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By Luther Odeh

KADUNA – In an unprecedented show of unity, Kaduna’s most influential voices – from mosque minarets to government houses – joined forces Saturday to declare total war against gender-based violence and child marriage across the state.

The historic signing ceremony at the Centre for the Study and Resolution of Domestic Violence (CERSDOV) saw an extraordinary alliance of clerics, policymakers, and activists putting pen to paper on what many are calling “Kaduna’s Freedom Charter” for women and girls.

“This isn’t another document gathering dust in government archives,” declared Professor Hauwa’u Evelyn Yusuf, CERSDOV’s Executive Director, her voice ringing through the packed hall. “Today marks the day Kaduna says ‘enough’ to every form of gender oppression.”

The declaration comes armed with teeth – state prosecutors immediately announced a new era of zero tolerance. “We’re done with slaps on wrists for rapists and child bride traffickers,” warned Barrister Sarah Peters of the State Ministry of Justice, revealing plans for special GBV courts and rapid response legal teams.

Religious leaders delivered perhaps the most surprising show of force. Reverend Ma’aji Caleb of CAN and JNI’s Ibrahim Issa Kufena stood shoulder-to-shoulder, quoting scripture and hadith to dismantle cultural excuses for abuse.

“Any man hiding behind God to justify violence is serving the devil,” Reverend Caleb thundered, while Kufena warned imams across 23 LGAs to preach against GBV or face sanctions from the Islamic council.

The state government unveiled accompanying measures including:

• 24-hour GBV hotlines with ambulance services
• Safe houses in each senatorial district
• Mandatory GBV education in all NYSC camps
• Special police units trained in survivor-centered investigations

As night fell on Rigachikun, the glow from the signing ceremony seemed to promise a new dawn for Kaduna’s women and girls – one where the law, the mosque and the church all stand guard against gender violence.

[END]

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has expressed joy and pride as three of its distinguished members were conferred with national honours during this year’s Democracy Day celebration.

The awardees include Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, who received the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON); renowned poet and political thinker Odia Ofeimun, and former senator and human rights activist Senator Shehu Sani, both awarded the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

In a joint statement signed by ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, Ph.D, the association congratulated the recipients for their lifelong commitment to literature, democracy, and nation-building.

“We celebrate our illustrious members on this well-deserved recognition,” the statement read. “Their honour is a testament to the enduring power of words, ideas, and principled action in shaping our national journey.”

The association also commended President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for recognizing literary icons and public intellectuals as deserving of the nation’s highest honours.

“God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and all citizens as we mark 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance,” the statement concluded.

By Likita Jang

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is currently investigating allegations of money laundering, misappropriation, and criminal diversion of public funds at the National Steel Raw Materials Exploration Agency (NSRMEA) in Kaduna.

Findings reveal that over N105 million was allegedly siphoned through fake companies, while staff lament unpaid arrears approved by the government. Meanwhile, equipment worth millions of naira has been vandalized and stolen under suspicious circumstances.

The allegations, under EFCC scrutiny, are levelled against the agency’s Director-General, Mr. Kolawe Michael Ogunbiyi, whose leadership has been marred by claims of corruption and administrative inefficiency since his appointment in 2022.

Federal Government’s Steel Revival Plan at Risk

The Federal Government’s agreement with Russia for the revival of Nigeria’s steel industry—and plans to boost the nation’s GDP—may face setbacks if NSRMEA, the primary raw materials supplier, remains entangled in corruption allegations.

A petition submitted to the EFCC in 2023 contained detailed evidence of financial misconduct, including diversion of funds. Investigations reportedly found Ogunbiyi culpable, yet the case has not been prosecuted, raising concerns over possible cover-ups.

Frustrated by the delay, the petitioners’ legal counsel wrote to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice on March 4, 2025, demanding a discreet investigation into why the EFCC’s findings were being ignored. Meanwhile, Ogunbiyi continues to oversee the agency, with staff morale at an all-time low.

How N105 Million Was Allegedly Stolen

Documents show that N105,130,504.94 was withdrawn in a single day—December 21, 2022—and distributed among four questionable companies:

Alakrity Global Concept – N59,873,253.80

Gatplus Dynamic Resources – N13,330,712.00

Bitcnot Nigeria Ltd – N11,604,612.00

Teminote Concept – N20,321,927.14

Unpaid Staff Arrears and Dubious Deductions

The Federal Government had approved N1.2 billion to settle hazard and medical allowances owed to staff between 2009 and 2015. Ogunbiyi chaired the committee responsible for compiling beneficiaries and payment schedules. However, heavy, unexplained deductions were made from each beneficiary’s entitlement.

Payments were disbursed in four installments via IPPI:

25% on April 6, 2022

25% on May 11, 2022

25% on June 14, 2022

Final 25% on June 22, 2022

Shockingly, no beneficiary was allowed to verify their payment details, fueling suspicions of fraud.

Further investigations revealed that the Senior Staff Association of University Teaching Hospitals, Research and Allied Institutions (SSAUTHRAI) and the NSC Cooperative Society allegedly colluded with the committee to divert funds. The computation process bypassed internal audit, violating government financial regulations.

Staff on Payroll Despite Absconding, Unresolved Transfers

Some staff who absconded from duty, some reportedly living abroad, remain on the agency’s payroll, allegedly protected by Ogunbiyi.

Additionally, transferred staff from sister agencies—including Ajaokuta Steel Company, National Metallurgical Development Centre, and National Lottery Regulatory Commission—have been unpaid for two years or more after Ogunbiyi reversed their transfers despite completed documentation. Efforts to enroll them on IPPIS were blocked, leading to an ongoing lawsuit at the National Industrial Court.

Controversial Appointment & Violation of Federal Guidelines

Ogunbiyi’s appointment itself is under scrutiny.

A 2011–2019 circular signed by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, mandates that ministerial appointments of agency heads must follow due process, with approvals routed through the SGF.

However, Ogunbiyi’s appointment was directly conveyed by former Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Olamilekan Adegbite, via the office of ex-Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, bypassing proper channels.

Mass Theft of Agency Equipment

Reports indicate rampant theft of agency equipment, including a case where a senior staff was caught stealing electrical cables but shielded due to his ties with the DG.

“Only a forensic audit can reveal the full extent of the damage,” an anonymous staff member said.

Call for Government Intervention

With Nigeria’s steel revival plans at stake, stakeholders are urging the Federal Government to investigate NSRMEA’s operations, recover stolen funds, and prosecute those responsible to restore accountability in the agency.

ENDS

Likita Jang is an investigative journalist covering governance and financial crimes in Nigeria.

*Governor BAO, Fayemi, Adebayo, SGF’s wife, others to honour Ekiti-born celebrant

*Speaks on her regrets, visions for Nigeria

It would be a celebration galore this weekend as former Special Adviser on former Governor Kayode Fayemi on Development Partnerships and SDGs, Dr. Margaret Fagboyo, roll out drums in celebration of her 50th birthday, taking place at at BMO Event Arena, Abuja.

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), will lead his predecessors, former Governors Kayode Fayemi and Otunba Niyi Adedayo, including the wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Regina Akume, to celebrate the 50th birthday of an Ekiti-born development expert, Dr. (Mrs.) Margaret Fagboyo, in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The event billed to take place at BMO Event Arena, Inside RiverPlate Park, will also have other prominent personalities such as Ondo State First Lady, Seun Aiyedatiwa, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Senator representing Ekiti South, Yemi Adaramodu, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, many House of Representatives members, top government officials, top CSO leaders, development experts and many other diplomats.

Born on the 23rd of June, 1975, to the respected family of Pa Cyril Akanbi Bello and Mrs. Mary Olanike Bello from Oke-Emo Quarters, Ilawe-Ekiti, Dr. Fagboyo is a multi-disciplinary development practitioner whose work has made meaningful impacts across Nigeria and beyond. With over two decades of professional experience, she has carved a niche in international development, gender advocacy, and institutional partnerships. She currently serves as the Director of Development at the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), one of Nigeria’s leading think tanks dedicated to strategic leadership and sustainable development.

The celebrant was a key member of the Ekiti State Executive Council from 2019 to 2023 serving under Governor Kayode Fayemi as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Development Partnerships and SDGs.

Prior to her public service, she spent a remarkable chapter of her career with the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID), rising through the ranks to become Regional Coordinator and Acting Head of Office, leading programs in the South West, South South, and South East regions.

Her leadership in promoting social inclusion and gender mainstreaming remains a reference point in development work.

Speaking with newsmen Wednesday in Abuja, on her expectations for Nigeria ahead of Saturday’s event, Dr. Fagboyo said she envisioned a country where institutions work, where justice is blind, where leadership is driven by integrity, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve.

According to her, as a passionate Nigerian who believes in the immense potential of our nation, my vision for Nigeria is one of hope, transformation, and inclusive growth.

“I long to see a Nigeria where leadership is driven by integrity, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve – not self. A Nigeria where our diversity becomes our strength, not our division.

“I envision a country where institutions work – where justice is blind, opportunities are accessible, and every citizen feels seen, heard and valued. A land where young people can dream boldly and achieve greatly without having to look beynd our borders. Where women, men, and all marginalized groups are fully included in governance and development.

“Going forward, I expect Nigeria to rise beyond the grip of corruption, insecurity, and poverty. I expect us to prioritize education, invest in healthcare, secure our streets, and harness our vast resources – both human and natural for the common good.

“The road may be long, but I believe in the resilience and brilliance of Nigerians. Together, with vision, courage, and collective action, we can build the Nigeria we all desire – a nation that works, not just for a few, but for all.”

When asked whether she had any regret in the last 50 years of her age, the proud mother of three wonderful children and loving wife said life has been good to her.

“At 50, I choose gratitude over regret. Life has been good to me at 50 though I experience some challenges too, but every high and low has shaped the woman I am today – stronger, wiser and more grounded.

“If there is any regret, it would only be moments I doubted myself, delayed my dreams, or dimmed my light to make others comfortable. But even those moments taught me valuable lessons. So, no deep regrets – Just reflections, lessons, and a deeper resolve to live the rest of my life with more intention, joy, and courage. I’m embracing this new chapter with open arms and a heart full of purpose.”

A youth group known as Omenuko Ndigbo United has raised concerns about how Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, is behaving in the current plans to unite opposition parties for the 2027 elections.

In a statement released on Thursday in Owerri, signed by the group’s President, Comrade Benjamin Madu, said Mr. Obi is not showing real interest in working with other opposition leaders to challenge the ruling APC.

“We are not happy with Peter Obi. Instead of joining hands with others to rescue Nigeria, he seems to be focused only on himself. This is not the time for selfish politics,” the group said.

They accused Obi of repeating what he did in 2023, when his actions helped divide the opposition and made it easy for APC to win.

According to the group, the 2027 election is very important for Igbo people, and they must not make any mistake this time.

“The current president is from the South. This is the best time for Ndigbo to push for the presidency. But we need unity. If Obi leaves the coalition, it will be harder for an Igbo person to become president in 2027 or even in 2031,” they warned.

They also questioned whether Obi might secretly be working to help APC and President Tinubu, saying his silence and lack of involvement in the coalition are suspicious.

“Obi is not fully part of the plans, and it’s starting to look like he is playing another game. We need to know what he really wants,” they said.

They added that recent attacks on Obi by APC supporters like Reno Omokri remind them of similar tricks used in the last election to create confusion. They also mentioned that journalist David Hundeyin had warned the opposition not to repeat past mistakes.

The group asked Peter Obi to come out and say clearly if he wants to join the coalition or not.

“Nigerians deserve honesty. Peter Obi should stop pretending and tell us where he stands. We will not allow what happened in 2023 to happen again, especially if it will hurt the Igbo cause,” they concluded.

It was a moving scene of joy, laughter, and emotional healing as the Nurture Special Education Needs Foundation (NSENF) hosted a remarkable Children’s Day Play Therapy Event at JPEC Chimel Academy in Zaria on Saturday, May 31, 2025. The event, dedicated to children with neurological and psychosocial disabilities alongside their neurotypical peers, turned into a colourful celebration of inclusion, empathy, and community resilience.

Designed to create a safe and expressive space for children with special needs, the event featured a range of play therapy activities that captivated both participants and observers. From the Sensory Play Corner to the Creative Arts Zone, Music & Movement sessions, and puppet-led storytelling, the programme was both therapeutic and uplifting.

The “I Am a Star” recognition ceremony drew loud cheers and happy tears as every participating child was celebrated for their uniqueness and courage. Children lit up with smiles as they were called forward to receive certificates, applause, and personal affirmations that honoured their strengths, however diverse.

A special highlight was the expert-led dialogue session for parents and caregivers on managing children with developmental challenges. The interactive forum, facilitated by child development specialists, provided a safe space for sharing stories, struggles, and strategies. Many parents described the session as deeply affirming and empowering, a rare opportunity to feel seen and supported in their caregiving journeys.

Despite facing several logistical and operational challenges—including limited funding, overstimulation among some children, and a last-minute change of venue—the event recorded strong attendance. According to organisers, 17 children with special needs, 5 neurotypical children, 13 parents and caregivers, and several professionals from the media, education, and humanitarian sectors participated.

The success of the event was powered by an impressive team of volunteers, with support from key partners including the Centre for Girls Education (CGE), FAM Initiative, and Quatech Photography. Their contributions ranged from material donations to on-the-ground coordination and documentation.

Special recognition was given to Hajiya Habiba Mohammed of CGE and Jecinta Egbim of FAM Initiative for their tireless efforts. “We are grateful to all who showed up and gave so selflessly,” said a volunteer coordinator. “It’s a reminder that community care is still very possible.”

Speaking at the close of the event, NSENF Executive Director Aisha Ibrahim Ahmad reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to championing inclusive development. “This is more than a celebration; it is a movement for empathy, awareness, and sustained support for our children,” she said. “We believe that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported, no matter their ability.”

The Children’s Day Play Therapy Event, though modest in scale, left an indelible impact on participants. It further underscored the transformative power of inclusive play in fostering healing, connection, and a more compassionate society.

Organisers say they hope the success of this event will inspire more communities across Nigeria to invest in inclusive and therapeutic programmes for children with special needs—not just on Children’s Day, but every day.

The Media Adviser to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has launched a blistering attack against former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, for his continuous attacks on Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi.

Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, in a post on his verified X account on Saturday afternoon, faulted Omokri for his “pedestrian, acerbic and unprovoked attacks” against Obi.

The post was Ibe’s response to Omokri’s earlier post on Friday, where he implicitly proclaimed a self-confessed credibility credential, which Omokri attributed to Atiku during a telephone conversation between him (Omokri) and Atiku.

The full text of Ibe’s post reads:

“Reno Omokri, you are a classic case study in psychological projection — an insecure man so desperate to escape his own failures that he accuses others of the very flaws that define him.

“Credibility and Reno Omokri in the same grammatical environment? Oh, what a mockery. That’s an oxymoron so wild it should be banned by both logic and language.

“Reno, you need help. Whether clinical or spiritual, that’s for you to decide. But what’s beyond dispute is that you are a master of treachery, a Judas Iscariot — an unrepentant opportunist whose reputation precedes him like a foul stench. Even those smiling beside you today do so with suspicion, fully aware that your loyalty is as steady as quicksand.

“You claim my principal has been “good” to you? Let’s not pretend. That phone call you trumpet was likely just another pit stop in your never-ending pilgrimage for personal ‘goodness.’ Your kind of goodness isn’t ethical — it’s transactional, scavenging like a hyena sniffing out its next meal.

“You also said you never attack your friends unless they strike first. Really? Then what did Peter Obi ever do to deserve your endless, pedestrian, vitriolic, and arcebic attacks? Or was his popularity simply a threat to your ego?

“You parade yourself as a pastor, but you are a pastor just like Simon the Sorcerer. Your fidelity to God, truth, and even family is non-existent. A man who has no qualms about having two wives preaching morality to others? That’s comedy dipped in hypocrisy. And now, you want a political wife in Tinubu and a side chick in Atiku? Sorry, Reno. Nigeria isn’t your polygamous playground. That riverside romance has failed — spectacularly. Ashawo kobo kobo!

“But since you seem obsessed with the idea of credibility, here’s a challenge: instead of clowning around on the imaginary Lagos-Calabar expressway, why not explain how Government College Lagos managed to award a certificate to “Bola A. Tinubu” in 1970 — two full years before the school was established?

“Better still, if you really care about truth and character, join the call for the FBI to release Tinubu’s drug records in the United States. Or has your newfound loyalty erased your former fire and fury about his criminal past?

“Atenu (parasitic character) like you flip opinions faster than a wind-tossed leaflet.

“You speak of credibility “unlike others.” Others like who, Reno? The very people you once stood with before you betrayed them for crumbs and clout?

“Let it be clear: you are expendable, Reno. Loud, treacherous, desperate — and utterly irrelevant. No amount of delusion or self-adulation will save you from that truth.

“Reno, oh, Reno, what a Mockery!,” Ibe said.

By Abdulrahman Kura
June 15, 2025

ASABA — Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN) in Delta State, has dismissed concerns raised by some members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Executive Committee (NEC) over Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing them as disconnected from the evolving political landscape in the state.

Responding to criticism from PDP leaders such as former National Secretary Ibrahim Tauri and ex-Deputy National Publicity Secretary Diran Odeyemi, Fajoye said the governor’s move to the APC was rooted in a strategic commitment to governance, not political ambition.

“The youth of Delta State can clearly see the impact of Governor Oborevwori’s leadership. From road infrastructure to employment initiatives and grassroots empowerment, he has proven to be a visionary leader focused on development rather than party lines,” Fajoye stated during a press briefing in Asaba on Saturday.

He commended the governor’s decision as a bold and timely move, pledging that UYAN and other grassroots coalitions across the 25 local government areas of Delta State would mobilize in his support ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Those expecting electoral punishment are misreading the moment. Delta’s youth — the unemployed, the artisans, the students — recognize effective leadership when they see it. We are already preparing to defend our future with our votes,” he declared.

Challenging claims that the PDP remains firmly in control of Delta, Fajoye emphasized that political loyalty is shifting across the country, especially among younger voters who increasingly value performance over party affiliation.

“Politicians in Abuja making sweeping judgments about Delta need to visit the streets and speak with real people. This is not 1999. Young voters are no longer bound by blind party loyalty. We are loyal to our future, not political tradition,” he said.

He also accused members of the PDP NEC of exhibiting “elitist arrogance” by attempting to shame governors who prioritize governance over party loyalty.

“No one should hold an entire state hostage because of personal political interests. Governor Oborevwori has every right to pursue what he believes is best for Delta. And we, the youth, are prepared to back him — not just with words, but with action,” Fajoye added.

Fajoye called on the APC leadership to fully embrace Oborevwori’s grassroots network as a strategic asset, warning that any attempt to downplay the strength of youth mobilization would be a serious miscalculation.

“The 2027 elections will not be won through slogans or party colors. They’ll be won based on tangible results. Oborevwori will be judged not by the logo on his posters, but by the roads, bridges, and opportunities he’s delivered,” he concluded.

Governor Oborevwori’s defection on April 24, followed by that of Akwa Ibom’s Umo Eno on June 6, has stirred significant debate across Nigeria’s political space. While the PDP has threatened electoral consequences for the defectors, growing support among youth and grassroots groups may reshape the dynamics ahead of 2027.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has honoured prominent Nigerians, including Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani and former lawmaker and rights activist Senator Shehu Sani, for their pivotal roles in the struggle for democracy in Nigeria.

Speaking during the 2025 Democracy Day celebration on June 12, President Tinubu acknowledged the sacrifices made by several pro-democracy advocates during Nigeria’s years under military rule. In a speech delivered before a joint session of the National Assembly, the President commended the bravery and enduring commitment of individuals like Uba Sani and Shehu Sani in advancing democratic ideals.

“These patriots stood firm when it mattered most,” Tinubu said. “Their courage helped shape the democratic foundation we stand on today.”

As part of the commemorations, President Tinubu conferred national honours on several distinguished Nigerians for their contributions to the democratic journey. The list includes academics, journalists, politicians, civil society leaders, and posthumous awardees.

Key honourees include:

Prof. Wole Soyinka – Grand Commander of the Niger (GCON)
Senator Shehu Sani – Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)
Governor Uba Sani – Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)
Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah – CON
Barrister Femi Falana, SAN – CON
Dapo Olorunyomi (Publisher, Premium Times) – Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON)
Bayo Onanuga (Presidential spokesman) – CON
Ken Saro-Wiwa (Posthumous) – CON
Alhaja Sawaba Gambo – CON
Chief Bola Ige – CFR
Mobolaji Akinyemi – CFR
Others honoured include rights activists, lawmakers, journalists, and late pro-democracy campaigners such as Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Balarabe Musa, Chief Frank Kokori, and Odia Ofeimun.

The recognition, Tinubu said, is part of a broader effort by the federal government to memorialize the efforts and legacies of those who played vital roles in shaping Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

Former lawmaker and human rights activist, Senator Shehu Sani, has called on Nigerians to show empathy and compassion toward the orphans, widows, and widowers affected by the devastating floods in Mokwa, Niger State.

Senator Sani, who personally donated food items to the victims and their families, described the Mokwa flood as not just a disaster, but a national tragedy.

In a statement he personally signed, Senator Sani said, “The Mokwa tragedy is a dark cloud of responsibility hanging over the sky of our country.” He emphasized the need for the nation to learn from the incident by channeling its resources toward improving the lives of its people.

The former senator also urged the Federal Government to create a special budget aimed at rebuilding Mokwa into a modern town, as a tribute to the memory of those who lost their lives in the flood.