Nigeria has lost another two pilgrims who are participating in the ongoing Hajj operations in Saudi Arabia as announced on Thursday by the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
The deceased, Salman Muhammad Alade and Ayishat Shuaib Ologele were part of the Kwara State pilgrims until their deaths after brief illnesses.
The Executive Secretary, Kwara State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, expressed his profound condolences to the families of the deceased, asking Allah to grant them comfort and forgive the deceased.
Abdulkadir had earlier announced the death of Hajia Hawawu Muhammad through “an unfortunate suicidal episode from the rooftop of her apartment in Madina.”
He also disclosed that the other pilgrim who died in Madina, Saliu Mohammed, died in an intensive care unit of a public hospital after suddenly falling ill.
The death of the latest two Kwara pilgrims brought the number of Nigerian pilgrims who had died in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to 11 ahead of this year’s Hajj, which commences on Friday.
Two pilgrims from Kebbi State, Hajiya Tawalkatu Busare Alako, popularly known as Maman Biyu, were the first to die on May 25 in Makkah a few days after arriving at the holy city from Madina while barely 24 hours after Alhaji Muhammad Suleman died in Makkah.
The Kebbi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board also announced that Abubakar Abdullahi from Gulma town in Argungu Local Government Area of the state died in Makkah.
In May, the board announced the death of Tawakaltu Alamo and Muhammad Suleiman who also hailed from Kebbi State.
A Lagos State pilgrim, 68-year-old Oloshogbo Isiaka Idris, died on Tuesday, May 28 also in Makkah, after returning from the Grand Mosque, where he went to perform tawaf (circumambulation) as part of Umrah (lesser Hajj).
Nigeria loses two more pilgrims in Saudi Arabia
Nigeria loses two more pilgrims in Saudi Arabia
Ex-APC chieftain alleges marginalisation of North Central
A former Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Salihu Lukman, has faulted the alleged marginalisation of the North Central geo-political zone from the political leadership of the country.
“When you talk of marginalisation, my problem with President Asiwaju started from the beginning when the campaign to get Senator Abdullahi Adamu and Senator Iyiola Omisore was almost my singular handiwork.
“Nobody pushed me but having got them out of the party, the first thing President Asiwaju (Tinubu) did was to take steps that completely marginalised the people of North Central in the political leadership of the country and till today it has not been corrected.” Lukman said while featuring in an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Programme, monitored by the According online on Thursday.
Lukman said the government is drifting away from the legacies of the party, saying that the Tinubu-led government has not prioritised investment decisions according to the critical needs of the country.
He noted that while insecurity has eaten deep into the fabric of the country and the need to invest heavily in the recruitment of more personnel into the police Force is a top priority for the nation, the Tinubu-led government rather chose to set aside a N15trn for the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project.
“We know that we need to take collective responsibility to be able to solve this problem, but everybody sits back and we watch even when elected people who promise to solve the problem are not doing anything.
:They are just running government based on business as usual, nobody is talking. We are supposed to be a progressive government and a progressive government is supposed to prioritise the living conditions of citizens; so public investment in terms of policies will prioritise that.
“All of a sudden we talk about statistics of N10million out-of-school children in the North, and this is what has bred this crisis of banditry and insecurity and a claimed progressive government instead of investing very high in education and mop up the out-of-school children to reduce the number of people that can be recruited into banditry, is spending N15trillion on Lagos-Calabar coastal road.
“With the best of intention, that could be needed, but in terms of priority of the nation, is it road construction or attending to problems of insecurity?” he queried.
Lukman stated that the problems of the ruling party began with the disposition of leaders sidelining debate while allowing “people to emerge as emperors after becoming elected.”
APC Chairmanship: Court fixes date to hear North Central’s suit seeking Ganduje’s removal
A Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday fixed June 26th, 2024, to hear a suit by the North Central All Progressives Congress, APC, Forum seeking to oust Abdullahi Ganduje as the National Chairman of the party.
Justice Inyang Ekwo who presided over the hearing, said the June 26th date will allow all parties in the suit to study all the processes already filed and served.
TVN recalls that in the suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/599/24, the North Central APC Forum, led by its Chairman, Saleh Zazzaga from Plateau State, had sued Ganduje, saying he is occupying the position of the National Chairman illegally as the position is for the North Central region according to the party’s consensus arrangements at the 2022 national convention of the party.
The APC itself and the Independent National Electoral Commission are also defendants respectively in the suit.
Also, the forum sought an order directing the INEC not to accord recognition to actions taken by the APC, including congresses, primaries and nominations, since Ganduje became APC chairman on August 3, 2023.
In the originating summons filed on May 6, the forum said the National Executive Committee of the APC breached the party’s constitution when it appointed Ganduje, from Kano State in the North-West geo-political zone to replace Senator Abdullahi Adamu from Nasarawa State in the North-Central geo-political zone.
According to the Forum, Ganduje’s appointment to replace Adamu was contrary to Article 31.5(1) f of the APC constitution and ultra-vires the powers of the NEC of the party, adding that by the true interpretation of Article 31.5(1) of the APC Constitution, 2013 (as amended), the party is bound to comply with the procedure for the replacement of an officer in the event of a vacancy.
According to the forum therefore, the APC ought to have appointed a member from Nasarawa State or the North-Central region to the national chairmanship position of the party.
At the hearing on Thursday, the claimant’s counsel, Benjamin Davou, told the court that they were just served by the counsel of the 1st defendant, Ganduje, with their own counter affidavit to the originating summons on that same Thursday and they will need to study it to respond appropriately.
The Judge, Justice Ekwo, adjourned the case to the 26th of June for a definite hearing of the originating summons. The counsel to the claimant said they would be ready before the adjourned date.
Speaking after the court session, the North Central APC Forum, Chairman, Saleh Zazzaga, said they will pursue the matter to its ultimate end.
He said all they seek is for the National Chairmanship position to be reverted to the North Central region, adding that the chieftains of the party from the North Central region are behind them in the struggle.
APC Chairmanship: Court fixes date to hear North Central’s suit seeking Ganduje’s removal
Soldiers kill bandits’ kingpin, 35 others in Kaduna-Katsina border
Troops of Operation Whirl Punch were said to have killed 36 bandits, including Buhari Alhaji Halidu otherwise known as ‘Buharin Yadi’, one of the deadliest bandit leaders terrorising the north over the years.
The development threw residents of Kaduna-Katsina border communities into wild jubilation.
The Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, disclosed this on Thursday in Kaduna.
Aruwan said the bandit was also known to have links with other deadly terrorist groups in the North-East and North-West.
According to the commissioner, the bandit kingpin and his gang members have been unleashing terror on citizens in Kidandan/Galadimawa general areas of Giwa Local Government Area, Sabon Birni/Kerawa general areas of Igabi LG in Kaduna and other locations in nearby Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State as well as some parts of Niger and Zamfara States.
The commissioner said, “The infamous terrorist, Buharin Yadi, one of the deadliest bandit leaders terrorising northern Nigeria in the last decade, has met his bitter end at the hands of security forces.
“The troops of Sector 6 Operation Whirl Punch rained down fire on the kingpin known as Buhari Alhaji Halidu (alias Buharin Yadi) and his cohorts, abruptly terminating their ignominious spell of terror.
“Halidu was neutralised in a fierce battle with the troops (under the coordination of their Commander, also the General Officer Commanding of One Division Nigerian Army, Major General MLD Saraso) which took place around Idasu forest at the boundaries between Giwa LGA of Kaduna State and Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State.
“The troops began the covert operation in response to intelligence reports on terrorists’ movement from Samunaka, Saulawa area of Katsina State.
“On advancing to Samunaka, the troops found the settlement destroyed and cattle killed, evidence of recent criminal activity by the bandits.”
He added, ‘A ferocious battle quickly followed, as approaching terrorists were pounded with artillery rounds at Hayin Almajiri. The troops then fought bravely through an ambush, to attain their objective. Initial assessments indicate that at least 36 bandits were eliminated in the engagement.
“It was eventually verified that one of those neutralised was Kachalla Buharin Yadi.
‘Kachalla Buhari Alhaji Halidu (also known as Buharin Yadi or Buhari Janar) and the brigands under his command had been unleashing terror on citizens in Kidandan/Galadimawa general areas of Giwa LGA, Sabon Birni/Kerawa general areas of Igabi LGA, other locations in nearby Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State, and indeed some parts of Niger and Zamfara States.
“Buharin Yadi was involved in large-scale cattle rustling, arms trading and drug trafficking. He had led his gang in the pillaging of communities and the slaughter and kidnapping of thousands of citizens in Kaduna and neighbouring states.
“The breakthrough brings to an end a manhunt by security forces for this terrorist, which stretched more than five years. The news of his demise spread like wildfire, triggering massive relief and widespread celebrations among locals spanning Kaduna and Katsina States.’
He quoted Governor Uba Sani as being excited about receiving the report, describing it as a pointer to “the bravery, pro-activeness and sheer efficiency of the troops involved.”
He also said the governor commended the General Officer Commanding 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Major-General. Saraso for his sterling leadership, and lauded the troops for the victory.
He continued that the governor reassured security forces in the state of his unflinching support and the continued collaborative stance of the government.
Oil mafia tried to stop our refinery, says Dangote
The founder of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has revealed that both local and international criminal organisations, which he described as “mafia”, made repeated attempts to sabotage his $19bn refinery project located in Lagos.
Speaking at the Afreximbank Annual Meetings, Dangote likened the oil cartels to a mafia stronger than the drug mafia hell-bent on maintaining their grip on the industry.
“Well, I knew that there would be a fight. But I didn’t know that the mafia in oil, they are stronger than the mafia in drugs. I can tell you that. Yes, it’s a fact,” he said.
Dangote, who described himself as a fighter, said they “tried all sorts” to stop him.
“But I’m a person that has been fighting all my life. You know, so I think it’s part of my life to fight,” he said.
He added, “As a matter of fact during the COVID period, some of the international banks really were looking forward to making sure that they push us into default of our loans so that the project will just be dead. And that didn’t happen with the help of banks like Afreximbank.”
According Online reports that Dangote also revealed that he has paid off $2.4bn of the $5.5bn borrowed for the Lagos-based refinery.
Dangote also unveiled plans to diversify into the steel sector, aiming to utilise solely Nigerian-produced steel and achieve self-sufficiency.
Dangote Refinery recently rescheduled the launch of its petrol sales to July 10-15, pushing back its initial June target due to “minor” logistical issues.
NFF president pledges action after Super Eagles’ woes
In the aftermath of Nigeria’s shock defeat to Benin in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau, said that measures are being taken to address the team’s woes and secure qualification for the prestigious tournament.
When asked about the possibility of changing coaches or retaining Finidi George, who was appointed in April, the NFF President, in a video posted by photojournalist, Pooja, via X on Thursday, responded with a mix of acknowledgement and optimism.
“It’s a very sad moment for Nigerian football, we can’t run away from that,” he admitted.
“But all I want to assure you is that we are working tirelessly in collaboration with the minister to come out with some holistic measures that will change the face of the entire system so that we can move forward,” he said.
The NFF President, who was captioned to be speaking after a meeting with the Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, emphasised that qualification for the World Cup remains a realistic goal, stating, “Don’t forget that it’s still possible, and we’re going to make it. I just want to assure you that we are going to fight it to the letter, and Nigeria will go to the World Cup.”
Providing insight into the federation’s plans, he revealed, “Very soon, you are going to see the measures that NFF will come out with, and by the grace of God, those measures that we are going to take will lead us to qualify for the next World Cup.”
The NFF President also highlighted the upcoming African Cup of Nations qualifiers as an opportunity to showcase the team’s progress. “Don’t also forget, before the next round of the (World Cup) qualifiers, we have the AFCON qualifiers, which almost all the six matches will be played before (World Cup) matches next year, and that, by the grace of God, will show Nigerians the kind of steps we have taken, we are going to take to make sure that we qualify for the World Cup.”
The NFF President further pleased Nigerians’ support and prayers stating, “I just finally want to assure Nigerians that they should continue to pray for us, but by the grace of God, I want to assure them we’re going to fight it to the letter, and we are going to qualify for the World Cup.”
The Super Eagles of Nigeria, on Monday, were defeated 2-1 by Benin Republic in the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
Earlier last Friday, the team played a 1-1 draw against Bafana Bafana of South Africa in the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifier.
The result of these fixtures means that Nigeria is now placed fifth in the six-team table, with six games left to play.
Nigeria, in four matches, has drawn three and lost one.
JUST IN: Olubadan-designate inspects new palace
The Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on Thursday, inspected the newly built ultra-modern Olubadan Palace, five days after the state Governor, Seyi Makinde, demanded his health fitness.
The According reports that the governor on Saturday during the final burial ceremony of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, said Oba Olakulehin would be installed as the next Olubadan once he is strong enough.
This statement generated controversy among notable Ibadan indigenes, at home and abroad.
Makinde, who, however, confirmed that the State Government had received the recommendation of Oba Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan by the Olubadan-In-Council, noted that due process had been followed in the selection process.
Oba Olakulehin, while giving the vote of thanks, said, “I am highly delighted to be among the living to inspect this project. So, we have to thank God. Ibadan people need to appreciate God for this.”
He was conducted around the new palace by the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, and other notable Ibadan indigenes.
Details later…
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FG commissions first zoo in Kogi, harps on importance of tourism to Nigeria’s economy
The Federal Government on Thursday Commissioned the first zoo located in the history of Kogi State North Central Nigeria with a charge on all stakeholders to key into the present administration’s commitment to improving the nation’s economy through tourism.
Speaking at the Commissioning of the Federal University Lokoja Zoo and Conservatory, (FULZAC), the Conservator General, National Park Service Dr Ibrahim Musa Goni said travel and tourism in Nigeria are estimated to contribute about 3.6% of Nigeria’s GDP annually, which is equal to around 17.3 billion U.S dollars.
He said, ” According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), approximately 180 million people visit AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums each year, contributing about $24 Billion to the US Economy.
“The establishment of this zoo and conservatory demonstrates a moment of hope and pride for our country’s conservation efforts. As a nation rich in natural and cultural diversity, the protection of our natural resources has always been of utmost importance. Therefore, the establishment of this centre holds immense significance.
“I must sincerely commend the visionary leadership of the Federal University Lokoja, led by Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi and his Management team, for recognizing the need to create this centre dedicated to the conservation and preservation of our unique flora and fauna.
“By doing so, they have established an institution that will not only contribute to the academic growth of its students but also serve as a symbol of environmental stewardship and education for the wider community.
He disclosed that the role of zoos and conservatories in the preservation and protection of biodiversity cannot be overstated, adding that they serve as living laboratories, fostering deep understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
The Conservator General opined that through effective collaboration between academia, conservationists and the government, this centre has the potential to lead innovative research, engage in relevant conservation initiatives, and create a platform for public awareness and education.
Dr Goni said, “They can also contribute to the conservation of endangered plant and animal species. These facilities are important educational tools, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn about different species and ecosystems.
“They also serve as genetic reservoirs for rare species, helping to maintain genetic diversity. Additionally, zoos and conservatories promote sustainable tourism. Zoo and wildlife parks are aspects of ex-situ conservation where animals are domesticated and bred to support in situ conservation in National Parks and Protected and Conserved Areas. This is because zoo animals can be reintroduced back into the wild to stem the tide of extinction and disappearance of species.
“I have full confidence that the Federal University Lokoja Zoo and Conservatory will become a symbol of excellence in conservation, where students, researchers, and the general public can come together to celebrate and protect our rich biological heritage, With a team dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability, the possibilities for conservation education, research, and public engagement are unlimited.
” Let us seize this opportunity and work hand in hand to safeguard the nature that makes our country extraordinary. Together, we can ensure a coexistence between humans and nature, securing a Sustainable future for generations to come”.
The Director of the Zoo, Prof Jacqueline Azumi Badaki commended the pragmatic leadership of the institution led by Prof Akinwunmi for his efforts in ensuring that the establishment of the project sees the light of the day.
” Ours is not just a Zoo but also a conservatory Zoo generally is where animals are housed within enclosures replicating their natural habitats. Often the purpose is to display animals to the public, and in some cases, the animals are bred for conservation, education and research purposes.
“The main benefit of any Zoo is the ability to save species from the brink of extinction and start a healthy wild population again. With the ever-changing wild landscape being ripped apart by climate change and habitat loss, captive breeding programs are needed more than ever to assure the survival of some species that cannot survive on their own” she stated.
FG commissions first zoo in Kogi, harps on importance of tourism to Nigeria’s economy
Over 1.5m pilgrims ready for Hajj rites in Saudi Arabia
No fewer than 1.5 million pilgrims across the world presently in Saudi Arabia are now set for this year’s Hajj rites which would begin on Friday with movement from Makkah to Muna ahead of the Arafat Day on Saturday.
Specifically, a total of 1,547,295 pilgrims, according to a report by the General Directorate of Passports as quoted by the Saudi Press Agency, came into the country through its air, land and sea ports, as at the end of Monday, June 10 deadline for closure of entry to perform this year’s holy pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, the official spokesman for Saudi’s Ministry of Health, Dr Mohammed Al-Abdulaali, has warned that the major challenge facing this year’s Hajj season is the significant rise in temperatures.
Al-Abdulaali advised pilgrims to adhere to the ministry’s health guidelines, including carrying umbrellas, to avoid direct sun exposure, drinking sufficient amounts of water, and taking rest periods between rituals to reduce fatigue and heat stress.
He said these measures aimed to ensure the safety and health of pilgrims during the performance of Hajj rituals.
The spokesperson added that the ministry is making all efforts to provide a healthy and safe environment for pilgrims amid the harsh climatic conditions.
The Saudi Arabian authorities had earlier announced the arrival of approximately 1.2 million pilgrims from various countries around the world for the 2024 Hajj. T
The country’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfig Al-Rabiah also assured that all stages of their journey have proceeded smoothly and that the pilgrims are in excellent health.
Over 1.5m pilgrims ready for Hajj rites in Saudi Arabia
Taraba govt begins payment of compensations to Wukari landowners
Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas has commenced the payment of compensations to landowners in Wukari local government council of the state.
The beneficiaries who our reporter learnt number 182, are owners of the land where the Federal University of Wukari, is currently situated.
Recall that the landowners had dragged the state government and the management of the university to the State High Court for alleged refusal to pay compensations for the lands which were acquired from them twelve years ago.
Confirming the commencement of payment, on Thursday, during a telephone interview, the landowner’s lawyer, P.M. Shagnah said the payment is being executed in phases.
He said, “The government of Taraba State under governor Agbu Kefas, has since commenced payment of the long-awaited land compensation to 182 farm owners whose lands were acquired for the establishment of Federal University, Wukari.”
Shagnah, who explained that the governor is committed to paying off the debts acquired by previous regimes, said he has approved and released funds for the commencement of payment to the beneficiaries.
Also confirming the commencement of the payments, the Secretary of the Beneficiary Association, Bawa Ba’aku Bawa Adi, told our reporter that the present government responded to their plight by releasing funds that have since been disbursed to beneficiaries as first instalments.
Some of the beneficiaries who spoke with our reporter narrated their ordeals as a result of the alleged failure of the past administrations to attend to their plights by refusing to pay the compensations.
While lauding the commitment of the current administration towards addressing their plights through the payment of the compensations, they urged the Governor to ensure that all the beneficiaries are settled.
Taraba govt begins payment of compensations to Wukari landowners