

    Victor also referenced Echocho’s philanthropic efforts, particularly his distribution of food items during Ramadan, which he described as “unprecedented” and reflective of the senator’s deep love for humanity.

    Emphasizing that his praise was not mere flattery, Victor asserted that Senator Echocho has “redefined Kogi East leadership style and reenacted the essence of democracy through his wider grassroots and people-centered activities.” He also noted the senator’s active role in sponsoring and supporting bills that drive progress in Kogi East.

    “We say your dedication to legislative excellence has earned your recognition as a beacon of hope for us, your constituents. We say more powers to your shoulders, Distinguished Senator Isah Jibril Echocho,” Victor concluded.

    Senator Echocho, who has been serving in the National Assembly since 2019, continues to receive accolades for his development-driven leadership, with many of his constituents acknowledging his contributions to human capital development and infrastructural growth in Kogi East.