President Bola Tinubu, his predecessor, ex President Muhammadu Buhari and former Nigeria’s Vice President Atiku Abubakar have expressed grief over the death of the chieftain of Yoruba sociocultural group, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo. He died today, Friday, February 14 at the age of 96. In a message of condolence from him personally, President Tinubu said that he received the news of the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, with profound sorrow. He said that with the death of Adebanjo, Nigeria has lost a political leader whose decades of unwavering struggle for justice, democracy, and national unity have left an indelible mark on our nation’s history. “All who knew Baba Adebanjo drew from his boundless wisdom and cherished the democratic ideals he tirelessly campaigned for. “His principled voice, which resonated through decades of political activism, will be deeply missed. As a nation, we will miss his regular interventions in national affairs, which enriched our political discourse. Though we mourn his departure, we are also grateful to God for blessing him with a long, remarkable, purposeful life—96 years of unrelenting advocacy for progress and equity. “Baba, as a lawyer, statesman, and politician, stood among the last of a generation of nationalists and independent heroes who shaped the foundation of our country. “A devoted disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, his contributions spanned political eras, from his role as Organising Secretary of the Action Group in the First Republic to his leadership in the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic. “In moments of national crisis, Baba’s courage shone brightest. When democracy hung in the balance after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, he joined the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) as one of the leading voices against military dictatorship, helping to galvanise a movement that became the bedrock of our collective struggle to reclaim democratic governance. “His unwavering commitment to truth and justice extended to my journey as a governorship candidate in 1999. Baba Adebanjo’s steadfast support was instrumental in my election as Governor of Lagos State under the platform of the Alliance for Democracy. “Though our political paths diverged in later years, my respect and admiration for him never wavered. Until his death, I shared a deep personal bond with Baba Adebanjo; he was like a father figure.” President Tinubu extended his condolences to his family, the Afenifere family, the governors of the Southwest, past and present, and all Nigerians who shared his vision. Also, ex President Buhari described late Pa Adebanjo as “one of the nation’s most notable leaders,” saying that his death was a loss for the nation. “The late Chief Adebanjo was one of those rare politicians who straddled the worlds of the legal profession, politics, and socio-cultural activism.” The former President prayed for the repose of his soul and for fortitude to his family, admirers, and the government and people of Ogun State to bear the loss. This is even as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described late Afenifere leader as a formidable force and a fearless fighter for justice, equity, and an egalitarian society. Atiku recalled the heroic role that Pa Adebanjo played in wresting power from the military and enthroning democratic governance in Nigeria. “He was at the forefront of the fight against military dictatorship. “It is on record that Pa Adebanjo spent his entire youthful days fighting against colonial rule; spent his middle age to fight against military dictatorship and his latter days to ensure that good governance, rule of law and democracy took firm roots in Nigeria. “I wish to state without equivocation that Pa Adebanjo was a golden example of how to live and die for the good of the country. “Apart from mentoring many generations of civil rights activists across different generations, Pa Adebanjo was an activist extraordinaire and bridge builder who led the battle against injustice and oppression from the trenches “Undoubtedly, the life and times of Adebanjo remain a priceless map for contemporary and upcoming activists, who advocate for good governance to learn and take a cue from. “He taught all of us how to be statesmen of distinction.” Atiku extended his condolences to the Adebanjo family and asked them to take solace in the fact that the patriarch who they mourn was a father to the whole country and a pride to the Black race. “I also commiserate with the people and government of Ogun State.”
In a heated session at the inaugural hearing of the House Subcommittee on Delivering Government Efficiency, Republican Congressman Scott Perry accused the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) of diverting taxpayer funds to finance terrorist organizations, including Nigeria’s notorious Boko Haram.
Perry alleged that USAID’s $697 million annual budget—and additional undisclosed cash shipments—was used to support groups such as ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and Boko Haram, a jihadist faction that has waged a 15-year insurgency in West Africa.
He emphasized the catastrophic impact of Boko Haram, citing over 300,000 child deaths, 2.3 million displaced civilians, and prolonged regional famine. “Your money isn’t building schools—it’s funding terrorist training camps,” he asserted.
The congressman also spotlighted USAID’s $136 million allocation for constructing 120 schools in Pakistan, claiming there was no evidence to prove any of these schools exist. “The Inspector General can’t verify a single brick was laid, yet we doubled down with $20 million for educational TV programs for ‘students’ of these phantom schools,” Perry stated, contending that the spending served as a conduit for terrorism financing.
His remarks echoed earlier criticisms from former President Donald Trump, who moved to shutter USAID over corruption allegations, as well as those from Elon Musk, the agency’s vocal critic and head of the newly formed efficiency department. Musk has accused USAID of engaging in covert operations, including funding “rogue CIA activities” and pandemic-linked bioweapon research.
Perry’s allegations, which have drawn intense scrutiny, have reignited debates over USAID’s accountability as lawmakers push for comprehensive transparency reforms. The agency has yet to issue a public response to the claims.
Former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and an activist, Professor Usman Yusuf has vowed not to be intimated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dictatorial and autocratic leadership. In a long write-up he did and sent out from Kuje Prison after he was arrested by officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in December last year, the activist said: “I would like to assure all Nigerians that I will never be silenced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dictatorial and autocratic leadership, which is forcefully suppressing any legitimate opposition to his misrule of our fatherland.” In the write-up, Professor Usman Yusuf narrated how and why he was arrested, saying that he had felt the haunting presence of the state stalking him since he started publicly criticising the policies of President Tinubu’s government that have been inflicting unbearable hardships on Nigerians. He admitted that security agents have been physically and electronically tracking him and his family on the orders of this government. Professor Usman Yusuf narrated that on Saturday, 25 January 2025, he was invited to Bauchi to chair the maiden summit of Tafiyar Matasan Arewa, a Northern Youth Movement with branches in all 19 Northern states. The write-up is reproduced hereunder: The summit theme was the role of youths in nation-building. Most speakers spoke in Hausa, but I communicated in both Hausa and English to reach a wider audience. I called on the youths to wake up and take their destinies in their hands because nations are built by the youths, not the aged. I spoke on the following 10 points: 1. Northern Nigeria has only itself to blame for the hardships this government is inflicting on its people, despite contributing 62% of the votes to its election victory. 2. The Muslim-Muslim ticket of the ruling Party APC in the 2023 Presidential elections was an electoral scam that has done nothing but deceived people and widened the fissure between Muslims and Christians in the region. 3. There has been a premeditated plan to divide peoples of the north with insecurity (Boko Haram, Banditry, Lakurawa, etc.), inter-ethnic strife between Hausas and Fulanis in the Northwest and Fulanis and other ethnic groups in the rest of the region. Religious divide and suspicions have been exacerbated by the ruling party’s Muslim-Muslim ticket. 4. Pervasive insecurity has devastated the region and destroyed its social fabric making it poorer, hungrier and very dangerous. 5. Systemic balkanisation and bastardisation of the region’s respected traditional institutions, as in Kano and Adamawa states. 6. Corruption and manipulation of some Clerics in the region by the government for them to pacify the suffering masses. 7. This government is now sponsoring its Hausa political singers to sing songs that fan embers of hatred and enmity between the peoples of northern Nigeria and their brethren in Niger Republic. 8. Deterioration of the relationship between Nigeria and Niger Republic and the exit of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger from the ECOWAS are bad news for the security and socio-economic wellbeing of Nigeria and northern Nigeria in particular. 9. President Tinubu’s romance with France is a big concern for the security of Nigeria and the West African subregion and a harbinger of bad things to come. 10. This Government needs to review and reverse its economic policies that are causing unbearable hardships for citizens. Finally, I called upon Northern youths to remain united, shun all acts of violence and criminality, engage positively in the political process, and resist any person or group trying to use religion or ethnicity to divide the people of the region. The event received very wide press coverage. In the evening after the event when I returned to my hotel accommodation, I noticed some strange people in the lobby, hallway, and restaurant that I immediately knew were security agents stalking me. Abduction and detention for 6 days at the EFCC: From Wed. 29 Jan. to Mon. 3 Feb. 2025 On Wednesday, 29 January 2025, at around 6:30pm, as I was preparing to break my fast, my wife came upstairs to inform me that two gentlemen in black suits knocked at the door and came inside the house, saying I knew they were coming. I came downstairs in my Jallabiyya (robe), no cap, with bathroom slippers to meet these gentlemen who introduced themselves as operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) directed to take me to their headquarters. I asked them for their badges, which they showed me with an apology for the oversight. I asked for an arrest warrant, and they told me that they did not need one. I also asked why I was not sent any formal invitation letter before this intrusive visit. I then asked to be allowed to go upstairs to change but was physically blocked by these operatives. I also asked for my wife to be allowed to go upstairs and bring me a change of clothing, but they refused to allow that. On stepping outside the house, there were 5 armed mobile policemen, some deployed to the back of my house, presumably to prevent me from escaping through the back door or window. The engine of the bus they came in was left running with the driver sitting inside. In the heat of argument, my wife got into a shouting match with the lead operative, which made her say a few unpleasant words that provoked him and the rest of his team. My 14-year-old daughter was understandably very shaken by this act of state terror. I shouted out some words of consolation to her because I was blocked from going close to hug and talk to her. I asked my wife to call my brothers and Lawyers to let them know. The lead operative angrily seized my phone from my hand and literally bundled me onto the bus, seating me between him and an armed mobile policeman. The driver then zoomed off, driving crazily, sometimes against the flow of traffic to the EFCC headquarters. All the dark-suited operatives and the five armed mobile policemen in the bus were gleefully high-fiving themselves as if they had captured Kachalla Bello Turji, the notorious Zamfara bandit kingpin. Let us be clear, the main purpose of these cowardly Gestapo tactics by the EFCC was to use the instrument of state to intimidate and terrorise my family. As for me, I was not the least impressed or intimidated by this shameful act of state terror. On arriving at the EFCC, the five armed mobile policemen were dismissed with a part on the back for a job well done while I was escorted by the dark-suited operatives upstairs to the office of head of Procurement Fraud Section (PFS) to whom I introduced myself and asked why he sent his operatives to abduct me from my house to his office. He just handed me a bunch of papers, and he said were my charges asking me to sign, which I did after some back and forth. I asked him for a bottle of water to break my fast, which he obliged, and to be allowed to call my wife. Unfortunately, my phone battery had run down. I was refused a phone call to tell my wife and daughter where and how I was. After signing and collecting a copy of the charges against me, the boss PFS who seemed in a rush to close for the day, asked his assistant to take his bag downstairs to his car as if I was the last item on his to-do list for the day. No one told me why I was abducted, whether or not I was going to be detained, when I would be allowed access to my family and Lawyers, or when I would be arraigned in court to answer the charges labelled against me. I was then taken on foot around the main building to the detention cells. After being processed, I asked to be allowed to say my evening prayers (Maghrib and Isha), after which I was taken to my cell, which I shared with three other detainees. Many of the detainees, especially the youths, recognised me and came over to greet and offer their prayers and best wishes. My three cellmates accorded me all the courtesy and respect befitting my grey hairs. They gave me a sachet of pure water and a cup of hot tea, which helped ease my headache, resulting from caffeine withdrawal and hunger from 20 hours of fasting. Detainees sleep on thin mattresses that touch each other on a bare floor. My cellmates offered me the privileged position of being next to the wall. It was now 11 p.m., the lights were turned off, and the cell doors were locked with keys from outside. I laid down in the dark, pained that I had not spoken with my wife and daughter to tell them where and how I was doing. Soon after the lights went out, one of my cellmates started snoring loudly, ordinarily, this would have kept me awake, but I fell asleep until awoken by the metallic clanging sound of the cell guards opening the cells for morning prayers at 5am. We came out to say our prayers in a small recess on the corridor. My name was called out at 7am on Thursday, 30 January 2025, and told to get ready to be taken to court at 8am. On coming out of the building housing the detention cells with my interrogation officer (IO), a photographer of the media unit of the EFCC was strategically stationed to be taking my pictures unshaven, in bathroom slippers, no cap and in the same clothing that I was abducted from my house the evening before. It was then very obvious to me that one of the directives to the EFCC was to publicly humiliate, demunanise, and weaken my spirit in addition to smearing my reputation and integrity with frivolous made-up charges. When I got into the bus, I jokingly told the operatives that they had forgotten to put on hands and legs, cuffs, and chains on me. They busted out laughing, saying, “Haba Oga, e no reach dat level”. The judge adjourned the date of my arraignment to Monday, 3 February 2025, because lawyers of the EFCC were not prepared, which meant four more days of detention in EFCC’s cell for me. On arriving back at the EFCC, my wife was waiting with a fresh change of clothing and a home-cooked meal; the last time I had anything to eat was about 40 hours ago. I gently reminded her that our fight is not with the EFCC or its operatives but with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s corrupt and tyrannical government. I convinced her to come upstairs with me for her to apologize to the operative she got into a shouting match with when they came to our house to abduct me the night before. Her apology worked magic because it got me an upgrade from the cell I shared with three other detainees to a single cell all to myself. The boredom of detention was eased by visits from family and friends, taking walks on the long corridor of the cells, reading the Qur’an, getting enough rest and mentally tuning out of the hustle and bustle of the outside world, I felt the comforting warmth of an inner peace and calmness that I had never experienced in my life. On the day of my arraignment on Monday, 3 February 2025, the Court was packed full with lawyers, youth organisations, and activists. After my arraignment, the judge ordered that I should be remanded in Kuje Prison until 12 February 2025, when she could hear my Lawyers’ bail application. This ended my six days of detention in the EFCC and the beginning of nine days of Incarceration in Kuje Prison. I was promptly taken to the Prison by EFCC operatives in their bus and handed over to the Nigerian Correctional Service, First 9 days of incarceration in Kuje Prison: From Mon. 3 to Wed 12 Feb. 2025 The name Kuje Prison from the outside feels like going to the dark beyond. My experience from the first day I got in to the day I exited was anything but. I found the staff of the Nigerian Correctional Service in Kuje to be compassionate, courteous, supportive, and very professional in the conduct of their duties. They treated the inmates, majority of whom are youths, as humans with the utmost of respect, support, and understanding. I was processed and taken to my new home, called the segregation unit, which houses VIP inmates. Although the setting is relaxed with some few privileges, one is constantly reminded of the loss of his freedom by round the clock presence of guards, CCTVs in the hallway and the courtyard that are monitored both within the Prison and remotely at the headquarters and the fact that the guards locked the door to each cell from the outside each day at 8pm and opened next day at 7am which is 11 hours locked up in a hot cell measuring about 10 by 6 feet with onky one window. The 13 hours of freedom within the Prison yard are invaluable. One could freely walk to the mosque on the other side of the Prison for Zuhr and Asr, the only 2 prayers that are done in a congregation in the mosque because prisoner cells are locked from 6pm to 9am. Kuje Prison brought back memories of my boarding school days with the prisoners policing themselves. Each prisoner knows his assigned job the moment they are let out of their cells in the morning. The yard is kept very clean, and the relationship between wardens and the prisoners is that of mutual respect. The prisoners seemed aware of happenings on the outside. Many of them would come to me to offer words of support. As soon as they found out who I was, I kept getting requests to meet with various individuals and groups who wanted me to advocate for them when I get out, they seemed to have forgotten that I also had my own wahala. I sat down with and heard from young men accused or convicted of being Boko Haram, Bandits, IPOB, Shiites protesters, armed robbers, drug traffickers, murderers, rapists, lifers, 419ers, the list of alleged crimes goes on and on. I also went to the Prison clinic to meet with the staff and patients. I visited the kitchen where prisons did the cooking. I went to and talked to prisoners in the skills acquisition workshops, the small sparsely stocked library and the Nigerian Open University building. I didn’t enter the cells of the inmates but watched them play football matches. It was very sad to see our youths in the prime of their lives wasting away. What was very painful to hear was the stories of many prisoners awaiting trial some for over 10 years. Kuje Prison with an original capacity of 560 inmates, now holds 960 with 198 (21%) convicted while 765 (79%) awaiting trial. I considered my spending time in Kuje Prison as a blessing and an education I would never have gotten from any classroom. It was a privilege to hear and see the sufferings, trials and tribulations of these young men. I promised to do my part when I get out to reach officials and agencies that can help make things better. 15 more days of Incarceration in Kuje Prison: Wed. 12 Feb. to Thurs. 27 Feb. 2025 We returned to court today, Wednesday 12 February 2025, for the judge to hear my Lawyers’ bail application. The judge promptly adjourned to Thursday 27 February 2025 to give her ruling whether to grant me bail or not. I was taken back to the prison to spend 15 more days. Conclusion I have full confidence in my legal team to vigorously defend me against the baseless recycled falsehoods the EFCC charged me with, to which I pleaded not guilty to all. My family and I are deeply touched and remain eternally grateful for the overwhelming support from people all across the country and abroad. I would like to assure all Nigerians that I will never be silenced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dictatorial and autocratic leadership, which is forcefully suppressing any legitimate opposition to his misrule of our fatherland. I call on all well-meaning Nigerians to resist these dangerous traits that are reminiscent of the dark days of military rule in Nigeria.
Thank You, And God Bless The Federal Republic of Nigeria.
● Usman Yusuf is a Professor of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation
A foremost leader of the Afenifere, leading nationalist and elder statesman, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo, has died at the age of 96. Adebanjo died today, February 14, at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State. The family confirmed his passing in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday. The statement was signed on behalf of the family by Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo. “He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos Nigeria home at the age of 96,” the statement read. Adebanjo, a distinguished lawyer, former organising secretary of the Action Group, and the national leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, along with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. “We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, and justice. His belief and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was total, and this he fought for until he breathed his last breath.” The family said that consultations are ongoing with Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various interest groups across Nigeria and beyond to finalise plans for his funeral. Details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course. Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at his residence at 8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, as well as his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
All thanks and praise are due to Allah, from Whom we seek help and forgiveness. We seek refuge with Allah from the evils of ourselves and the evil consequences of our deeds. Whoever Allah guides will never be misled and whoever strays from Him will never find a guide. I bear witness that there is no god except Allah. Likewise, I bear witness that Muhammad (Peace be upon him) is the servant and the Messenger of Allah. Dear brothers and sisters! The month of Ramadan has arrived again, the month of fasting and prayer. It is the month that provides an opportunity for forgiveness from Allah and emancipation from our sins. It is the month for performing good deeds and giving in charity. It is the month when the gates of the heavens are opened and the rewards for our deeds are magnified many times over. It is the month wherein prayers are answered and the status of the worshipper is elevated. It is the month wherein sins are forgiven. Allah bestows so many blessings upon his servants in the month of Ramadan. This is the month of fasting that is one of the five pillars of Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) fasted during this month and directed his followers to do the same. He told us that whoever fasts this month with faith, seeking Allah’s reward, will have all of his past sins forgiven. He likewise informed us that whoever stands in prayer throughout this month will have all of his past sins forgiven. The month of Ramadan contains within it a night that is superior to a thousand months. Whoever is denied the goodness of that night is indeed deprived. We should welcome this month and embrace it with happiness and joy. We should have the truest resolve to observe the fasts and the prayers and to compete in doing righteous deeds. During this month, we should ardently repent for all of our sins and encourage each other to engage in virtuous deeds and call to what is right and forbid what is wrong. In this way, we will succeed in attaining the blessings and the great rewards of Ramadan. The fast provides us with many benefits and is full of wisdom. It purifies and strengthens our hearts. It rids us of our baser tendencies like exuberance, arrogance, and stinginess. It reinforces our good traits like fortitude, clemency, and generosity. It supports us in our inner struggle to please Allah and attain nearness to Him. Fasting teaches us about ourselves and our needs. It shows us how weak we are and how truly dependent we are upon our Lord. It shows us how much Allah has blessed us. We are reminded of our brethren those who are less fortunate and are inspired to treat them well. We are compelled to thank Allah and to use the blessings He has provided us in obedience to Him. Allah the Almighty draws attention to these many benefits when he says: “O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it has been prescribed for those who were before you that you may learn self-restraint.” [Surah al-Baqarah: 183] In this Qur’anic verse, Allah makes it clear that he prescribed fasting in order to purify us. Fasting is a means for us to learn self-restraint and cultivate our piety. Piety is to observe the commandments and prohibitions of Allah and His Messenger (Peace be upon him) sincerely out of our love and reverence for Allah, and to avoid His punishment and anger. Fasting is a great act of piety in itself and a great means of increasing our piety in all aspects of our religious and worldly lives. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) pointed out one of the benefits of fasting when he said: “O young people, whoever among you has the wherewithal to marry should do so, because it assists us in lowering our gazes and safeguarding our private parts. Whoever cannot do so should fast, because fasting diminishes sexual power.” The reason that fasting has this effect is because Shaitan (Satan) flows like blood through our veins. Fasting constrains this flow while and acts as a reminder of Allah and His greatness, thereby reducing Satan’s influence over the fasting person while at the same time his faith strengthening. He naturally starts engaging in more acts of obedience and fewer acts of sin. There are many other benefits of fasting that we can discover with a little thought and reflection. Fasting is good for bodily health. It gives the body a chance to purify itself of accumulated poisons, a fact which has been confirmed by numerous and famous medical doctors. The sacred texts speak quite extensively about the virtues of fasting in the month of Ramadan and about it being a duty upon the believers. Allah the Almighty says: “O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it has been prescribed for those who were before you that you may learn self-restraint. Fasting for a fixed number of days. The month of Ramadan in which the Qur’an was revealed, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and the criterion. So whoever witnesses the month should fast it. And whoever is sick or upon a journey should fast the same number of days (later on). Allah wishes ease for you and he does not wish hardship upon you. He wants that you should complete the period and that you should exalt Allah for that to which he has guided you that perhaps you may be thankful.” [Surah al-Baqarah: 183-185] The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: “Islam is built upon five things (pillars): testifying that there is no God but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, establishing prayer, paying Zakah, fasting the month of Ramadan, and the pilgrimage to the House.” [Bukhari and Muslim] When the angel Gabriel asked the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) about Islam, he replied: “Islam is to bear witness that there is no God but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, to establish prayer, to pay charity, to fast the month of Ramadan, and to perform pilgrimage to the House if you are able to make the journey.” [Sunan al-Tirmidhi] Angel Jibril (Gabriel) then said: “You have spoken the truth.” Then he said: “Tell me about faith.” Allah’s Messenger (Peace be upon him) replied: “It is to believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His Messengers, the Last Day, and divine decree, both the good and bad of it.” He said: “You have spoken the truth. Tell me about excellence in faith.” Allah’s Messenger replied: “It is to worship Allah as though you see Him, and though you do not see Him, you know that He sees you.” He said: “You have spoken the truth.” [Muslim] Respected brothers and sisters! This Hadîth is of considerable importance and deserves serious thought and consideration. Once Mu’az Bin Jabal said to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him): “Tell me about some deed that will admit me into Paradise and distance me from the Hellfire.” The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) replied: “You have asked about something great, yet it is very simple for one for whom Allah makes it easy. Worship Allah and do not associate anything with him in worship. Establish prayer, pay Zakah, fast the month of Ramadan, and undertake the pilgrimage to the House if you are able to do so.” Then the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him added: “Should I not inform you about the gates of goodness? Fasting is a shield. Charity extinguishes sins like water extinguishes fire.” [Sunan al-Tirmidhi] Dear servants of Allah! Fasting is a most virtuous act with a reward commensurate with its greatness. This is especially true in Ramadan, since Allah has made fasting therein an obligation upon the believers and a means of their attaining peace and salvation. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: “Every deed of the human being is for himself and its reward is multiplied for him from ten to seven hundred times. Allah says: ‘Except for fasting, for truly it is for Me and I alone will reward it, for verily he abandoned his desires, his food, and his drink for my sake.’ The one who fasts experiences two joys, one upon breaking his fast and one when he meets his Lord. Surely the breath of the fasting person is sweeter to Allah than the fragrance of musk.” [Bukhari and Muslim] The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: “When Ramadan commences, the gates of Paradise (Jannah) are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are bound in chains.” [Bukhari and Muslim] The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: “On the first night of Ramadan, the devils and rebellious jinn are bound in chains, The gates of Paradise are opened until not a single gate remains closed. The gates of Hell are bound shut until not a single gate remains open. Then a caller calls out: ‘O desirer of good, go forth! O desirer of evil, restrain yourself! Allah is emancipating people from the Fire every night’.” [Sunan al-Tirmidhi] On the eve of Ramadan, the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) gave a beautiful sermon and said: “O people! A great and blessed month is coming upon you, a month containing a night better than a thousand months. Allah has made fasting in its days an obligation and observing prayer in its nights a voluntary act. Anyone who seeks nearness to Allah in this month through any virtuous act will be like one who carried out a religious obligation at another time, and anyone who performs an obligatory act of worship in this month will be like one who performed seventy such acts at another time. It is the month of patience, and the reward for patience is Paradise.” [Sahih Ibn Khuzaimah] Dear brothers and sisters! We must seize the opportunity presented to us in this blessed month and appreciate the greatness of this time by engaging in all the worship that we can. We must hasten to perform good deeds. Allah has made this month a time for worship and for competing with one another in righteousness and goodness. We must increase our prayer and our spending in charity. We must busy ourselves with reading the Qur’an. We must hasten to help the poor, the needy, and the orphans. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) was the most generous of all people and he was even more generous in Ramadan. We must follow the good example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) by redoubling our efforts in this blessed month. We need to safeguard the blessings of our fasts from our sins and our shortcomings. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: “Whoever does not leave off false speech and false conduct, Allah has no need of his leaving off food and drink.” [Bukhari] The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: “When any one of you is observing the fast for the day, he should neither indulge in obscene language nor raise his voice. If someone insults him or quarrels with him, he should say: ‘I am fasting’.” [Bukhari and Muslim] Respected brothers and sisters! Wallahi, we must beseech Allah for forgiveness in this great month and do all that we can to take advantage of this precious time. We must avoid committing any offence against the fast that will diminish its blessings and invoke Allah’s anger. Therefore, we must not be negligent of our prayers or stingy with our zakah, sadaqah and charity. We must not consume interest or the property of the orphans. We must not steal, oppress anyone, or disrespect our parents. We must not spurn our kinfolk. We must avoid backbiting, slander, lies, and falsehood. We must eschew false oaths and claims. We must not shave or trim our beards or leave our moustaches to grow. We must not listen to song and musical instruments. Women must not make a wanton display of themselves and men should not mix with them. These sins are forbidden throughout the year, but in Ramadan they are even more forbidden and more sinful. We must fear Allah and avoid what Allah and His Messenger (Peace be upon him) have prohibited us. We must be upright in our obedience in Ramadan and throughout the rest of the year. We should call one another to this and by doing so attain the success and salvation that this blessed and great month promises us. Dear brothers and sisters! As usual, please, we are soliciting to you, to assit us, help us, give us your Zakah, your sadaqah, your charity and your donations during this 1446/2025 Ramadan. Indeed, in our great country, Nigeria, in African countries and around the world, orphans and children are facing hunger, poverty, fear and the loss of healthcare and education due to the insecurity, conflict and the climate crisis. In our Islamic center, our teams are working tirelessly to provide the resources orphans and children need to overcome war, famine and other crises – helping them build brighter, more hopeful futures.
This Ramadan, as we come together to celebrate the blessed and great Month, it is important to reflect on those in need. During Ramadan, and all year long, by donating what you can afford, you can help give hope to our orphans, our boys and girls in our Islamic schools. Your Zakah, Sadaqah, charity and donations can make a difference in the lives of children and their families, especially in this Ramadan. Please, donate to help our orphans, children and the needy. Donate to help our Islamic schools. Donate to help our Da’awah activities, FISABILILLAH! Our this year’s (1446/2025) Ramadan target is: Ten million naira (₦10,000,000) In Shaa Allah. And all those who intend to donate food items, clothes etc, our doors are always open In Shaa Allah. The following are our bank details: Account number: 1779691620 Account name: Murtala Muhammed Access Bank. Or: Account number: 0048647196 Account name: Murtala Muhammed GTBank For more information call the following contacts: 08038289761, 08056557477, 09158822160, 09019183949. We’re looking forward to your Zakah, your Sadaqah, your charity and your donations In Shaa Allah. Lastly, I ask Allah the Almighty to reform all our affairs, to provide us with strong will to change our situation for the better and to provide the entire Ummah with glory, strength and unity. I ask Him also to accept our deeds, prayers, and supplications. I also pray, may the Almighty Allah remove all our tears, all our worries, all our sorrows and all our pains and replace them with complete happiness, complete smiles and complete good health, ameen Ya Mujib! All perfect praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds. May the peace, blessings and salutations of Allah be upon our noble Messenger, Muhammad (Peace be upon him), and upon his family, his Companions and his true followers.
Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of Nagazi-Uvete Jumu’ah Mosque and Late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okene Mosque, Okene, Kogi State. He can be reached via: gusauimam@gmail.com; or +2348038289761.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has assured stakeholders, including depositors of the safety of their funds in the wake of the acquisition of the bank by the Federal Government through a court ruling. A statement today, February 14 by the apex Bank’s spokesperson, Hakama Sidi All, said: “following the court order that the shares of Keystone Bank Limited previously held by the shareholders be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) wishes to reassure the public that Keystone Bank Limited remains safe, sound, and fully operational.” CBN acknowledged that the acquisition of Keystone Bank might have triggered customer concerns, but stressed that “the stability of the banking system and the safety of depositors’ funds remain our top priorities. “Keystone Bank’s operations are entirely secure, and there is no reason for concern. For clarity, the Court Order merely reaffirmed the Central Bank of Nigeria’s prior decision to take over the management of Keystone Bank Limited in January 2024, following a change in its leadership. Since then, the CBN has closely monitored the bank’s operations to ensure they are in full compliance with regulatory standards, operational transparency, and the interests of depositors. “As part of our commitment to safeguarding the financial system and building public trust, we shall continue to monitor the bank’s performance. “We will take all necessary steps to protect the interests of depositors, staff and stakeholders. “Customers are also encouraged to contact Keystone Bank’s customer support or visit any Keystone Bank branch for inquiries or concerns.
“Strike has never solved any problem; rather it has created more problems. So, I believe that within a short time, we will sort it out.” These were the remarks of the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike, when he addressed newsmen today, February 13, on the ongoing strike action by primary school teachers in the federal city. The teachers are demanding from the six Area Council Administration, the immediate implementation of the new national minimum wage. Wike told newsmen that when the information got to him about the strike, he asked the Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud to find out why the teachers were on strike, saying: “it is not good. We are talking about the interest of Nigerians, not the interest of a few. The Minister acknowledged the teachers’ demands for the implementation of the national minimum wage, assuring that the administration will work with the Area Councils to ensure compliance. He said: “It’s really unfortunate that they have gone on strike over this issue of minimum wage. But we will make sure that the teachers will go back. We will do everything we can to see that the Area Councils implement the minimum wage as approved by the National Assembly.” However, the Minister emphasized the importance of dialogue and consultation, urging the teachers to also consider the impact that the strike will have on the FCT children. “I have also said that the teachers should also know that we are talking about the impact; before you go on strike like this, have proper dialogue and consultation.”
The city of Abuja is, indeed, a modern one, reflecting development-in-progress as Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. The territory is subdivided into six Area Councils, being of equal status to Local Governments in Nigeria. The Government of Nigeria that muted and executed the movement of the seat of power from Lagos to Abuja must have considered the distorted and congestive state of Lagos being the erstwhile Federal Capital. The city of Abuja is privileged to have emerged in advanced era of technology and electronic devices that could be used to track, plan, control crime and criminality but such is being obstructed and most often, unimplemented due to decay in our institutions and endemic corruption of security and relevant personnel. Those are the ones entrusted with enforcement in order to have a seamless and low crime modern city. Road networks and urban planning of Abuja should have been one of the best in Africa but, the menace of lawless road users being encouraged by criminally minded traffic enforcers have remained a cankerworm and destroyers of the good dream of developing Abuja into one of the most beautiful cities in Africa. Security enforcers and road managers cutting across the police traffic departments, Vehicle Inspection Officers, (VIO) Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) are culpable in encouraging and clogging the wheel of progress to the sanitization of Abuja from criminal and criminalities. Most flashpoints of traffic violations such as beating traffic lights, plying of One-Ways are being selectively “enforced.” The enforcement is often made on cash induced basis. In fact, such situation is often not the type that can deter traffic offenders. If you are a “big man” or “big madam” and drive around area such as Rita Lori junction along Ahmadu Bello Way through to dead end of Gudu Market and you beat the traffic light, all you need to do is to part with crispy Naira notes for traffic enforcers who would just counsel, threaten and or intimidate you about having your vehicle impounded. At the end, you would be allowed a soft landing from all such threats after corruptly greasing the palm of the officers. Most of the culprits in this lawlessness are drivers of rickety commercial vehicles, as well as delivery riders. All such lawlessness and bribe taking are done by officers who obviously don’t mind whose ox is gored, and in what looks like a synergy amongst the traffic wardens and the FRSC patrol team. These law officers, at the alter of what they corruptly gain from such outing, do overlook breach of traffic light, none use of seatbelts, hyper overloading of vehicles, over expired and life threatening, time bomb worn out Tyres. Grateful for the recent court ruling against the lawless activities of VIOs, a department that is completely enmeshed in corrupt practices. Apo bridge is another dangerous spot where you encounter chaotic display of lawless NAPEP riders and unofficial non gazetted, one-chance-like “enforcers” who are good at snatching car keys from innocent motorists for parking to drop relatives, or family members. Still under the watchful eyes of Police, you sometimes innocently fall victim to their harassment and extortion. It must be stressed that impunity, recklessness of commercial road users and traffic violations are destroying the traffic architecture of Abuja metropolis as a result of selective enforcement, motivated and encouraged by corrupt infractions of the enforcers. These enforcers, seem to be officially operating without adequate supervision and accountability by the relevant Government institutions. Abuja city should be made to enjoy a seamless and less criminal activity in terms of traffic system. Relevant institutions should rise to address the growing corruption trends in the city, brooking no sacred cow or selective enforcement of traffic offenders.. In the word of Robert Kennedy: “Every society gets the kind of criminal it deserves. What is equally true is that every community gets the kind of law enforcement it insists on.” Let there be equity in our justice system and in implementation as well as enforcement. Mr. Emmanuel is a Public Affairs Analyst, and wrote in from Abuja Email: oohinoyi@yahoo.com
A federal high court in Abuja has discharged and acquitted Ishaq Modibbo Kawu, former Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), of fraud allegations. Modibbo Kawu was first arraigned in May 2019 on a 12-count charge alongside Dipo Onifade, Pinnacle Communications Limited and its former chairman, Lucky Omoluwa. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) accused the defendants of allegedly paying N2.5 billion seed grant for the digital switchover (DSO) project to Pinnacle Communications Limited. ICPC charged Modibbo Kawu with abuse of office, money laundering and misleading a public officer with the intent to defraud the federal government. The act was said to contravene sections 26 (1) (c) and punishable under the section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. Although the defendants filed a no-case submission, it was later dismissed by the federal high court and also dismissed by the court of appeal. The defendants, except Omoluwa who died in February 2020, were later re-arraigned on a five-count charge in December 2020. Delivering judgment today, February 13, the trial judge, Justice Folasade Giwa-Ogunbanjo, held that the ICPC was not able to prove the allegations against the defendants. The judge discharged the defendants on the grounds that the statements and evidences of the witnesses could not link any allegation against the defendants. Source: TheCable.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has enumerated a number of the benefits of Radio to the growth and development of a society. Speaking as the world celebrates this year’s World Radio Day today, February 13, Ododo noted that the unique ability of Radio to reach a wide audience transcend geographical boundaries and provide a platform for diverse voices. Such outreach, he stressed, makes Radio to be an indispensable tool for promoting understanding, empathy, unity and social change. “We are reminded of the importance of radio in promoting development, democracy, human rights and social change. “Our investment in climate-resilient agricultural practice and sustainable development and the premium we have placed on expanding access to information through broadcasting and radio in particular resonate with the theme of this year’s celebration, Ismaila Isah, Special Adviser on Media to the Governor”, quoted the governor to have said The Governor reiterated the commitment of his administration to support the growth and development of radio, stressing that radio has the power to transform lives, promote education and health, and foster economic growth and development. The Governor used the occasion to restate his administration’s commitment to promoting inclusion in governance and leaving no voices unheard in the governance of the state. He said that he had demonstrated this by ensuring the participation of youth, women, people living with disabilities and all stakeholders from different ethnic, religious and political affiliations in the administration, he said. “I am delighted to join the rest of the world in celebrating this year’s World Radio Day. I recognize the immense contribution of radio to our state’s development and the nation at large. Radio has been a trusted companion to millions of people around the world, providing news, entertainment and education. “It has been a powerful tool for social change, promoting understanding as a platform for all voices to be heard.” Reflecting on the theme of this year’s celebration, “Radio and Climate Change,” Governor Ododo noted that the celebration presents an opportunity for people around the world to acknowledge the pivotal role radio plays in raising awareness about climate change, promoting and supporting communities affected by climate-related challenges.
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Abuja City And The Impunity Of Traffic Law Enforcers, By Emmanuel Omuya Yusuf
The city of Abuja is, indeed, a modern one, reflecting development-in-progress as Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. The territory is subdivided into six Area Councils, being of equal status to Local Governments in Nigeria.
The Government of Nigeria that muted and executed the movement of the seat of power from Lagos to Abuja must have considered the distorted and congestive state of Lagos being the erstwhile Federal Capital.
The city of Abuja is privileged to have emerged in advanced era of technology and electronic devices that could be used to track, plan, control crime and criminality but such is being obstructed and most often, unimplemented due to decay in our institutions and endemic corruption of security and relevant personnel. Those are the ones entrusted with enforcement in order to have a seamless and low crime modern city.
Road networks and urban planning of Abuja should have been one of the best in Africa but, the menace of lawless road users being encouraged by criminally minded traffic enforcers have remained a cankerworm and destroyers of the good dream of developing Abuja into one of the most beautiful cities in Africa.
Security enforcers and road managers cutting across the police traffic departments, Vehicle Inspection Officers, (VIO) Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) are culpable in encouraging and clogging the wheel of progress to the sanitization of Abuja from criminal and criminalities.
Most flashpoints of traffic violations such as beating traffic lights, plying of One-Ways are being selectively “enforced.” The enforcement is often made on cash induced basis. In fact, such situation is often not the type that can deter traffic offenders.
If you are a “big man” or “big madam” and drive around area such as Rita Lori junction along Ahmadu Bello Way through to dead end of Gudu Market and you beat the traffic light, all you need to do is to part with crispy Naira notes for traffic enforcers who would just counsel, threaten and or intimidate you about having your vehicle impounded. At the end, you would be allowed a soft landing from all such threats after corruptly greasing the palm of the officers. Most of the culprits in this lawlessness are drivers of rickety commercial vehicles, as well as delivery riders.
All such lawlessness and bribe taking are done by officers who obviously don’t mind whose ox is gored, and in what looks like a synergy amongst the traffic wardens and the FRSC patrol team.
These law officers, at the alter of what they corruptly gain from such outing, do overlook breach of traffic light, none use of seatbelts, hyper overloading of vehicles, over expired and life threatening, time bomb worn out Tyres.
Grateful for the recent court ruling against the lawless activities of VIOs, a department that is completely enmeshed in corrupt practices.
Apo bridge is another dangerous spot where you encounter chaotic display of lawless NAPEP riders and unofficial non gazetted, one-chance-like “enforcers” who are good at snatching car keys from innocent motorists for parking to drop relatives, or family members.
Still under the watchful eyes of Police, you sometimes innocently fall victim to their harassment and extortion.
It must be stressed that impunity, recklessness of commercial road users and traffic violations are destroying the traffic architecture of Abuja metropolis as a result of selective enforcement, motivated and encouraged by corrupt infractions of the enforcers. These enforcers, seem to be officially operating without adequate supervision and accountability by the relevant Government institutions.
Abuja city should be made to enjoy a seamless and less criminal activity in terms of traffic system. Relevant institutions should rise to address the growing corruption trends in the city, brooking no sacred cow or selective enforcement of traffic offenders..
In the word of Robert Kennedy: “Every society gets the kind of criminal it deserves. What is equally true is that every community gets the kind of law enforcement it insists on.”
Let there be equity in our justice system and in implementation as well as enforcement.
Mr. Emmanuel is a Public Affairs Analyst, and wrote in from Abuja
Email: oohinoyi@yahoo.com