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Tag: Danjuma

  • Danjuma assures on May &Baker’s growth

    FOR shareholders of May & Baker Plc, the future can only be brighter and better.

    This was the assurance made by the Chairman of May & Baker Plc, Lt. Gen T.Y Danjuma (rtd), during the company’s 70th anniversary celebration in Lagos.

    Upbeat, Danjuma noted that the company had moved from a distributor of products imported from its principals, to a local manufacturer of quality medicines for the Nigerian market and now to a world-class manufacturer of quality specialised medicines, ready for the global market.

    Taking stock of the company’s record of performance in the preceding year, he said: “we began a policy of future based investments. We saw the need for global best practice and competitiveness. That was why we embarked on the long term project to seek international accreditation for the manufacturing process of the company. The first step was to build a factory that would meet the standards of the world health organisation (WHO) in Good manufacturing practice (GMP) and other ramifications. That factory was completed and inaugurated in 2011. Now, we are on the verge of obtaining WHO GMP certification for this facility and pre-qualification for our products.”

    Echoing similar sentiments, the Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Nnamdi Okafor, observed that the quest for global best practice had opened a floodgate of interests in the Nigerian pharmaceutical manufacturing industry.

    He praised the efforts of the government through the Federal Ministry of Health and the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), in assisting growth in the pharmaceutical industry.

    Also, Minister of Health Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, said May & Baker, has made several giant and pioneering strides in the development of the nation’s pharmaceutical sector, since its inception.

    The minister affirmed the disposition of the Federal Government to actualise its joint venture with May & Baker in the production of vaccines in Nigeria, and urged focus on research to finding cures to viral hemorrhagic diseases such as Ebola fever, Lassa fever and Dengue fever, among others.

  • Nigerians take their country for granted, says Danjuma

    Nigerians take their country for granted, says Danjuma

    •Honour for Dare at 70

    •Fayemi, Oshiomhole, Fashola, Amosun, others honour Olatunji Dare at 70

    It could well have been a gathering of the academia – many professors were there – or newspapermen – they came in their numbers.

    The colourful ceremony at the prestigious MUSON Centre on Lagos Island was predictable. Prof. Olatunji Dare, eminent teacher, distinguished newspaperman, pro-democracy activist and respected columnist, was 70 yesterday.

    The downpour failed to dampen the spirit of the ceremony.

    A public lecture and book presentation were held to celebrate the revered journalism teacher, who is described as “a master satirist”, “stylistic exemplar” and “magisterial editorialist and columnist”.

    The book: Public intellectuals, the public sphere and the public spirit, is a collection of essays in Dare’s honour. It was edited by Prof. Wale Adebanwi, with contributions from 26 media, literary and civil society scholars, media managers and social activists.

    A former Defence Minister, Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, who chaired the event, spoke of the need for Nigerians to value their homeland.

    He has high regard for those who have achieved success abroad, the likes of Dare.

    Dare, who studied Mass Communication at the University of Lagos, (UNILAG), graduating with First Class Honours, earned a Master’s degree in journalism at the famous  Columbia University in New York, and a doctorate in Communication Research from Indiana University, Bloomington, with specialisation in international communication and public policy analysis.

    He taught at (UNILAG), before he was appointed a columnist and editorial page editor at The Guardian. He subsequently took up a teaching appointment at Bradley University, illions,  United States. He is The Nation’s Editorial Adviser, running the popular column, At Home Abroad.

    Danjuma believes Nigerians must not take their country for granted despite the chances of succeeding abroad.

    “One of the things that most Nigerians, especially the elite, take for granted is our citizenship, the fact that we are Nigerians and this is our country. We take this for granted.

    “Until events happen and we have cause to flee the country in order to stay alive, suddenly, we become strangers in a foreign country.

    “At the point of entry, when they ask you: ‘Where are you from?’, and you say: ‘I’m from Nigeria.” Tthey will ask you: ‘When are you leaving?’ That is the time you will know that you’re nowhere.”

    “I have the highest respect for those who have had to leave their homeland, stay abroad and prosper Dare has gone through all that in his life.

    “He has had to transform from a reporter and writer to a teacher and doing so successfully. He excelled in all this,” Gen. Danjuma said.

    Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, attending his first public event since the June 21 election,  said he regarded Dare “as one of our very best in the industry.”

    He said he considered it a duty “to pay homage to intellect and to someone who has taught us importance of public intellectuals in the development and the deepening of democracy.”  “That is why I didn’t want to send someone here,” he said.

    The governor, who walked into the hall quietly and without a retinue of aides, noted that Gen. Dajuma praise his modesty, something that should be a way of life among public officials.

    “The very things that the chairman was congratulating me and commending me for are supposed to be the things that are no longer in demand or popular in this country.

    “Intellect, elitism, decency, progressive commitment to people are not supposed to be in great demand, at least if we go by what we read – because it is not ‘grassroots’ (general laughter, applause); it is not ‘stomach infrastructure’ (more applause),” he said.

    According to him, the alternative would have been for him to walk in with gun-totting security aides, a siren-blaring convoy and “goons disturbing the peace of the hall”.

    “That way, I will be the people’s governor. I really worry about that,” Fayemi said.

    Chief of Staff to Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Mr. Patrick Obahiagbon, described Dare as a “mentor.”

    “Prof Dare is a man who can look at any demagogue and say it as it is, no matter whose ox is gored. The very acerbic, very aspericious, very dialectic and very coruscating words from Prof Dare are enough to explode the holes of power mongers which is a parallel of the sordidness that gnaw the outside of them. I wish him happy birthday at 70,” he said.

    Obahiagbon said the governor regretted “viscerally” his inability to attend the event.

    The guest speaker, Prof Kwame Karikari of the University of Ghana, Lagon, who met Dare at the Colombia University’s School of Journalism where they were foreign students, along with Dan Agbese, recalled that Dare was the best editorial writer in their class.

    Speaking on the topic: Memories of censorship: Defending and promoting freedom of expression in West-Africa , 1997-2013“, karikari  recounted the difficulties faced  by the media in the face of autocratic rule in Africa.

    Urging the media to explore legal remedies in defence of their freedom, he said they must also look inwards and ensure they are above board.

    “In my Akan language, there is a saying that, as you caution the cat, you must also advise the stinking fish. The media profession is not all that glorious. It should be acknowledged that the media profession around the continent is full of lapses, unethical behavior and plain corrupt practices that grant enemies of media freedom the excuse or pretext to constrain or repress media rights.

    “In many countries, the fast growing involvement of politicians and parties in media (especially radio and broadcast) ownership, for the principal object of political propaganda and fomenting of tensions during elections, is a trend worth our concern,” he said.

    Karikari believes there is a strong basis to be optimistic about the future progress of media development, media freedom and freedom of expression in Africa.

    “There will continue to be reversals, disappointments, relapses into tendencies toward violent and reprehensible forms of restrictions and repression. As long, however, that there continues to be citizens or professionals committed to pursuing progress – even at any cost – progress will always be in sight,” he said.

    An emotional Dare said his wife was absent because she had to attend to their autistic son.

    “My wife is not here today because our child is autistic,” he said, adding that he would devote his retirement to helping improve the lives of autistic children.

    “Autism is far more widespread than I realised. I’ve resolved to work towards creating awareness about autism and to bring those who suffer from autism some succour,” he said.

    Chairman, Board of Directors of Vintage Press Limited, publishers of The Nation, Mr Wale Edun, represented by the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Mr Victor Ifijeh, wished Dare success in his voluntary work.

    “On behalf of myself and indeed everyone at Vintage Press Ltd (The Nation), I most heartily wish you a happy birthday and many more years of health and happiness. In particular, I wish you much success in your desire to devote your retirement to voluntary work in the important field of autism, among other areas.

    “I have personally enjoyed, admired and learned a great deal from your writing in The Guardian in the 1980s and 1990s and now in your Tuesday column for The Nation, currently the widest circulating newspaper in Nigeria – a feat which is in no small part attributable to the enviable quality of our columnists, such as yourself.

    “Your readiness to sacrifice your livelihood on the altar of principle in the dark days of Abacha dictatorship is a rare case of a man willing to lead by example. It forever stands you out among men and will forever elevate you in the eyes of the silent majority; the seeming lack of public recognition and acknowledgement not withstanding.

    “It is for these reasons that I am honoured, proud and indeed deem it most pleasant duty to present this book; and to commend it to student-scholars, researchers, patriots and indeed the general public,” Edun said.

    The book reviewer, Prof Adigun Agbaje of the University of Ibadan, represented by Mr Muyiwa Adekeye, said Dare does not hide from matching public rhetoric with action. He described the octogenarian as a “master satirist”.

    The book, edited by Prof. Wale Adebanwi, is divided into five parts, with contributions from Prof Adebayo Williams, Prof Lai Oso, Odia Ofeimun and Dr Doyin Abiola, among others.

    At the event were Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment Mr Tunji Bello, who represented Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN); Dr Adeleke Ipaye, who represented Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola; Yusuf Olaniyonu, who represented Ogun State Governor  Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Mr Segun Babatope, who represented Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; a member of the House of Representatives Abike Dabiri-Erewa; The Guardian Publisher Lady Maiden Ibru; Chief Ayo Adebanjo; Prof Niyi Osundare; Prof Femi Osofisan; Prof Ropo Sekoni; Prof Ralph Akinfeleye; Ambassador Olatokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu; Hon. Olawale Oshun; Mr Clem Baye; The Nation Editorial Board Chairman Mr Sam Omatseye; The Guardian Managing Director Emeka Izeze and Editorial consultant  Lade Bonuola; The Nation Editor Gbenga Omotoso; The Nation Executive Director Finance and Administration Mr Ade Odunewu

     

  • Nigerians take their country for granted, says Danjuma

    Nigerians take their country for granted, says Danjuma

    •Fayemi, Oshiomhole, Fashola, Amosun, others honour Olatunji Dare at 70

    It could well have been a gathering of the academia – many professors were there – or newspapermen – they came in their numbers.

    The colourful ceremony at the prestigious MUSON Centre on Lagos Island was predictable. Prof. Olatunji Dare, eminent teacher, distinguished newspaperman, pro-democracy activist and respected columnist, was 70 yesterday.

    The downpour failed to dampen the spirit of the ceremony.

    A public lecture and book presentation were held to celebrate the revered journalism teacher, who is described as “a master satirist”, “stylistic exemplar” and “magisterial editorialist and columnist”.

    The book: Public intellectuals, the public sphere and the public spirit, is a collection of essays in Dare’s honour. It was edited by Prof. Wale Adebanwi, with contributions from 26 media, literary and civil society scholars, media managers and social activists.

    A former Defence Minister, Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, who chaired the event, spoke of the need for Nigerians to value their homeland.

    He has high regard for those who have achieved success abroad, the likes of Dare.

    Dare, who studied Mass Communication at the University of Lagos, (UNILAG), graduating with First Class Honours, earned a Master’s degree in journalism at the famous  Columbia University in New York, and a doctorate in Communication Research from Indiana University, Bloomington, with specialisation in international communication and public policy analysis.

    He taught at (UNILAG), before he was appointed a columnist and editorial page editor at The Guardian. He subsequently took up a teaching appointment at Bradley University, illions,  United States. He is The Nation’s Editorial Adviser, running the popular column, At Home Abroad.

    Danjuma believes Nigerians must not take their country for granted despite the chances of succeeding abroad.

    “One of the things that most Nigerians, especially the elite, take for granted is our citizenship, the fact that we are Nigerians and this is our country. We take this for granted.

    “Until events happen and we have cause to flee the country in order to stay alive, suddenly, we become strangers in a foreign country.

    “At the point of entry, when they ask you: ‘Where are you from?’, and you say: ‘I’m from Nigeria.” Tthey will ask you: ‘When are you leaving?’ That is the time you will know that you’re nowhere.”

    “I have the highest respect for those who have had to leave their homeland, stay abroad and prosper Dare has gone through all that in his life.

    “He has had to transform from a reporter and writer to a teacher and doing so successfully. He excelled in all this,” Gen. Danjuma said.

    Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, attending his first public event since the June 21 election,  said he regarded Dare “as one of our very best in the industry.”

    He said he considered it a duty “to pay homage to intellect and to someone who has taught us importance of public intellectuals in the development and the deepening of democracy.”  “That is why I didn’t want to send someone here,” he said.

    The governor, who walked into the hall quietly and without a retinue of aides, noted that Gen. Dajuma praise his modesty, something that should be a way of life among public officials.

    “The very things that the chairman was congratulating me and commending me for are supposed to be the things that are no longer in demand or popular in this country.

    “Intellect, elitism, decency, progressive commitment to people are not supposed to be in great demand, at least if we go by what we read – because it is not ‘grassroots’ (general laughter, applause); it is not ‘stomach infrastructure’ (more applause),” he said.

    According to him, the alternative would have been for him to walk in with gun-totting security aides, a siren-blaring convoy and “goons disturbing the peace of the hall”.

    “That way, I will be the people’s governor. I really worry about that,” Fayemi said.

    Chief of Staff to Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Mr. Patrick Obahiagbon, described Dare as a “mentor.”

    “Prof Dare is a man who can look at any demagogue and say it as it is, no matter whose ox is gored. The very acerbic, very aspericious, very dialectic and very coruscating words from Prof Dare are enough to explode the holes of power mongers which is a parallel of the sordidness that gnaw the outside of them. I wish him happy birthday at 70,” he said.

    Obahiagbon said the governor regretted “viscerally” his inability to attend the event.

    The guest speaker, Prof Kwame Karikari of the University of Ghana, Lagon, who met Dare at the Colombia University’s School of Journalism where they were foreign students, along with Dan Agbese, recalled that Dare was the best editorial writer in their class.

    Speaking on the topic: Memories of censorship: Defending and promoting freedom of expression in West-Africa , 1997-2013“, karikari  recounted the difficulties faced  by the media in the face of autocratic rule in Africa.

    Urging the media to explore legal remedies in defence of their freedom, he said they must also look inwards and ensure they are above board.

    “In my Akan language, there is a saying that, as you caution the cat, you must also advise the stinking fish. The media profession is not all that glorious. It should be acknowledged that the media profession around the continent is full of lapses, unethical behavior and plain corrupt practices that grant enemies of media freedom the excuse or pretext to constrain or repress media rights.

    “In many countries, the fast growing involvement of politicians and parties in media (especially radio and broadcast) ownership, for the principal object of political propaganda and fomenting of tensions during elections, is a trend worth our concern,” he said.

    Karikari believes there is a strong basis to be optimistic about the future progress of media development, media freedom and freedom of expression in Africa.

    “There will continue to be reversals, disappointments, relapses into tendencies toward violent and reprehensible forms of restrictions and repression. As long, however, that there continues to be citizens or professionals committed to pursuing progress – even at any cost – progress will always be in sight,” he said.

    An emotional Dare said his wife was absent because she had to attend to their autistic son.

    “My wife is not here today because our child is autistic,” he said, adding that he would devote his retirement to helping improve the lives of autistic children.

    “Autism is far more widespread than I realised. I’ve resolved to work towards creating awareness about autism and to bring those who suffer from autism some succour,” he said.

    Chairman, Board of Directors of Vintage Press Limited, publishers of The Nation, Mr Wale Edun, represented by the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Mr Victor Ifijeh, wished Dare success in his voluntary work.

    “On behalf of myself and indeed everyone at Vintage Press Ltd (The Nation), I most heartily wish you a happy birthday and many more years of health and happiness. In particular, I wish you much success in your desire to devote your retirement to voluntary work in the important field of autism, among other areas.

    “I have personally enjoyed, admired and learned a great deal from your writing in The Guardian in the 1980s and 1990s and now in your Tuesday column for The Nation, currently the widest circulating newspaper in Nigeria – a feat which is in no small part attributable to the enviable quality of our columnists, such as yourself.

    “Your readiness to sacrifice your livelihood on the altar of principle in the dark days of Abacha dictatorship is a rare case of a man willing to lead by example. It forever stands you out among men and will forever elevate you in the eyes of the silent majority; the seeming lack of public recognition and acknowledgement not withstanding.

    “It is for these reasons that I am honoured, proud and indeed deem it most pleasant duty to present this book; and to commend it to student-scholars, researchers, patriots and indeed the general public,” Edun said.

    The book reviewer, Prof Adigun Agbaje of the University of Ibadan, represented by Mr Muyiwa Adekeye, said Dare does not hide from matching public rhetoric with action. He described the octogenarian as a “master satirist”.

    The book, edited by Prof. Wale Adebanwi, is divided into five parts, with contributions from Prof Adebayo Williams, Prof Lai Oso, Odia Ofeimun and Dr Doyin Abiola, among others.

    At the event were Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment Mr Tunji Bello, who represented Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN); Dr Adeleke Ipaye, who represented Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola; Yusuf Olaniyonu, who represented Ogun State Governor  Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Mr Segun Babatope, who represented Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; a member of the House of Representatives Abike Dabiri-Erewa; The Guardian Publisher Lady Maiden Ibru; Chief Ayo Adebanjo; Prof Niyi Osundare; Prof Femi Osofisan; Prof Ropo Sekoni; Prof Ralph Akinfeleye; Ambassador Olatokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu; Hon. Olawale Oshun; Mr Clem Baye; The Nation Editorial Board Chairman Mr Sam Omatseye; The Guardian Managing Director Emeka Izeze and Editorial consultant  Lade Bonuola; The Nation Editor Gbenga Omotoso; The Nation Executive Director Finance and Administration Mr Ade Odunewu

  • How Citizen Danjuma survived 35 days on dumpsite

    How Citizen Danjuma survived 35 days on dumpsite

    For over 30 days, 25-year- old Danjuma was atop a refuse heap. He was fed secretly by a 14-year-old girl, Sarah Okoro and sympathetic neighbours. Danjuma’s story, said sources, is that of rejection and struggle.

    Officials of Edo State Ministry of Women and Social Development did nothing to get him out of the dumpsite.

    Danjuma was born a paraphelgic. His father, according to him, is a native of Ndoma, Benue State. His late mother, Kate, was an official of the moribund Nigeria Telecommunications Limited (NITEL) . The father’s whereabout is unknown.

    It was gathered that Danjuma’s predicament began when his mother died in 2007 and his care fell on the late mother’s relatives.

    Sources said Danjuma was taken in by his aunt. A neighbour said Danjuma’s mother left some substantial amount in her account for the upkeep of her son.

    A life of rejection and torture began for Danjuma after the money left by his mother was said to have been spent. Danjuma’s aunt living at Ugbiyoko was said to taken him to his uncle who lives at their family residence on Oza Street, off Sakponba Road.

    A tenant at the family’s residence told our reporter that the uncle known as Arase was peeved that Danjuma was brought to his residence after all the money left for his upkeep has been spent.

    The tenant said the uncle took Danjuma to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and abandoned him there. The university management was said to have returned Danjuma to the uncle after many months.

    According to the tenant, “The uncle threw him out and left him in the backyard. Danjuma was inside the rain and sun. The place is flooded. Whenever it rained , Danjuma would be inside. If any of us wanted to take Danjuma out, the uncle would threaten to beat us.”

    It was further learnt that the uncle threw Danjuma on top the  refuse heap to prevent people from caring for him.

    Neighbour were aware of Danjuma’s plight but did nothing to rescue him.

    Pastor Infeanyi Anyanli said they used to give Danjuma bread and food secretly to avoid being caught by the uncle.

    Miss Okoro took pity on Danjuma and bravely provided meals for him despite repeated beatings by the uncle.

    The wheel chair used by Danjuma was destroyed by the uncle at the refuse heap.

    The Coordinator of Forum of Women in Politics (FONWIP) Mrs. Florence Igbinigie, told reporters that the uncle was annoyed that family members who collected the N6m left by Danjuma’s mother brought him to his house without any money.

    According to her, “Danjuma would be inside the flood and sun. The wheel chair he used was thrown away. The man threatens to deal with anybody who gives him food.”

    “I have reported to the Woman Affairs Ministry and they are yet to take action. The boy needs medical care and rehabilitation. He can still do something.”

    Mrs. Igbinigie lamented the slow rescue efforts by the National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Police  and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

    She said the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the zone said it was not within their responsibility to rescue Danjuma from the heap.

    The letter she wrote to these organisations reads: “I wish to draw your urgent attention to a 25-year-old physically challenged who was thrown into a dustbin behind their house at number 12 Oza Street, off Sakponba Road by his uncle, Mr. Arase.

    “As we tried to approach the house, the said uncle paid a deaf ear to us and was almost attacking us; so, we had to run for our dear lives. Due to that kind of attitude, we suspect more harm can be done to the boy if urgent step is not taken. Hence we write you to please intervene to protect the life of this boy and seek justice for this inhuman treatment meted to him.

    “Please use your office to help rehabilitate the boy. We have been caring for him since we learnt about the incident. Rescue came for Danjuma last Thursday when he was taken to the Faith Mediplex on Airport Road in Benin City.”

    He is being treated for malaria, sepsis, urinary tract infection and cholera. Doctors said Danjuma’s survival on the refuse heap was an act of God.

    On the hospital bed, Danjuma’s first words were: “My uncle put me for dustbin.”

    He said he was yet to comprehend why his mother’s relatives mistreated him when the mother cared for them when she was alive.

    Danjuma, who said he stopped at primary five, said he suffered more when he was staying with his aunt.

    He disclosed that his mother’s properties were at Ibadan and that the relatives would collect them if they knew the location.

    He tried to spell his father’s name but could not.

    “My mummy sister beat me very well. She put me outside and I slept outside in cold for many days. She took me to my uncle and my uncle returned me to her. She called two soldiers who took me back to my uncle.

    “I feel better and I am eating well now. I asked my mother: ‘where is my father?’ She said he went to Port Harcourt. My father is an Ndoma. I schooled at Ibadan. I ended my education in primary five. My mummy said I should stop because we were going back to Benin.

    “My mummy had money. She cared for her people. My mummy’s sister lives at Ugbiyoko. She kept me in the cold. I was outside for many days in the cold. My uncle beat me. He threw me on the ground. If I show you my back, it is peeled. My uncle took me back to my aunt’s place. She called two soldiers who carried me to my uncle place. I can read when it is written down.”

    Miss Okoro, who was at the hospital looking after Danjuma, was all tears when she was informed that she was too young to care for him.

    “Why did they say I should leave Danjuma? I am from Delta State. They kept him at the back of our house. I cannot be at home and see him not  eating. I used to hear him shouting: ‘I am hungry, I am hungry’. I then took food to him. The uncle stopped us from feeding him. My brother and I  fed him. The uncle used stone to hit my brother but my mother told us not to give up. The uncle beat me one day.”

    There was a drama on who was responsible for the rescue of Danjuma as two NGOs, Face to Face Empowerment Initiative and FONWIP clashed over who was responsible for the rescue of Danjuma.

    Mr. Curtis Ugbo Eghosa of Face to Face said he was taken aback when he heard a voice from atop the refuse heap, saying: ‘I am here’. He was almost dying when we saw him. He talked faintly and I felt we should take him immediately.

    “I was called that somebody was on a refuse heap. I was really surprised to see man’s inhumanity to man in this age. I felt we cannot leave the man there. The wheel chair was destroyed. We took him to Central hospital but they were on strike. I took him to another hospital and there was no space; so, we brought him here.

    “The hospital asked Mrs. Igbinigie why she waited for so long before the rescue on the day I went there. That boy would have died the next day. Her only quarrel was that I did not mention her name when I spoke to the press.”

    But, Mrs. Igbinigie said she was responsible for the rescue of Danjuma.

    She said: “The hospital management was shocked when I brought out the receipt for deposit payment. I have never seen this kind of thing in my life. My NGO has been on for a long time. People want to be in NGO to claim other people’s credit.”

    She vowed to take on the Commissioner of Police and the National Human Rights Commission for the delay in  the arrest of Danjuma’s uncle.

    Police spokesman DSP Uwoh Noble said he was yet to be properly briefed about the incident.

    A Director in the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, who pleaded anonymity, confirmed that they were aware of Danjuma’s case but said the state government had no place to keep him.

    The Director said they were discussing with an NGO, Project Charilove but that the NGO was making things difficult for the  government.

    “Please meet our commissioner to hear from her on why we have not gone there. The Permanent Secretary is also aware of the situation,” the director said.

    The administrator of the hospital, Prof. Doreen Babog, promised that the hospital would do its best to ensure that Danjuma got good health care.

     

     

     

     

  • ‘Dustbin man’: I don’t know why my family rejected me

    ‘Dustbin man’: I don’t know why my family rejected me

    A physically-challenged man, Danjuma, who was dumped on a refuse heap by his uncle, said yesterday that he does not know why his family rejected him.

    Danjuma (25) has been on the refuse heap for over a month, under heavy rains and scorching heat.

    It was learnt that he was being fed secretly by neighbours.

    Speaking to reporters from atop the refuse heap, Danjuma said his mother died in 2007 and that he was told his father ‘lives’ in Port Harcourt.

    Danjuma said he had his last meal of bread and bean cake, known as akara, on Monday night.

    On why his uncle dumped him there, Danjuma said he does not know.

    “I want to eat rice. It was my ‘brother’, Arase, who put me here. My aunt, who I  stayed with after my mama died, said I don’t have a place in her house.”

    Police spokesman Uwoh Noble said he was yet to be properly briefed about the incident.

    A Director in the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, who pleaded for anonymity, said the government has no place to keep him.

    The Director said they were discussing with a group, Project Charilove, but that it was making things difficult.

    “Please meet our commissioner to hear from her on why we have not gone there.

    “The Permanent Secretary is also aware of the situation,” the director said.

    Coordinator of Forum for Nigeria Women in Politics, Florence Igbinigie, who has been raising awareness on the plight of Danjuma, decried the slow response of the police and government officials.

     

  • ‘I don’t know why my family rejected me’

    Physically challenged Danjuma who was dumped on a refuse heap by his uncle said on Tuesday he does not know why his family rejected him.

    Danjuma, 25, has been on the refuse heap for over 30 days despite heavy rains and scorching heat from the sun.

    The Nation gathered that he was being fed secretly by neighbors.

    Speaking to reporters from atop the refuse heap, Danjuma said his mother died in 2007 and that he was told that his father lived in Port Harcourt.

    Danjuma said he had only eaten bread and bean cake known as “akara” since Monday night.

    On why his uncle dumped him on refuse heap, Danjuma said he does not understand why his family members rejected him.

    “I want to eat rice. It was my brother, Arase that put me here. My aunt that I was staying with after my mummy died said I don’t have a place in her house.”

    The state police spokesman, DSP Uwoh Noble, said he has not been properly briefed on the incident.

     

  • ‘Dustbin man’ yet to be removed

    A 25-year-old man, Danjuma, who was dumped on a refuse heap by his uncle, is yet to be removed.

    The Nation broke the story of his plight last week.

    Danjuma, a physically challenged orphan, was left in the care of relatives by his mother, who reportedly left money for his upkeep.

    Sources said the money was not spent on him as he has been living off the gestures of kind hearted neighbours, who had been giving him food secretly.

    He has reportedly spent over three weeks on the refuse heap before his plight was brought to public knowledge by the Coordinator of Forum of Nigerian Women in Politics, Mrs. Florence Igbinigie.

    It was learnt that neighbours removed Danjuma from the refuse heap after The Nation’s report but his uncle threatened to deal with anyone who cared for him again. He threw him back on the refuse heap.

    Mrs. Igbinigie showed The Nation copies of letters sent to the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Commissioner of Police.

    She said the divisional police officer in charge of the zone said it was not within their responsibility to take Danjuma from the heap.

    The letter reads: “I wish to draw your urgent attention to a 25-year-old cripple who was thrown on a refuse heap by his uncle, Mr. Arase.

    “As we tried to approach the house, the uncle attacked us. Due to his attitude, we suspect more harm could be done to the boy. Hence we write you to please intervene to seek justice for this inhuman treatment.

    “Please use your office to help rehabilitate the boy. We have been caring for him since we learnt about the incident.”

  • ‘Dustbin man’ yet to be removed

    A 25-year-old man, Danjuma, who was dumped on a refuse heap by his uncle, is yet to be removed.

    The Nation broke the story of his plight last week.

    Danjuma, a physically challenged orphan, was left in the care of relatives by his mother, who reportedly left money for his upkeep.

    Sources said the money was not spent on him as he has been living off the gestures of kind hearted neighbours, who had been giving him food secretly.

    He has reportedly spent over three weeks on the refuse heap before his plight was brought to public knowledge by the Coordinator of Forum of Nigerian Women in Politics, Mrs. Florence Igbinigie.

    It was learnt that neighbours removed Danjuma from the refuse heap after The Nation’s report but his uncle threatened to deal with anyone who cared for him again. He threw him back on the refuse heap.

    Mrs. Igbinigie showed The Nation copies of letters sent to the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Commissioner of Police.

    She said the divisional police officer in charge of the zone said it was not within their responsibility to take Danjuma from the heap.

    The letter reads: “I wish to draw your urgent attention to a 25-year-old cripple who was thrown on a refuse heap by his uncle, Mr. Arase.

    “As we tried to approach the house, the uncle attacked us. Due to his attitude, we suspect more harm could be done to the boy. Hence we write you to please intervene to seek justice for this inhuman treatment.

    “Please use your office to help rehabilitate the boy. We have been caring for him since we learnt about the incident.”

  • Man dumps ‘crippled’ nephew on refuse heap

    Man dumps ‘crippled’ nephew on refuse heap

    A 25- year old physically challenged man identified as Danjuma has been allegedly dumped on a refuse heap by his uncle apparently to die.

    Danjuma is the only child of his deceased mother and no family member could locate his father’s whereabouts.

    The Nation gathered that the mother, a former staff of Nigeria Telecommunication, left money for his well being but family members kept it to themselves.

    The refuse heap where Danjuma was dumped is high and our reporter had to climb it to get his photograph.

    Also, journalists were forced to shout in order to talk to him.

    The young man demanded for a plate of rice and stew and said he was kept there by his uncle.

    The wheel chair used by Danjuma was at the refuse heap.

    Neighbors said he was taken up the refuse heap by the uncle after he was left in the rain and sun for many weeks.

    They said the uncle threatened to deal with anybody that gives him (Danjuma) food.

     

  • PDP crisis: G-7 governors visit Obasanjo, Danjuma

    PDP crisis: G-7 governors visit Obasanjo, Danjuma

    Outrage over invasion of  Abuja meeting

    Five of the seven Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) governors fighting for change in the party met yesterday with former President Olusegun Obasanjo in his Abeokuta, Ogun State capital home.

    The five Governors – Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers State), Babangida Aliyu(Niger), Murtala Nyako(Adamawa), Sule Lamido(Jigawa), Rabiu Kwankwaso(Kano), arrived at Obasanjo’s residence around noon. They discussed with the former PDP Board of Trustees chairman for about two hours.

    Two other governors who were expected at the meeting did not turn up.

    It was not clear what they discussed. When the governors emerged from the mansion at 1:50pm, reporters pushed towards Amaechi for an insight into their mission, but he declined, saying his Niger State counterpart should talk for the group.

    Amaechi, who drove himself in a black Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) with Lamido sitting on the passenger’s seat, said the others would stand beside Babangida while speaking to the press.

    According to Aliyu, they were in Obasanjo’s home in continuation of their earlier consultations with PDP elders over matters affecting the party.

    Aliyu, who hinted that the G7-Governors had been “discussing with the President”(Dr Goodluck Jonathan), said the new move was to ascertain if there had been any change in the party.

    Aliyu said: “You may recall that when (the) issues started, we consulted our elders. So, this is part of the consultation; more so that we are coming to the resolution of the matters. We believe that very soon, we’ve been discussing with the President, discussing about these matters.

    “We believe after the lull of the pilgrimages, we are all back; so, we need to consult again to find out if there is any variable that has intervened and we are very happy things are going normal.”

    Told that people were speculating that the G7-Governors came to say goodbye to the ex-president, he said: “I don’t know about that. It’s just speculation.”

    The governors also met with former Head of the Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan and former Minister for Defence, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma in Lagos.

    They met the duo yesterday at their houses in Ikoyi and on Victoria Island to “consult with them on the lingering crisis in the party”.

    Shonekan urged politicians to eschew bitternes as a way to pull the nation out of the wood.

    The governors arrived at Shonekan’s house at about 3:40 pm in a BMW Sports Utility Vehicle.

    Amaechi drove the car. Other governors sat inside. Security aides followed in other cars.

    The meeting with Shonekan lasted for about an hour after which Amaechi said: “We are consulting with the elders across the country on the issues that affect the party and the nation in general. We are talking about the ills in the country.”

    The governor said his planned meeting with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), initially scheduled for yesterday would hold today.

    Shonekan told the governors: “God has given us all the things needed for growth and progress. We must try as much as possible to cooperate with one another, to make sure that the country becomes the envy of all.”

    He said he offer himself to assist in reconciling the warring politicians.

    The governors met with Gen. Danjuma on Victoria Island for one hour as well.