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Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has pledged full support to the family of the late human rights activist, Comrade Abiodun Aremu, who recently died in a tragic hit-and-run incident in Ogun State.

Speaking through former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, who represented him at the burial ceremony held on Thursday in Sango-Ota, Ogun State, the governor described the late activist as a courageous fighter who dedicated his life to the struggle for democracy, justice, and human rights in Nigeria.

Governor Sani extolled Comrade Aremu’s steadfastness during the dark years of military dictatorship, noting that his sacrifices and resilience contributed immensely to the democratic freedom Nigerians enjoy today.

“Comrade Aremu was a man of conviction and courage who stood on the side of truth, even in the face of intimidation and persecution. His contributions to the pro-democracy struggle will never be forgotten,” Governor Uba Sani stated.

The burial ceremony attracted a large turnout of prominent activists and civil society leaders from across the country, including Chief Femi Falana (SAN), Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, and representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), and Trade Union Congress (TUC), as well as veteran student leaders such as Segun Maiyegun.

In his tribute, Chief Femi Falana (SAN) described the deceased as “one of Nigeria’s most consistent and principled activists,” recalling how he was imprisoned during the pro-democracy struggle and led campaigns for the release of detained rights icons such as Chief Gani Fawehinmi and Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti.

Other speakers reflected on shared moments from the 1990s struggles, recalling how Uba Sani, then an activist himself, coordinated the activities of the Campaign for Democracy (CD) and worked closely with Comrade Aremu and other movement leaders in the fight against military rule.

They also commended the Kaduna governor for standing by the family of his late comrade, describing the gesture as a demonstration of genuine solidarity and enduring commitment to the ideals of social justice.

Governor Sani, in his message, urged the younger generation to emulate Comrade Aremu’s passion for justice, courage in the face of adversity, and unwavering commitment to the enthronement of true democracy in Nigeria.

Late Comrade Abiodun Aremu, who was the Secretary of the Joint Action Front (JAF) — the umbrella body for pro-labour civil society organisations — reportedly died on October 12 after being knocked down by a vehicle near his residence in Ota, Ogun State. He was 65 years old.

In the appointment of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi as the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), stakeholders roundly commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the choice of this astute and result oriented energy expert and policy strategist, a visionary administrator.

The saying that a golden fish has no hiding place aptly qualifies Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi’s appointment by His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR , who was able to spot the energy poster boy, and placed him strategically where competence meets passion.

Indeed, the appointment of Dr. Abdullahi as the Director General of Energy Commission qualifies the saying of putting a round peg in a round hole.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi who combines academic distinction with hands-on experience in energy systems, regulation, and innovation, has variously been described by stakeholders as a key figure in shaping Nigeria’s energy future, scoring a vital point in the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which clearly aims to resuscitate and reinvigorate the country’s energy sector.

As an avid scholar who holds a master’s and a doctorate in Engineering from the prestigious University of Manchester who has also served as a Research Associate and Teaching Assistant in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Civil Engineering in same institution, Dr. Abdullahi’s penchant for excellence is distinctive and highly commendable.

As a Chartered Engineer (CEng) and a member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (MIMechE), Dr. Abdullahi has distinguished himself in ways so uncommon and achievements quite alluring.
His commitment to professional excellence and technical innovation underscores his capacity and capabilities in delivering on the mandate of the Energy Sector and the Commission generally.

As a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Manchester, United kingdom, from 2021 to 2023, Dr. Abdullahi conducted an impactful research entitled “Assessment of the Structural Integrity,” contributing valuable insights to the field. His work was recognized and supported by the Industry Collaboration Fund, United kingdom, highlighting his commitment to advancing knowledge through industry-academia collaboration.

Dr. Abdullahi has over 14 years of experience in Nigeria’s energy sector, particularly within the oil and gas industry and is known to have spent a significant part of his career at the Department of Petroleum Resources (now the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission -NUPRC), contributing to regulatory policy, energy systems management, and sustainability initiatives.

His technical competence is further complemented by his role at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), where he engaged in research and development at the intersection of space and energy technology.

Before being appointed as Director-General of ECN, Dr. Abdullahi served as the Senior Technical Adviser to the former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji. In that capacity, he was instrumental in shaping national policies that promoted innovation, renewable energy adoption, and scientific advancement.

His advisory role provided strategic direction for programmes aimed at building Nigeria’s technological capacity in line with global sustainability trends.

He is widely reputed to be a multi-disciplinary leader, with a systems-thinking approach to Nigeria’s energy challenges, integrating insights from engineering, space research, and policy.

Since assuming office as Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria ECN in 2023, keen observers say his leadership at the Commission is anchored in collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and a strong commitment to energy transition and security.

Dr. Abdullahi is focused on delivering sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven energy solutions that support national development goals and align with international climate commitments.

Asides from his professional and academic accomplishments, he is also active in the politics of his country, Nigeria. He is a founding member and co-convener of The Asiwaju Group (TAG), one of the leading support groups for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also having served as Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress United Kingdom (APC UK) chapter, he is also an Executive Member of the APC UK since February 2014.

As a committed and loyal party chieftain, Abdullahi’s political engagements include membership in the APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) 2023, the APC PCC Nigeria Strategic Communication Committee (2019), and the APC National Convention Sub-Committee (2022).

He is widely respected for his integrity, strategic vision, and passion for sustainable development. His dynamic experience across sectors positions him as a transformative leader at the helm of Nigeria’s energy transition journey.

A peek into his two years stint as the Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria ECN reveals amazing achievements such as:

• Implementation of the Renewed Hope Solarization Project for the provision of 2 MW of a solar hybrid system in 37 universities and 37 tertiary hospitals across the 36 states and Abuja.
  (2025)
  Signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China Energy Engineering Corporation to boost renewable energy and address Nigeria’s energy challenges by establishing State Energy Planning Implementation Units in all the 36 states in Nigeria.

(2025)
Signed an agreement with LONGI a China solar module manufacturer to establish a manufacturing plant of their new solar panel technology in Nigeria.

(2025)
Launched the Compendium on Industrial Energy Efficiency Policies with the collaboration of UNIDO and GEF.

(2025)
Commissioned a Hybrid 5 kilowatts solar-powered Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station.

(2025)
Promotion of clean cooking and obtaining a Patent for developing a Hexagonal Type Domestic Charcoal Stove for improved thermal efficiency.

(2025)
Signed an MOU with a Chinese company to establish a Lithium battery production plant in Nigeria.

(2024)
Launched the newly gazette National Energy Policy (NEP)and National Energy Master Plan (NEMP) by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

(2024)
Establishment of a 10MW Solar PV Module Production Assembly Plant at Enugu Research Centre.

(2024)
Development of Pyrolysis Machine for Hydrogen Generation at Bauchi Research Centre.

(2024)
Establishment of a Pilot Bioethanol Plant with Fractional Distillation Unit at Benin Research Centre.

(2024)
Development of Pilot Integrated Modular Refinery at Bauchi Research Centre.

(2024)
The Energy Commission of Nigeria in collaboration with the FMIST on Implementation of the National Policy on Methanol Fuel Production from Gas.

(2024)
Launch of the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for air conditioners in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme, United for Efficiency initiative, and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria.

(2024)
Launched a Computerized National Energy Information System website in Collaboration with the ECOWAS Commission.

(2024)
Establishment of a Pilot Green Hydrogen Plant as a policy target of domestication and localization of Green Energy in the country.

(2024)
Establishment of Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi State.

(2024)
The Energy Commission of Nigeria’s participation as the National Focal point at the Brazil G202024 Energy Transitions Working Group Meetings to negotiate and endorse Principles for Just and Inclusive Energy Transitions.

(2024)
Launched the implementation of the project titled ‘Abating Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Obsolete Refrigerators and Air Conditioners Equipment (AGORA) in Nigeria with the
collaboration of UNDP and UNEP.

(2024)
The Nigeria Energy and Emission Pathway Calculator 2050 (NECAL 2050)(2024) Comprehensive Energy Audit for the University of Lagos, Akoka carried out by National Centre for Energy Efficiency and Conservation.

(2024)
Designed, Constructed and Installed Two (2) 5kW Wind Turbines located at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS), Sokoto State.

(2023)
Design and development of the 24-CUP Pelton Wheel Single-Jet Small Hydropower Turbine System and the Split Cup Pelton Wheel Two-Jet Small Hydropower Turbine System by NACHRED, University of llorin)

(2023)
Design, Construction and Testing energy-efficient biomass Cookstoves by National Centre for Energy Research and Development, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

(2023)
Development of Small, Medium and Commercial scale Solar Powered Chicken Brooding systems.

These achievements of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi have been variously described as the footprints of a man of greatness, vision and exemplary leadership, deserving of commendation.
 

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State has suspended its State Chairman, Elder Patrick Ambut, and State Secretary, Mr. Victor Oluwatuyi, over allegations of anti-party activities, gross misconduct, and violation of the party’s constitution.

In a statement issued on Monday by the State Publicity Secretary, Engr. Idris Musa, the party said the suspension followed a meeting of the State Working Committee (SWC) convened after receiving petitions from the Igabi and Sabon Gari Local Government Chairmen, as well as complaints from other local chapters.

According to the statement, the suspended officials were accused of engaging in acts capable of causing dis-affection among members, creating parallel party organs, and breaching several provisions of the ADC Constitution (2022 as amended).

The ADC also disclosed that it received a letter from the Kaduna State Police Command confirming an ongoing investigation into the alleged illegal removal of the Igabi Local Government Chairman, involving both suspended officials.

“The Chairman’s undemocratic disposition and selective relationship with State Working Committee members, coupled with his poor leadership style, contravene Articles 7(8 & 11) and 20(1b) of the ADC Constitution,” the statement said.

The party further accused Ambut and Oluwatuyi of running the Kaduna ADC like a “secret cult,” making unilateral decisions without due consultation or reference to the State Working Committee, and undermining the principles of transparency, accountability, and rule of law for personal gain.

To restore order and preserve the integrity of the party, the State Working Committee resolved to: Suspend Elder Patrick Ambut and Mr. Victor Oluwatuyi pending the conclusion of investigations; and Constitute a five-man Disciplinary Committee to probe the allegations and make recommendations;

The SWC however, appointed Hon. Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, the Deputy State Chairman, as Acting State Chairman, and Mrs. Rachael Didams as Acting State Secretary.

The statement added that the decision was necessary to uphold the ADC’s values and allow the disciplinary process to proceed without interference.

“The suspension is aimed at protecting the integrity of the party and ensuring due process in line with our constitution,” the statement concluded.

By Aminu Hussaini Sagagi

In Kano today, we are witnessing a familiar political drama. Whenever real progress is being made—whenever leaders roll up their sleeves to serve the people—there are always those who cannot stand to see it happen.

They resort to propaganda—loud, misleading, and divisive. Sadly, this has become the favoured tool of the opposition against the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf (AKY).

Instead of offering constructive criticism, they prefer to manufacture noise. They twist facts, amplify half-truths, and spread stories designed to inflame emotions.

Their aim is simple: to turn public attention away from the positive transformation taking place in Kano under AKY’s leadership. They want citizens distracted, confused, and doubtful—because that is the only way they can remain relevant.

But let us be honest: who truly benefits from propaganda? Certainly not the ordinary Kano indigenes trying to put food on the table, send children to school, or get medical care when sick.

Propaganda benefits only a small circle of political actors desperate to capture power, even if it costs tearing down the State’s image in the process.

Look around Kano, despite the noise, unprecedented number of projects are being executed.

Take Rahma, a final-year student in one of our public secondary schools; she used to sit in overcrowded classrooms with leaking roofs, but today, after rehabilitation works by AKY’s government her school has standard furniture, a safer learning environment, and well-motivated teachers. For Rahma, progress is not a rumor—it is a reality.

Or consider Musa and Emmanuel, traders in Sabon Gari market who remember how bad roads used to make transporting their merchandise a nightmare. Now, with new roads and drainages projects opening up their areas, their businesses are thriving. That is the kind of development propaganda cannot hide.

And what about Khadija, a mother of three who once feared going to public hospitals because they lacked basic facilities? Today, she walks into a revitalized healthcare center where she can get treatment without begging for help. For her, the difference is life-saving.

Yet, the opposition would rather distract you to forget these stories. They push you into seeing shadows instead of substance, hearing noise instead of development. But the truth cannot be hidden; a rehabilitated school speaks louder than a false headline; a functioning hospital is weightier than a fabricated rumor.

Kano people must not allow themselves to be used as pawns in a propaganda war.

No matter how loud the opposition shouts, the good people of Kano must stand firm and say loudly and unanimously – nay to distractions!

We must rise above the distractions and judge by results, not by rhetoric.

Leadership is about service, and service is exactly what AKY is delivering in Kano.

History will not remember the propaganda; it will remember the projects, the reforms, and the opportunities created under this administration.

That is why, no matter how loud the opposition shouts, the good people of Kano must stand firm and say loudly and unanimously – nay to distractions!

Kano’s future is too important to be toyed with. The focus should remain on progress, and progress is exactly what Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is bringing to the State.

This opinion piece is contributed by Barr. Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Justice/Constitutional Matters

By: Luka Binniyat

Very few care to know that Boko Haram, largely constituted by the Kanuri ethnic group, is in fact a resurgence of the ancient Kanem-Borno Jihad against non-Muslim tribal groups west and southwest of its former empire.
The early rulers of Kanem-Borno (the Mai) had embraced Islam as far back as the 11th century AD. Thatn is nearly seven centuries before Usman dan Fodio’s Fulani Jihad of 1804–1810.
In their bid to expand their empire and spread Islam to the ancient indigenous communities now found in Southern Borno, Adamawa, and Gombe, grave atrocities were committed against native populations.

Yet, many of these peoples showed remarkable resilience. Using their rugged terrains and indomitable fighting spirit, they fiercely defended their independence.

The expansionist campaign reached its height between 1573 and 1603, under the reign of Mai Idris Aloma, though he merely intensified the brutal incursions of his predecessors.

All men of honour, dignity, and love of liberty must salute those brave ancestors who fought gallantly to preserve the identity, culture, and territorial rights of today’s generation.
Curiously, the Fulani Jihad later attempted to overrun Kanem-Borno in 1808, when Goni Mukhtar led Dan Fodio’s jihadist army to attack Ngazargamu, the capital of the Borno Empire. Had it not been for the intervention of Muhammad al-Amin al-Kanemi, a Shuwa Arab commander from the Chad region, Usman dan Fodio might have successfully annexed the Kanuri into the Sokoto Caliphate.

It is also important to note that during Dan Fodio’s lifetime, his Caliphate largely conquered Hausa lands and city-states. His main foot soldiers were Hausa converts, along with other few non-Hausa and non-Fulani who had converted to Islam.

Thus, the historic rivalry between the Kanuri on one side and the Hausa-Fulani on the other stems from what the Kanuri perceive as an affront and a challenge to their older Islamic heritage, which predated the Fulani Jihad by centuries.

Sadly, despite the glory of these two great Islamic states, the British conquered Borno in 1902 and Sokoto in 1903. The colonial powers then subdued and subjugated the smaller ethnic nations that neither empire could conquer. In a cruel twist, handed them over to their historical foes through indirect rule.

I write this article to remind us that it is almost forgotten that the Kanuri were the first to launch a jihad against other ethnic nationalities to the west and south of their empire. And no jihadist expedition is ever a picnic. It is savagery at its worst, as witnessed today in the barbarity of the new jihadists ravaging Central Nigeria and other regions.

What Boko Haram represents today is a revival of the ancient Kanuri jihad in the North-East, just as the Fulani armed militias are resurrecting the Usman dan Fodio jihad. Both movements spare neither Muslims who are not Kanuri or Hausa, nor non-Muslims, on whom they unleash far greater cruelty.

That is why it is baffling when some comfortable Muslim leaders and compromised Christian leaders try to deny or downplay the genocide being committed by these groups against other ethnic nationalities.

Christians in the affected Middle Belt regions are facing existential threats, thier lands taken away and their outcry against evil should not silence Muslims who are also facing genocidal violence elsewhere in Northern Nigeria.

Genocide, whether perpetrated against Christians or Muslims, must stand utterly condemned.
It is a shameful tragedy that some notable voices still choose to suppress the truth.
…………………………………….
Luka Binniyat is a journalist, social commentator and a human rights activist. He writes from Zamandabo village, Zangon Kataf LGA in Southern kaduna

@highlight @followers

The Federal Government of Nigeria has concluded a strategic partnership through the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) with the world’s largest solar panel production company, LONGi, in Xi’an, Shaanxi, China.

The Nigerian delegation, led by the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, was received by LONGi’s President, Boshen Zhong, and Vice President, Li Wenxue. The team was taken on a tour of one of the world’s largest solar cell production facilities. This visit follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ECN and LONGi in London earlier this year.

Dr. Abdullahi, during the visit, advanced discussions on the establishment of a 500–1000 MW solar panel production factory in Nigeria — a move set to significantly boost the nation’s renewable energy sector.

The ECN presentation highlighted Africa’s growing market and the increasing demand for solar mini-grids while emphasizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Solarisation Policy, which seeks to accelerate access to clean energy across Nigeria.

LONGi expressed strong interest in investing in Nigeria and demonstrated readiness to move forward with concrete plans for the construction of the factory. The partnership marks a historic milestone for Nigeria’s renewable energy landscape and aligns with national efforts to expand local solar manufacturing capacity.

The ECN, under the leadership of Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, is working to ensure Nigerians enjoy improved electricity access. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, pledging to work closely with LONGi and the Federal Government to realize this transformative project, which will create jobs, enhance energy security, and drive sustainable development across the country.

Former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, has described Governor Peter Mbah’s recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a strategic and welcome development for the South East region, saying the move would strengthen the zone’s position in Nigeria’s mainstream political structure.

Reacting to public criticisms that trailed the Enugu State governor’s decision, Sani said Mbah’s defection should not be seen as an act of betrayal but rather as a bold step to rescue the South East from political isolation and irrelevance at the federal level.

Speaking with journalists shortly after attending the United Africa Development Initiative Summit held at Merit House, Abuja, Senator Sani stated:“Governor Mbah’s defection to the APC is a blessing to the South Eastern part of the country. It is a strategic decision that will factor the region into the mainstream political equation in Nigeria.”

The former senator argued that those accusing the governor of betrayal were being unfair, noting that members of the Labour Party (LP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) had also defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the past.

“Why should LP and ADC members be angry with a PDP member who joined the APC when many of them also left the PDP earlier? Politics is about alignment and strategy, not sentiment,” he stated.

Sani further maintained that Mbah’s defection would open new political opportunities for the South East, saying it had “raised the chances of the region rather than diminished them.”

Describing the move metaphorically, he added:“Mbah’s defection is like taking the goods of the South East to a bigger market where the action is.”

He, therefore, urged political leaders and stakeholders in the region to rally around the governor and use his new platform to push for greater inclusion, development, and representation at the national level.

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The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has congratulated Prof. Uduma Orji Uduma on his appointment as the Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) by the Governing Council of the institution.

In a letter signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Monday Uzor, the Governor described the appointment as a testament to Prof. Uduma’s outstanding academic pedigree, sterling leadership qualities, and immense contributions to philosophical scholarship and national development.

The Governor noted that Professor Uduma has over the years brought honour and pride to Ebonyi State and Nigeria through his scholarship, intellectual rigour, and mentorship of younger academics.

Governor Nwifuru expressed confidence that Prof. Uduma will bring his wealth of experience, vision, and integrity to bear in advancing the mandate of NOUN, fostering academic excellence and expanding access to quality education in the country.

Governor Nwifuru, on behalf of the Government and people of Ebonyi State, wished Prof. Uduma Orji Uduma a successful tenure and God’s continued wisdom, strength, and grace in the discharge of his duties, the letter stated.

Prof. Uduma, who hails from Nguzu in Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was recently appointed the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN by the Governing Council of the university, effective February 11th, 2026.

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If you like, I can also craft an even more eye-catching, “front-page” style headline that emphasizes prestige and national pride without changing the story. Do you want me to do that?

… Insist Hoodlums Could Hijack it, Unleash Terror on Citizens

The Progressives Unity and Development Forum (PUDF) has cautioned the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and rights activist, Omoyele Sowore against the planned nationwide protest aimed at pressuring the Federal Government to release the detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Sowore had earlier reaffirmed that the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow march to the Aso Rock Villa would hold on October 20, describing the date as “sacrosanct.”

In a statement shared on his official social media page, Sowore said preparations were ongoing for what he called a “peaceful march” to demand Kanu’s immediate release.

However, the PUDF, in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Mr. Abraham Nwanchukwu, and made available to journalists today, the group expressed concern that the protest could be hijacked by hoodlums and political opportunists who might use the event to unleash violence and attack government buildings.

“Sowore should be told now, before the D-day, that similar protests in the past spiraled out of control, with hoodlums taking advantage to loot and destroy public and private properties,” the statement read in part.

The group cited previous incidents in Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos, where peaceful demonstrations turned violent and resulted in the destruction of public infrastructure.

“Against this background, we are calling on IPOB, Sowore, and other supporters of the planned protest to shelve the action and adopt more civic and responsible means of engagement,” the statement added.

“Nobody has a monopoly of violence, and we are issuing this warning to prevent any action that could provoke counter-reactions or endanger national peace.”

The group urged security agencies to remain vigilant and appealed to Nigerians to avoid being used by those “seeking to destabilize the country under the guise of activism.”