By Jessica Onuigbo Njideka
Suspected armed men have reportedly hijacked two fully loaded buses belonging to the Benue state government-owned Benue Links Transport Company whisking away over 10 passengers from the Lagos-bound vehicles that took off from Makurdi.
It was gathered that the armed men waylaid the vehicles at about 2pm on Sunday along Ajaokuta-Okene road in Kogi state.
A source in the company who spoke on condition of anonymity in Makurdi disclosed that some of the passengers sustained injuries during the attack while some were lucky to have escaped unhurt.
He said, “It is true, the incident happened along Ajaokuta-Okene road yesterday between 2pm and 3pm when the two buses were heading to Lagos.
“Available information indicated that ten passengers were abducted during the attack. And the incident was reported at Adogo Police station near Okene.”
The official lamented that the Okene-Ajaokuta road had become synonymous with the rampant kidnap of unsuspecting commuters.
He said, “this is not the first time we are recording this type of incident on that particular axis of Kogi state and it is not peculiar to us. Several travelers have also fallen victim to the armed gang on that axis. Even at that nothing is being done to check the menace.
“We are appealing to security agencies to do something about these ugly incidents because people now feel very unsafe while plying that road to any part of the country.”
No management staff of the transport company was willing to speak on the matter while the Benue State Police Command also kept mute over the issue probably because the incident did not occur within its jurisdiction.
INSECURITY , POVERTY: KATSINA GOVERNOR SIGNS N300.6b SUPPLEMENTARY BUDGET
By SALIHU SANI
Governor Dikko Radda has officially approved the 2023 supplementary budget, totaling N300.6 billion, with a strong focus on addressing insecurity and poverty within Katsina state.
The development was confirmed by Ibrahim Kalau, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the governor, in a statement released to the press in Katsina on Saturday.
According to Kalau, the supplementary budget stands as a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to combatting insecurity, alleviating poverty, and extending support to the underprivileged residents across the state.
The budget was formally presented to Governor Radda by the state’s House of Assembly, led by Speaker Nasir Yahya-Daura, during a session held on Friday.
Ibrahim Kalau emphasized that this move underscored the government’s resolute dedication to enhancing the well-being of its citizens and its determination to foster a safer and more prosperous living environment for all.
The supplementary budget reflects a collective effort to tackle pressing issues and uplift the lives of the people of Katsina State.”
The governor, during the signing of the budget, expressed optimism that the initiative would contribute significantly to the state’s development and ensure a brighter future for all the residents.
While commending the legislators for working tirelessly on the budget, Radda emphasised the importance of unity and cooperation in achieving the goals set out in the supplementary budget.
“As the government continues to work tirelessly towards the well-being of its people, it remains committed to transparency and accountability in the allocation and utilisation of resources for the betterment of the state,” Kayla added
FG ANNOUNCES HEALTH RESEARCH FUND, FREE CANCER TREATMENT FOR NIGERIANS
By Amina Iro Abba
According to Gram FM, The Federal Government has disclosed that it will establish health research fund in order to improve health research in the country.
It has also disclosed that it is currently working on providing free cancer treatment for Nigerians who have been diagnosed with cancer.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate and the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Tunji Alaisan, disclosed this at a media briefing in Abuja.
Dr. Alaisan insisted that the government cannot fund health research alone, hence, a dedicated fund for research to pull resources into it so that institutes will have access to funds for research.
He said that the government will coordinate health research strategy for the country, to eliminate inefficiencies bedeviling research processes in the country.
According to him there are many research institutes and Councils in Nigeria, with adequate manpower including professors scattered all over the country who are yearning to do research
WE WILL NEVER NEGOTIATE WITH TERRORISTS, KATSINA GOVERNOR VOWS
By SALIHU SANI
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, yesterday, said terrorists were increasing attacks on some communities in the state to get the government to the negotiation table.
Radda, who stated this at a briefing marking his administration’s 100 days, vowed that his government would neither negotiate with nor pay ransom to terrorists, no matter what they do.
However, he said his government would accept any terrorist that decides to surrender and renounce his ways.
Noting that his administration would work with security agencies to intensify the onslaught on terrorists to end the challenge within the shortest time possible, the governor disclosed that 1,500 youths from seven councils affected by the problem had been recruited to work with security agencies to fight terrorists.
While affirming that his government purchased armoured vehicles and related equipment worth N7 billion for security agencies, he urged the public not to expect the security problem, which had existed for several years, to be addressed within a short time.
NIGER State Governor, Mohammed Bago, is planning to recruit at least 1,500 youths as forest guards to tackle banditry and terrorism in the state.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, stated, yesterday, that his principal made the disclosure while speaking to newsmen after meeting with vigilante corps on Tuesday.
The CPS quoted the governor as saying: “We intend to employ 1,500 youths into Niger Forest Guards, so that we can take over the forests.”
Bago commended all vigilante corps for complementing the efforts of conventional security operatives in the state.
He revealed that the state government had procured equipment for the corps as an encouragement and to enable them to carry out their duties effectively.
Commander of Vigilante Corps, DSP Alhassan Mohammed (rtd), said his men were gallant, stressing that their vast knowledge of the terrain complements the efforts of the security agencies in combating bandits and other criminal elements in the state.
FCE KATSINA TRIUMPHS OVER HUK POLY WITH A 2-0 VICTORY
By Aminu Ahmad Saidu
In a highly anticipated inter-tertiary sports showdown held at the Federal College of Education, Katsina Football Field, the home team showcased their prowess by defeating Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic with a commanding 2-0 victory. The enthusiastic crowd witnessed an intense clash between these two tertiary institutions, and Federal College of Education, Katsina, did not disappoint their fans.
The match kicked off with both teams displaying their defensive strengths, resulting in a goalless first half. Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic mounted relentless pressure on the Federal College of Education’s defense, and their players demonstrated their exceptional skill and determination. Despite the visiting team’s numerous attempts on goal, Federal College of Education’s goalkeeper and defense stood firm to maintain a clean sheet.
As the second half began, Federal College of Education, Katsina, unleashed their offensive prowess. In the 50th minute, they broke the deadlock with a well-executed goal, sending their fans into a frenzy of celebration. This early lead provided a significant boost to the home team’s morale.
Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic responded with determination, creating several goal-scoring opportunities, but they were thwarted by the Federal College of Education’s defense. The home team’s midfielders and forwards continued to press, and in the 80th minute, they sealed their victory with a second goal, securing their dominance on their home turf.
The Federal College of Education, Katsina, fans showed unwavering support for their team, creating an electrifying atmosphere at the stadium. Their victory marked a triumphant day for the institution, and the players were applauded for their exceptional performance.
On the other hand, Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic’s players displayed admirable sportsmanship and resilience despite the loss. They will use this experience as a stepping stone to improve and prepare for future matches.
The Federal College of Education, Katsina, Football Field proved to be a fortress for the home team, and they will aim to maintain their winning streak as they look forward to upcoming fixtures. As the inter-tertiary sports season unfolds, spectators can anticipate more thrilling encounters on this hallowed ground, as both teams continue to showcase their dedication to the game.
MASS COMM. SUSPENDS DRESS CODE AFTER REVIVAL BY MACOSA
By Aminu Ahmad Saidu
In an unexpected turn of events, the Head of Department (H.O.D) of the Mass Communication Department has suspended the dress code for all students, leaving the Mass Communication Students Association (MACOSA) to step in and reintroduce the long-standing code.
The announcement of the dress code suspension was made by the H.O.D via the patron of the Mass Communication Students Association. As of now, no official explanation has been provided regarding the reason for this decision, leaving both students and faculty members puzzled.
The dress code, a long-standing tradition within the Mass Communication Department, had been temporarily shelved without any prior warning. This move has triggered mixed reactions among the student body, with some viewing it as a relief and others as a disruption to the department’s established norms.
The Mass Communication Students Association (MACOSA), an organization dedicated to promoting the interests of Mass Communication students, has taken the initiative to revive the dress code among students. MACOSA leaders have held meetings and discussions to determine the best course of action in light of the sudden suspension.
Speaking on behalf of MACOSA, the association’s president, Comrade Musaddiq Abdullahi, stated, “We understand that there might be reasons for this suspension that we are not yet aware of. However, the dress code has always been a symbol of unity and professionalism among our students. We believe that it contributes to the identity and reputation of our department. Therefore, we have decided to encourage our fellow students to continue adhering to the dress code until we receive further clarification.”
Students who were previously accustomed to following the dress code have shown their support for MACOSA’s decision, as they believe that it helps maintain a sense of discipline and professionalism within the Mass Communication Department.
The lack of an official statement from the H.O.D regarding the suspension has led to speculation among students about potential underlying reasons. Some speculate that it might be related to budget constraints, while others suggest it could be an attempt to modernize the department’s policies.
As the situation unfolds, students eagerly await further communication from the H.O.D and hope to gain a better understanding of the rationale behind the sudden suspension of the dress code. In the meantime, MACOSA’s efforts to revive the dress code serve as a testament to the student body’s commitment to upholding the traditions and values of the Mass Communication Department.
KATSINA PDP STRONGLY DISPUTES PEPC VERDICT, CITING SERIOUS CONCERNS ABOUT JUSTICE
By Rapheal Nnamuchi
The Katsina State PDP chapter contends that the recent verdict from the presidential election tribunal favoring President Bola Tinubu falls significantly short of delivering justice.
Alhaji Umar Tsauri, the former Chairman of the Atiku/Lado Campaign Team, made this statement in Katsina during a press briefing concerning the recent judgment.
The presidential election tribunal affirmed President Tinubu’s election, and a separate election tribunal in Katsina likewise upheld the elections of senators and House of Representatives members from the state.
“We actually believe that judgments had been passed, but without justice, because it had been denied.” Tsauri explained.
“Recently, the tribunals have concluded their assignments and passed very unfortunate judgments that did not reflect the justice Nigerians expected.”
“We stand to say the judgment passed by the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC) has been far from justice.”
“In fact we would say that what the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) did during the elections was exactly what the PEPC did to Nigeria, Nigerians and the democratic process.”
He recalled that the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmud Yakubu, had told Nigerians that the commission would use the BVAS machines to make the elections accurate, free, fair and credible.
“We in the opposition believed him and became so relaxed with full confidence and optimism that a man of integrity, in fact a professor for that matter, who built integrity and respect to protect.”
“Unfortunately, the reverse was the case because all he told Nigerians turned out to be a deceit. He deceived Nigerians by doing the opposite of his utterances.”
“That is exactly what our learned justices of the court of appeal did while delivering the judgment without justice,” he alleged.
He also recollected that during his inaugural address, Justice Haruna Tsammani assured Nigerians that the tribunal would distinguish itself from prior tribunals by not relying solely on technicalities but by making decisions grounded in factual evidence.
According to Tsauri, Nigerians believed him and became relaxed, saying that their lawyers wasted much of their professional and judicial time bringing documents and witnesses to prove their cases.
“Unfortunately, the learned justice successfully wasted 12 and half hours reading judicial English without judicial facts and justice.
“They ended up passing judgment not even on technicalities but on collective personal interest,” Tsauri alleged.
According to him, the same pattern and plans have been placed by the tribunal in the state, saying that every right-thinking person knows how the 2023 elections were conducted.
He also alleged that, “During the elections, there were uncountable numbers of electoral malpractices, intimidation, and in some polling units, elections could not be held due to insecurity.”
STUDENTS IN UNIVERSITY OF JOS PROTEST AGAINST FEE HIKE, BLOCK ROADS
By Jessica Onuigbo Njideka
Students of the University of Jos, Plateau State, have blocked roads leading to the campus in protest of a recent hike in school fees and other services rendered by the institution.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the protesters, who were mobilised by leaders of the Students Union Government (SUG), carried placards with messages such as “If your children can afford the money, we can’t” and “We don’t want to drop out of school.”
The students said the hike in fees was insensitive and would make it difficult for many of them to continue their education. They also argued that they were already facing financial challenges and that the fee hike would only make things worse.
Recently, there have been hikes in fees by various tertiary institutions in reaction to the rising cost of operations occasioned by the removal of petrol subsidy.
Students of the University of Jos, Plateau State, have blocked roads leading to the campus in protest of a recent hike in school fees and other services rendered by the institution.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the protesters, who were mobilised by leaders of the Students Union Government (SUG), carried placards with messages such as “If your children can afford the money, we can’t” and “We don’t want to drop out of school.”
The students said the hike in fees was insensitive and would make it difficult for many of them to continue their education. They also argued that they were already facing financial challenges and that the fee hike would only make things worse.
Recently, there have been hikes in fees by various tertiary institutions in reaction to the rising cost of operations occasioned by the removal of petrol subsidy.
UMMARU MUSA YAR’ADUA UNIVERSITY KATSNA COMMENCES 2023/2024 REGISTRATION
By Aminu Ahmad Saidu
In a recent announcement made through the university’s official website on September 7, 2023, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University has officially commenced the registration process and admission letter printing for the 2023/2024 academic session. This opportunity is exclusively available for new intakes who gained admission through UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) and Direct Entry (DE).
The institution had previously released its first admission list on August 29, 2023, paving the way for successful candidates to proceed with the registration process and secure their admission for the upcoming academic session.
Prospective students are encouraged to visit the university’s official website for detailed registration guidelines and instructions to ensure a smooth and timely registration process.
This development marks a significant step for aspiring scholars as they prepare to embark on their academic journey at Umaru Musa Yar’adua University in the 2023/2024 academic session.
The registration process is a crucial aspect of a student’s transition into university life. It includes important steps such as payment of fees, course registration, and obtaining an official admission letter, which serves as proof of acceptance into the university.
Prospective students and their families are encouraged to stay updated with the university’s official communication channels for any further announcements or updates regarding the registration process and the upcoming academic year.
In a recent announcement made through the university’s official website on September 7, 2023, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University has officially commenced the registration process and admission letter printing for the 2023/2024 academic session. This opportunity is exclusively available for new intakes who gained admission through UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) and Direct Entry (DE).
The institution had previously released its first admission list on August 29, 2023, paving the way for successful candidates to proceed with the registration process and secure their admission for the upcoming academic session.
Prospective students are encouraged to visit the university’s official website for detailed registration guidelines and instructions to ensure a smooth and timely registration process.
This development marks a significant step for aspiring scholars as they prepare to embark on their academic journey at Umaru Musa Yar’adua University in the 2023/2024 academic session.
The registration process is a crucial aspect of a student’s transition into university life. It includes important steps such as payment of fees, course registration, and obtaining an official admission letter, which serves as proof of acceptance into the university.
Prospective students and their families are encouraged to stay updated with the university’s official communication channels for any further announcements or updates regarding the registration process and the upcoming academic year.
KANO SUSPENDS TWO PRINCIPALS FOR ABSENTEEISM, NEGLIGENCE
By Rapheal Nnamuchi
The Kano State Commissioner for Education, Alhaji Umar Haruna Doguwa, has ordered the immediate suspension of principals of French Bilingual College and Chinese Bilingual College, Kwankwaso, in Madobi Local Government Area of the state for absenteeism and negligence to duty.
Similarly, the ministry has approved the posting of Umar Akilu Sabo as sit-in Principal of French Bilingual College and Isyaku Umar Abdullahi as sit-in Principal of Chinese Bilingual College Kwankwaso respectively.
A statement on Monday by the Director of Public Enlightenment of the ministry, Balarabe Abdullahi Kiru, said that the suspended principals were not in schools when the team of take-up inspection paid a visit on Monday (today) to monitor the commencement of the 2023/2024 first term school session.
According to the statement, the inspection team led by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Hajiya Kubra Imam, discovered that students of the two colleges were not served food on Sunday night and their breakfast for Monday was not ready up to the time of the visit.
Doguwa warned all school authorities to shun any act that would undermine the present administration’s effort to revive the education sector.
Meanwhile, the commissioner has commended the Principal of Government Girls College, Kano Kofar Famfo and her Government Girls Secondary School, Kwankwaso counterpart for their dedication and compliance to making all the needed arrangements for the commencement of the 2023/2024 academic session
UNIZIK INITIATES CCTV CAMERA INSTALLATION IN RESPONSE TO SEXUAL HARASSMENT
By SALIHU SANI
In response to allegations of sexual harassment, the administration of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka has initiated the installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras throughout the campus.
According to information gathered by HUK Mass Comm., the installation of these CCTV cameras will encompass various offices of lecturers and strategically chosen locations across the campus.
The decision to install CCTV cameras in offices of lecturers and strategic campus locations has been prompted by the increasing instances of sexual harassment within the school. This move is a proactive measure taken by the school management to combat and prevent misconduct by certain lecturers and effectively address the issue
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Charles Esimone, removed a lecturer (name withheld) in the Faculty of Law, and others accused of sexual harassment by the students of the university.
The institution took the decision after the affected female students had raised the alarm.A source in the school who craved anonymity confirmed that the majority of the lecturers were furious with the idea of mounting CCTV cameras in their offices.
