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Opinion

It is time for Nigeria to legalise corruption

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Maiwada Dammallam

 

According to Premium Times, Joshua Dariye and Jolly Nyame, former Governors of Plateau and Taraba States respectively, both jailed for multi-billion Naira corruption cases, were among the 157 prisoners granted pardon by the National Council of State. The two high profile ex-cons were granted pardon on “health grounds.”

This is a big slap on Nigerians and an irreversible setback on this administration’s war against corruption. It’s fair to say not only are high profile corruption cases languishing in various courts with waning prospect of exemplary convictions, With this, it could be said that the few cases judicially processed conclusively and satisfactorily in favor of shortchanged Nigerians are being used to question the commitment of this administration towards fighting corruption.

Many Nigerians had reasoned with the government for the sluggish judicial system that’s yet to make a reasonable statement about the ove rhyped repulsion of the administration against corruption. We excused the administration using the cumbersomeness of fighting the war using obsolete laws and somewhat compromised judiciary as a fair variable. It’s quite unfortunate that the National Council of State could simply sit and pardon people fairly adjudged as dangerous to Nigeria’s development and judicially convicted as such.

This is more painful coming almost simultaneously with the commendable decision of the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal on Wednesday which quashed the sentence of two years imprisonment with option of N750,000 fine imposed by the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, on a former official of the Police Pension Office, Yakubu Yusuf,  for stealing N24bn pension funds. In a unanimous judgment, the appellate court described the High Court’s sentence as unreasonable and substituted it with a total of six years’ imprisonment with an addition of N22.9bn fine. Many Nigerians thought they have seen the last of absurdities in our court rooms where corruption cases are decided in the most bizarre manner imaginable. How wrong! Now a new window of escape has been added to corruption warlords — the National Council! of state. I wonder if it could get any worse.

Even worse, while corrupt leaders who stole the country dry, effectively pushing many Nigerians into petty criminality are being pardoned for crimes that in saner climes are dealt with decisively using firing squads or the hangman’s noose, out prisons are over-populated with petty criminals awaiting trials for decades and mostly for crimes that  couldn’t earn them more 6 months to year. And nobody seem to notice or care about this inhuman denial or abuse of right and absolute disregard to human dignity.

So, who will question the logic of Nigerians for refusing to take this administration serious on its war against corruption? This ain’t brain surgery and an average Nigeria could guess that the Dariye and Nyame whose cases were argued before the National Security Council to be pardoned on “health grounds” will, in the next few months , be healthy enough to be running around in high-end Jeeps with blaring sirens, campaigning for senatorial seats or even the coveted office of the president. An average primary school kid could easily predict this anomaly with zero room for error. This is the saddest thing to happen to this administration after the intractable problem of insecurity largely caused by the corrupt tendencies of our leaders that, without a doubt, degraded Nigeria to what it is today.

I’m truly pained!

This article was first published on Dammalam Facebook account.

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Opinion

Support for President Tinubu’s Policies and Call for the Appointment of Hisham Habib as Political Adviser

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By Auwal Dankano

 

We, a coalition of concerned citizens and political stakeholders, express our unwavering support for the bold and decisive policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at revitalizing our nation and securing a prosperous future for all Nigerians.

President Tinubu’s commitment to economic reform, infrastructural development, and social welfare initiatives demonstrates a clear vision for progress. We commend his administration’s efforts to address the challenges facing our country, and we believe that with continued dedication and strategic leadership, Nigeria will overcome these obstacles and achieve its full potential.

In light of the recent resignation of Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as Political Adviser, we urge President Tinubu to consider the appointment of Hisham Habib as his successor. Hisham Habib is a seasoned political strategist with a proven track record of effective communication, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the Nigerian political landscape make him an ideal candidate to serve as a trusted advisor to the President.

Hisham Habib’s qualifications include: A degree in English and attended courses in politics and journalism in both local and overseas. He works with media houses up to the level of managing editor, and he was the first set of publishers of online newspapers in Nigeria.

 

He also served a the Director media of NNPP presidential and govarnatorial election, as well as appointed as Managing Director of Kano State own Radio station.

 

Many remember him as the pioneer chairman of NNPP, Kano state chapter , whose political expertise help the party win the number one seat in Kano.

 

As he decamped to the ruling APC, he build a strong chain , that will make our great party victorious at the fourth coming elections.

 

We believe that Hisham Habib’s appointment would strengthen the President’s advisory team and enhance the effective implementation of his administration’s agenda. His expertise in political strategy and his commitment to national development align perfectly with President Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria.

We call upon President Tinubu to give serious consideration to Hisham Habib’s candidacy and to appoint him as Political Adviser. We are confident that his contributions will be invaluable in advancing the President’s goals and ensuring the success of his administration.

 

We also want to call the attention of Mr President to consider Auwal Dankano for a national assignment. Auwal is the chairman of Rwinwin, a movement that worked tirelessly toward the success of president Tunubu in the last elections year.

 

Dankano is a quantity surveyor, with over two decades of field experience, and always promote APC and President Tunubu masses oriented policies.

 

Ha was a board member of Kano Micro finance, as well as Representative of Kano State , in Northern Governor’s Forum.

 

We reaffirm our unwavering support for President Tinubu and his efforts to build a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.

 

 

Auwal Dankano
National Chairman
APC Forum of Intellectuals.

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Opinion

K-SAFE mourns death of Dr. Auwalu Inusa Mohammed

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Dr. Auwalu Halilu

 

 

Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un.

It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that the Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE) receives the sad news of the passing of our dear friend, mentor, and a tireless champion of education and development, Dr. Auwalu Inusa Mohammed, former Chairman of the Education Support Group (ESG).

Dr. Auwalu was not only a pillar in the education sector but a beacon of hope and resilience for all who believed in the power of knowledge and community development. His wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to improving educational outcomes have left an indelible mark on our state and beyond.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire development community. His legacy of service, advocacy, and dedication to humanity will continue to inspire us.

May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, grant him Jannatul Firdaus, and give his loved ones the strength to bear this great loss.

Dr. Auwalu Halilu
Co-Chair (CSOs),
Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE) . 

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Opinion

K-SAFE felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Fitr

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Dr. Auwalu Halilu

 

Bismillah Rahmanir Raheem

On this joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the good people of Kano State, particularly education stakeholders, parents, teachers, and students. May this Eid bring peace, prosperity, and countless blessings to us all.

 

As we celebrate the completion of Ramadan, a month of sacrifice, reflection, and self-discipline, let us carry forward its invaluable lessons into our collective commitment to education. Just as Ramadan teaches us patience, perseverance, and generosity, we must apply these virtues in ensuring that every child, especially the most vulnerable, has access to quality education.

Education is the key to sustainable development, and our duty as a society is to nurture a system that is inclusive, accountable, and responsive to the needs of our children. The spirit of Ramadan encourages us to be more compassionate and proactive in addressing societal challenges. Let this spirit guide our continuous advocacy for improved educational policies, increased access to learning opportunities, and enhanced support for teachers and students.

As we mark this blessed day, I urge all stakeholders, government agencies, civil society organizations, community leaders, and development partners to renew their commitment to strengthening education in Kano State. Together, let us translate the lessons of sacrifice, discipline, and generosity into actionable steps toward building a future where every child has a fair chance to learn and thrive.

 

Eid Mubarak! May Allah (SWT) bless our efforts and grant us success in our quest for an enlightened and educated society.

 

Dr. Auwalu Halilu, is a Co-Chair (CSOs), Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE). 

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