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Human Trafficking Fastest Form Of Slavery, Says Ojukwu

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Ojukwu

 

Alhassan Bala, Abuja

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to observe the International Day of Remembrance of Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade (IDRSVTST), the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Tony Ojukwu Esq has said that this day serves as a reminder that though slave trade might have been abolished, there are other related forms of modern-day slavery that inhibit the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms in Nigeria.

The vocal human rights lawyer and CEO of the Commission, who cautioned the perpetrators of the dastardly act of all forms of slavery to desist from the uncivilized practice, stated this in Abuja on the eve of the commemoration of the day.

He said human trafficking; (an act of recruitment and transportation of persons (both male and female) within or across borders of this country) is the fastest-growing form of slavery in Nigeria today, adding that the effects have continued to disorientate our social and mental well- being as a nation.

The Executive Secretary stated that “apart from human trafficking in all its ramifications, we are also confronted with, ethnicity in this modern times”. He further said, “these are discriminations based on the perception that a certain group of people are different and superior to others and this results in a kind of treatment or attitude that makes the disadvantaged group feel inferior or persecuted just like persons who were captured and sold as slaves between the 16th and 17th century”.

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2023:Kwankwasiyya Vows To Return Sanusi as Emir Of Kano 

The Chief Human Rights Officer said, “these persistent inequalities in the enjoyment of basic human rights are not only wrong but are a major cause of social upheaval and conflict in our society”.

While speaking to this year’s theme “Ending Slavery legacy of Racism: A global imperative to Justice,” which aims to raise awareness on the dangers of racism, Ojukwu emphasized that racist behavior which often translates to discrimination has obvious negative consequences, from simple neglect, or the avoidance of those believed to be different and inferior, to more explicit forms of harassment, mistreatment exploitation, or exclusion to more extreme cases of threat to life and death.

Sadly, Ojukwu noted that incidentally there have been reported cases of Nigerians facing racial discrimination and being maltreated in China, South Africa, and other places across the globe. “And back home in Nigeria we have active discrimination by people who consider themselves as original inhabitants of their region against settlers from other states, (Indigene and non-indigene syndrome)” he added.

Also, there are people who consider themselves more superior by virtue of their authority, where they mobilise force against vulnerable persons. There are also numerous allegations of discrimination perpetuated by the Osu and other caste systems in several parts of Nigeria, these all lead to inter-ethnic, inter-communal, and inter-religious violence and conflict , Ojukwu noted.

The human rights Czar who has tirelessly been working round the clock to advance the course of women’s rights in Nigeria observed that although men are also victims of slavery, children and women have been the most at-risk populations. As victims in the terrorist dens, girls and women suffer as economic-slaves, sex-slaves, and suicide-mission-slaves. In the baby factories, they serve as economic-slaves, sex-slaves, procreation-slaves, and money-ritual-slaves.

He said all hands must be on deck to put an end to all forms of slavery because they are inimical to freedom in the civilized world.

 

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Sallah Thanksgiving: NUJ President Commends Kano Correspondents’ Chapel For Fostering Love, Unity Among Journalists

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The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ),
Comrade Alhassan Yahya, has commended the leadership of Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, NUJ, for providing platforms and occasions that foster love, unity and progress among journalists.

Comrade Yahya stated this at Kano Press Centre, on Sunday, during the 2026 Eid-El-Fitr Sallah Celebrations, Thanksgiving And Special Prayers Ceremony, organized by Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, NUJ, to appreciate God for the successful month long Ramadan fasting period and the Eid-El-Fitr Sallah celebrations.

The NUJ National President used the occasion to urge journalists to reflect on the true meaning of the occasion and promote unity, peace, and tolerance, among themselves, in the course of their profession.

Represented by former chairman of Kano NUJ and a member of NUJ National Board of Trustees, Comrade Abbas Ibrahim, the NUJ National President, who said he has been impressed over the activities of Kano NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, within the last one year, under the leadership of Comrade Murtala Adewale, emphasized the importance of compassion, unity, and addressing national challenges, particularly food security and insecurity.

Comrade Alhassan Yahya urged other NUJ chapels to draw inspiration from Kano Correspondents’ Chapel’s unity and camaraderie, highlighting their event as a model for promoting peace and solidarity among journalists.

He encouraged other chapels to organize similar events, fostering a sense of community and cooperation, which is essential for the growth and development of the journalism profession.

In his remarks, chairman of the occasion, a Professor of Communication in Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Prof. Yakubu Mai Nasara Kurfi, described the event as not only inspiring, but heart-warming, while urging the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel leadership to sustain the tempo.

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Prof. Mai Nasara Kurfi congratulated the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel executive members for their foresight to organize the event, and promised to borrow a leaf from them as he planned to introduce such occasion in the Faculty of Communication, BUK.

The Professor of Communication also used the occasion to canvass for collaboration and synergy among the NUJ, working journalists and the Faculty of Communication, BUK, so as to ensure training and re-training of both working journalists and student journalists for enhancement of the journalism profession.

The chairman of NUJ in Kano state, Comrade Suleiman Abdullahi Dederi, who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Comrade Mustapha Gambo, noted that the event was not only a Thanksgiving for the successful Ramadan and celebration of the Eid El Fitr, but a symbol of unity and togetherness among members of Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, and the larger Kano NUJ family.

“This even is so special because some of the prominent scholars and practitioners in the media are here. I want to thank and commend the leadership of the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel for organizing this event,” he said.

In his speech, chairman of NUJ Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Murtala Adewale, described the event as not just a celebration, but a moment to reflect on Allah’s countless mercies—granting us the strength, patience, and opportunity to observe the holy month.

According to him: “Ramadan has been a period of spiritual renewal, sacrifice, and discipline. It has reminded us of the importance of empathy, humility, and self-restraint. As journalists, these values resonate deeply with our professional responsibilities—to be fair, truthful, and guided by integrity in all that we do.

“This gathering also serves as an avenue to strengthen our unity as members of the Chapel. In the midst of our demanding schedules and the pressures of the profession, moments like this allow us to reconnect, share, and reinforce the bond that holds us together.”

He encouraged all imbibe the lessons of Ramadan, and continue to embody patience, kindness, and responsibility, “in our daily lives and in our reportage. Our society looks up to us, and we must remain committed to promoting peace, truth, and understanding.

“I sincerely appreciate all our invited guests and well-wishers who have joined us today. Your presence is a testament to the strong relationships we have built over time, and we do not take it for granted. As we share this special breakfast, let us also remember those who are less privileged and continue to extend a helping hand, as taught during the holy month.”

The event was designed as a special Thanksgiving feast to appreciate Almighty Allah for His mercies and offer prayers for peace and progress, after a 30-day spiritual rejuvenation in the fasting month of Ramadan.

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Breaking: Kwankwaso Resigns from NNPP

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Former Governor of Kano State and 2023 Presidential Candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has announced his resignation from the party. The declaration was made through a statement posted on his verified Facebook page earlier today.

Kwankwaso, who served as the NNPP’s National Leader and spearheaded its presidential campaign in the 2023 general elections, described the decision as “not an easy one.” He explained that his departure was driven by the need for “strategic realignment” in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.

“Considering the current trajectory of the nation’s political landscape, which calls for strategic realignment, I have found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation,” Kwankwaso stated.

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In his resignation letter, Kwankwaso expressed gratitude to the NNPP’s leadership, including National Chairman Ajuji Ahmed, the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and members across all levels of the party. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, his loyal political base, pledging continued collaboration toward building “a better and more prosperous future for our dear nation.”

Kwankwaso’s exit marks a significant moment for the NNPP, which rose to prominence under his leadership and made notable gains in the 2023 elections. His next political move is expected to reshape alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, though he has yet to disclose the platform he intends to join.

Political analysts suggest that Kwankwaso’s resignation could trigger a wave of defections within the NNPP, particularly among members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, who have historically followed his political trajectory.

 

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Northern Youth Group Backs Doguwa for Kano APC Leadership, Urges National Role

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The Northern Youths Merger Groups under the All Progressives Congress (APC) has congratulated Hon. Umar Haruna Doguwa on his election as the APC State Chairman in Kano.

In a statement, the group’s National Coordinator, Hon. Musa Mujahid Zaitawa, described Doguwa as a hardworking and experienced politician capable of leading the party to victory.

The group highlighted Doguwa’s track record, noting his four-time leadership of political parties in Kano, as well as his service in two commissioner roles. According to the group, his vast experience will significantly contribute to the success of the APC.

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The Northern Youths Merger Groups also called on APC stakeholders to nominate and support Doguwa for appointment as Chairman of the APC States Chairmen Forum, which comprises representatives from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

They expressed confidence that such an appointment would strengthen efforts toward securing victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC in the 2027 general elections, particularly in the North-West region.

The group further noted that the North-West zone is expected to deliver massive votes in the 2027 elections, describing it as one of the APC’s strongest strongholds with seven sitting governors.

They emphasized that Doguwa’s leadership, experience, and political influence would play a crucial role in ensuring the party’s success in both the presidential and gubernatorial elections.

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